If You register for block-beats.com and provide Your e-mail address, this can be used by us to send a newsletter. In such a case, the newsletter will only send direct advertising for similar goods or services of our own.
Deletion of the account by the user is not yet possible. For this purpose, please contact support by e-mail (info@block-beats.com).
To have Your personal data deleted, it is sufficient to send an e-mail to info@block-beats.com with the subject "Revocation of my consent to the processing of personal data" and Your name.
To request information about Your personal data, simply send an e-mail to info@block-beats.com with the subject "Information about the processing of personal data" and Your name.
To request a correction of Your personal data, simply send an e-mail to info@block-beats.com with the subject "Correction of my personal data" and Your name.
To make a restriction on the processing of Your personal data, it is sufficient to send an e-mail to info@block-beats.com with the subject "Restriction on the processing of my personal data" and Your name.
To have Your personal data deleted, simply send an e-mail to info@block-beats.com with the subject "Deletion of my personal data" and Your name.
To object to the processing of Your personal data, it is sufficient to send an e-mail to info@block-beats.com with the subject "Objection to the processing of personal data" and Your name.
To revoke the permission to process Your personal data, it is sufficient to send an e-mail to info@block-beats.com with the subject "Revocation of permission to process the personal data" and Your name.


The snakes head Fritillaria is ever growing in popularity due to the unusual shaped pendants that it produces in spring. This mixed collection will display a mixture of white and purple bell shaped flowers. A fantastic naturaliser that will multiply. 5/6cm bulbs supplied. Height 30cm.
Planting Plant 8cm deep and 10-15cm apart.
Plant 8cm deep and 10-15cm apart.
Fritillaria bulbs can be planted at 8-10cm deep and 10-15cm apart in well drained/light and moist soil. When planting handle the bulbs carefully as fritillaria bulbs are renowned for being fragile. Can be planted in areas with full sun access or preferably with partial shade, and can be left to naturalise in grass, borders or even cold greenhouses.
When established in the right environment you can easily begin to see fritillaria plants multiply. Plants are very hardy and are an excellent choice for border displays, rockeries or for woodland areas, where their elegant drooping bell-shaped flowers are likely to add that little something different.


text:
Book Review: THE WEIGHT OF SILENCE
You know how, when you read a really great book, one you really love, that you slow down when you know you have those last few pages left, simply so you can savor them? The Weight of Silence was one of those books for me.
Filled with heart-pounding suspense, unique, well-crafted characters that were all too human in their foibles and strengths, and a main character (Calli) whom I truly came to love, this is probably one of my favorite books this year. It's my first Heather Gudenkauf book and my testimony to it is I've already bought her other two.
If you want a book that not only keeps you on the edge of your seat, but touches your heart as well, try The Weight of Silence.
Like Amazon Author Pages
I recently heard that if an author gets 40+ "likes" on his/her author page on Amazon, that "kicks in a sales algorithm and increases visibility."
I was wondering if you might be willing to help me out, take a second, and "like" my author page on Amazon. Let's see if this hypothesis actually works...
Liking my page will take you all of a few seconds. Here's how:
1. Go to my author page on Amazon. You'll find it here: http://tinyurl.com/7zbqycj
2. Click the "like" icon on the upper right hand side of the page.
That's it! And I will be ever so grateful.
I'd love to see if anything actually happens when an author gets to 40 likes. Like maybe you turn into Nora Roberts or Stephen King.
New Review for CAREGIVER
And the good reviews keep rolling in! Today, I woke up to a lovely review of the book from Carol Zampa on Miz Love Loves Books.
In part, Carol said:
"There is a romance in Caregiver. It, too, is thick with the reality of the era—guilt for one's fears of sexual relations with a stricken lover, guilt for daring to love another after that loved one is gone, and the effect that the fear of such a mysterious disease has on attempts at new relationships.
"Some authors might consult the medical dictionaries for diseases and ailments to incorporate into their romances for drama, and then here comes a novel penned by a man who wrote first-hand, from his heart, the real thing. Rick Reed's story is one of those treasures where a fictional story has, at its beautiful heart, a big truth that can only be told from true life. From the soul of a man who was there in the trenches and who used his talent—his gift—and his knowledge to share it with us."
In ebook
In paperback
Labels: caregiver, contemporary gay romance, Dreamspinner Press, e-books, gay, gay fiction, HIV, Rick R. Reed, Rick R. Reed m/m romance
Review: Cooper's Hawk by Victor J. Banis
Okay, I admit it. I began crying on the first or second page of this lovely, heartfelt, and gorgeously-executed short story and didn't finish until I'd read the very last page.
I'm not proud of the fact that I, a grown man, was a blubbering mess by the end of this story of love, loss, and redemption (yes), but it's a journey I'd take again and I'm certain with much the same result.
But I didn't cry solely because the story is so touching, but because of its artistry. It's not so much that it's a tale of loss but more that it's a tale of true human connection and real love, told in prose so achingly simple and perfect that it transcends the page; beauty like that is worthy of tears. Cooper's Hawk is a small slice of perfection.
Read an excerpt and buy a copy here.
Labels: gay fiction, m/m romance, MLR Press
Happy Pride
Happy Pride! Good times...many moons ago, in Chicago. Yes, that's me in the harness.
Also with (L to R) Lynda Licina, St. Sukie de la Croix, Corey Black, Rick R. Reed, Chip Howell (This photo of Chicago Pride 1999 was taken by Tracy Baim for Nightlines.)
Posted by Rick R. Reed at 2:27 PM
Call for Submissions: Thanksgiving Mystery Anthology
The Killer is back!
We had so much fun with The Killer Wore Cranberry back in 2010, that we felt it was time to revisit the anthology. So, we're happy to present The Killer Wore Cranberry: A Second Helping.
As in the previous anthology, all the stories contained within must be about murder and mayhem happening at Thanksgiving, and must feature a typical Thanksgiving dish as a vital part of the story (i.e.: turkey, mashed potatoes, pumpkin pie). Most importantly...it must be funny! This anthology is all about making people laugh while enjoying a great mystery short at the same time. The anthology will be edited by Editor-in-Chief Jay Hartman.
And now, the rules:
1. All stories must be between 1500-5000 words.
2. Deadline for submission for consideration is September 1st, 2012. This is a firm date; no submissions after this date will be considered.
3. All submissions should be sent to Jay Hartman at jhartman@untreedreads with the word THANKSGIVING in the subject line.
4. Submissions must be in DOC, RTF or ODT format.
5. Unlike the previous anthology, we will not be publishing the stories individually. Only the anthology will be available.
6. Authors will receive royalty, but not upfront payment. Authors will each receive a share of royalties of 50% of net (net = cover price - vendor commission) based on the number of authors in the final anthology.
7. Characters appearing in other Untreed Reads series or other series not published by us are strongly encouraged (i.e.: Wade J. McMahan's Richard Dick, Beth Mathison's Mobsters or Young at Heart or Albert Tucher's Diana Andrews)
8. Your story MUST have humor in it, feature a Thanksgiving dish and have a great mystery or crime at the heart of the story.
9. Stories not accepted for the anthology may be still be considered for other publication.
10. Previously published works are fine providing that electronic rights have reverted to the author and the story is not currently offered for free anywhere on the Internet or currently published through a self-publishing venue (i.e.: Smashwords, Amazon KDP, etc.).
11. There are no restrictions whatsoever on age, race, sex, sexual orientation, etc in the work.. Just tell us a great story!
Please direct any questions to Jay Hartman at jhartman@untreedreads.com. We recommend looking at the original The Killer Wore Cranberry for an idea of the types of stories we're looking for.
All decisions on material will be made by September 15th, 2012. Every attempt will be made to notify all authors of the status of their submission at that time. Please do not inquire about status prior to September 15th, 2012.
This anthology has an expected publication date of October 15th.
This is an open call, and may be reposted anywhere and everywhere.
Notable New Release: PILLAR'S FALL by Ben Larken
Today's guest blog is from award-winning horror author, Ben Larken. Listen as he tells you all about his latest book, Pillar's Fall.
The End By Ben Larken
The end of the world—it's one of those subjects that can be irresistible to authors, especially horror authors. We love clearing the board (a.k.a. the world) and starting over with a fresh (albeit radioactive) canvas. Everyone has their favorites. I love Stephen King's The Stand and Cormac McCarthy's The Road, but I've always longed to create my own version of humanity's last gasps. Then I started writing about Detective Thomas Pillar.
I wasn't writing Pillar's Fall for long when I realized this felt like more than a single novel of man-versus-demon. This was an origin tale for a larger scale story. I suddenly saw an apocalypse-level event built around my main character, and I knew I had found my end of the world scenario. This wouldn't happen via earthquakes, asteroids or even zombies. I wanted a full-out war between humans and demons.
But that wouldn't happen in Pillar's Fall. Still, I wanted to foreshadow, and giving the right amount of foreshadowing proved to be a challenge. I considered going the Harry Potter route and mention some vague prophecy, but then I decided I'd rather meet the prophet himself. The following is a snippet of that scene. Tom Pillar goes to his old church for advice, and ends up meeting Nicolas Spire, a character who will be pivotal to the future of the series.
Detective Thomas Pillar had no premonitions of the day ahead. He didn't know he was about to clash with a sadistic lunatic on Railston's only suspension bridge. In one gut-wrenching moment, Pillar was forced to make a life-or-death choice that left the entire city shaken and set a madman's plan into motion. Now, months later, it's starting again . . .
This time, Pillar's investigating a string of rage-filled murders, and all the clues point to the most unlikely of suspects—a twelve-year-old named Seth Morrissey. The child seems nice, if a bit lonely, but something malevolent and demonic hides beneath his surface. While Pillar searches for answers, the thing inside Seth prepares for a showdown that will rip Pillar's life to shreds and pave the way the hell on earth.
As the body count rises and Pillar's marriage begins to unravel, he races against time to stop the force that's pulling all the strings. But how do you destroy the demon without killing the innocent child? This is Pillar's dilemma. This is Pillar's story. This is Pillar's Fall.
The doorknob turned and Tom pulled back as the door opened. The person inside wasn't someone he recognized. The man was thin and short with mousy brown hair that curled over his forehead. His eyes were deep brown and he dressed in simple overalls, a t-shirt, and work boots. Tom tried to place him, but couldn't remember seeing him before.
"Can I help you?" the man asked, his voice thin but welcoming. He held up a coffee mug and took a sip.
Tom eyed the stranger, then stepped past him into the auditorium. Rows upon rows of empty pews. The man closed the door and approached him.
"When the rain falls it's almost like Noah and the Ark," the man said, holding the mug with both hands close to his chest. "I sometimes wonder if Noah stood inside a large empty lifeboat and simply listened to the raindrops as they started." Tom turned to him and the man offered his hand. "My name is Nicholas Spire. I'm the replacement."
Tom arched an eyebrow. "Wow," he mumbled. "The elders were fast. I thought they just fired Brighton yesterday."
The man smiled, looking strangely delighted. "What can I say? I jump right into the deep end. The moment I was hired I rushed down here to spend some time in my new church home. Some might call it getting the lay of the land, but I think it's important to experience an empty church building." He sipped a bit of coffee as he fixed Tom with a penetrating stare. "Can I ask your name?"
"My name is Pillar, Tom Pillar."
"Well, Mr. Pillar, let me get you some coffee. You look like you could use it."
"No, thanks. I really need to go. I just wanted to ask for Brighton's advice on something."
"Can you not ask it of me?" Spire posed. "I'd be happy to help."
"I don't think so," Tom said. "I don't even know if Brighton could have helped. I think I'm grasping at straws."
"I hate to let you go," the preacher said, setting the mug on a nearby pew. "It looks like we have a storm coming, and I don't have much of an umbrella to offer you."
Tom squinted back at the man, wondering if he noticed the water dripping off his clothing or the steady spattering against the windows. The storm, for all intents and purposes, was here. "That's okay. I'll manage."
"I know," the man said, his smile widening. "I have a feeling you're good at managing yourself. You're a take-charge kind of guy—a natural leader. I bet you passed all the tests at the police academy with flying colors."
"Thanks for the vote of confidence, but I—" Tom paused. "Wait a second. I never mentioned that I was a cop."
Spire's smile was unshakable. "You're Pillar," he said, beaming. "Everyone knows who you are—and I do mean everyone."
Tom's jaw tightened. "Look. That's great that you watch the evening news, but I don't have time for games. So if you'll excuse me . . ."
Tom was almost to the door when the man's voice stopped him. "I always think of storms like tests," Spire said. "Both an individual test and a group one."
Tom didn't want to but gazed back at the preacher, curious.
Spire grinned softly. "Noah of course passed it, although most everyone else didn't. They all had the chance. They all saw the boat being erected, and they knew why it was there. But they had to decide if they believed Noah's crazy story. Turned out they didn't. They thought he had fallen off his rocker." He scratched his chin. "They ended up being the ones to fall."
Tom stepped away from the door. Why the elders decided to pick this guy as a replacement was a mystery. He seemed to speak in circles. "What are you saying?"
"I'm saying it's hard to be the only one who's right." Spire turned away from him, moving silently up the main aisle. "It's hard to bear that burden. It's easier to live in ignorance with the rest of the world." He snapped his fingers. "But you have to think, if Noah hadn't stuck to his guns, would any of us be here today?"
Tom felt a tremor inside and fought to keep it from becoming a full-blown shiver. "What has that got to do with me?"
Nicholas Spire rounded the new pulpit and continued up the risers to the baptistery. The preacher took a seat at the edge of the large tub, letting his fingers trace over the water and make tiny ripples. He finally looked at Tom, an uncompromising frankness in his gaze that unsettled Tom to the core.
"Because the storm that's coming—it's coming for you."
Tom started up the aisle. "You're not the new preacher, are you?"
"It doesn't matter who I am. What matters is how you prepare for the storm."
"What storm?" Tom shouted, throwing his hands up in frustration. "I just listened to a madman in a jail cell yammer on about a coming demon war, and now I have to hear you rant about some vague storm on the horizon. What kind of storm is this—another Noah and the Ark downpour?"
Spire didn't look amused. "It won't be as bad as that one. It'll be worse."
The stained-glass windows radiated like a strobe light as lightning split across the sky outside. The thunder that came next was a bone-rattler. Every inch of the building shook. "I don't understand," Tom said, stopping short of the risers that led to the baptistery. "How? How will it be worse?"
"Humanity has followed its destiny ever since it was created," Spire said. "Everything leading up to this point has served one purpose—to get us where we are today, where we can be tested both individually and as a whole. God taught us and sacrificed his son for us. It's time for us to show what we've learned." The lightning flashed again, and the air froze in Tom's throat as Spire's eyes glowed soft blue.
"Who are you?" Tom asked, his voice small against the crashing thunder.
"That madman in the jail cell you spoke of," Spire said, changing the subject. "If he knows about it, others know about it too. You need to be watchful, because they'll work together to stop you."
Tom gulped down the lump in his throat. "Why? Why stop me?"
"Because they want everyone to get caught in the rain. They don't want to let any of us, not even one, continue on to start again. They think their leader will protect them while everyone else perishes—and they're wrong."
Nicholas Spire smiled, and his eyes suddenly glowed sapphire, brilliant in their intensity. "I'm no one—just someone who wanted to help you out of the rain."
A lightning bolt crackled, converting each stained-glass window into a momentary lighthouse. Tom squinted as the auditorium glared with every color in the rainbow. The lightning passed, and Nicholas Spire was gone. The blue eyes hovered for a split second in the empty air above the baptistery. Tom blinked, and they disappeared.
BUY Pillar's Fall.
The New Yorker's New Cover, June Brides
I was so happy to see this cover from the New Yorker. What a lovely way to celebrate diversity in a month of brides, a month of pride.
10 Years Together!
For my partner Bruce and me, June and July are celebratory times. Our anniversary is today (yea! we have made it to ten years--a whole decade-- and I see many more ahead of us) and both of our birthdays fall in July (mine on the first, along with our Boston Terrier Lily) and Bruce on the 12th.
Bruce and I were having dinner at a little French bistro in the Capitol Hill neighborhood of Seattle on my birthday last year and, as the wine flowed, we talked. He told me how content he was with his life and that, really, there was nothing else he could wish for. I felt the same way. It's nice when you're on the same page. He said we had something special and that one word summed up what we had. I'll get to that word later.
But it wasn't easy getting to this page in the book of our lives. And thinking about Bruce and me has made me think about my other special love, and that's writing. If any of you out there have followed my career at all, you'll know that, lately, my stories have plotted out the course of love just as much as they have the build-up of suspense or horrifying revelations. I can proudly say I am now just as much a romance writer as I am a horror or dark suspense writer.
You may wonder why my writing has slipped off in this new direction. I certainly have. And I think it has a lot to do with Bruce. See, we're happy. We're content. We're settled and in a love that only continues to grow with the passage of time.
I don't know if this is a leap of logic that makes sense but I think that I am more drawn to writing stories that map out the connections made by the human heart these days because I am not expending as much energy seeking out that connection in my own personal life. Now that I have found my one true love, my soul mate, I can open up and write more freely about what draws people together and what keeps them apart. I find those connections fascinating and I don't believe I could write about them objectively until after I had found, after much searching, a relationship that would work for me, one that would nurture and sustain.
Before Bruce, there was a marriage to a woman and a child. Both of those were--and still are--wonderful in their own ways. But trying to live a life that was not my own was not only emotionally exhausting, it was dangerous in many ways. With a lot of heartache, I had to let that dream, which really was never for me, go. I came out in my early thirties, in a world where gay marriage was not really even being discussed yet and the specter of AIDS loomed large. It was not necessarily a good time for a gay man to be experiencing the world and finding himself. But then, when is it ever a good time? But my point is I went through a lot of searching, a lot of experimenting, a lot of bad choices, always in search of love, and always coming up empty-handed.
A lot of those disappointments occurred because the real love I needed--the love of myself--I had yet to discover. I look at my thirties as my true adolescence, with its attendant growing pains.
It wasn't until I was 43 that I met Bruce. Gone were the hopes that I'd meet a special man in some bar or even a gay social group. The era of the Internet was on us in a big way and I placed an ad with the headline, "What's Your Story?" Bruce was one of several who responded, and the only one with whom I connected. He sent me some pictures of himself. He said things in his very first response to my ad that resonated.
I wrote back. He wrote back and we started a daily correspondence that would last two weeks, two weeks before we even laid eyes on one another, even though we lived less than two miles away from the other. We began to get to know each other and we both liked what we saw, what we read in our lines to each other, and what was between them. We had both reached a stage where we were ready for the other. Timing is everything.
We met in person and it was magic.
I won't say we didn't have some bumps in the road, though, getting to where we are today. Nothing really good ever comes easily. But Bruce and I were always willing to talk--whether it was face to face or through e-mails (and now texts and Facebook updates!). The line of communication has always been open and I think that's what's made the difference with us.
It's also made it possible for me to be able to sit back and be more objective about writing romance because finally, at age 53, I finally, finally, have a handle on what works and what doesn't. Until I had that key, I honestly believe I couldn't have written convincingly or effectively about romantic love.
So you can expect two things from me--one, that I will always be in love with Bruce and two, that you will enjoy many more stories of love and romance between two men--because of Bruce and what he gave to me.
Oh, and that one word I alluded to above? The one Bruce used when he said it summed up what we had?
That word was family.
Wise Words from MLR Press Publisher Laura Baumbach
Laura Baumbach is not only a terrific writer, she is also the founder and head of the publishing house MLR Press. Recently, in a group post to her authors, she shared some thoughts on publishing m/m romance and why she does what she does. Laura's passion for the genre shines so clearly through, I thought it was admirable and wanted to share it with you here:
I started this press because I wanted our category of romance to have the same fair shake as the rest of the romance community, not to have an income. Money wasn't even in the equation when I started this press with William Maltese, Josh Lanyon and myself as the only authors. I knew I couldn't make enough to live on with my writing. Very few of us can. Ah, to be John Grisham!
Ten years ago, heck, six years ago, we couldn't get much of anything into print with any of the existing romance houses and to be a respected part of the romance community you had to have print books on the store shelves. So I decided to make it so. As it turns out, it was actually the last available opportunity to get our foot in the door before print went to 'fade to black'. Who knew? The timing was just right.
And now, we have that foothold. We have our own RWA chapter, recognition from the community, a growing readership and some clout and RESPECT in the industry we inhabit. And we have our books on the shelves. Not all of you may share my original goal, and you don't have to, it's altruistic I know, but it's my purpose. And yes, making some money would be a nice plus. But gaining recognition and respect is the building block to making that happen.
Visit MLR Press and see how they've grown!
New Rave Review for CAREGIVER
I have had the week from Hell and am only today feeling better (I had a bad bacterial infection that left me in bed most of the week with nausea, fever, and other things that made me want to die). But today I feel I have finally rounded the bend and am beginning to feel recovered.
One of the few nice things that happened this week was an out-of-the-blue, very positive review for my novel, CAREGIVER, from a review site (Seductive Musings) I was not even familiar with. It was nice that it was positive, even nicer that the book resonated with the reviewer on such a deep, emotional level. That's what I write for...
The reviewer, Andrea, said, in part:
"Have you ever read a book that put your life on hold, one that wrapped you so totally in the story and the characters that you felt a part of it, one that you knew your life would be forever changed after reading? Caregiver was that book for me..."
What writer could ask for more?
Read the entire review here.
Buy: In ebook. In paperback. Kindle.
Posted by Rick R. Reed at 12:03 PM
Labels: AIDS, contemporary gay romance, Dreamspinner Press, gay fiction, HIV, m/m romance, Rick R. Reed gay fiction
New Cover for CHASER! Releases August 24
I'm excited to unveil the cover of my next novel, by the very talented Anne Cain. She captures perfectly the essence of my love story that delves into the role physical appearances play in falling in love. Watch for Chaser (from Dreamspinner Press) to appear around the end of August.
Here's what Chaser is about:
Caden DeSarro is what they call a chubby chaser. He likes his guys with a few extra pounds on them. So when he meets Kevin Dodge in a bar bathroom, he can't help but stare, even if he does make an ass of himself. As far as Caden is concerned, Kevin is physically perfect: a stocky bearded blond with a dick that's just right. (They met in the bathroom—of course he looked!) But Caden gets tongue-tied and misses his chance.
When Caden runs into Kevin one night on the el train, he figures it's fate offering him a second shot. Caden manages to get invited back to Kevin's place for a one-night stand that turns into the kind of relationship he's dreamed about.
But the course of true love never did run smooth, and Kevin and Caden's romance is no exception. When Caden returns from a few weeks away on business, Kevin surprises him with a new and "improved" body—one that fits his shallow friend Bobby's ideal, not Caden's. Caden doesn't know what to do, and his hesitation is just the opportunity Bobby was looking for. This isn't the same Kevin he fell in love with… is it?
Labels: contemporary gay romance, gay, gay erotic, gay fiction, gay literature, GLBT fiction, m/m romance, Rick R. Reed gay fiction, Rick R. Reed m/m romance
New Review for A DEMON INSIDE
I was very pleased to wake up this morning and find a message from TwoLips Reviews, saying they had reviewed my gothic romantic chiller, A Demon Inside. The reviewer, Tina, gave the book five stars (or in their parlance, lips)--their highest rating. Tina called A Demon Inside, "...a mysterious and gripping book from the first page..."
Read an excerpt and buy your own copy of A Demon Inside here.
Hunter Beaumont doesn't understand his grandmother's deathbed wish: "Destroy Beaumont House." He'd never even heard of the place. But after his grandmother passes and his first love betrays him, the family house in the Wisconsin woods looks like a tempting refuge. Going against his grandmother's wishes, Hunter flees to Beaumont House.
But will the house be the sanctuary he had hoped for? Soon after moving in, Hunter realizes he may not be alone. And with whom---or what---he shares the house may plunge him into a nightmare from which he may never escape. Sparks fly when he meets his handsome neighbor, a caretaker for the estate next door, but is the man salvation... or is he the source of Hunter's terror?
Call for Submissions: Thanksgiving Mystery Antholo...
Wise Words from MLR Press Publisher Laura Baumbach...

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


Below are current work-study and hourly positions that are available for students. Be aware that each job has a different application process and may be on or off campus. Click on the job number to view more details on the position.
Click on the button below to view the current job postings for work-study and hourly.


A new mobile app from Walmart allows associates to order out-of-stock products for shoppers by connecting those workers with the mega-retailer's ecommerce site via their in-store devices.
The new option allows shoppers who can't find what they're looking for to alert a nearby associate, who will help find the correct product on his or her in-store device. After selecting whether the product gets shipped for in-store pickup later or home delivery, the shopper receives a receipt or email that can be used to pay at any store register, with shipping beginning when checkout completes.
A major feature of the app, according to the Bentonville, Ark.-based company, is that shoppers can pay for products ordered through it however they want – with a new cash or check option, credit card, or Walmart Pay. This helps ensure better accessibility and an easier shopping experience.
"This new app connects our stores and Walmart.com to enable a new, convenient service, and it's also the latest in a series of apps associates now have to help them serve customers even better," the retailer said on its website.
Introducing Check Out With Me in its Lawn & Garden Centers, which gives associates in the departments cellular devices and Bluetooth printers to check out customers and provide receipts on the spot. Previously, customers had to exit the Lawn & Garden Center and enter the store itself to pay for lawn- and garden-related products.
Creating a suite of custom-built mobile apps to help store associates manage a variety of routine activities directly from a mobile store device, freeing up time to handle other important duties. The suite assists with tasks ranging from the moment a product arrives in the back room to the second a customer finds it on the shelf.
Encouraging store associates to accomplish everyday tasks on the job with their smartphones instead of store-supplied devices, with the intent of improving efficiency via familiarity. The Bring Your Own Device program lets participating associates download Walmart's app suite directly to their own devices and, in return, receive a discount on their phone bills. Walmart claims that it's being "very specific" about what it can and can't see on associates' phones to help curb privacy concerns.
Additionally, Walmart's club store division, Sam's Club, recently opened a smaller-format, grocery-focused Sam's Club Now store in Dallas, which places shoppers' mobile phones at the center of the grocery shopping experience while also serving as an incubator to adopt and test other technologies. Among the features of the Sam's Club Now app used in store are scan-as-you-shop, augmented reality, wayfinding and navigation, and one-hour click-and-collect.


Safety is an obsession and a primary concern.
With properly cited buoyancies and buoyancy bags all the boats are designed to float by themselves and sailors are trained to ensure that the buoyancies are sealed and checked at regular intervals.
The Club has been incident free since inception and our instructors are alert and well trained.
Two Safety Boats are always on the ready and two more in a semi state of readiness and no sailing boats are allowed to be launched unless the safety boats are in place and on the water.
We have had an incident free super safe environment.


Just Because I'm a Woman: Songs of Dolly Parton is a various-artists tribute album to Dolly Parton, released on October 14, 2003. The title song is a rerecording by Parton of a song she originally wrote during the 1960s and first included on her album Just Because I'm a Woman in 1968. The Emmylou Harris track "To Daddy" was recorded in 1978, and first appeared on Harris' album Quarter Moon in a Ten Cent Town (a single release of the song reached #3 on the U.S. country singles chart in early 1978); the remainder of the tracks on the album were new recordings by each of the artists made specifically for this project.
This page was last edited on 16 November 2018, at 07:39 (UTC).


Align shiny marbles to blast them from the board in this addictive puzzle game..
Get software utility fast and without troubles. Our catalogue is cheerful to present a big variety of the best free software, utilities, and systems. On this directory you be able to acquire trial updates of favorite commercial programs, and setup the top freeware for your PC or digital device. Search an ultimate collection of first class fresh tools on SoftEmpire directory! Acquire trial versions and try advanced apps on the PC or cellular gadget. Have a look on the actual editions and new releases of classic app, recent programs, and PC programs! Test today!


I am ashamed to say that despite my rabid love for everything San Francisco and having inhabited the city with the stubborn possessiveness of an alley-cat, I had somehow never visited the Legion of Honor museum, the most beautiful public museum in the city and certainly one of the most visually breathtaking ones in the country till date. The location (Lincoln Park), resplendent with glimpses of the Golden gate bridge, blue waters of the Pacific and lush greenery, adds further to the charm of the beautiful Beaux-Arts building which is home to art spanning 4000 years of human history. So, I finally found myself at the museum last Sunday and cooled off in the gentle gaze of ornate paintings and sculptures. We enjoyed the permanent collection thoroughly and loved the ongoing special exhibit on British watercolors and oil sketches, displayed in conjunction with the famous British painter J.M.W. Turner's work being exhibited at the sister De Young museum at the Golden Gate Park.
A must visit for art lovers, the permanent collection as well as special exhibits are to be imbibed in a leisurely stroll and at no point there is a feeling of being overwhelmed since the exhibits are not crowded or too extravagant. A good 3-4 hours is enough to satiate your love for all things cultural, with a musical treat thrown in for good measure (organ playing on weekends). The museum not only nests famous art pieces of the Rococo and Victorian era, but also those from the Baroque period (my favorite being the Allegory of Geometry, by Laurent de La Hyre ; being the nerd that I am) and renaissance period such as Monet's Lillies or the impressionist master Degas's works or Raffaelli's The Absinthe Drinkers. However, my favorite still remains the sculptures by Auguste Rodin, the famous French sculptor and widely considered to be the father of modern sculpture. The Legion of Honor boasts the largest collection of his works (outside of Musee de Paris) which includes the famous ones such as "The Thinker" (right at the entrance of the museum), "the kiss" and the "Burghers of Calais" (I couldn't get enough of these amazing figurines) and both creations cast both in metal and plaster. For more information on Legion of Honor, please visit their website. Hope you enjoy the photographs (flash prohibited) and do visit the museum for a date with art! Read more about my other posts on San Francisco here and here.


The information in the table below provides a method of converting between American, European and United Kingdom dress and suit sizes.
Example A Size 8 Dress in th U.K. would be most similar to a size 34 dress on continental europe or size 6 in the U.S.
As you can see there is a consistent relationship between the sizes. A dress in the U.K would be 2 sizes larger than in the U.S., in Japan one size larger than in the U.K. or three sizes larger than the equivalent in the U.S. but the European scale starts much higher and is always 28 greater than the equivalent U.S. size.


We offer a variety of online and print materials to help you learn more about our platform. Visit our document library to view our data sheets, solution briefs, research, or watch one of our many webinars and videos.
The complete documentation navigable by module and section.
Resource library related to installation and configuration.
Watch on demand or join live to learn the basics.


text:
Neuropsychological, psychiatric, and cerebral blood flow findings in vascular dementia and Alzheimer's disease.
S E Starkstein, L Sabe, S Vazquez, A Teson, G Petracca, E Chemerinski, G Di Lorenzo, R Leiguarda
Stroke; a Journal of Cerebral Circulation 1996 March
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Psychiatric, neuropsychological, and cerebral blood flow differences between patients with ischemic vascular dementia (IVD) or Alzheimer's disease (AD) were examined.
METHODS: A consecutive series of patients who met either the criteria of the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke and the Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders Association for probable AD or the State of California AD Diagnostic and Treatment Centers criteria for probable IVD were included in the study. Twenty consecutive patients with IVD were matched for age, sex, and Mini-Mental State Examination scores with 40 consecutive patients with probable AD. Patients underwent a psychiatric interview, a neuropsychological assessment, and single-photon emission CT imaging with 99mTc-hexamethylpropyleneamine oxime.
RESULTS: Patients with IVD showed significantly more severe anosognosia (P<.05) and emotional lability (P<.01) than AD patients, but no significant between-group differences were found in the frequency and severity of depression. IVD patients showed significantly more severe deficits in tests of planning, sequencing (P<.05), and verbal fluency (P<.05) as well as significantly more severe cerebral blood flow deficits in the basal ganglia (P<.01) and the frontal lobes (P<.001) than AD patients.
CONCLUSIONS: Patients with IVD showed a relatively more severe dysfunction of the frontal lobes as demonstrated by single-photon emission CT and expressed in specific psychiatric and neuropsychological changes than AD patients matched for age, sex, and severity of dementia.


So you can buy a second-hand copy of my first book — a thin paperback called Honor Grades on 15 Hours a Week — for $74.98 plus $3.99 shipping and handling, here (you would have to be insane to do that); or the brand new e-book edition for $3.99, here (frugally insane).
. . . dashed off one summer when Tobias was 21, [this slight tome] might just help today's homework-obsessed high school senior get the most out of his or her college years and take the leap toward real life.
Now that I've figured out how to do this, expect the rest of my out-of-print oeuvre to follow.
We are losing our democracy to a flood of secretly-funded attack ads purporting, preposterously, not to be attack ads. Wait til you see them — and Karl Rove's response: impassioned, irrelevant, and completely untrue. Must-see TV. Seven minutes.
Six more must-see minutes — showing how the Supreme Court overturned a century old Montana ban on corporate campaign contributions and what effect that is having. We are losing our democracy.
And I don't know where you could possibly find another seven minutes, but try: a graphic depiction of what Maddow calls "juh-bortion" — the Republicans' saying that their singular focus is "jobs" when in fact all they work on is returning abortion to the back alleys.


The European Globalisation Adjustment Fund provides support to people losing their jobs as a result of major structural changes in world trade patterns due to globalisation. The EGF is administered by the European Commission, DG Employment, Social Affairs & Inclusion.
Individuals, representative organisations or employers affected by redundancies and wishing to ensure that the redundant workers benefit from the EGF support should get in touch with the EGF Contact Person for their Member State.
Objective: The European Globalisation Adjustment Fund provides support to people losing their jobs as a result of major structural changes in world trade patterns due to globalisation, e.g. when a large company shuts down or production is moved outside the EU, or as a result of the global economic and financial crisis.
help with looking for a job, careers advice, education, training and re-training, mentoring and coaching, entrepreneurship and business creation.
"The Commission and the Member States shall ensure that equality between men and women and the integration of the gender perspective are an integral part of, and are promoted during, the various stages of the implementation of the financial contribution from the EGF."
The EGF has a maximum annual budget of EUR 150 million for the period 2014-2020. Financial assistance is provided in the form of financial contribution and grants.


Airbus Defence and Space is a division of the Airbus Group and was formed in January 2014 by merging business activities from Cassidian, Astrium and Airbus Military. This new division is Europe´s leading defence and space company, and the worlds´s second-biggest space company and among the first ten biggest defence companies in the world.
Institutional clients as the European Space Agency ESA, aeronautical authority, civil and military customers, platform manufacturers for helicopters, fighter aircrafts, transport aircrafts and UAV.


Just about two hours away from Iloilo is the seafood capital of the Philippines – Roxas City. Close to the Visayan Sea, which is considered one of the most bio-diversified marine ecosystems worldwide, Ilonggos benefit from whatever bountiful sea harvest Roxas City amasses. So, don't be surprised why seafood feasts are so popular in Iloilo.
Various kinds of seafood dishes are here at much lower prices. This is the place where you can have seafood three times a day without burning your wallet. It's truly a seafood lover haven!
A visit to Iloilo is not complete without sampling the deliciously fresh seafood dishes. You can go to the local markets or seafood courts, particularly that one in the central market to buy the seafood that you want. You can take it home or have it cooked right there and then. Just tell them if you want your seafood steamed, grilled, fried, baked or even sizzling and in chili sauce, in garlic sauce, with butter, with cheese, etc., and they will do it for you.
You may also choose to visit Iloilo city on the fourth week of January or second week of February when the locals celebrate Paraw Regatta and Dinagyang Festivals, respectively. One of the essential parts of these festivities is the seafood festival.
Beachfront seafood restaurants join the festival wherein they prepare and line up choices of mouth-watering seafood dishes for the revelers. The all-time favorites include grilled squid, steamed talaba (oyster), baked Diwali shell, and sweet and sour crab. Some restaurants also serve aligue rice, seafood paella and oyster tempura.
Still, you may go to the province any time of the year. There are hundreds of native and upscale restaurants that specialize in various seafood dishes. Great examples are Tatoy's Manokan & Seafoods Restaurant in Villa Beach, Alan's Talabahan in Oton, Ponsyon in Plazuela de Iloilo, Breakthrough in Arevalo, and Joy Joy's Restaurant in Dumangas. Alan's Talabahan is probably the closest to Amaia Scapes Iloilo.
Residents and tourists can go to any beach nonetheless. Several seafood shacks are lined up a few meters from the shore. It's literally fresh seafood by the beach.
Craving for seafood? That's one thing the Ilonggos will never experience. Why? Because their craving is satisfied even before they realize they are actually craving for it. We – tourists and revelers – are lucky too because we get to gorge in fresh and delicious seafood at a fraction of the price when we're in Iloilo. It can't get any pleasant-tasting than that for sure.
For more information about Amaia Scapes Iloilo, visit our sales office located at Emmanuel Business Center Benigno Ave. cor Gen. Luna St., Iloilo City or call 0977-85-AMAIA (26242).


Minutes, approved on June 28, 2017.
In attendance: Fairfield County: David Bedell, Peter Davenport, Rolf Maurer; Hartford County: Barbara Barry, Mike DeRosa (GPCT Co-Chair), Chris Reilly (GPCT Treasurer, Jeffery Russell; New London: Bob Stuller, Ronna Stuller (GPCT Secretary, Recorder); Shoreline: Lynne Charles, Owen Charles; Waterford: Billy G. Collins, Emily Garfinkel (GPCT Co-Chair), Joshua Steele Kelly, Baird Welch-Collins (GPCT Co-Chair, Facilitator); At Large: Brian Gay, Linda Thompson Lancz, Susan Ye, Amy Vas Nunes, Eugene Woloszyn. Guests: Jim Brasile, Lauren Gauthier.
Approval of minutes of March 9 and April 3 SCC and April 30 Annual Meeting was deferred; drafts will be provided for review prior to the June meeting.
Minutes of the May 8 Executive Committee meeting were accepted for the record.
Treasurer's Report: GPCT balance is $866.74; revenue (fundraiser/annual meeting) was $1,822.00, expenditures (including mailing) were $1,202.92. FEC balance is $1,218.12.
Fairfield County: Nominating Convention was held at the May 13 chapter meeting; candidates are Hector Lopez (Constable, New Canaan), John Amarillios (Constable, New Canaan), Leif Smith (Constable, Redding), Cora Santaguida (Constable, Stamford), Brian Merlen (Stamford Board of Representatives district 7), and Jackie Pioli (Stamford Board of Education).
Hartford County (formerly Greater Hartford): Met on May 18; Chris Reilly, Mike DeRosa, and Barbara Barry were elected as co-chairs, with Barbara also serving as secretary; chapter name has been changed, and its region will include all towns within Hartford County. David Ionno has been elected to the MDC (Metropolitan District) board.
Shoreline: Met at member Lorain Simister's Neighbor Day House party on May 21; next regular meeting will be held on June 18. Madison, Clinton, and Guilford are in process of forming Town Committees; Owen is seeking nomination for Board of Finance at June 13 caucus; "Requiem for the American Dream" will be screened in Guilford on June 27.
New London: Next meeting will be June 4, and nominating meeting is scheduled for June 14 at the FRESH Urban Farm; Mirna Martínez and Erick Carrión are seeking endorsement as Board of Education candidates. A second nominating meeting is anticipated in August.
Waterford: Nominating meeting is scheduled for June 17; 6 or 7 candidates are anticipated, for RTM districts, Zoning Board of Appeals, and Board of Education. Baird has been appointed to the Flood & Erosion Control Board. A fundraiser/clean-up will be held on June 24; volunteers and donors encouraged to sign up in support.
New Milford: Documentation is not complete, so request for chapter recognition will be deferred until further notice.
Northeast CT chapter organizing: The NECT group has held 3 meetings, with 13 people at the most recent on May 22. Information about required documentation was shared, and chapter recognition will be placed on the agenda for the June SCC meeting.
Middlesex County: Brian (along with Vic Lancia) is hoping to organize a chapter in the Middletown area; GPCT will provide voter data to assist in the effort.
All chapters are requested to send a list of their current SCC representatives to the EC.
(1) Jill Stein event was very successful: well-attended and good model for fundraising.
(2) Annual Meeting/internal elections: workshops were well regarded by participants; it may be beneficial to review/assess voting protocols before next year's elections.
Social media committee: Purpose is to coordinate postings on Facebook, Twitter, and (in the future) YouTube, Snapchat, and Instagram, and to provide technical assistance to chapters. Anyone who is interested in being on the committee should contact the EC; at this time we are seeking one representative per chapter.
SCC meeting schedule: The following dates were approved for future meetings: June 28, July 26, and August 23.
2017 Budget: A worksheet was provided to generate ideas about spending priorities and fundraising ideas; reps are requested to bring the discussion to their upcoming chapter meetings in anticipation of voting on a 2017 budget at the June SCC meeting.
Communications and Outreach: Discussion of strategies included reaching out to communities of color; participating in and co-sponsoring events; joining groups with common causes; establishing a presence on campuses; focusing on corporate power to differentiate Green Party from others; creating and distributing a regular newsletter.
Annual Meeting will be held July 13-16, in Newark NJ. Connecticut Greens are encouraged to attend! Carpooling and shared lodging can help with expenses.
GPUS representatives are voting on changes to the Platform Amendment Process; Josh will post details in FB group.
Legislative status reports: Of the initiatives we actively supported, only a (weakened) fracking waste ban passed. Possible future issues, such as a state budget proposal and fair election financing, were discussed, as well as organizing strategies for more effective advocacy next session.
Linda reported on the Massachusetts Rainbow-Green Annual Meeting she attended; keynote speakers Jacqueline Patterson and Patricia Montes were excellent and may be available to come to Connecticut events.
Next meeting will be held on Wednesday, June 28, at the Portland Waverly Center.


text:
package mva2.extension.decorator;

import android.graphics.Rect;
import android.view.View;
import android.support.annotation.NonNull;
import android.support.v7.widget.RecyclerView;
import mva2.adapter.MultiViewAdapter;
import mva2.adapter.decorator.Decorator;

public class InsetDecoration extends Decorator {

  private final int insetSpace;

  public InsetDecoration(MultiViewAdapter adapter, int insetSpace) {
    super(adapter);
    this.insetSpace = insetSpace;
  }

  @Override public void getItemOffsets(@NonNull Rect outRect, @NonNull View view,
      @NonNull RecyclerView parent, @NonNull RecyclerView.State state, int adapterPosition) {
    int itemPositionType = getPositionType(adapterPosition, parent);
    addToRect(outRect, insetSpace, insetSpace, insetSpace, insetSpace);

    if (isItemOnLeftEdge(itemPositionType)) {
      outRect.left += insetSpace;
    }
    if (isItemOnRightEdge(itemPositionType)) {
      outRect.right += insetSpace;
    }
    if (isItemOnTopEdge(itemPositionType)) {
      outRect.top += insetSpace;
    }
    if (isItemOnBottomEdge(itemPositionType)) {
      outRect.bottom += insetSpace;
    }
  }
}

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


text:
Neoregelia 'Wolfgang'
Wolfgang Neoregelia
'Wolfgang' – cultivar name; parentage - unsure
Chester Skotak, Costa Rica
Wolfgang Neoregelia is an herbaceous perennial that averages 10 to 12 inches in height and 12 to 14 inches in width with upright growth, arching leaves and funnel-shaped rosettes. It has a slow to moderate growth rate.
Leaves are evergreen, strap-shaped, leathery, simple, glossy, an average of 6 to 7 inches long and 1 ½ to 2 inches wide, basal rosette in arrangement, and stemless. Leaves have medium green outer bands with pinkish-red tinges and inner bands of pinkish red color with narrow green striping. Coloring can be more intense with higher light levels. The entire margins have small, sharp spines along the edges and it has parallel veins. It has a central tube-shaped cup.
Flowers are small, violet and white, and form deep in the rosette.
Fruit are ellipsoid, white, and about ½ inch long.
Poor Salt Spray Tolerance – it's risky for this plant to be put in a coastal area as it has minimal tolerance. It would require multiple layers of protection such as in a greenhouse, indoors, or in a small enclosed area such as a courtyard beyond the dunes. This is a general recommendation. Some Neoregelia are more salt tolerant, but there is little documentation of 'Wolfgang' tolerance to salt.
Separation of offsets at the base of the plant; tissue culture
A search of ASPCA, Texas A&M University, Canadian Poisonous Plants Information System, University of Wisconsin, Poisonous Houseplants and Ornamentals - Merck Vet Manual, Purdue University - Guide to Toxic Plants in Forages, Poisonous Plants of the Southeastern United States - Alabama Cooperative Extension, Florida Poison Control, University of California, and The Cat Fanciers Association did not show this specific plant on any of their lists.


A lawsuit was filed on behalf of investors in Conduent Incorporated (NYSE: CNDT) shares over alleged securities laws violations.
San Diego, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/19/2019 -- An investor, who purchased shares of Conduent Incorporated (NYSE: CNDT), filed a lawsuit over alleged Securities Laws violations by Conduent.
Investors who purchased shares of Conduent Incorporated (NYSE: CNDT) have certain options and for certain investors are short and strict deadlines running. Deadline: May 7, 2019. NYSE: CNDT investors should contact the Shareholders Foundation at mail@shareholdersfoundation.com or call +1(858) 779 - 1554.
On November 7, 2018, Conduent Incorporated announced its third quarter 2018 financial results. Conduent Incorporated disclosed that its third quarter 2018 revenue was $1,304 million, down 11.9% compared to Q3 2017 and that issued its financial and strategic outlook for its fiscal year 2018.
The plaintiff alleges on behalf of purchasers of Conduent Incorporated (NYSE: CNDT) common shares between February 21, 2018 and November 6, 2018, that the defendants violated Federal Securities Laws.
Those who purchased shares of Conduent Incorporated (NYSE: CNDT) have certain options and should contact the Shareholders Foundation.


We Will Close at 3:00 PM on 24th Dec, 2018 and Will Remain Close on Christmas Day!
Columbia Clinic Urgent Care in Southeast Portland is proud to offer convenient medical care at a reasonable cost. Our highly-trained team of providers can quickly treat a variety of illnesses and injuries, all at a reasonable cost. The clinic is located at the intersection of SE Division Street and 162nd Ave, near Burgerville and the Regal Cinemas.
Walk in anytime for fast and affordable care. We are proud to offer translation and interpretation services. If you need language assistance, just call ahead and we will happily coordinate it.


Hotels - How to increase your operational efficiency using automation.
Automation systems are almost on the brink of mass market in the residential market, controlling everything from your smart phone or tablet and automating many of the mundane activities in a home is no longer the exclusive domain of the rich and famous. But the hospitality market seems to be lagging behind, hotel room and system automation can seriously improve profitability.
Sure, some of the top 5 star hotels may have some automation in their premier suites but these systems are seen as a way to add a sense of luxury and exclusivity to the suite rather than consideration for the massive efficiency savings that could be made.
With increased competition drawing travellers away from the traditional hotel customer base to new home share options such as Airbnb; top end and even moderately priced hotels are looking at ways to lower costs and increase their efficiency, while maintaining or even increasing guest satisfaction.
Key automation functions that lower operational costs are tied to the time when a guest leaves their room. Occupancy sensors can tell housekeeping when a room has been vacated so an informed decision can be made about when to clean a room. Energy management systems can receive the same notification and thus allow the temperature in the room to return to a more energy efficient state.
Automated control of blinds or curtains in a room is an often-overlooked method of controlling the temperature, particularly if the room has direct sunlight through windows. Simply closing the blinds can mean the room is cooled without the use of expensive-to-run aircon units. Or the reverse is also true, closed blinds and curtains can retain the heat in a room longer thus possibly negating the need for heating to be turned on as soon as a guest arrives in their room.
TV's and lights can be turned off automatically. Dimming lights is a great way to reduce running costs, even turning the mini-bar fridge when a room is not sold can easily be achieved.
Predictive maintenance is a phrase we have adopted for our clients in the residential market. We monitor their systems and receive notifications when a piece of hardware has an issue that needs attention. We can usually resolve a problem before the client is aware of it. Having a clear insight into the operational efficiency of a hotel can mean huge savings and improved guest satisfaction by doing exactly the same. If the TV has gone offline wouldn't it be better to have maintenance alerted and fix it before the guest checks in that to have the guest discover the TV isn't working and have to wait for maintenance to arrive to fix it.
Seven Integration are continuously looking at ways to transfer what they have learnt in the residential market to other markets. This seems an obvious synergy to us where everyone wins.


At our home, we love reading. I have been reading to my 3.5-year-old ever since she arrived and books by Dr. Seuss are her favorite by far. So I couldn't let go of the opportunity to celebrate Dr.Seuss' Birthday and involve my kid in a fun activity. Making our own Easy Watercolor Bookmarks was a wonderful activity to involve my child in and now she wants to gift a bookmark to all her classmates in school. These bookmarks are perfect as party favors for a storybook party, a gift for a little one to make and gift to their grandmothers this mother's day, a teacher appreciation gift and even a Back to school gift for classmates.
Step 1: Get your supplies together. Make sure you have tissues handy and your workstation is lined with a plastic sheet or newspaper.
Step 3: Dilute colors of your choice in the mixing plate and drop on the wet paper. This is the wet on wet technique.
Step 4: Use one, two or as many colors as you like. We decided to use blue and green.
Here is another background I made with my daughter where I let her scribble with oil pastels once the paints were dry. For this, we used pink & bluewater colors & mixed crayons.
Step 7: Decorate. This is the fun part. Doodle, draw, stamp or ask kids to add Stickers. Inspired by Dr. Seuss Book "Cat in the Hat", my daughter added some fish stickers on one. On the second she added some birds, so I wrote a quote from Dr. Seuss to match.
Whatever you do, you can't go wrong with these.
So what do you think of our Easy Watercolor Bookmarks? Don't forget to share your creations with us using hashtag #artsycraftsymom. Here's a pin friendly image for Pinterest.


text:
BGK contamination model of the MSX satellite and comparison with Monte-Carlo simulation data
Author(s): Paul T. Ma; Loren C. Zumwalt; Francis C. Wang; Shirley C. Yfantis
Member Price
Non-Member Price
PDF $17.00 $21.00
Paper Abstract
The Bhatnagar-Gross-Krook (BGK) solution technique was used to predict molecular return flux from surface outgassing of the Mid-Course Space Experiment (MSX) spacecraft. The BGK predictions were compared to those from a Direct Simulation Monte Carlo (DSMC) study. While the DSMC solution technique provides a rigorous numerical solution of the Boltzmann equation, it requires substantially more model development time and computer resources. Conversely, the BGK method yields an approximate solution to the Boltzmann equation but is simpler to use and numerical solutions can be rapidly obtained. A comparison of the two solutions, based on MSX spacecraft's near-free-molecular contamination environment, shows that the BGK predictions are within the statistical uncertainties of the DSMC results. This favorable comparison indicates that the BGK technique for modeling return flux to the MSX spacecraft is sufficiently accurate and cost effective.
Date Published: 18 December 1992
PDF: 12 pages
Proc. SPIE 1754, Optical System Contamination: Effects, Measurement, Control III, (18 December 1992); doi: 10.1117/12.140735
Show Author Affiliations
Paul T. Ma, Lockheed Missiles & Space Co., Inc. (United States)
Loren C. Zumwalt, Lockheed Missiles & Space Co., Inc. (United States)
Francis C. Wang, Lockheed Missiles & Space Co., Inc. (United States)
Shirley C. Yfantis, Lockheed Missiles & Space Co., Inc. (United States)
Published in SPIE Proceedings Vol. 1754:
Optical System Contamination: Effects, Measurement, Control III
A. Peter M. Glassford, Editor(s)
© SPIE. Terms of Use
Browse by Volume Number
Browse by Conference
Contact SPIE Publications
Sign up for monthly alerts of new titles released.


text:
<!--
  ~ Copyright (c) 2010-2018 Evolveum and contributors
  ~
  ~ This work is dual-licensed under the Apache License 2.0
  ~ and European Union Public License. See LICENSE file for details.
  -->
<role oid="8a9dbea3-b25c-4d96-9f7f-6a8b98f03eb6"
        xmlns="http://midpoint.evolveum.com/xml/ns/public/common/common-3"
        xmlns:c="http://midpoint.evolveum.com/xml/ns/public/common/common-3"
        xmlns:t="http://prism.evolveum.com/xml/ns/public/types-3"
        xmlns:piracy="http://midpoint.evolveum.com/xml/ns/samples/piracy">
    <name>Undeletable Global</name>
    <description>Thou shalt not delete this role!</description>
</role>


text:
Chah-e Hajji Mahmud Zerabi va Shorka (, também romanizada como Chāh-e Ḩājjī Maḩmūd Ẕerābī va Shorkā) é uma aldeia do distrito rural de Tirjerd, no condado de Abarkuh, na província de Yazd, Irã.

Aldeias do Irão

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


text:
Q: browser detection for internet explore I have this javascript to detect browsers but It doesn't work in IE9. I have found several examples but couldn't make it work with my code. Could someone advise me so that it works in all browsers as it was required.
<!doctype html>
<!--[if lt IE 7 ]> <html class="ie6"> <![endif]-->
<!--[if IE 7 ]>    <html class="ie7"> <![endif]-->
<!--[if IE 8 ]>    <html class="ie8"> <![endif]-->
<!--[if IE 9 ]>    <html class="ie9"> <![endif]-->
<!--[if (gt IE 9)|!(IE)]><!--> <html class=""> <!--<![endif]-->
<head>

Javascript
var BrowserDetect = {
    init: function () {
            this.browser = this.searchString(this.dataBrowser) || "An unknown browser";
            this.version = this.searchVersion(navigator.userAgent)
                    || this.searchVersion(navigator.appVersion)
                    || "an unknown version";
            this.OS = this.searchString(this.dataOS) || "an unknown OS";
    },
    searchString: function (data) {
            for (var i=0;i<data.length;i++) {
                    var dataString = data[i].string;
                    var dataProp = data[i].prop;
                    this.versionSearchString = data[i].versionSearch || data[i].identity;
                    if (dataString) {
                            if (dataString.indexOf(data[i].subString) != -1)
                                    return data[i].identity;
                    }
                    else if (dataProp)
                            return data[i].identity;
            }
    },
    searchVersion: function (dataString) {
            var index = dataString.indexOf(this.versionSearchString);
            if (index == -1) return;
            return parseFloat(dataString.substring(index+this.versionSearchString.length+1));
    },
    dataBrowser: [
            {
                    string: navigator.userAgent,
                    subString: "Chrome",
                    identity: "Chrome"
            },
            {       string: navigator.userAgent,
                    subString: "OmniWeb",
                    versionSearch: "OmniWeb/",
                    identity: "OmniWeb"
            },
            {
                    string: navigator.vendor,
                    subString: "Apple",
                    identity: "Safari",
                    versionSearch: "Version"
            },
            {
                    prop: window.opera,
                    identity: "Opera",
                    versionSearch: "Version"
            },
            {
                    string: navigator.vendor,
                    subString: "iCab",
                    identity: "iCab"
            },
            {
                    string: navigator.vendor,
                    subString: "KDE",
                    identity: "Konqueror"
            },
            {
                    string: navigator.userAgent,
                    subString: "Firefox",
                    identity: "Firefox"
            },
            {
                    string: navigator.vendor,
                    subString: "Camino",
                    identity: "Camino"
            },
            {               // for newer Netscapes (6+)
                    string: navigator.userAgent,
                    subString: "Netscape",
                    identity: "Netscape"
            },
            {
                    string: navigator.userAgent,
                    subString: "MSIE",
                    identity: "Explorer",
                    versionSearch: "MSIE"
            },
            {
                    string: navigator.userAgent,
                    subString: "Gecko",
                    identity: "Mozilla",
                    versionSearch: "rv"
            },
            {               // for older Netscapes (4-)
                    string: navigator.userAgent,
                    subString: "Mozilla",
                    identity: "Netscape",
                    versionSearch: "Mozilla"
            }
    ],
    dataOS : [
            {
                    string: navigator.platform,
                    subString: "Win",
                    identity: "Windows"
            },
            {
                    string: navigator.platform,
                    subString: "Mac",
                    identity: "Mac"
            },
            {
                       string: navigator.userAgent,
                       subString: "iPhone",
                       identity: "iPhone/iPod"
        },
            {
                    string: navigator.platform,
                    subString: "Linux",
                    identity: "Linux"
            }
    ]

};
BrowserDetect.init();

A: To be fair, using the "userAgent" string is not a good way to do this. It's better to check if the browser supports features and then implement (or don't implement) the specific pieces of functionality of your site that the browsers will support.
Some sites that could help you out are http://diveintohtml5.info/detect.html and http://modernizr.com/

A: Check for the .ie9 class that gets added to your <html> element.
Edited to use hasClass instead of length
if ($("html").hasClass("ie9")) {

}

A: To detect MSIE (v6 - v7 - v8 - v9 - v10 - v11) easily
if (navigator.userAgent.indexOf('MSIE') !== -1 || navigator.appVersion.indexOf('Trident/') > 0) {
   // MSIE
}

A: function runvlc(){
if (navigator.userAgent.toLowerCase().indexOf("msie")!==-1||
(navigator.appVersion.indexOf('Trident/') > 0)){
alert('iexplorer')
}
else if (navigator.userAgent.toLowerCase().indexOf("msie")==-1){
alert('others')
}
};

This one works.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


The Mini Myths Blog: Book One Proof!
Last Wednesday morning was a lovely sunny affair. A nice crisp March morning in fact and as I was enjoying my first coffee of the day there was a knock at the door! It was my proofs back from the printer! Could the day get any better?
Well, yes! I eagerly ripped open the manila packaging to unleash the treasures that lurked within! And out dropped two splendid copies of Mini Myths Book One! You'd think after so many years of working on this project with all the stopping and starting that I'd be tired of looking at it but no way!
Let's be honest creating artwork digitally for a digital format is great but you can't beat a physical copy to pour over. There is something magical about seeing your work in print, bound up as a book. Also I have taken time to re-format Mini Myths from the original iOS App into a children's picture book and comic book hybrid. To accomplish this I needed new elements to be created.
My Wife has read these stories from the very first incarnation back in 2008 but I hadn't really shown her much of the new content and layout of this version. So I was really pleased when she read this version and instantly commented on how great it read and the flow seemed much more fluid.
Anyway, back to the proofs.
A good example of new artwork created to enhance the story telling.
This is the second lot of proofs that I requested. The first had a different cover that really didn't work and, shock horror there were three typo errors! Unforgivable. Anyway this second proof is the business. I'm really pleased and the book can now go into production and be available to buy.
This series has been and continues to be a labour of love. After having the disappointment of not being able to continue these books as iOS Apps for various reasons I almost gave up on Mini Myths but now it's back, bigger and better than before!
BY THE GODS WATCH THIS SPACE!


To view the list of blacklisted contacts of a campaign, go to the tab "Contacts"
and click on "Advanced segmentation" to start the search process.
From the drop-down menu select the list that you want to search.
Click on "Search" to view the results under the search box.
You can export the contacts from your search by selecting them and choosing "Export" from the drop-down box.


text:
Sublime Text WinSCP integration here is the [demo](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Q7X9zmnT7Y)

# How to install

This package is available over package control (search for `WinSCP`)

# [how to install WinSCP on linux](https://github.com/thecotne/sublime-WinSCP/wiki/how-to-install-WinSCP-on-linux)

# How to use

1. open any project which has `sftp-config.json`
2. open command palette
3. search and click `SFTP: Browse With WinSCP`
4. enjoy!

# Found issue?

[submit here](https://github.com/thecotne/sublime-WinSCP/issues/new)


Boeing is currently seeking a Senior Structural Analysis Engineer in the Saint Louis location. This position is for Ground Loads Analysis for the Tactical Aircraft programs including the F-15 Eagle and F/A-18 Super Hornet.
Plans and organizes structural analysis work at the program level to assure total compliance with structural integrity and stability requirements.
Develops, integrates and documents complex or unique structural requirements to establish the system design.
Coordinates with other engineering groups to establish the product's environment.
Guides product design and verifies structural integrity by defining requirements for development of analytical methods, finite element models/simulations and other analysis tools to develop the structural environment, characteristics and performance of the product.
Works with customers and regulatory agencies to define certification processes that will ensure requirements are met.
Reviews and approves certification results.
Develops test plans and configurations, supports test execution and analyzes/reports test results to validate and verify systems and components meet requirements and specifications.
Defines and organizes test programs to substantiate for customers and regulatory agencies that requirements are satisfied.
Develops analytical processes/tools to improve effectiveness, quality and efficiency of the development effort.
Investigates emerging technologies to develop future product.
Experience with tactical aircraft ground and flight loads development and testing.
Experience with flexible finite element modelling and trajectory simulation modeling.
Familiarity with multibody dynamics for simulation, including tire and oleo modeling.
Experience with NASTRAN and PATRAN and tools such as Adams or Simulink.
Experience with analysis and interpretation of ground and flight test data, and use of this data for model correlation.
Ability to travel short term.
Familiarity with military specifications and aircraft structural qualification processes for the United States Navy and United States Air Force.
Experience with analysis of aircraft designed to operate from an aircraft carrier.


Please sign up for our national newsletter below.
To keep up with local news please like our District Facebook pages (found be searching for Scotland's Gardens Scheme District Name). Most have sign-ups for local newsletters of openings and events.
Your privacy is very important to us. You will always be able to opt-out of our newsletters and we will never give your details to a third party. For further details see our privacy statement here.


Etobb is an online medical platform which allows patients to anonymously ask health-related questions and receive advice from top doctors.
Beladcom is a high-end online games development company for Arabic and global gamers and is partnered with top Swedish and German gamers.
Arabia Weather received Oasis500 investment as the first Arabic website for regional weather forecasts.
MiNeeds creates a network between professionals and consumers, connecting bids with services, and has served over 250,000 consumers to date.
Oasis500 is also excited to announce two new companies at the seed level. DWBI is a company specializing in database and business solutions, DaTrios is a sports social network, and TravoTech a travel solution provider for local and regional travel agencies.
Stay tuned for more news on interesting companies and projects in which Oasis500 invests and grows.


Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the raspberries on a baking tray lined with non-stick baking paper and sprinkle with the caster sugar. Roast for 15–17 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and syrupy. Allow to cool completely.
Dip the apricot halves into the brown sugar. Preheat a lightly oiled char-grill pan or barbecue over high heat. Cook the apricot halves, cut-side down, for 1–2 minutes or until caramelised. Set aside.
Place the cream in a bowl and fold through the meringue pieces.
Layer the raspberry syrup and cream mixture in serving jars and serve with the apricot halves. Serves 4.


29 * will require some locks.
33 * parameters to a primary lookup table?
56 * nodes is usually part of application initialization.
58 * \param name The name of the configuration node to get.
59 * \param final Flag to set created nodes as final or not.
62 * created node for the provided name. On error, NULL will be returned.
111 * \brief Initialize the configuration system.
122 "ERROR: Failed to allocate memory for root configuration node, "
130 * \brief Allocate a new configuration node.
132 * \retval An allocated configuration node on success, NULL on failure.
148 * \brief Free a ConfNode and all of its children.
150 * \param node The configuration node to SCFree.
169 * \brief Get a ConfNode by name.
171 * \param name The full name of the configuration node to lookup.
174 * node does not exist.
201 * \brief Get the root configuration node.
209 * \brief Set a configuration value.
215 * \param name The name of the configuration parameter to set.
216 * \param val The value of the configuration parameter.
218 * \retval 1 if the value was set otherwise 0.
236 * \brief Set a configuration parameter from a string.
241 * \param input the input string to be parsed.
243 * \retval 1 if the value of set, otherwise 0.
286 * \brief Set a final configuration value.
292 * override a previously set value.
294 * \param name The name of the configuration parameter to set.
295 * \param val The value of the configuration parameter.
297 * \retval 1 if the value was set otherwise 0.
316 * \brief Retrieve the value of a configuration node.
322 * children ConfNodes instead.
324 * \param name Name of configuration parameter to get.
325 * \param vptr Pointer that will be set to the configuration value parameter.
326 * Note that this is just a reference to the actual value, not a copy.
345 * \brief Retrieve the value of a configuration node.
349 * or if name is set to NULL.
351 * \param name Name of configuration parameter to get.
352 * \param vptr Pointer that will be set to the configuration value parameter.
353 * Note that this is just a reference to the actual value, not a copy.
358 * -2 if name is NULL.
428 * \brief Retrieve a configuration value as an integer.
430 * \param name Name of configuration parameter to get.
435 * converted to an interger, otherwise 0 will be returned.
447 SCLogError(SC_ERR_INVALID_YAML_CONF_ENTRY, "malformed integer value "
455 SCLogError(SC_ERR_INVALID_YAML_CONF_ENTRY, "malformed integer value "
460 SCLogError(SC_ERR_INVALID_YAML_CONF_ENTRY, "integer value for %s out "
480 SCLogError(SC_ERR_INVALID_YAML_CONF_ENTRY, "malformed integer value "
485 SCLogError(SC_ERR_INVALID_YAML_CONF_ENTRY, "integer value for %s with "
508 * \brief Retrieve a configuration value as an boolen.
510 * \param name Name of configuration parameter to get.
515 * converted to a boolean, otherwise 0 will be returned.
556 * \brief Check if a value is true.
562 * \param val The string to test for a true value.
564 * \retval 1 If the value is true, 0 if not.
581 * \brief Check if a value is false.
585 * is not false.
587 * \param val The string to test for a false value.
589 * \retval 1 If the value is false, 0 if not.
608 * \param name Name of configuration parameter to get.
613 * converted to a double, otherwise 0 will be returned.
638 * \param name Name of configuration parameter to get.
643 * converted to a double, otherwise 0 will be returned.
666 * \brief Remove (and SCFree) the provided configuration node.
676 * \brief Remove a configuration parameter from the configuration db.
678 * \param name The name of the configuration parameter to remove.
681 * most likely indicating the parameter was not set.
697 * \brief Creates a backup of the conf_hash hash_table used by the conf API.
709 * back to conf_hash.
720 * \brief De-initializes the configuration system.
748 * \brief Dump a configuration node and all its children.
778 * \brief Dump configuration to stdout.
786 * \brief Check if a node has any children.
789 * YAML map or array will have children.
791 * \param node The node to check.
805 * \brief Lookup a child configuration node by name.
808 * ConfNode by name and return the child ConfNode.
810 * \param node The parent configuration node.
811 * \param name The name of the child node to lookup.
813 * \retval A pointer the child ConfNode if found otherwise NULL.
832 * \brief Lookup the value of a child configuration node by name.
838 * \param node The parent configuration node.
839 * \param name The name of the child node to lookup.
841 * \retval A pointer the child ConfNodes value if found otherwise NULL.
880 * \brief Test if a configuration node has a true value.
882 * \param node The parent configuration node.
883 * \param name The name of the child node to test.
886 * returned, even if the child node does not exist.
934 * \brief Prune a configuration node.
941 * \param node The configuration node to prune.
969 * \brief Check if a node is a sequence or node.
971 * \param node the node to check.
973 * \return 1 if node is a seuence, otherwise 0.
983 * Lookup a non-existant value.
995 * Set then lookup a value.
1016 * true and that the config parameter gets the new value.
1038 * Test that a final value will not be overrided by a ConfSet.
1060 * Test retrieving an integer value from the configuration db.
1086 * Test retrieving a boolean value from the configuration db.
1273 * Test the removal of a configuration node.
Retrieve a configuration value as a double.
Free a ConfNode and all of its children.
Create the path for an include entry.
Remove (and SCFree) the provided configuration node.
Remove a configuration parameter from the configuration db.
Get the root configuration node.
Set a configuration parameter from a string.
Retrieve a configuration value as a float.
Allocate a new configuration node.
Dump a configuration node and all its children.


Candidate Rick Perry: "I get offended when people think if you're from a rural setting or a rural area that somehow or another you're not intellectually as engaging or you're not as smart."
Texas Gov. Rick Perry paused outside Marty Burchett's Fourth Generation clothing store on the east side of Harlan, Iowa's town square. Trailed by campaign staff and the international media, the Republican presidential candidate didn't burst in the door to the small shop.
It was. The clothing store was one of several small businesses Perry visited in Harlan during a town-square walk Wednesday afternoon.
Harlan Tribune co-owner Alan Mores said Perry's skill at retail politics belied the image he presents in debates.
Throughout the interview, aboard the bus rolling north on Highway 59 to Denison, Perry stressed his rural roots. He was raised on a farm in rural Texas, an hour from Abilene.
"I'm a legit rural guy and I get offended when people think if you're from a rural setting or a rural area that somehow or another you're not intellectually as engaging or you're not as smart," Perry told The Daily Times Herald.
Perry said wisdom that comes from growing up in a rural community is priceless.
"As a matter of fact, we were talking about New York City and that hustle and bustle and this almost chaotic surrounding is difficult," he said.
Perry said he grew up 16 miles from the nearest post office. As a result, he said, some people challenge him now for perhaps not developing "characteristics" for working with people — at which Perry said he chuckles.
"I did spend a lot of time alone with my dog and horses," Perry said.
Perry said that the nation needs to appreciate the disproportionate military service of rural residents, who per capita, have a stronger presence in the nation's defense.
By his own standard, does this mean President Obama would be more trustworthy as a business partner than Newt Gingrich, the current GOP front-runner who has been married three times and admitted infidelities? Is President Obama, married just once with no hint of breaking marital vows, a better role model for Americans in terms of family values?
Perry said he didn't think divorce was a disqualifier for public office, but he noted that President Harry Truman famously observed that men who would cheat on their wives cannot be fully trusted in other capacities.
Where, Perry asks, would the institution of marriage be in the United States of America if all our nation's citizens had been married three times like Gingrich? How damaged would children be if they each had to deal with these three women during Christmas: a mom, an ex-stepmom and a new stepmom?
How, Perry suggests, could Iowans take the Republican Party seriously, if after decades of running on a family values narrative, the GOP punches Gingrich's card in the Iowa Caucuses Jan. 3?
In other words, someone who has been married four times and is right with God is fit for office, Perry said.
A Perry advertising blitz is challenging President Obama, saying in no uncertain terms that Obama is engaged in a war on religion. What has Obama done to diminish the faith of Iowans, to make it more difficult for them to be Christian?
Specifically, Perry said that the U.S. Justice Department, under Obama's leadership, is attacking the ministerial exemption on hiring for staff based on the belief system in the church.
"That does affect you directly," Perry said.
The governor also suggested that Obama policies are making it more difficult for Catholic charities to operate because of the church's opposition to abortion.
Perry defended his ads as fair.
If Perry's pro-life view on abortion prevails and the procedure is again criminalized in the nation, what should the penalties be for a woman who has an abortion and for a doctor who performs one?
Perry answered that with criminalization, there would be substantially fewer abortions and that it is up to the Congress to make decision on penalties. He said that should Roe v. Wade be overturned, the states would decide for some period of time until support could coalesce for a National Defense of Life measure to outlaw abortion, perhaps as a Constitutional amendment.
How many people have been put to death while Perry has been governor of Texas, and is he utterly convinced that all of them were rightfully convicted?
He said all those executed in Texas under his watch as governor had full access to the law and lengthy appeals processes.
"I am comfortable that when I stand before God and he judges me that the decisions I have made relative to dispensing justice in Texas will not be one of the things he downgrades my performance on," Perry said.
In a September Republican presidential debate, the audience cheered a reference to the 234 executions that had taken place in Texas during Perry's service as governor. Perry, who was elected lieutenant governor of Texas in 1998, became governor in 2000 after George W. Bush left that office for the presidency.
On immigration reform Perry said securing the border is the most serious issue for the nation to face.
After these measures of enforcement, he said, the immigration policy should be to enforce existing laws and have a longer-term conversation about visas for high-technology fields.
Carroll County, Iowa, is big hunting country. Is that a true story about Perry carrying a Ruger handgun and shooting a coyote while out jogging in South Austin, Texas?
"Yes, it is," Perry said.
Douglas Burns is an editor and columnist for the Carroll Daily Times Herald in Carroll, Iowa, where this article first appeared.


Boating accidents is a broad category of accidents involving a vessel regardless if any individual suffered injuries. However, typically boating accident involve personal injuries, death or missing persons. Even an incident where an individual suffered a fear of drowning with long-term mental anguish may be actionable.
Boating accidents tend to be very complex and challenging. Liability for a boating accident may involve the operator of the vessel, the employer, the owner of the vessel and the manufacturers of the vessel or its equipment and parts if it caused or contributed to the boating accident. A boating accident may be caused by operator error, which could make the operator, the employer and the owner liable.
Many factors can contribute to a boating accident. One of the most common factors involved in a boating accident is the intoxication of the operator of the vessel. All states impose severe penalties for those found guilty of boating under the influence. Some jurisdictions even go as far as to assign some of the liability to the operator who may not be factually responsible for the boating accident. If you suspect the operator of the vessel may be intoxicated or intends to consume intoxicants during the voyage, it is best to stay ashore and inform the authorities.
Other factors, such as weather conditions may also increase the chances of a boating accident. Severe weather conditions are responsible for a significant number of boating accidents. Typically, victims of boating accidents caused by weather fail to pursue compensation claims. Modern vessels are equipped with a wide array of required equipment meant to warn the operator of impending inclement weather. If the operator fails to avoid incoming dangerous conditions by changing course or staying in the port, then the victims of the boating accident may have an actionable claim for compensation.
At The Perazzo Law Firm, we pride ourselves in representing the people of Florida and their families. We will always put our clients' needs at the forefront of the fight against the insurance industry. Our Miami personal injury lawyers have dedicated their entire careers in fighting for your rights. Whether you seek compensation for injuries, fighting for justice for wrongful arrest or looking for a home, you can rest assured our lawyers will be there for you.
For further information regarding personal injuries visit our previous post by clicking here.


text:
Artificial IntelligenceFor-U Smart Freight: SME Business on 10-month Growth Streak, Orders Soar during 618 Shopping Festival
On June 21, For-U Smart Freight (For-U), a leading technology-driven road freight transportation platform, published its performance report for the 618 shopping festival. As a new business segment, catering to small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) shippers, For-U's SME business continues to grow rapidly, and has become an important growth engine for the company, second only to the solid development of its KA business, which caters to key accounts or large enterprise (KA) shippers.
This year's June 18 shopping festival was a whirlwind of activity for China's largest e-commerce platforms, as Kuaishou took dramatic steps to elevate its overall experience, TikTok upped its private live-streaming game, JD shifted focus to appeal to a younger crowd, while Tmall slashed prices across the board. These promotional campaigns and events increased demand significantly for the freight transport market. As indicated in the For-U Performance Report, business growth was robust across all Tier 4 and below cities for 618, with a 91.98% overall year-over-year (YoY) growth in freight entry volume, and a YoY growth rate of over 100% in 19 cities across China, including Liangshan, Xuchang, Yulin, and Dali.
Massive Growth in SME Demand
For-U Smart Freight is a leading tech-driven road freight transport platform in China, known as a "Gemini Twinstar" in China's freight industry, alongside the Full Truck Alliance, also known as Manbang Group. Unlike Full Truck Alliance, whose services aim to match shippers and truckers, For-U is focused on end-to-end closed-loop transactions by participating in all aspects of the freight transaction process between shippers and carriers.
Over the course of the company's development, For-U has laid a solid foundation through serving its KA customers. Starting in July last year, For-U launched its SME business, offering its mature high-quality services to smaller enterprises, and enabling them to enjoy the same level of service as large enterprises. The dual growth engines of KA and SME businesses are what will drive For-U into the future, allowing for faster business expansion and revenue growth.
According to For-U's 618 Performance Report, the company's SME business has continued to grow for 10 consecutive months, contributing an increasing number of orders to the company. In March and April of this year, 22.8% and 26.7% of For-U's total orders came from SME business, respectively.
AI Services Approaching Maturity
As outlined in For-U Smart Freight's public offering prospectus, the company has developed the "ForU Brain," an AI- and big data-driven centerpiece encompassing three systems——smart pricing, smart dispatching and smart services , allowing For-U to participate in each step along the entire freight transaction process.
Bolstered by its full-chain, closed-loop transaction platform, For-U has accumulated massive amounts of user data, which serves as the basis for its smart decision-making across every link of the transaction chain. Additionally, with the continued expansion of its mass data library, For-U's algorithms are gaining new levels of precision. The Performance Report states that during 618, For-U platform's customer support bots successfully accommodated 87% of users, while its on-time freight delivery rate for the period was 96.1%—a testament to the maturity and efficiency of its AI application.
Near 90% Increase in Freight Driver Numbers YoY
Thanks to the standardized services and guaranteed transactions on For-U's closed-loop freight transaction platform, more drivers than ever before are choosing to take their orders through For-U Smart Freight, with the number of truck drivers using For-U's platform over the 618 period growing by 88.53% YoY – the unique value propositions created by For-U's end-to-end closed-loop transaction platform also become For-U's unparalleled competitive edges in expanding its market.
During the shopping festival, the fastest time from order placed to order acceptance by a driver was just nine seconds, while the most earned by a single driver over the same period was RMB 57,804. The digitization of freight transportation has encouraged a younger crowd to join the ranks of truckers, with the youngest driver on the platform roster for the festival a Zoomer, at just 21 years old.
Strong Performance in Emerging Urban Centers
The freight market is currently capitalizing on the strong growth in demand from emerging markets in lower-tier cities, mirroring the overarching trend in the e-commerce market. For 618 this year, as many as 81% of JD's new users came from emerging cities, reflected in the similar growth in the freight market. According to For-U's Report, the YoY increase in freight entry volume for 618 across Tier 4 cities and below was 91.98%, and from these, 19 cities—including Liangshan, Xuchang, Yulin, and Dali—saw growth more than double.
According to For-U's transportation data, the longest distance traveled on a single trip order during 618 was 4,702 kilometers, from the coastal city of Wuxi, in Jiangsu province, to Aksu, in the western reaches of Xinjiang, while the data also shows that the five busiest freight expressways over the period were: Shanghai–Nanjing, Beijing–Hong Kong–Macau, Guangzhou–Shenzhen, Shanghai–Chengdu, and Chengdu–Chongqing. The five cities with the highest volumes of outbound freight were Xi'an, Suzhou, Jiaxing, Wuhan, and Chengdu.
LALAL.AI Users Can Now Split Videos Into Vocals and Instrumentals
Chinese Technology | GAC to Cooperate Closely with Didi, Huawei
KnowledgeLake Unveils Enhanced Process Automation and Digital Workflow Tools
Lion Announces It Will Explore ChatGPT Related AI & NLP Technologies To Empower Digital Program


Virtual reality platforms are becoming increasingly viewed as viable ways to train maintenance technicians. But how long before airlines utilize the technology across other areas?
German MRO giant has embarked on a conversion program with low-cost subsidiary Eurowings.
Offering will now extend to low-cost carrier's growing 737 MAX fleet.
More aircraft: good for the aftermarket, less for so airlines.
Installing of the connectivity system set to be completed by Q4 2018.
The OEM will help the carrier's technical division with its MRO capabilities on Airbus-operated aircraft.
Annual Oliver Wyman analysis sheds light on airline costs.


Carvynick Holiday Park, close to Newquay has beautiful views of the countryside, offers five star pitches and accommodation, spa and leisure facilities, plus and outstanding onsite restaurant.
Peaceful family run hotel in overlooking Porth Beach with breathtaking views. Set in 2.5 acres; 20 bedrooms, some with sea views and some on ground floor level. Attractive bar with panoramic views. Award winning cuisine. Swimming pool. Breakfast Award.
Developed from a small Cornish Farm, Newperran is a peaceful family holiday park, renowned for its spacious flat perimeter pitching, space for your car beside your pitch, with breathtaking open countryside and sea views.
A must for beach lovers! This friendly park is nestled in the Ellenglaze Valley and is just a short walk from the stunning beach of Holywell Bay.


TestYourWings.com is a unified online test platform for students and competitive exams aspirants (UPSC, TNPSC, etc). It is designed to provide creative notes and practice tests for students/aspirants to improve their knowledge and problem solving skills.
We have successfully done this project using Core PHP, MySQL, HTML5 & CSS3. We have vast experience in PHP / MySQL development and a sound knowledge of the entire PHP framework. Customization PHP development is an accomplishment of our company and our expert PHP developers.
Do you want to develop websites using Core PHP? Please let me know we will give the best website along with good service always long term.


However, it would be hard to say the movie did not pay proper homage to the comic books.
Tom Hardy, who plays investigative journalist Eddie Brock in the movie, mentioned two weeks ago the importance for the movie to stay true to the Marvel comics.
"The depiction of Venom, I think, has been extremely faithful to the comics," he said. "If we look at some of the images directly from comic book, they haven't deviated."
One of the links to the comic books appears in the first few minutes of the movie. The film sees a Life Foundation space shuttle in dismay while making its descent back to Earth. As it returns to the planet in a wreck, remnants of the space shuttle crash land in Malaysia.
A recovery crew claims the wreckage, with one scientist mentioning the shuttle was piloted by "Jameson," a.k.a. John Jameson, who in the Marvel Comics is a prominent astronaut and son of Daily Bugle publisher J. Jonah Jameson, who frequently targeted Spider-Man for his overshadowing heroics.
In Venom, Jameson's body is briefly overtaken by a symbiote who trades his body for that of a new one owned by a member of the recovery crew.
Though it was a brief and easy-to-miss cameo, it is great to see Ruben Fleischer and the rest of the filmmakers pay proper homage to an underrated character in the comics.