HTC Vive, a leading VR headset creator, and BANDAI NAMCO Amusement America, the arcade entertainment company, are partnering up. The VR companies came together to bring Washington D.C. VR fans an opportunity to play Mario Kart VR! The gaming giants are setting up VR ZONE Portal experiences like Mario Kart VR to D.C.'s Union Station. Get your throwing arm ready for action everybody!
The four-player virtual reality experience will set players on a Mario Kart race course where they'll become Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, or Yoshi! Zip and zoom around the Mushroom Kingdom with hands on the wheel of the Kart and view Mario's world in an HTC Vive headset. Players can even grab and throw slippery banana peels and those sneaky green shells to make racers spin out.
Lots of gamers grew up with Mario Kart on the SNES, Nintendo 64, and most recently the Nintendo Switch. Now, the game's fans in the D.C. area get to sit in the driver's seat as one of Mario's famous friends or as the character himself! Sorry, but there won't be any sightings of a Bowsette! Leave that for Reddit.
Mario Kart VR racers will wear the HTC Vive headset and will get hooked up with Vive Tracker technology on their hands. The Vive Trackers attach to objects, tools, and in this case, will allow players to grab banana peels. The Vive system is also reported to have haptic feedback technology that adds movement and impact sensations to the racing game.
Excited to share the news, Steve Ignarski, National Sales Manager for BANDAI NAMCO Amusement America, said: "BANDAI NAMCO is thrilled to be a part of the innovative, cutting-edge project that is VR ZONE Portal." Most recently, fans in Japan and the UK were able to try out the gaming world's favorite plumber in his own racing game.
VR ZONE Portal is also keeping gamers current with Argyle Shift and Ski Rodeo. The single player mech robot game, Argyle Shift, puts players in the pilot seat. Fight enemies in a massive mech with AI help. This game is said to use motion seats to add an element of immersion not seen before with mech fighting games.
Gamers and adventurers will also have a shot at skiing down a snowy mountainside in the game Ski Rodeo. The VR skiing game simulates slope racing with a special motion base. To turn up the immersion, the game has a moving base that mimics the bumpiness of the slope and also has fans to simulate wind.
Mario Kart, Ski Rodeo, and Argyle Shift are a VR ZONE Portal VR gaming attraction that will be around for 6 months at Union Station in Washington D.C. As VR experiences like Mario Kart VR pop up throughout the world and now the U.S., it makes me question how long it will be before we see Mario Kart in arcades full time.
Juanita is a writer and copywriter for the VR, AR, MR, and XR industries. She enjoys playing rhythm VR games, Overwatch, and writing about life-changing technology.


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A "wonderfully engaging and thought-provoking debut." - Booklist starred review
"A story about moonlight, magic and gargoyles by a promising new author" - Cambridge Edition
"The story left me with a hugely warm embrace and a skip in my heart. Beautiful." - Reading Zone
"A beautiful, delicate story" - The Bookbag
"This book is a perfect introduction to reading for a primary audience, especially for young boys who will be able to identify with Liam and learn both from him and with him. The book has a beautiful message founded in a strong moral compass, that every story must be told and every person, remembered in its telling." - We Love This Book
"A beautiful and heartwarming story that's funny too! It's makes you feel like a kid again" - A Mum Reviews
"Stonebird is a great debut novel. Full of fantastical fairy tale elements, the novel also is laced with realistic problems." - Adventures of a Teenage Bookworm
"A magical tale for young children that is certainly one not to be missed. A stunning debut." - Heather Reviews
"It is scary at times, and deals with dark subjects like bullying and dementia. But the accessible writing in this compassionate tale makes it suitable for a wide age-range. I would include adults in that, especially anyone going through a similar situation." - Serendipity Reviews
"I read this book in one afternoon and thought it was a truly beautiful and heart-warming story, from the aesthetically pleasing front cover until the very last page. Stonebird is a fantastic thought-provoking book with magic in each and every page." - Curious Ginger Cat
Reviews by kids for kids:
"Stonebird is one of the most unique and refreshing books I've read for a long time." - DOGO books
"I love this book. It's sad and happy at the same time. You should really read this book!" - DOGO books
"This book took me by surprise, because I loved it so much." - DOGO books
"Mike Revell's debut is one of the greatest books that I have ever read!" - DOGO books
"Brilliantly written, very moving, and I would definitely read more by this author." - DOGO books
✖ Close the Content Dock

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


The 'Best' Chiropractor in Ault !
For more information or to schedule an appointment with Dr. P., call 970-834-2888 today!
Dr. Michael Pustilnik (Dr. P.) is a chiropractor serving Ault and the surrounding communities. Dr. P. and the rest of the friendly team at Ault Chiropractic Clinic are dedicated to chiropractic solutions to target your unique needs, whether you are suffering from back pain, neck pain, headaches, or even just plain old muscular tightness and tension. You may need pain relief after suffering an accident, experiencing an injury, or if you have a specific condition such as chronic back pain or a spinal condition; even if you just want to improve your overall health, Dr. P. can help you achieve your wellness goals! Please visit the testimonials page to see what our patients are saying about Ault Chiropractic and getting regular chiropractic treatments.
At your first visit to Ault Chiropractic Clinic, Dr. P. will explain the science behind how chiropractic care works, and give you a full evaluation to see if chiropractic care is right for you. If there is a good fit, we can develop a plan of chiropractic care that is specific to your condition and health goals.
If you are new to seeing a chiropractor and want to find out more, please email us or call 970-834-2888 to receive personalized answers to your questions from our friendly team. We also welcome referrals, so we invite you to share our chiropractic and wellness information with your friends and loved ones.
"No more Headaches! I have been sufferring with weekly headaches for almost 5 years. Then my mom told me to come see you. Now I don't have headaches anymore. I haven't felt this good in a long time. Thanks Dr. P."


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E.M. Powell on Blog Tour for The Lord of Ireland, June 9-July 22
Posted By amy @ 2:10 pm | No Comments
The Lord of Ireland (The Fifth Knight, #3)
by E.M. Powell
Thomas & Mercer
Kindle, Paperback, Audiobook; 370 Pages
Series: The Fifth Knight
Genre: Historical Thriller
England, 1185. John is a prince without prospect of a crown. As the youngest son of Henry II, he has long borne the hated nickname 'Lackland'. When warring tribes and an ambitious Anglo-Norman lord threaten Henry's reign in Ireland, John believes his time has finally come. Henry is dispatching him there with a mighty force to impose order.
Yet it is a thwarted young man who arrives on the troubled isle. John has not been granted its kingship—he is merely the Lord of Ireland, destined never to escape his father's shadow. Unknown to John, Henry has also sent his right-hand man, Sir Benedict Palmer, to root out the traitors he fears are working to steal the land from him.
But Palmer is horrified when John disregards Henry's orders and embarks on a campaign of bloodshed that could destroy the kingdom. Now Palmer has to battle the increasingly powerful Lord of Ireland. Power, in John's hands, is a murderous force—and he is only just beginning to wield it.
Praise for The Fifth Knight Series
"With her fast-paced mysteries set in the tumultuous reign of Henry II, E.M. Powell takes readers on enthralling, and unforgettable, journeys." -Nancy Bilyeau, author of The Crown
"Both Fifth Novels are terrific. Benedict and Theodosia are not merely attractive characters: they are intensely real people." -Historical Novels Review
"From the get-go you know you are in an adventure when you enter the world of E.M. Powell's 12th century. Peril pins you down like a knight's lance to the chest"-Edward Ruadh Butler, author of Swordland
Amazon US | Amazon UK | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Chapters
E.M. Powell's medieval thrillers The Fifth Knight and The Blood of the Fifth Knight have been number-one Amazon bestsellers and on the Bild bestseller list in Germany.
Born into the family of Michael Collins (the legendary revolutionary and founder of the Irish Free State) and raised in the Republic of Ireland, she lives in north-west England with her husband, daughter and a Facebook-friendly dog.
She reviews fiction and non-fiction for the Historical Novel Society, blogs for English Historical Fiction Authors and is a contributing editor to International Thriller Writers' The Big Thrill magazine.
Find more information at E.M. Powell's website and blog. You can also find her on Facebook, Twitter, and Goodreads.
Blog Tour Schedule
Excerpt & Giveaway at Passages to the Past
Review at Oh, for the Hook of a Book!
Review at Dianne Ascroft's Blog
Interview at Oh, for the Hook of a Book!
Review at CelticLady's Reviews
Review at Book Nerd
Guest Post at The Writing Desk
Excerpt at What Is That Book About
Guest Post & Giveaway at Let Them Read Books
Review at A Book Geek
Review at Bookramblings
Review at Just One More Chapter
Labels: E.M. Powell, Historical Thriller, June 2016, Virtual Book Tour


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Gay Activists Alliance, New York collection
Abstract Constitution and bylaws, correspondence, committee structure and reports, along with newspapers, informational pamphlets, fliers, lists of gay and lesbian organizations, photographs, and clippings of the Gay Activists Alliance (GAA), New York. The GAA sought to avoid internal conflict by democratically electing an executive committee and to avoid entangling alliances by focusing on gay and lesbian rights issues. The organization utilized coordinated non-violent confrontational actions in the...
Gay Liberation Front (GLF) Los Angeles records
Founded in 1969, the Gay Liberation Front (GLF) was a loosely structured group of gay rights activists who were interested in the radical sexual liberation for all people. This collection consists of publicity material, photographs, correspondence, clippings, and writings that relate primarily to the Los Angeles group of the Gay Liberation Front.
March Committee for Lesbian and Gay Rights/Los Angeles records
Meeting minutes, flyers, clippings, correspondence, press releases, mailing and registration lists, notes, financial records, pamphlets, mass mailings, and newsletters of the March Committee for Lesbian and Gay Rights/Los Angeles, 1980-1982, undated. Emerging from the 1979 March on Washington and the 1980 March on Sacramento, the committee worked to build the lesbian and gay rights movement.
Subject: Gays -- Civil rights X
Gay liberation movement -- California -- Los Angeles 2
Associations, institutions, etc. -- New York (State) -- New York 1
Discrimination in employment 1
Gay liberation movement -- New York (State) -- New York 1
Gay press publications 1
Gay rights -- California 1
Gay rights -- United States 1
Gays -- Correspondence 1
Gay Activists Alliance 1
Gay Liberation Front/Los Angeles 1
Kennedy, Joe 1
Lauritsen, John 1
March Committe for Lesbian and Gay Rights/Los Angeles 1
Mattachine Society 1
O'Hara, Jerome 1
Owles, Jim 1
Perez, Angel 1
Rash, John 1
Wandel, Richard 1


Theft from farms and the countryside amount to over £42 million, with the most commonly targeted items being tools, quad bikes and fuel. It is a crime that is affecting farmers across the UK.
Antony Lindlay is an arable farmer with a 500-acre farm in north Lincolnshire, who woke up one morning to find that thieves had broken into his farm buildings and used his lorry to steal thousands of pounds worth of goods ranging from quad bikes, sprayers and power tools to lamps and tillage equipment. He needed a solution quickly, so approached Advance Security Solutions who in turn recommended OPTEX intrusion detection technology.
"It is tremendous for anyone who wants security over a large area of land – peace of mind is worth a fortune and that is what an OPTEX Smart Line system gives you," he says. "As soon as an intruder tries to break into a farm building, the OPTEX perimeter security system detects him and sends an immediate alert to the farmer.
Additionally the system can be set up to ignore wildlife, so it is not triggered by foxes or other nocturnal animals.
Ricky Miwa, Managing Director of OPTEX Europe says sadly over the past decade, rural crime has increased: "Very often assumptions are made that crime does not happen in peaceful rural places, but it is happening on a much larger scale than many people know about. It is costing farmers millions of pounds.


text:
test(() => {
  assert_false("getAll" in new Headers)
  assert_false("getAll" in Headers.prototype)
}, "Headers object no longer has a getAll() method")

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


You can easily find wearable technology devices on the web today and there are so many options and selections out there. The task of finding the best and top quality wearable technology devices out there can be quite difficult since there are so many options available on the Internet right now. If you really want to make sure that the wearable technology devices that you are going to purchase are indeed the best one, then it is necessary that you conduct an online research first – read more here. Take note that not all wearable technology devices are created equal and so you have to make sure that you take the time to consider several pointers first.
You might know someone who has bought great quality wearable technology devices before, and so do not hesitate to ask for advice or recommendations from them. You should only purchase those devices that have made your friends or families happy or very satisfied. Look for other brands or models of these devices if your loved ones do not recommend it to you. Reading … Read More..
In most cases, people tend to confuse hemp oil and CBD oil and interchangeably use them. Hence, one should note that these products have health benefits. When it comes to their use, it is vital noting that most people might prefer to have one over the other. Any time you get a clear picture of these products, it can be an easy task for you to note the one that can suit your needs.
The CBD oil is seen to be got from the hemp or the cannabis plant. One thing worth noting is that the CBD oil is got from the flowers and the leaves. The hemp oil is generally composed of the THC and the CBD and with it, it as a high percentage of the THC than it is the case of the CBD oil. The CBD oil is usually seen to contain the pure extraction of the cannabidiol. The CBD and the THC are some of the components that are seen to make hemp oil a good booster of health.
The CBD oil and the hemp oil are generally seen to be less psychoactive. Whenever you settle to using the CBD oil and the hemp oil, it … Read More..
Not everyone is cut out to do office work. But not everyone finds it hard to leave the security it offers. While it may be fun to spend time outdoors, there are bills to pay. If outdoor activities were income generating; more people would jump at the opportunity. Here are a few that pay well.
There is also photography to think of. This shall be your way of making your skills better over time. There is a huge market for excellent photography out there, from weddings to other events.
You may also do campsite management. You can become one for your local campsite, and be paid for it. This shall be lucrative if the campsite operates all year round.
There is also the chance to become a dog trainer. Since dogs are highly active, you will most likely spend a lot of your time outdoors. You will relish all the instances of teaching dogs to obey commands, to behave properly and other things. You will only have to qualify for your license.
Horse training is another one for lovers of animals. This is, however, possible if you have the funds for the job. You then have to be in a place where there are horse owners. You can seek funding or this project, in case you do not have it handy.
Landscaping and lawn maintenance work ensures you are constantly out there. There is always a demand for this service. There is always the desire to have the most … Read More..


Escape the hassle of finding a reliable transfer service that can get you to Phuket International Airport or your hotel in the city. Thai Rhythm provides a safe and convenient transfer service that will take away your stress in traveling. Choose from flexible vehicle options that can accommodate 3 to 10 people plus luggages and experience riding inside comfortable air conditioned sedans or vans under the command of a professional and friendly driver. Sit back, relax, and enjoy a peaceful transfer service as you make your way to the airport or the city!
Walk out from airport, there is a lot of person holding paper along the way. If you can't see it from the crowd, just ask. They will tell you. Go to Klook staff and we waited around 10 minutes in the waiting area with seat. Cheap and very convenient. Driver didn't speak English but drive safely. Highly recommend! Walk out from airport, there is a lot of person holding paper along the way. If you can't see it from the crowd, just ask. They will tell you. Go to Klook staff and we waited around 10 minutes in the waiting area with seat. Cheap and very convenient. Driver didn't speak English but drive safely. Highly recommend!
There is only one exit between gate 3 and 4. No worries. Just walk out and you will find the row of names. Pick your name out and then show to the operators there. They will call the driver. Take note that the drivers are not allowed to wait in their vehicles. So they will park at a short distance away waiting for the operators call. In a short while they will arrive. Just be patient. There is only one exit between gate 3 and 4. No worries. Just walk out and you will find the row of names. Pick your name out and then show to the operators there. They will call the driver. Take note that the drivers are not allowed to wait in their vehicles. So they will park at a short distance away waiting for the operators call. In a short while they will arrive. Just be patient.
Driver was in time, very polite and smiled. He helped us to load our luggage and advised to fasten seat belts. It took about an hour to get to the airport. Nice price, highly recommended! Driver was in time, very polite and smiled. He helped us to load our luggage and advised to fasten seat belts. It took about an hour to get to the airport. Nice price, highly recommended!
Driver arrived before time at the hotel and also helped us load the luggage in the van. He also insisted we wear the seat belt. Van was a 9 seater with last 3 seats folded down for keeping luggage. Driver took interior route instead of the highway, drove smoothly and was courteous. Overall a nice experience for a ride from hotel in Patong to Phuket airport. Driver arrived before time at the hotel and also helped us load the luggage in the van. He also insisted we wear the seat belt. Van was a 9 seater with last 3 seats folded down for keeping luggage. Driver took interior route instead of the highway, drove smoothly and was courteous. Overall a nice experience for a ride from hotel in Patong to Phuket airport.
Driver is very on time as came early 15 mins before pickup time by 12:30pm after we checked-out millennium Resort Patong Phuket. Arrived airport 1:30pm. Driver is very on time as came early 15 mins before pickup time by 12:30pm after we checked-out millennium Resort Patong Phuket. Arrived airport 1:30pm.
Instructions are very clear and I just book the shuttle right on the day. When i go to gate 3 and 4, i can already see my names. As all the info are input in advance, you dont need to worry about the language barriers. Instructions are very clear and I just book the shuttle right on the day. When i go to gate 3 and 4, i can already see my names. As all the info are input in advance, you dont need to worry about the language barriers.
Place visited was great but a bit rushing. This tour is worth it if you dont have so much time to explore/ want to save money on transportation. Place visited was great but a bit rushing. This tour is worth it if you dont have so much time to explore/ want to save money on transportation.
we waited for 20 min for the driver that was very bad .. overall I would rate a good experience...and enjoyed it .. we waited for 20 min for the driver that was very bad .. overall I would rate a good experience...and enjoyed it ..


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First of all, it's worth knowing what Abkhazians really think. " />
At length
Karabakh stories
Letters from prison
Ajara
From far and near
Unheard Voices
Opinion: What should Georgia's policy be on Abkhazians?
First of all, it's worth knowing what Abkhazians really think.
Photo: Shako Mamukashvili, JAmnews.
Georgia's policy towards Abkhazians hasn't been successful for a long time. By "for a long time", I mean not only the last 25 years, but even earlier (at least since the 1970s), with the Abkhazian issue being aggravated more than once.
The fact is that at least in recent decades, Georgia has pursued an erroneous policy towards Abkhazia, and failed to implement its political integration. We easily blame the entirety of the Russian Empire, but if we want a serious discussion about the problem, then we need to forget about this simple speculation. The Russian Empire was not happy with Abkhazia's political integration into Georgia, that's a fact, but we must admit that Russia could not have created these problems if we had acted properly.
First of all, we need to recognize one fundamental problem: the fact that Abkhazians relate to Georgians like they do to enemies who have no place in Abkhazia. This problem gives rise to another, no less important one: some Georgians know almost nothing about this Abkhazian attitude. Some know, but don't want to find out what caused this attitude that Abkhazians have towards Georgians. For 25 years, from the beginning days of the war in Abkhazia, no one has questioned this issue on a serious level.
So, how is Georgia going to seek reconciliation with Abkhazia if we don't even know why Abkhazians are so angry at us?
Georgian authorities are trying to appeal to Abkhazians with free medical services and the achievements of Georgia as a whole. Does this policy justify itself? In my point of view, no. Since there are fundamental problems in the existing conditions mentioned above, such courting will not work. It's wonderful when Abkhazians come to Tbilisi or Batumi, it lets them see who time is working for, and imagine themselves at what level we will be, and at what level they will remain in the next 25 years.
But free treatment for Abkhazians in Georgia is reminiscent of reparations, something like the compensation citizens of Israel receive from Germany: the Georgian fascists must treat them for free. Gratitude from those treated, not to mention a call to return to Georgia, have yet to be heard.
Effective policies should be based on accurate calculations, not on emotions. Free healthcare, free electricity and the "Mshibzia" ("Hello") campaign are either fruits of an emotional approach, or a miscalculation.
Thus, for things to work we should take directions that will be based on logically correct and indisputable assumptions.
The First Assumption
Abkhazians' hostile attitude towards Georgians hampers reconciliation. Based on this, it's necessary to start a serious study to identify the causes of this attitude. If it turns out that this is due to falsification of history and Russian propaganda, then it's necessary to take solid countermeasures, narratives, messages, etc. Of course, this will only work when the issue has been studied at a serious level, and the truth is revealed – not just what Georgians will be happy to hear.
In parallel, Georgia must try to break through the information blockade surrounding Abkhazians. Under the influence of Russian propaganda, Abkhazians have a distorted view, not just about Georgia, but also about the west. Without a Russian-speaking Georgian TV channel, this problem will be very difficult to resolve (especially when no Russian-speaking European channel has been established for the same purpose either).
But after all, can't Russian-language internet sources be developed? Ones that will offer the consumer not only a news digest, but also modern Georgian films and series dubbed in Russian, modern Georgian prose and poetry translated into Russian – what constitutes Georgia's "soft power" that is. This way, Abkhazians can be shown that Georgians are normal people.
The Second Assumption
Time is working against Abkhazians, and if they realize this, they should open a dialogue. Therefore, Georgia must contribute to helping the Abkhaz people in the quickest and clearest realization of reality. From this point of view, Abkhazian visits to territories controlled by Georgia are really useful. However, at the same time, these visits should not be associated with any apologies or deceitful attempts to lure Abkhazians into a single Georgia.
Abkhazians should just see for themselves that Georgia is developing, and again, that Georgians are also people, the same as them. The only difference is that they live better, because of state institutions and strong established contacts with the outside world (which Abkhazians do not have, and will not have without reconciliations with Georgia).
The fact that the attempt to lure and apologize is counterproductive is well supported by recent history. Abkhazians perceive attempts to lure them as signs of desperation (free healthcare is likely be placed in this context), which makes them think that Georgia will die without a dialogue with them, and for the sake of it will go for any concessions, including recognition of independence. Apologies convince them that they were right in everything 25 years ago (international organizations that don't know the history of the Georgian-Abkhaz conflict may also think this too).
The Third Assumption
Abkhazians will want to live in Georgia if they see that Georgia treats its own citizens well. Therefore, it is wrong to grant privileges to Abkhazians that are not available to Georgian citizens (holding Georgian passports). At one time, even under the USSR, granting Abkhazians privileges for the sake of satisfying their desires only led to the fact that many Georgians living there registered themselves as Abkhazians. This would likely happen again now. And it is surely one more reason to stop positive discrimination (free electricity, or healthcare).
Georgians greet guests respectfully, but money collected from our taxpayers should be spent on those who consider themselves citizens of Georgia.
Tornike Sharashenidze is a professor at the Georgian Institute of Public Affairs (GIPA)
Abkhaz opposition struggling with prosecutor general it elected
Abkhazia: getting rich without Russia
About the modest results of a unilateral peace policy
Four ministries abolished and six ministers relieved of duties
Morgue robbed in Abkhazia
Mshibzia flashmob resembles a 'rahat loukoum', proposed by Georgians to Abkhazians
Otkhozoria's family appeals to the Strasbourg Court
The fate of a Georgian-Abkhaz war monument in Scotland: to be demolished, altered or moved to Abkhazia?
British Defense Secretary resigns
Russia, Iran and Azerbaijan announce 'North-South' corridor
16-year-old dies working at Tbilisi construction site
Explainer: new ECHR ruling might spell end of Georgia's main opposition TV channel Rustavi 2
Georgian streets filled with oldest cars in Europe
Georgian Dream head supports interior minister despite protests demanding resignation
Skyscrapers by the chacha fountain – Batumi residents come out against new projects in historic centre
Armenian cartoon artist quits Union of Cinematographers over film about transgender individual
Azerbaijan issues 30% less residence permits in first half of 2019
Facts and fake-news: five years since the downing of flight MH17 over Ukraine
Op-ed: Inaccessible Nakhchivan – a story on Azerbaijan's state within a state
From up close: what the US – Russian rivalry looks like on the Black Sea
Who is the half-Jamaican participant of the Tbilisi protests?
Domestic violence in the North Caucasus – tradition above the law
JAMnews film: Monologues – everyday heroes on life's curveballs
Follow @@JAMnewsCaucasus
🇦🇿 The #Azerbaijani enclave of #Nakhchivan might look pretty, but there are rules here: read the classics, sweep th… https://t.co/ADuE8I8Fgw
Toponyms and terminology used in the publications, and views, opinions and strategies they contain do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of JAMnews or any employees thereof. JAMnews reserves the right to delete comments it considers to be offensive, inflammatory, threatening, or otherwise unacceptable.


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Here are six tips that will make your blog stand out from the crowd. There are currently over 152 million blogs on the internet now and the number grows every day. If you want yours to be noticed among that lot, you're going to need every one of these quick tips to make your blog awesome.
Provide "share this" or "shareaholic" buttons so readers can share your post with their friends. Remember you're not in this alone, your reader is more important than you.
Awesome #blogs have a strong narrative structure.
Use short sentences. Where relevant, use bullet points. Long, complicated sentences may make you feel high-brow, but for the reader it can simply make your arguments hard to follow.
Learn to love images: break up large blocks of text with relevant photography or diagrams. Try not to go overboard though. Remember that your words are your medium. Unless you run a photoblog, in which case, ignore this point completely.
Give your readers a chance to comment on your posts. This makes them part of the dialogue. After all, they are the most important part of it, aren't they?
Provide readers with a textured experience. One way to do this is with clear sub-headings. Another is to use your own authentic voice (don't try to imitate another writer). Developing your own writing voice takes time, persistence, and practice, but the payback is that it conveys authenticity.
Be a story teller. A strong narrative structure can make your blog posts both memorable and easy to read. Make a separate point in each paragraph and use subheadings to reflect the structure of your story. Have a beginning, middle and end. Share anecdotes. Also, check out this video of Gary Vaynerchuk talking about storytelling.
If you follow these tips, there's no doubt your blog could indeed become awesome. Of course, this is assuming that you are getting the basics right too: writing compelling content that gives your readers great value. You should do that each time you write. And once you've written it, you absolutely must share it.
If you need help improving your blog-writing skills, contact Ash for a no-strings chat. Or you could continue without a plan or results.


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Who Is Ashley Benefield(Ballet Dancer)? Wiki, Biography, Age, Family, Career, Accused, Charged For Husband Murder, Arrested, Investigation, Instagram, Net Worth
November 9, 2020 Crime 0
Ashley Benefield Wiki – Biography
Ashley Benefield, turned herself in on Wednesday night in Lakewood Ranch, Florida, after cops there found probable cause for her arrest following a five-week probe.
Ashley graduated from the Maryland Youth Ballet and is a retired professional ballerina, according to a company description on an ANB Facebook page, which is no longer in use.
Meanwhile, Doug's family were thankful that an arrest was made after his sudden death.
"In this case, it is all evidence-based," said his cousin Tommie Benefield.
The couple was living separately and was embroiled in a custody battle over their daughter at the time, police said. Doug Benefield had gone to the home where Ashley Benefield was staying at the time and they were the only people inside the home when the shots were fired, police said.
Doug Benefield was rushed to an area hospital but could not be saved.
Multiple reports describe Doug and Ashley Benefield as being active in the ballet scene and with the American National Ballet. A post on the American National Ballet Facebook page describes Ashley Benefield as "a proud Maryland Youth Ballet graduate and retired professional ballerina."
Ashley Benefield allegedly told police her husband was "attacking her," but detectives found no evidence to indicate she was acting in self-defense, police said.
A Manatee County Sheriff's Office spokesperson told local news station WFLA investigators wanted to make sure there was "no evidence she had been abused."
"That just did not exist in this case," said spokesperson Randy Warren, according to the report. "We are looking for injuries, we are looking for torn clothing, we are looking for a sign of struggle, things that were inside that residence. We got a warrant, we were able to go in, we were able to examine that closely. There was no evidence there that this was an act of self-defense."
Ashley Benefield Age
Ashley Benefield is 29-years-old.
Read Also: Who Is Jacob Blake? Wiki, Biography, Age, Family, Career, Accused, Charged, Arrested, Investigation, Instagram, Net Worth
A former ballet dancer has been arrested and charged with second degree murder for the fatal shooting of her husband in a home in a gated community in Florida in September.
Ashley Christina Benefield, 28, turned herself in to the Manatee County Sheriff's Office on Wednesday.
After a five-week investigation, detectives in the sheriff's office informed Benefield's attorneys that they planned to charge her with second-degree murder for the September 28 shooting of Douglas Benefield, 59.
Authorities received a report that day of a shooting at a home in the Central Park section of Lakewood Ranch, about 50 miles south of Tampa.
Ashley told investigators that she shot Doug in self-defense during a 'domestic argument.'
But detectives were unable to find evidence to support her claims.
'These things take a little bit of time,' Manatee County Sheriff's Office spokesperson Randy Warren told WFLA-TV.
'We really have to look to make sure there is no evidence she had been abused and that just did not exist in this case.
'We are looking for injuries, we are looking for torn clothing, we are looking for a sign of struggle, things that were inside that residence.
'We got a warrant, we were able to go in, we were able to examine that closely.
'There was no evidence there that this was an act of self-defense.'
At the time of the shooting, the couple was separated while in the midst of a custody battle over their two-year-old daughter.
Investigators said Ashley and Doug were the only two people in the home at the time of the shooting.
County court records indicate that Ashley has on several occasions filed petitions accusing her husband of domestic violence.
'In each of these cases, it did not appear that she was being abused,' Warren said.
'We could not find anything there that would have led us to arrest her husband for whatever these claims were even some involving their child.'
Doug was a Navy veteran who founded a ballet startup along with his wife in Charleston, South Carolina, three years ago.
Doug was CEO while Ashley took on the role of executive director.
But shortly after the company's founding, it was sued by dancers and choreographers who alleged their contracts were breached when they were fired just weeks after their hiring.
Ashley Benefield turned herself in to Manatee County Jail on Nov. 4. Police said the case is still being investigated.
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A little after we moved up here six years ago we discovered Peri-Peri chicken. We're in a smaller town, but there's a big Portuguese population, and they know how to cook (especially chicken!). One neighbour down the street opened up a Portuguese chicken joint (which has since grown to include a lot more than just chicken), and after seeing our small town explode online about how great it was, we had to try.
It is INCREDIBLE. Peri-Peri chicken is coated in this indescribably delicious and complex tasting marinade that has a bit of heat layered within some incredible smoky and garlicky flavour. They rotisserie it at Poleiro's, then quickly cut it up into portions before sending it home with us in a big tray. It is just so much better than the other chain chicken restaurant found around Canada.
But, all that gushing aside, we can't always order in when we feel like it, because we live on a pretty tight budget. I had to figure out how to make it at home *almost* as good as they do down at Poleiro's. It had to be quick too, because this is a meal I'm used to being treated to on a night where life gets away from us, so outside of the cooking time, I wanted ten minutes or less of prep. I've got it figured out, and you're going to love it!
You make a quick little marinade in the blender or food processor, rub some of it on a spatchcocked chicken, and toss it in the oven for an hour. Outside of a few brushes of marinade during cooking you're done, and your house is smelling absolutely amazing. You're welcome. If you want it really spicy, just increase the pepper flakes and add a bit of cayenne. If you want it traditional and incredible, toss in some birds-eye chili's (but for this you'll probably need to plan ahead, I don't keep them stocked in the fridge). I've got to wait until the kids are a bit older to have that kind of fun.
One thing I forgot – Do NOT be afraid to spachcock a chicken. I didn't try this for so long because I thought it was going to be hard and gross. It's not. It's the easiest thing to do (just cutting out one bone with a pair of scissors. It dramatically cuts down roasting time (we're talking 25%), and it makes all of the skin on the chicken stay crisp. I do this ALL THE TIME now when I'm roasting chicken for dinner (ok, almost all the time). If you haven't done this before, here's a great tutorial via Martha.
Preheat your oven to 450ºF. Lightly grease a rimmed baking sheet with oil.
Spatchcock your chicken and season with salt and pepper.
Put all the marinade ingredients in a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. Set ¼ cup of the marinade aside.
Rub the remaining marinade on top of the chicken. Separate the skin from the bird and spread some under there as well.
Place the chicken breast side down onto the baking sheet and roast for 15 minutes.
Turn the chicken breast side up, brush with some of the reserved marinade, and continue roasting for an additional 30 minutes, brushing more marinade on every 10 minutes.
When the chicken is fully cooked (should register 180ºF on an instant read thermometer), remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before carving.
The marinade can be made a day ahead, then stored in an airtight container in the fridge, and the flavour will be even better.
If you want some of the marinade for dipping (I always do), be sure to set it aside before brushing onto the chicken so you don't contaminate it.
Don't be afraid of spatchcocking, it's so much easier than you think. All you're doing is cutting out the backbone with a pair of scissors.
Previous Post: « Get your kids in the kitchen!


text:
Exponential Bounds on the Probability of Error for a Discrete Memoryless Channel
Samuel Kotz
More by Samuel Kotz
In a paper by Blackwell, Breiman and Thomasian [1, Theorem 3] the following theorem is proved: For any integer $n$ and for any $0 < \epsilon \leqq \frac{1}{2}$, such that $C - \epsilon \geqq 0$ there exists a code for a discrete memoryless channel with length $N > e^{n(C - \epsilon)}$ and with a bound for the probability of error, $\bar\lambda = 2 \exp_e - \lbrack n\epsilon^2/(16ab)\rbrack$, where $C$ is the capacity of the channel and a and b are the numbers of elements in the input and output alphabets respectively. In this note we shall replace the bound $2 \exp_e\lbrack -n\epsilon^2/(16ab)\rbrack$ by the expression $2 \exp_e\{-n\epsilon^2/\lbrack g(c)(\log c)^\{2 - \delta\rbrack\}$, where $c = \min (a, b), g(c)$ is a positive monotonically decreasing function of $c, g(c) < 16$ for all $c \geqq 3$ and approaches 2 asymptotically as $c \rightarrow \infty$, and $\delta > 0$ depends on $\epsilon$ and $c$ and tends to 0 as either $c \rightarrow \infty$ or $\epsilon \rightarrow 0$.
Kotz, Samuel. Exponential Bounds on the Probability of Error for a Discrete Memoryless Channel. Ann. Math. Statist. 32 (1961), no. 2, 577--582. doi:10.1214/aoms/1177705062. https://projecteuclid.org/euclid.aoms/1177705062
Infinite Codes for Memoryless Channels
Blackwell, David, The Annals of Mathematical Statistics, 1959
Non-Equivalent Comparisons of Experiments and Their Use for Experiments Involving Location Parameters
Stone, M., The Annals of Mathematical Statistics, 1961
Convergence Rates for the Law of Large Numbers for Linear Combinations of Markov Processes
Koopmans, L. H., The Annals of Mathematical Statistics, 1966
Convergence Rates for the Law of Large Numbers for Linear Combinations of Exchangeable and $^\ast$-Mixing Stochastic Processes
Hanson, D. L. and Koopmans, L. H., The Annals of Mathematical Statistics, 1965
The Limit of a Ratio of Convolutions
Ney, P. E., The Annals of Mathematical Statistics, 1963
Lower Bounds on the Connectivity Function in all Directions for Bernoulli Percolation in Two and Three Dimensions
Alexander, Kenneth S., The Annals of Probability, 1990
A Note on Mutual Singularity of Priors
Freedman, David A., The Annals of Mathematical Statistics, 1966
Uniform Inequalities for Conditional $p$-Means Given $\sigma$-Lattices
Brunk, H. D., The Annals of Probability, 1975
Estimating the Parameters of a Differential Process
Rubin, Herman and Tucker, Howard G., The Annals of Mathematical Statistics, 1959
A Sequential Search Procedure
Chew, Milton C., The Annals of Mathematical Statistics, 1967


text:
Opioid-related deaths soaring in Australia
By Margaret Rees
New research points to a rising number of accidental opioid overdose deaths in Australia, echoing the opioid epidemic ravaging the United States, particularly among low-income and unemployed people.
The study, "Accidental drug-induced deaths due to opioids in Australia, 2013," published by the National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre (NDARC), is based on Australian Bureau of Statistics data.
A key finding was that accidental opioid deaths are trending upward. There were 398 deaths in 2007, soaring to 639 deaths in 2012—a terrible 60 percent increase that points to a deepening social crisis.
Prescription painkillers (pharmaceutical opioids) are now primarily responsible for more overdose deaths than heroin. Prescription painkillers caused 70 percent of the 668 opioid overdose deaths in 2013, more than double the other 30 percent due to heroin overdoses.
The largest proportion of deaths—40 percent—occurred in the 35–44 year age group, followed by the 25–34 age group and the 45–54 group, both with 27 percent. These are adults in their prime years, not adolescents.
During 2013, there were 432 male victims aged 15 to 54, about two-and-a-half times the 165 females in the same age group, suggesting that male workers are particularly being affected.
The trends are thought to have worsened since 2013. "We expect further increases once the deaths data for 2014 and 2015 are finalised," report co-author Amanda Roxburgh told the Sydney Morning Herald.
"We're seeing a real shift from illicit to pharmaceutical opioids implicated in these deaths, affecting a broader range of people who want to manage their pain. There's good research showing there's been a four-fold increase in the prescribing of these drugs between 1990 and 2014, particularly for Oxycontin, Tramadol and Fentanyl."
Roxburgh suggested changes to medical prescription practices. She commented: "I think doctors need to prescribe for a shorter time and have the patient come in again for a review before they prescribe more."
Once prescribed mainly for cancer patients, such opioids are now prescribed for acute pain after an operation and even chronic pain (lasting more than three months), such as lower back pain and osteoarthritis.
It is estimated that at least 20 percent of the population suffers chronic pain. This rising occurrence of pain, often work-related, has been the subject of aggressive marketing by pharmaceutical giants to persuade time-poor general practitioners to prescribe the powerful drugs.
Another paper: "Is there a pill for that? The increasing harms from opioid and benzodiazepine medication," published last November by the Alcohol and Drug Foundation. It showed that between 1992 and 2012, the number of opioids dispensed through the Australian Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) actually increased 15-fold to 7.5 million.
The paper said the drugs were "over-promoted and highly prescribed" and "an increasing public health risk." It noted that nearly half of Australia's general practitioner prescriptions for opioids are to treat chronic pain.
A PBS Opioids Roundtable Report stated that 3 million people were prescribed at least one opioid under the PBS in 2014. The most common prescriptions were for paracetamol, combined with codeine, dispensed to 1.7 million patients, followed by Oxycodone, dispensed to one million patients. The use was highest in older age groups.
The PBS reported a high variation in prescribing among medical practitioners, with a small number of prescribers making a large number of authority requests. This highlights the fact that prescriptions for drugs like Oxycontin (Oxycodone) can be abused, by being diverted to non-prescribed users. The Australian Needle and Syringe Program found that the number of people injecting (misusing) these drugs has nearly doubled since 2001.
Around 50,000 people are undergoing treatment for opioid addiction, the majority of whom started using the drugs for a pain condition. There are higher rates of treatment for dependence on pharmaceutical opioids in rural and regional areas, where jobs and treatment services are scarcer.
Unfortunately, these studies do not examine the socio-economic causes of the developing epidemic. Research from the United States, however, points to the rise in opioid addictions and deaths being related to the deepening social crisis produced by the destruction of full-time jobs, mounting under-employment, poverty, social inequality and decimation of public health services.
A recent US study by the National Institute on Drug Abuse noted that reported abuse of opioids rose significantly among people with lower family incomes and those who were unemployed.
Uninsured people also were twice as likely as those with health insurance to report prescription opioid misuse and had higher rates of use disorders. There also was a link between mental health and opioid use. Respondents with a major depressive disorder and those with suicidal thoughts had higher rates of prescription opioid misuse and use disorders.
No such data has yet been produced in Australia, but indications exist of similar patterns. One badly de-industrialised region, in Victoria's Latrobe Valley, reportedly has one of the highest opioid dispensing rates in Australia. One unnamed Latrobe Valley doctor told Fairfax Media that half his practice caseload related to chronic pain.
Former workers suffering from job injuries such as back injuries, aggravated by poor living conditions, can become addicted to prescription drugs and face extremely limited treatment options.
In the Latrobe Valley, for example, there are outreach day rehabilitation services, but no residential and withdrawal centres. People with substance addiction must travel several hours to the state capital Melbourne, about 150 kilometres away, for such treatment, an expensive option.
People who rely on prescription opioids often have no access to alternative measures, such as physiotherapy, nutrition advice or counselling. "They don't have the money and they don't live in a central location that has these services," Briony Larance, senior researcher at NDARC, told the Monthly earlier this year.
As a result of all these social, economic and health service factors, the most devastating consequences of drug addiction are felt by the poor in economically-depressed areas. The impact is magnified by the profit-driven pharmaceutical companies adopting predatory practices in order to exploit a growing demand for pain relief from an increasingly pain-ridden population.
This human catastrophe is not accidental. It is part of the immense social crisis created by the ruling capitalist class and its political servants over the past four decades through job destruction, the gutting of social services and a huge transfer of wealth from the working class and poor to the rich.
The author also recommends:
US health catastrophe: Drug overdose deaths approach 60,000 a year
[10 August 2017]
US study shows uninsured twice as likely to suffer from opioid abuse
[2 August 2017]
Australian Health Issues
Australian fires leave tens of thousands in financial hardship and stress
Australia: Kinglake residents speak on government inaction 11 years after Black Saturday blaze killed 173
Australia: Gospers Mountain fire survivors denounce government cuts in firefighting and bush management
Inadequate government relief for Australian bushfire victims
Australian Social Issues & Inequality
Australian bushfire crisis highlights sweeping emergency powers
Australia: NSW bushfire victims condemn inadequate planning and government responses
Workers Struggles: Asia and Australia
Australia: Balmoral firefighters say they were "abandoned" and demand better resources


The Great Wall of China, a combination of many walls, extends for 1,500 miles and winds across Northern China from Gansu Province to Hebei Province on the Yellow Sea. It was constructed as a defence against the northern nomads.
Although it was to be of little military significance, the Great Wall is a monument to human endeavour and relentless achievement, a meandering man-made structure that seems to connect all of China's endless horizons.
Some of its towers served as the soldiers' living quarters and also played an essential role in communicating messages. The advance of hostile troops was signaled with large fires and cannon shots. Any relevant military information was then communicated from tower to tower until it reached a fortress close to the capital of Beijing.


On Friday, 21 September 2018, 10.00 a.m., an information event for the employees took place.
Representatives of the responsible Bankruptcy Office (Bern-Mittelland) informed the employees about the effects of bankruptcy on their employment contracts, the filing of their claims in bankruptcy and about insolvency and unemployment compensation, and answered questions from those affected. Subsequently, the employees were able to receive the necessary forms and register their claims under labour law. Furthermore, they were able to take the necessary steps to claim insolvency and unemployment benefits from the representatives of the Department of Economic Affairs of the Canton of Berne (Regional Employment Agency) as well as the Unemployment Insurance Unia, who were both present at the event.
A notable number of employees have participated in the information event and have already been able to complete the formalities connected with the assertion of their claims on site. Due to the joint coordination of all offices involved, the administrative effort for all those involved could be considerably reduced.


When sifting through the abundance of information at your disposal, do you have the right criteria to know what is really valuable in crafting an OD strategy for your company?
How do you know what is the right approach for your company's needs?
We operate in a world awash in data, tools, apps and methodologies that promise to capture the true essence of individuals and organizations alike. Whether is personality profiling, skills assements, performance management or financial information, the OD professional of today is drowning in data.
The takeaway: Get the right assessment for the right situation.
Scott focuses on creating human capital strategy and talent portfolio. He has supported transformations at established hundred-year-old bastions of industry and high-energy, hyper-growth startups.
After finishing his master's degree in Organizational Leadership at Western Michigan University, then completing all the coursework toward a Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership at Michigan State University in less than 24 months, Scott launched his career with Whirlpool before moving into consulting, then making a difference in the oil and gas industry.
Over the last decade, Scott emerged in the energy industry with a strong reputation for working with executives and firms seeking transformational change.
When not transforming organizations, you'll find Scott "getting recharged" with his wife Margy, on 40+ mile bicycle trips on remote paved roads, enjoying new places, adventures in the company of friends or our grown kids, and treasuring life together at about 14 mph.


1013155 ✉G A- 1918 use of 1c green x2 & 3c red x2 Tigers, cancelled at Ipoh, to India.
1013154 ✉F B 1928 use of 6c scarlet Tiger, cancelled with double-circle 'KAMPAR/730AM20AP/1928/+' (B1 Proud D5 - rated 100) to India, double-circle 'IPOH/11AM/20AP/1928/F.M.S.' (B1) transit on back.


It uses Selenium for interacting with elements on the page and getting their locations and dimensions.
Once it sees that something is wrong - Galen reports the error, makes a screenshot and highlights the misbehaving element on it.
runs well in Selenium Grid.
Test your responsive websites on different mobile devices.
Set up a test for different browser sizes.
Build your own expressions to test multiple elements in a single line.
Galen is released to Sonatype Central Repository, you can add it as a dependency in your Maven project.


A day at the Pike Place Market isn't complete without a visit to Watson Kennedy. An antique store, nestled within the Inn at the Market's courtyard. Here you will find an astonishing range of memoirs collected by owner Ted Watson on his sojourns to France and England. Closer to home, there are articles from New York, San Francisco and New Orleans too. You can pamper yourself with bath products and aroma candles from here.
Flea market inspired vibe…just the coolest.
Oooh and Aaaah…for the antiques and vintage products from music sheets to playing cards….
It was so fun to browse, okay I might of done a little more than browse…smile.
The store was so very hip and eclectic style, who couldn't love it here?
So if you are ever in the need of a gift for the person who has everything…give Watson and Kennedy a try.
I had to bump it up to 200 – 400 ISO in these images.
Photographers are so leery of noise…but if you have the shutter speed set accordingly, you will still get a great image.
Does the vintage nostalgia look appeal to YOU?
Remembering our men and women who died while serving in the armed forces for our country today and very thankful for them.
I honestly love shooting with a higher ISo quite often. The photos are softer.
I absolutely love browsing these types of venues. What fun!
Inspiring photos. Makes me want to grab my camera.
Love me some vintage too. And that's a great tip about ISO. Now that I have a full frame camera, I do bump it up and find little noise. And I can get rid of the dreaded blur!
I love the tones and the nostalgic feel of these, definitely! Great photos.
I think I would love this store – very lovely images!
I just love your shoTs!
What a cool place, I especially love the first photo, what did you come home with?
well I wanted everything…but I did show some restraint. my favorite thing I came home with is a new book to put on the guest bedroom nightstand.
Great photos! Love the look on the photo of the playing cards!
These are awesome, Laurie! Love the vintage treatment.
Ted has an interesting place!
Great vintage cards and the photographs of them.
I love browsing at flea markets.
I visited the old Pike Street Market in the mid sixties (I was about 16). I saw a pair of used shoes offered for a quarter in a storefront window near the market, and the whole place was a collection of little shops and tables piled high with hippie-made arts and crafts, etc. It was awesome then as I'm sure it is awesome now, in a gentrified way, of course.
Now wouldn't that be a fun place to spend some time?!
Love these shots – especially the first one!
I like that your first photo contains peace and wish and hope; such lovely sentiments for Memorial Day.
I definitely love vintage things! I love a anything sweetly classic!
terrific shots! I like the stones!
I too love vintage – and i like the way you processed in sepia and white. So clear and precise too!
Oh that looks like my kinda store…love all those vintage treasures.
I would love to go browsing there.
I love antique stores and flea markets. Great finds and I love the way you've composed these shots.
Oh yes & Vintage loves me 😀 Cute place, what couldn't you resist? Any treasure go home with you?
It would be definitely hard to go into a store like this and NOT purchase something! I would have a field day!
Sometime such a day gives a new form of inspiration, which obviously you found. Yes, these work well in vintage.
Looks like a wonderful store. And yes I love the vintage effect!
Love the feel in these! Great shots!
Very nice. Seems like a great place to browse around. I am wondering the store does not mind you taking pictures?
No they didn't mind at all. He was one of the nicest people I have ever met.
Yes! I love vintage. And, thank you for the types I have sooooo much to learn.


Rajasthan tours take a visitor into bygone realm of brave Rajputs (sons of the kings). Rajasthan, a desert state of India, is known the land of kings. Rajasthan tours present a procession of glorious past, vivacious culture, majestic palaces, rugged forts, marvelously beautiful temples, stunning havelis, magnificent mansions, historical places, rippling sand dunes, unique desert landscape, wildlife sanctuaries and traditional hospitality. Cultural objects and unique culture & tradition of Rajasthan form an intricate tapestry of mysticism, grandeur and rusticity.
Almost all villages, towns and cities incorporated in Rajasthan tour packages are embedded with grand forts, magnificent palaces, monuments and heritage hotels and, thus, create a visual extravaganza. Rajasthan tours, along with pageant of historical monuments, offer opportunity to experience exotic culture, lots of activities like jungle safari, camel safari, village safari, horse ride, elephant polo, culinary education and shopping. So, if you are truly interested to see the rich heritage, art and architecture of India, then embark on Rajasthan tours and have a great experience of tourism and holidaying.
Historical Rajasthan Tour offers a visitor ample opportunity to delve into and enjoy glorious historical legacy along with vibrant colors, music and festivities that make the golden sand come alive.
View Detail Enquire now !
Rajasthan Holiday is one of the coveted Rajasthan tours. It aims at showcasing the most renowned forts & palaces copmlexes of Rajasthan, desrt culture in Jaisalmer and most visited Indian monument- the Taj Mahal.
Delhi - Mandawa - Bikaner - Jaisalmer - Jodhpur - Kumbhalgarh - Udaipur - Bundi - Ranthambhore - Jaipur - Delhi.
Delhi - Agra - Jaipur - Pushkar - Udaipur - Jodhpur - Jaisalmer - Bikaner - Mandawa - Delhi.
New Delhi - Udaipur - Jodhpur - Jaisalmer - Khimsar - Jaipur - Agra - New Delhi.
Rajasthan Forts & Palaces Tour is a treat to eyes, experiential journey of a king, a cultural feast to soul and indelibly colourful imprint on a visitor's mind.
Rajasthan Honeymoon Tour offers hitherto many unexplored experiences of Rajasthan, the land of romance bravery, temerity and sacrifices. The princely desert state of Rajasthan is a real treasure trove of historical & cultural destinations with mesmerizing scenic beauty all around.
Delhi- Agra-(Fatehpur Sikri)- Jaipur- Samode-Chattrasagar- Sardargarh-(Kumbhalgarh)- Narlai-(Ranakpur)- Udaipur.
Rural Rajasthan Tour is a specially crafted itinerary that takes a tourist to the villages of Rajasthan through off-beaten tracks. The Rural Rajasthan Tour is a trail through the Rajput lands.
Rajasthan, known as Land of Maharajas, is a tourist's paradise to explore, experience and enjoy.


text:
Obama: "America has never fought a war against a democracy."
Elendil_s_Heir December 10, 2009, 2:36pm #1
In the President's otherwise excellent Nobel Prize acceptance speech (seen here: http://www.cnn.com/2009/POLITICS/12/10/obama.transcript/index.html), this assertion made me raise an eyebrow. Great Britain, when we fought it in the Revolution and the War of 1812, was just about as democratic as we were at the time (they had an unelected monarchy and "rotten boroughs," we had our slaves). Germany in World War I had at least some democratic institutions. Any others?
And yes, I know about the No True Scotsman fallacy…
Jophiel December 10, 2009, 2:45pm #2
If you take "democracy" to infer that the top of the government totem pole is an elected official (thus disqualifying the UK and Kaiser-era Germany), has America ever gone to war with a democracy?
I suppose this opens a debate about the current UK being a democracy since the monarch is still the nominal head but the monarchy in 1776 (or 1812) was a different animal than the one in 2009. I don't think anyone would consider going to war with Britain today to be "Going to war against Queen Elizabeth."
adhay December 10, 2009, 2:52pm #3
Elendil_s_Heir:
Raise an eyebrow? Makes me puke. We've done it many times. OTOH, one could argue that we're in no sense a democracy.
Tom_Scud December 10, 2009, 2:54pm #4
Jophiel:
Jefferson Davis was elected President of the Confederate States of America. Arguably, a country in which slavery is legal can't truly be considered a democracy, though I don't know how many people you'd get on-side with an argument that George Washington wasn't democratically elected.
cckerberos December 10, 2009, 2:55pm #5
This is very reminiscent of the good ol' democratic peace theory. These arguments always get bogged down on details as to what a "real" democracy is and what "war" is.
Even if true, it's probably insignificant. After all, we might not have declared war and sent troops into fellow democracies but we've certainly used other means to overthrow their duly elected governments. So it's not like we have any high ground to claim.
aruvqan December 10, 2009, 3:01pm #6
Hm, Hitler and Mussolini were elected officials, Ho Chih Minh was elected, I am not really confident in any other wars we have been involved in in the 20th century … but I am confident that I can describe Germany and Italy as democracies as they had elected officials, and Vietnam was again a democracy as they held elections for officials.
Not shure how Obama is trying to define democracy, unless it is perhaps government officials approved by the US?
But then again, Hitler was acclaimed in the US, appeared on the cover of Life Magazine, I believe Mussolini was also considered legally elected by the US. Johnson just had a hard on against Ho Chih Minh.
kidchameleon December 10, 2009, 3:16pm #7
I took a PolySci course on war and the experts in the field looked at the reality of the governmental situations, not the window dressing. WW2 Germany and Italy were despotisms, no matter how they got there. Nor was Iraq a democracy under Hussein, despite the 'elections' that were held.
Ravenman December 10, 2009, 3:29pm #8
When used in this sense, the term "democracy" is generally shorthard for liberal democracy, in which decisions are invested in freely elected leaders and there are fundamental protections for various civil rights.
The fascist countries we fought in World War II certainly fail to meet this definition, as would Vietnam.
There are certainly illiberal democracies that have elections but either they are not free and fair, or fundamental civil rights are not established or respected.
So why didn't Obama say, "We've never gone to war with a liberal democracy?" Because everyone would go nuts that the Kenyan socialist was threatening conservative democracies, like those that might elect non-socialist leaders.
Steve_MB December 10, 2009, 3:45pm #9
cckerberos:
The Master speaks. (Summary: what you said.)
Chessic_Sense December 10, 2009, 3:58pm #10
::blinks twice, amazed::
Did…did my PoliSci degree just become useful?!
Obama's certainly quoting the (liberal) democratic peace theory. A more accurate statment by our president would have been "Of all the states that score 8 or higher on the Polity IV scale, no pair has ever had a war or militarized interstate dispute (MID) resulting in 1000 or more total deaths."
So not only has America never fought a democracy, but no democracy has fought another democracy. Of course, this last statement is debated on the grounds that certain conflicts should/should not be counted as wars, and that certain states should/shouldn't be called democracies. But much more debated is why this is. Does democracy cause peace? Does peace cause democracy? Does, say, economic strength cause both peace and democracy?
For those that wish to look closer at the causes of war, check out University of Michigan's Correlates of War project.
ETA: Damn. Beaten to it.
Smeghead December 10, 2009, 4:24pm #11
Chessic_Sense:
Back to waiting, I guess…
Capt.Ridley_s_Shooting_Party December 10, 2009, 4:38pm #12
By the late 1600s the King was no longer top of the totem pole in the UK. Parliament executing a king, then later deposing one and installing a foreigner on the throne shows who really was running the show by that stage.
John_Mace December 10, 2009, 5:05pm #13
That's got a nice catchy ring to it!
So not only has America never fought a democracy, but no democracy has fought another democracy.
Who was it who used to say that a lot-- it was either Reagan, Clinton or Bush I, IIRC.
Freddy_the_Pig December 10, 2009, 5:39pm #14
aruvqan:
but I am confident that I can describe Germany and Italy as democracies as they had elected officials.
No. Germany and Italy were not democracies, by any meaningful definition of the word, when the United States went to war with them. They were dictatorships. Hitler and Mussolini abolished the trappings of democracy shortly after taking office.
Simplicio December 10, 2009, 5:57pm #15
Serbia was a democracy by the time of its war with NATO, wasn't it?
Pleonast December 10, 2009, 6:04pm #16
What about Finland in WWII? I think they were reasonably democratic. Did any Allies besides the Soviets attack them?
PrettyVacant December 10, 2009, 6:41pm #17
I remeber this discussion when I was a member here about 8 years ago. It's nothing to do with the USA, no democracy has ever fought a war against another democracy - assuming conventional full representation.
Uosdwis_R.Dewoh December 10, 2009, 6:42pm #18
Pleonast:
Britain did proclaim war, December 6th 1941, against Finland to placate the Russians. Finland and the western allies never actually fought each other.
RickJay December 10, 2009, 6:50pm #19
The United States has certainly been willing to support civil wars and coups d'etat against democratic governments.
I'm not sure that the "democratic peace theory" so much proves democracies won't fight each other as it is a sad reminder than until recently we've not had very many democracies around.
Freddy_the_Pig:
I think you could also say that we didn't so much as go to war against them, as they went to war against us. Remember, Germany declared war on the US, so we didn't have much choice in the matter.
Simplicio:
Serbia was a democracy by the time of its war with NATO, wasn't it?
Depends on what the definition of "war" is.
That was a surgical military strike, not a war. Or something like that…


The 3rd Annual Vintage Motorcycle Canyon Run is open to everyone!
The reason the Vintage Motorcycle Canyon Run was created was in respect and the memory of motorcycle pioneer's who influenced myself and others when we first started riding in the 1960's. Their humour and generosity stayed with me for all these years. "Tim Renshaw."
The Canyon Run is all about giving back to the old biker spirits, experiencing the bikes they ran, and create a strong, positive riding community.
What is the Vintage Motorcycle Canyon Run?
The Canyon Run consists of a two day, 800 km ride weekend (planned to be every July Long Weekend) throughout which we are surrounded by great vintage and classic motorcycles and their riders.
More information is still coming in so check back often for more details.
We held the first annual Vintage Canyon Runs on July 4th & 5th this year and are blown away by its success. We couldn't have done it without the many volunteers, as well as the man behind the run Tim Renshaw.


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Featured / News
Public Statement from the Plenary Meeting of the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR), Dublin, 20th October 2017
by MTCR website editor (RMN) · Published October 20, 2017 · Updated October 20, 2017
1. The Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) held its 31st Plenary week in Dublin from 16th to 20th October 2017. The Irish Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Simon Coveney, and the Icelandic Permanent Secretary of State, Mr. Sturla Sigurjónsson, jointly welcomed participants at the opening of the meeting. The Plenary was co-chaired by Ambassador Breifne O'Reilly, from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Ireland, and Minister-Counsellor Bjarni Vestmann from the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Iceland, who will remain the Co-Chairs of the MTCR until the next Plenary Meeting scheduled for 2018.
2. 2017 marks 30 years since the MTCR was established in 1987. During its 30-year history, the MTCR extended its membership from 7 to 35 states and has proved to be an effective multilateral non-proliferation mechanism. The export controls of related items, information sharing, and patterns of cooperation that have been cultivated over the past 30 years have significantly reduced the availability to proliferators of the equipment, technology, and knowledge needed to develop, produce, and acquire Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) missile delivery systems, without hindering legitimate trade. In the years ahead, the Regime will continue to engage non-members in order to promote international efforts to limit the spread of missile systems capable of delivering weapons of mass destruction, as well as the technology and equipment needed to do so.
3. The main purpose of the Plenary Meeting was to review and evaluate the MTCR's activities over the last 12 months and to intensify the efforts of Partners to prevent the proliferation of unmanned delivery systems capable of delivering WMD. In this regard Partners devoted increased attention to Intangible Technology Transfer (ITT), Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), Catch All Controls, Regional Proliferation and strategic outreach to non-MTCR countries.
4. Partners recalled that the proliferation of WMD (nuclear, chemical and biological weapons) and their means of delivery remain a threat to international peace and security. They reiterated their commitment to limit the risks of proliferation by controlling international transfers that can contribute to delivery systems for WMD. They held a thorough exchange of information on missile proliferation developments since the last Plenary Meeting in Busan.
5. Partners welcomed the fact that the MTCR Guidelines and control lists in the Annex constitute an international best practices benchmark for controlling exports of missile-related items and technologies, and noted that these standards are adhered to by an increasing number of non-Partners and are included in some UN Security Council resolutions.
6. Partners called on all states to exercise extreme vigilance to prevent the transfer of goods and technology which could contribute to WMD missile programmes, in accordance with their national legislation and consistent with international law. They confirmed their commitment to inform and assist interested parties that are supportive of the MTCR's objectives and purposes.
7. In the interests of regional and international security, Partners appealed to all states to support the non-proliferation aims of the Regime by observing its Guidelines and establishing appropriate national legislation and law enforcement mechanisms. From this perspective, partners emphasised that observance of the MTCR Guidelines by as many states as possible will contribute substantially to limiting the risks of proliferation of delivery systems for WMD and to fostering international security. Partners invited states to declare, on a voluntary basis, adherence to the MTCR Guidelines and formally notify the MTCR Point of Contact in writing of their political commitment to control all of the items on the MTCR Annex according to the MTCR Guidelines, including any subsequent changes to the Annex/Guidelines. Current MTCR adherents include Estonia and Latvia.
8. Partners underlined that the MTCR Guidelines are not designed to impede technological advancement and development, including space programmes, as long as such activities could not contribute to delivery systems for WMD.
9. Partners conducted extensive discussions on and expressed concern about global missile proliferation activities, in particular ongoing missile programmes in the Middle East, Northeast Asia, and South Asia, which might fuel missile proliferation activities elsewhere. Partners also encouraged relevant regional bodies and institutions to pay attention to the role of export controls in preventing the proliferation of missiles capable of carrying WMD.
10. Within the framework of the MTCR mandate, Partners confirmed their commitment to implement fully UN Security Council resolutions 1695, 1718, 1874, 2087, 2094, 2270, 2321, 2356, 2371 and 2375, having in mind the ballistic missile-related provisions of the resolutions, in particular resolution 2371. Bearing in mind the grave international situation due to DPRK missile development, partners reiterated their firm commitment to exercise extreme vigilance when controlling transfers that could contribute to the DPRK's ballistic missile programme, in response to the drastic escalation of ballistic missile launches and significant missile technology development by the DPRK since February 2016. With regard to Iran, Partners noted the continuing process of implementation of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) endorsed by UN Security Council resolution 2231. Partners confirmed their commitment to implement this resolution, having in mind the ballistic missile-related provisions in Annex B of this resolution. Partners agreed to continue exchanging views on missile programme developments.
11. Partners expressed particular appreciation for the outreach activities conducted by the outgoing MTCR Chairman Director General Ham Sang-wook of the Republic of Korea. The new MTCR Chairs were encouraged to follow up and conduct further outreach activities and contacts in order to increase transparency about the Regime, to promote its objectives and to maintain the momentum of dialogue with the visited countries. Partners also encouraged the continuation of individual, collective and regional efforts to assist non-Partner states and other interested parties in implementing missile-related export controls, and to inform the Chair about these activities.
12. Partners reaffirmed the critical importance of the MTCR's on-going technical work. They underlined that the rapid technological development and changes in proliferant procurement practices related to sensitive items and technologies continue to require great awareness and effective actions to address these developments. They recognised that the Equipment, Software, and Technology Annex is a cornerstone of the work done by the MTCR to prevent missile proliferation and expressed deep appreciation for the accomplishments of the MTCR's Technical Experts Meeting (TEM).
13. Partners also expressed their deep appreciation for the work of the MTCR's Licensing and Enforcement Experts Meeting (LEEM), and the Information Exchange Meeting (IEM). In the IEM and LEEM, Partners continued discussions on a number of issues, including proliferation trends, procurement activities and strategies in support of programmes for WMD delivery means; serious risks and challenges posed by intangible technology transfers (ITT); key technology trends in missile programmes; catch-all controls for non-listed items; and brokering, transit and transhipment issues, and efforts to exploit them to evade export controls. These discussions showed that constant awareness; sharing of information, including best practices; and updating of MTCR countries' export control systems and enforcement efforts are of great importance and have a significant impact on their work aimed at curbing proliferation of WMD means of delivery.
14. Partners exchanged views on issues relating to future membership. Individual applications for membership were thoroughly discussed. The membership issue will continue to be on the agenda.
15. Partners reviewed a number of issues relating to the internal operation of the MTCR, including the continuity and effectiveness of its Chairmanship.
16. Partners thanked France for successfully organising a Reinforced Point of Contact meeting in Paris and for acting as the Regime's Point of Contact.
17. Partners noted the address by the Chair of the Hague Code of Conduct Against Ballistic Missile Proliferation, Ambassador Marek Szczygieł
18. The MTCR has 35 members: Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, India, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, the Republic of Korea, the Russian Federation, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, Ukraine, the United Kingdom and the United States of America.


The US Treasury plans to borrow another $425 billion in the final quarter of 2018, bringing total borrowing for the year to $1.34 trillion, according to a Treasury Department press release. The 2018 borrowing level is expected to more than double 2017's number. Read More.


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Machining staff: 'wizards who share their secrets'
By: Nancy Doolittle, Cornell Chronicle
Tucked away in the basement of Clark Hall are five staff members whose machining expertise is integral to the success of many of the designs, experiments and innovations of Cornell's physics faculty, graduate students and postdocs, as well as to work done within other departments and units across campus.
Four of those staff – supervisor Robert Page and equipment technicians Chris Cowulich, Jeffrey Koski and Stanley McFall – work in the Laboratory of Atomic and Solid State Physics (LASSP) Main Machine Shop. The fifth, Nate Ellis, works across the hall, managing the Graduate Research Shop.
"The LASSP/Clark Hall machine shop has a dedicated staff with outstanding expertise in the fabrication of one-off components for diverse research needs," said Jeevak Parpia, physics professor specializing in experimental condensed-matter physics.
Parpia says his research, and that of his colleagues and students, requires "exquisitely delicate" equipment parts of various tolerances, uses, materials and needs. These often are custom-made items that can't be ordered from a large-scale retailer.
"Experience with a variety of materials, their properties and characteristics during machining is essential," Parpia said. "This is where a combination of knowledgeable professional staff and a suite of carefully selected machinery can make a difference in the success or failure of a project."
Cowulich, Koski and McFall all have worked in the Main Machine Shop for more than 20 years and have a combined 80 years of service to Cornell. Page joined Cornell four months ago, bringing 32 years of machining experience with him.
Work in the Main Machine Shop ranges from simple items, such as door kickplates or drive shafts for ventilation, to highly complex, custom-designed components that might use exotic materials to solve a specific problem or operate under extreme temperatures. The shop provides milling, turning, boring, threading, grinding, engraving, welding, soldering, waterjet cutting and electrical discharge machining, among others, to academics involved in research projects, nonacademic units needing equipment repairs and campus community members with specialty fabricating needs.
"Some days we make parts that are only a few millimeters in size, and other days we make parts that are four feet in length," Page said. They work with tolerances – the acceptable variation of a stated dimension – that average five-thousandths of an inch. "It is not uncommon for us to occasionally have to hold one ten-thousandth of an inch on some dimensions," said Page.
Associate professor Carl Franck, who specializes in biological physics and experimental condensed-matter physics, said the machine shop staff are "wizards who share their secrets."
According to Brad Ramshaw, assistant professor of physics, the machine shop staff will brainstorm with a faculty member or walk a student through the design process. Then, either the pro shop will make the part or the student can choose to make the part using equipment in the Graduate Research Shop, with Ellis' help.
Faculty and graduate students can use the Graduate Research Shop to operate the shop's equipment and fabricate their own parts after taking a 25-hour basic machine shop course. The course is taught by Ellis, and emphasizes safety.
"By making a part themselves, our clients get experience on the wide range of operations that can be done, as well as learn what is possible in their design and what modifications might be needed," Ellis said, noting that this hands-on knowledge also helps clients understand how to buy parts that are manufactured and ordered in bulk.
An extensive stockroom, headed by Robert Sprankle and located nearby, carries many of these bulk items, such as screws and bolts, saving time for faculty and staff who otherwise would need to wait for an order to arrive.
Page hopes to expand the use of the machine shop's services within the physics department and in other departments across campus. To that end, he would like to modernize some of the shop's older equipment, as well as buy new.
"The newer machines run faster and are even more precise," he said. "That would save time and labor costs and allow us to enhance the services we offer."
If interested in the Machine Shop services, contact Robert Page, email rtp43@cornell.edu, or call 255-3524.
This story also appeared in the Cornell Chronicle.


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10 Most Valuable Alternative Booking Sites
Hotel & Lodging Deals Apr 27, 2012
Caroline Costello
Caroline Costello's travel accomplishments include surviving a 2 a.m. whitewater rafting excursion in the Canadian wilderness, successfully biking from Dusseldorf to Cologne without a map, and gaining access to a covert pizza speakeasy in New Orleans.
Caroline is an active member of the Society of American Travel Writers (SATW). Her work has appeared on USA Today, the Boston Globe, AOL.com, MSNBC.com, ABC News, TODAY Travel, and CruiseCritic.com, among other publications.
See recent posts by Caroline Costello
caroline.costello@smartertravel.com
In "Three Rental Sites to Help You Kick Your Hotel Habit," we introduced major vacation-rental booking sites that offer an interesting alternative to the run-of-the-mill hotel stay. But there's more than one way to ditch the hotel and unearth a unique—and more affordable—place to lay your suitcase. Try swapping your home for an oceanfront condo on St. Thomas, sleeping in a fellow traveler's spare room for free, or working on an organic farm in exchange for fresh meals and a room with a gorgeous country view.
Here is your one-stop resource to alternative accommodations sites. We've divided the following into three categories: booking sites, hospitality networks (sites that connect travelers with free hosts), and home-exchange sites.
Inbed.me
Billing itself as the "first social booking site for hostels, beds and couches," Inbed.me allows members to connect with other travelers booked at the same property before checking in. While searching for a place to stay, users can also browse profiles of fellow guests who have already made reservations. "Meet" people online by sending messages before you check in, and voila—instant travel buddies! You can even plan activities together before you arrive, but contact with caution: This will come with any of the usual hazards involved when making plans with someone you've never actually met in person.
The site was launched in 2011, and, as of now, it doesn't have a vast inventory or extensive membership numbers. But it could be a useful tool for young solo travelers who hope to meet other like-minded hostel hoppers while traveling abroad.
RELATED STORY: Three Rental Sites to Help You Kick Your Hotel Habit
iStopOver
This is a short-term rentals booking site similar to the popular rentals site Airbnb. IStopOver features apartments, spare rooms, and houses listed, for the most part, by individuals known as "hosts." Listings look almost exactly like those on Airbnb, with a scrollbar of photos and a reviews tab.
One interesting perk offered here that differentiates iStopOver from Airbnb is event-based rentals. You can search for accommodations near major goings-on such as the London 2012 Olympics, New York Fashion Week, or Comic-Con.
Hospitality Networks
CouchSurfing, which has more than 3 million members, is a popular hospitality-exchange site through which travelers can host, be hosted, and plan activities with one another. No commerce is involved. You stay or host for free in the interest of creating "fun, exciting and accessible experiences that stimulate people to learn and grow," according to the organization's mission statement.
As a member of the site, I've attended CouchSurfing events and have had an overwhelmingly positive experience meeting fellow globetrotters while traveling solo. I haven't actually "surfed" as of yet—staying on someone else's futon requires an acute level of trust in strangers and the accuracy of online profiles. There is, however, a series of safety nets set up to protect Surfers: references written by fellow CouchSurfers, vouches from fellow members, and an address-verification process (the company confirms your identity with a secure credit-card payment of $25).
Tripping is similar to CouchSurfing in that it's a platform through which travelers can exchange homestays and set up social activities with fellow travelers. So what's the difference? A representative from the site told us, "Tripping has a broader reach—travelers can find free places to stay and vacation-home rentals. For example, you can use Tripping to stay with a local family in Prague or rent a private flat in London for the Olympics."
In short, Tripping combines short-term rental booking (it features listings from our sister site FlipKey, HomeAway, and iStopOver, among other sites) with hospitality exchange. We stuck it under the "hospitality network" category, but it could have gone under "booking sites" as well.
BeWelcome
This site is in the same family as CouchSurfing. It's basically a network where travelers can make social connections and either host or be hosted for free. The point is to foster cultural exchange. One major difference between BeWelcome and the Couch: It's a nonprofit organization run by volunteers. Last summer, CouchSurfing, originally a nonprofit, became a B Corporation (a for-profit company that has agreed to uphold select social and environmental standards). For anyone concerned that CouchSurfing has sold its soul—according to The New Yorker, some CouchSurfing diehards who "simply do not like doing business with the Man" were upset about the change—BeWelcome offers a less-capitalist alternative.
GlobalFreeloaders.com
This site's name explains it all. Through GlobalFreeloaders.com you can find a place to stay for free. But there's a catch: The site is only for those interested in both hosting and being hosted. It's a quid pro quo arrangement. (It's acceptable for CouchSurfing and BeWelcome members to only host or only be hosted.)
This site is minor compared to some of the other big players. For example, there are only 293 members in Portugal, 45 in Iceland, and two in Aruba.
World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms (WWOOF)
While the abovementioned sites generally feature free stays in exchange for, well, nothing but good company and the chance to foster cross-cultural understanding, this one's different. WWOOF is a network that allows travelers to arrange free farm stays—but there's a catch. You have to be willing to roll up the sleeves of your packable travel shirt and help out around the farm: Trade volunteer work (you can arrange specific duties with your hosts before you arrive) for bucolic country accommodations and complimentary farm-fresh meals.
To become a WWOOFer, it costs $30 to register in the U.S. You can also register in other countries, each of which has its own registration fee and database of farms that accept WWOOF volunteers.
The Hospitality Club
The Hospitality Club calls itself the "largest online hospitality exchange organization," yet with roughly 300,000 members, it's actually much smaller than CouchSurfing. Still, it's a significant player in the free-place-to-stay space, with scores of online profiles and message boards. While similar to CouchSurfing, The Hospitality Club lacks some of the safety nets of the former: There's no vouching or address-verification process.
Home-Exchange Sites
Intervac
Homeowners can arrange a free vacation rental by swapping houses with fellow travelers. You stay in their house, they stay in yours. But first, you need a network. With about 30,000 members, Intervac is a good-size resource for travelers interested in setting up a home exchange. The site also arranges hospitality exchanges, house sitting, and other services, but it's best known as a home-exchange network. "Most Intervac members are mature (average age 40+), established family-oriented professionals, executives, business-owners or retired people who are financially successful and respect property," according to the website.
Membership costs $8.33 a month, but new users can set up a free 14-day trial. Once signed up, members can contact hosts and advertise their own homes.
Is it safe? If it's a direct swap, you'll have to trust that your partner will treat your home with care, just as you'll respect his or her property. As safeguards, Intervac awards badges (bronze, silver, gold, etc.) based on how many successful swaps a host has completed, and the site also allows hosts to post verifiable references.
With about 13,000 members, HomeLink has a smaller inventory than Intervac, and it's pricier, too. A one-year membership starts at $119. But that high fee might just work to your advantage. It's possible that a slightly stricter membership process could help weed out travelers who are lukewarm about actually going through with an exchange, as well as potential scammers. And, really, $119 isn't all that much compared to the price of a traditional vacation rental or hotel.
HomeLink claims to be the oldest home-exchange site around and touts its customer service. The company offers personalized customer service over the phone to its members (another reason that high membership cost could be warranted).
Do you use any alternative booking sites not listed here? Tell us about them in the comments!
(Photo: Shutterstock/beltsazar)
Hotel & Lodging Deals


Goshen College's summer inquiry programs give students the opportunity to explore the intersection of faith and vocation through active participation, observation of others and intentional reflection, all while building leadership skills.
This year, five students are participating either at a camp or in a congregation.
Students serving in the Camping Inquiry Program (CIP) are connected with a church-related camping or retreat center where they experience nature and outdoor ministry and are expected to be actively engaged with the center's community and a local congregation.
Sondra Flores-Reyes, a junior English major from Goshen, is serving with Camp Eberhart in Michigan. Associated with the YMCA, Camp Eberhart has a long history of providing camping activities that nurture youth development. Sondra is the daughter of Rick and Linda Grosch.
Nathan Berkey, sophomore music major from Goshen, is serving at Camp Amigo in Michigan. Camp Friedenswald encourages campers of all ages to grow in relationship with God, self, others and nature. Nathan is the son of Gary and Veronica Berkey and attends Waterford Mennonite Church.
Levi Glick, sophomore Sign Language interpreting major from Salem, Oregon, is serving with Drift Creek Camp in Oregon. Drift Creek Camp seeks to nurture Christian faith, provide formative experiences for youth, provide a welcoming place for renewal in God's creation and be a resource for congregations. Levi is the son of James and Darla Glick and attends Western Mennonite Church.
Greta Neufeld, junior film production major from Lancaster, Pennsylvania, is serving at Camp Deerpark in New York. Camp Deerpark exists to extend the ministry of Jesus and seeks to promote fellowship and community building, embody hospitality, stewardship and respect for creation. Greta is the daughter of David Neufeld and Donna Stoltzfus and attends Community Mennonite Church of Lancaster.
Students serving in the Ministry Inquiry Program (MIP) are engaged in a congregation learning about church ministry. Students' tasks depend on the their interests and may include worship planning and leading, teaching Bible or Sunday School, leading music, preaching and more.
Madeline Kauffman, sophomore social work major from Walnut Creek, Ohio, will be serving with Hyattsville Mennonite Church in Hyattsville, Maryland. Madeline is the daughter of Jeremy Kauffman and Christine Smith and attends Berlin Mennonite Church.


The versatile actor and filmmaker Guru Dutt's cult classic film Pyaasa released in 1957 is known for all brilliant reasons in various departments of filmmaking. One of the main highlights of the film was the evergreen songs which are popular till date. One of the songs Yeh Duniya Agar Mil Bhi Jaye Toh Kya Hai sang by legendary Mohammed Rafi was the most intense and considered as one of the best songs in the Bollywood music history. The song is known for its rich meaningful lyrics and noir setup.
After so many years the song is remembered and recreated by the makers, Yoodle Films for their upcoming film Noblemen starring Kunal Kapoor and Ali Haji in central characters.
The film Noblemen film centred around bullying in schools, directed by Vandana Kataria. It revolves around a 15-year-old boy, struggling with his adolescent years, terrorized by a gang of bullies in a posh boarding school, setting forth a chain of events that lead to loss of life and innocence.
The recreated version of the song Yeh Duniya Agar Mil Bhi Jaye is composed by Shri Sriram and KC Loy, sung by Suraj Jagan and lyrics by KC Loy perfectly blends with the dark and coincidentally the true theme of the film. The makers of the film recently released the teaser of the film and the song is being played in the backdrop giving goosebumps to the listeners and undoubtedly gut-wrenching experience. The musical team of the film kept the essence of the song intact without exploiting the song and honouring it to best of their abilities.
Speaking about it, the director Vandana said, "It's an iconic song and seemed to fit our film and the present times very aptly. It's darker in its thematic, has fast instrumentation, the lyrics have been changed to suit the film.
Adding to her thoughts, Siddharth Anand Kumar, VP, Films and TV, Saregama agrees and further elaborates, "Guru Dutt's classic song: Yeh Duniya agar mil by jaaye – has a timeless quality to it. It is emblematic of the sheer worthlessness of times we inhabit – one that resonates with the situation the protagonists face in the film. Saregamas rich repertoire of Hindi film songs had this gem. And it allowed us to give this classic a modern but relevant twist. We are very happy with the final outcome – It's darker in its thematic, has fast instrumentation, the lyrics have been changed to suit the film".