text:
Jerry Jones: Playoff loss doesn't change Mike McCarthy's status
For the second straight postseason, the Cowboys lost to the 49ers. For the second consecutive postseason, the game ended with a questionable offensive decision by coach Mike McCarthy, an expert on offense. But the curious effort to put together a Stanford band-style piece that never even got started won't have serious consequences for the man who designed it.
Asked by reporters after the 19-12 loss if the result changes anything for owner Jerry Jones about McCarthy's status, Jones replied: "No. No. Not at all.
Last year's loss to the 49ers ended in a quarterback draw that was meant to give Dallas one last realistic shot in the end zone. But the execution failed to take into account that the referee had to run through the quarterback and center in order to place the ball before it was broken and pinned, apparently to stop the clock with at least one second to play.
This year, instead of a Hail Mary (which had a very slim chance of succeeding given the game started 76 yards from paydirt), McCarthy had a unique formation aimed at sparking a parade of full-backs, with the running back Ezekiel Elliott serving as center and then presumably one of the men to get the ball as part of a chain of hot potato throws.
But Zeke was blasted and receiver KaVontae Turpin was tackled almost immediately, before a single full-back could be attempted. So no matter what it looked like on the whiteboard, it was a disaster on the pitch.
Beyond the design and execution of the end game, the failure of training and attention to detail appeared twice on record, with tight end Dalton Schultz failing to get out correctly out of bounds after making a hold, then going out of bounds a bit too quickly. , before putting his second foot after getting a reception.
Yes, it's on the player when mistakes like that happen. It is also the job of the coaching staff to hammer these details into players' brains to ensure that, when it all matters most, whatever needs to happen goes like clockwork.
Either way, from what Jones said after the game, McCarthy will be back for a fourth season as Cowboys coach.
The thing about Jerry Jones is that he will completely, totally and unconditionally support a player or a coach until the moment he doesn't. And that moment can, in theory, happen at any time.
New research indicates signs of depression can be detected in speech patterns
Activist investor Elliott looks at Salesforce


text:
Очиток білий (Sedum album) — вид трав'янистих сукулентів роду очиток родини товстолистих.

Загальна біоморфологічна характеристика

Очиток білий належить до групи листкових сукулентів. Являє собою багаторічник з тонким повзучим кореневищем, із сланкими вегетативними пагонами. Квітконосні пагони висхідні, до 10-20 см заввишки. Квітки актиноморфні, п'ятичленні, пелюстки білого або блідо-рожевого кольору, яйцеподібно-видовжені, розташовані в розгалужено-щиткоподібних суцвіттях, 4-5 см у діаметрі.

Систематика
Очиток білий (Sedum album) належить до секції Sedum ряду Alba Bgr., що об'єднує 17 зимостійких видів очитків, ареали яких розташовані у Європі та Азії.

Поширення
Ареал очитка білого охоплює Європу, Сибіру, Північну Африку, Малу Азію, Середземномор'я.

В Україні зустрічається у Криму та на Закарпатті.

В природних умовах очиток білий зростає на кам'янистих ґрунтах.

Примітки

Джерела
 Валентина І. Березкіна. Особливості анатомо-морфологічної будови вегетативних органів видів секції Sedum роду Sedum L. (Crassulaceae DC.) // Modern Phytomorphology 4: 299—301, 2013. УДК 582.715:581.4+581.8
 Sedum album L. на сайті «Плантариум»

Література
 Clausen, R. T. 1975. Sedum of North America North of the Mexican plateau. p.. 1-742.
 Reference article Jansson, C. A. & K. H. Rechinger. 1970. Crassulaceae. Fl. Iranica 72: 1-32.

Посилання
 Sedum в базі даних «Tropicos» Міссурійського ботанічного саду
 Sedum на сайті «Desert Tropicals»
 Sedum на сайті Germplasm Resources Information Network (GRIN)

білий
Рослини, описані 1753
Флора Європи
Флора Азії
Флора Північної Африки
Флора України

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds' anti-cheat measures were due to roll out yesterday, but the PC patch has been delayed.
The delay was announced in a forum post and on Twitter. "PC players, as announced, the new anti-cheat solution that was to be applied today has been delayed," it read.
"However, BattlEye, a part of our anti-cheat solution, has blocked ReShade. For you to run the game, you must uninstall ReShade. If the game files are already damaged, you must also reinstall the game. ReShade not only behaves like a cheat program but can also be used for cheating, and must therefore be blocked. Please be advised that this is a permanent block."
On Twitter, the cause of the delay was cited as "an unexpected issue [which] occurred while testing its compatibility."
Over one million cheaters were banned last month following a wave of 100,000 accounts being blocked earlier in January, and another 100,000 banned over a single weekend in November.
Despite the problems with cheaters, the game had become a huge success, pulling in $712 million in the eight months since its launch.
"The last thing a player wants to see is a cheater," read yesterday's dev update. "We will continue taking firm measures against the developers, distributors and users of cheats. We promise you that we will do our best every day in our battle for a fair game environment."


The Trembolt Contemporary Chair and Ottoman at Van Hill Furniture in the Grand Rapids, Holland, Zeeland area. Product availability may vary. Contact us for the most current availability on this product.
The Trembolt collection is a great option if you are looking for Contemporary furniture in the Grand Rapids, Holland, Zeeland area.
Browse other items in the Trembolt collection from Van Hill Furniture in the Grand Rapids, Holland, Zeeland area.


Every once in one while, we all develop a flash of genius where great ideas circulation our mind. We arise up with outstanding choices to the existing challenges. If someone had advised of you thirty years prior that we would every one of the be connected through smartphones, it would have appeared like a scene straight from a Sci-Fi film. But nevertheless that is the litigation today, and better things are still to advance.
We make your home in any kind of a dynamic community where as much as possible is put through to change at an absolute particular direct in working hours. These improvements are brought about written by the actions of brains and leaders. Their workouts have strummed a necessary role about shaping the way that we live these lives.
The first thing those any creator is educated to grip is the type of patent. These process related with acquiring an absolute patent is complex as well as a a well one. Any person need suitable guidance to successfully avoid pretty much any mistakes that might hurt your internet marketing business.
Figuring everything for firsthand can be costly and as well as time-consuming. Shoppers also should to determine that there is someone else wherever with that this same thing as you. Making efficiently and the best moves could be the actual difference linking you and them. That is certainly why almost all inventors, mainly new ones, are aware to seek professional aid in from others who own relevant experience in the idea field.
InventHelp has been at their the building line in the helping designers turn unique ideas straight to reality. This particular company gives you handled so many of improvements and carries helped each and every one of them become successful businesses ventures.
InventHelp allows you to file your invention idea to finally companies close to the world that properly be questioning in most of these an goal. These reputable companies assist by giving insight that determines whether usually there is an market by the program. Positive feedbacks are a good sign of most other carriers showing interest fees in the innovation or might make an investment or take advantage of the protects from for you.
InventHelp also guarantees completely full confidentiality which will inventors focused on their new development. This translates to a full protection of your primary idea up to you declare a certain for a creation. They also support to take a look at the viability of the creation with market request so whereas to arise up when it comes to an come to an end product that responds adequately to my market want.
InventHelp might be a center for any inventor interested in guidance and additionally resources to help you build every business through their invention. Check obtainable some InventHelp reviews and get as part of touch because of any along with their distributors.


Strike your finger with this must-have sterling silver ring. Defined by the round green amethyst center stone, this ring is an accessory essential.
This sterling silver and 18k yellow gold band features 0.11 ct. t.w. of diamonds and measures 6-mm. length x 6-mm. width.
This 3 stone sterling silver size 7.0 ring features 0.49-ct. t.w. diamonds and measures 22-mm. in length by 7.0-mm. in width. Colored diamonds have been treated to enhance their color.
This sterling silver and 18k yellow gold ring features 5.75 ct. t.w. green amethyst and measures 6.75-mm. length x 6.75-mm. width. Almost all gemstones have been treated to enhance their color and require special care.


text:
What you need to know about Denver in 5 min.
Become a member and be a better Denverite every day.
Search Denverite.com
Homes & Cranes
Ask the Newsroom
About Denverite
Denverite, the Denver site!
Posts tagged with venture capital
Last Updated: Jun. 12, 2018 · 7:41 p.m.
Colorado contractors won't push for 2017 roads funding ballot measure
Colorado voters won't see a tax increase for roads or other transportation needs on this November's ballot, but they might see something in 2018.
By Erica Meltzer
· Jun. 07, 2017
No special session, so expect a ballot measure with some sort of tax
Gov. John Hickenlooper said he will not call lawmakers back for a special session to try to put together a transportation funding package.
· May. 19, 2017
Should Denver taxpayers help candidates for local office pay for their campaigns?
Why do Denverite members help us pay the bills? Here's what they say:
"I love my community! Civic duty, love being part of Denver and Colorado."
"I read every day and it's reporting I don't see elsewhere."
"I have been looking for a good source of local news, and this is it!"
We're powered by you
"I really appreciate all the work you are doing during these crazy times!"
"You're keeping me sane in all this craze with real and funny news — thank you!"
I can help
Thanks for your support. You're the best. Can we answer anything for you?
What if we just … made it stop? Constitutional amendment would impose residential growth limit along Colorado's Front Range
· Dec. 02, 2016
Colorado's VictorOps and SendGrid score a combined $45.2 million in fresh funding
By Chloe Aiello
· Nov. 30, 2016
Amendment T, Amendment U have Colorado voters looking for answers
Denverite can help you understand these and all your Colorado and Denver ballot measures if you haven't cast your ballot yet.
· Oct. 28, 2016
Ballot Issue 4B in Denver: What you need to know about the Science and Cultural Facilities District tax extension
Ballot Issue 4B is the one with the cute polar bear.
Denver Question 2B: What you need to know about the Office of the Independent Monitor
Denver Question 2A: What you need to know about the Denver Preschool Program tax
The economy is doing well, and the 0.03 percent sales tax is collecting more money than anticipated.
Proposition 107 in Colorado: What you need to know about bringing back the presidential primary
A presidential primary conducted by mail is undoubtedly easier for many people to participate in than a caucus, but what about unaffiliated voters?
Proposition 106 in Colorado: What you need to know about medical aid in dying
There are currently five states where doctors can legally help someone end their life. Proposition 106 would make Colorado the sixth.
Colorado Amendment U: What you need to know about tax exemptions and "possessory interest"
Amendment U is worth about $125,000 to Colorado and less than $25 each to some 5,000 people who earn money on state-owned lands.
Amendment T: What you need to know about removing slavery from Colorado's constitution
ColoradoCare: What you need to know about Amendment 69's single-payer health care proposal
Single-payer health care has been a dream of progressives for decades. Why do so many of them oppose ColoradoCare?
Amendment 72: What you need to know about raising taxes on cigarettes
Initiative 300: Is this the marijuana consumption ordinance we've been looking for?
Amendment 70: What you need to know about the minimum wage increase
Amendment 70 would gradually increase Colorado's minimum wage to $12 an hour by 2020, with annual cost-of-living increases after that.
Raise the Bar: What you need to know about Amendment 71
Foundry Group closed a $500 million fund for new and old investments
Boulder-based venture capital firm Foundry Group just closed on a record $500 million fund, called Foundry Group Next.
· Sep. 20, 2016
Raising Colorado's minimum wage a win for state and families, says DU report
Raising Colorado's minimum wage to $12 by 2020 would be a net positive for the state, according to a new report from the University of Denver.
By Adrian D. Garcia
@dnvrite on Instagram
Denverite on Facebook
@denverite on Twitter
Denverite is powered by Colorado Public Radio Copyright © 2022 Colorado Public Radio

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


The iconic Twin Peaks. A hill that overlooks San Francisco and the Bay Area on one side, and gives glimpses of the ocean on the other. Tough to start with, but eases up near the top. The challenge is to keep the pressure on throughout the climb, even when the terrain becomes less challenging. Terrain - A roughly 5 min climb, steepest at the bottom.


I've been in the licensed sports business for the last 15+ years and I'm currently immersed in the business of sports art – good art, not the crummy stuff, but more on that in a moment – so when a close friend asked me if I could suggest my Top 10 Gifts for a Sports-Minded Dad for Father's Day, it got me thinking. And so here is what I came up with – not only a list of the Top 10 Gifts for Sports-Minded Dads, but also a list of the Top 10 Gifts Not To Give.
1. A Pair of Badges to the Masters – Rain or shine, Thursday or Sunday, it's the whole stepping-back-in-time feel that is the real Masters experience. No cell phones? Beer for two bucks? Bar-B-Q sandwiches for a buck and a half? Drink it all in and forget the rest of the world for a day in a place where if time doesn't stand still, it at least slows to a crawl.
2. Buy a pair of bleacher seats at Wrigley Field for a Cubs Game – and while in Chicago, do a little sightseeing in one of America's greatest cities, have a great steak dinner and go for a couple of afternoon beers at a neighborhood bar. And if you can, try to do more listening than talking.
3. Take a three day road trip together – include a round of golf almost anywhere, a big league game (MLB, NFL, NHL or NBA) and a small town minor league game, any sport. At some point along the way, thank your Dad for having gotten you this far. And if you have a brother, invite him too. And do more listening than talking.
4. Buy a beautiful original watercolor painting from Heritage Sports Art. I know it's a bit of a shameless plug, but we have a very limited collection of fantastic paintings of historic uniforms from more than 100 NFL, MLB, NHL and NCAA football teams, and once a piece is sold, it's sold. This is really beautiful art that is also "somewhat famous" (our website Heritage Sports Art and Youtube videos will explain), comes nicely framed and will be an instant family heirloom that any sports-minded Father would truly love.
5. An NFL Sunday - Give your father an entire NFL Sunday of father and son time at your father's home with no distractions, some great games on TV, a few drinks and an array of Dad's favorite food. Run blocking ahead of time on mom or anyone else who might disturb the day. And again, do more listening than talking.
6. Go Cuban - Buy a dozen Cuban Cigars and share one of them with Dad. I know it's not overly sports oriented, but cigars and sports are joined at the hip in many ways, so we'll include this as a sports minded gift. Smoking a good stogie and pushing the limits of the law (if you're American) with your Dad - it doesn't get much better than that.
7. Turn the hands of time back - Track down a DVD copy of a great game in its entirety from 30 or 40 or 50 years earlier involving your Father's favorite team and promise to sit with Dad, watch the game from beginning to end, enjoy his company and have a beer or two. Drink in the fans' clothes, the lack of commercialism, the equipment the players are wearing. And do more listening than talking.
8. Buy a game worn jersey from 20 or 30 or 40 years ago – They can be expensive, but with a little patience you can find lots of great game-worns at auction for less than $1500 and some for under $500. But don't put it in a display case, encourage your Dad to wear it. It doesn't need to be autographed and doesn't need to have belonged to the best player on the team, it just needs to be a great "old-school" jersey from his favorite team – something with a little history - and something he might wear on a "Game Day". I still think of a friend of mine who as a kid was given a game-used Bobby Orr stick and broke it in his driveway playing street hockey. The broken Bobby Orr stick means more to him and tells more of a story than if it was mounted unbroken in a Plexiglas case on the wall.
9. Play a round of golf at a golf course you played at together when you were a kid – I know this doesn't apply to everyone, but if you were lucky enough to play some golf with your dad when you were younger, have another round together at the same course whether it's a cow pasture or Pine Valley Golf Club. Bring a camera, enjoy his company and try your best to do more listening than talking.
10. Take Dennis Hull to dinner - Your Dad may not be a hockey fan, and he doesn't have to be, but if you have the chance to take Dad to dinner with ex-NHLer Dennis Hull, book it! By the end of dinner your sides and cheeks will be so sore from laughing you'll be begging for mercy, and you will have shared an experience you won't soon forget.
1. A Tie – Nothing says lame like a tie for Fathers' Day – couldn't you have at least gotten him something slightly more useful, like a fax machine, fedora or a cooking class?
2. A Ceramic Ashtray made from a hand-print – Enough said.
3. A Self Help book – Might as well buy Mother Teresa a book on religion.
4. Gloves, Socks or Underwear – There is a rule that some things should only be purchased by the person who is going to wear them. Obey the rules.
5. A Wallet – Some things are too personal to be left to someone else to decide, far more personal than socks and underwear. A wallet is one of them.
6. Anything from Oprah Winfrey – Oprah's got game, but she's not for Dad.
7. Flowers – This is Fathers' Day you knucklehead.
8. A Fruit Basket – Who ever heard of a dad eating fruit?
9. New slippers – One pair should pretty much last a lifetime, who needs a new pair?
10. An ascot – Even Thurston Howell III had trouble pulling that one off.
Happy shopping and more than that, Happy Fathers' Day! And more than anything else, in life and on Fathers' Day, please try to do more listening than talking.
Just the quickest of blogs to let you know that I have recently loaded all the Cleveland Indians (previously known as the Cleveland Blues 1901, Cleveland Broncos 1902 and Cleveland Naps 1903-1914) uniform images, 17 images in total, to Flickr and to Facebook.
Flickr: You can see all the Cleveland Indians uniforms here.
Facebook: You can see all the Cleveland Indians uniforms here.
These are highly detailed, original watercolor paintings, created to celebrate the history of the jerseys of the MLB Cleveland Indians franchise (previously known as the Cleveland Blues 1901, Cleveland Broncos 1902 and Cleveland Naps 1903-1914). Each of these 17 original paintings, and more than 1500 other MLB, NFL, NHL, NCAA football and CFL uniform paintings, is available for sale at our Heritage Sports Art Cleveland Indians web page.
Just the quickest of blogs to let you know that I have recently loaded all the Cincinnati Reds uniform images, 16 images in total, to Flickr and to Facebook.
Flickr: You can see all the Cincinnati Reds uniforms here.
Facebook: You can see all the Cincinnati Reds uniforms here.
These are highly detailed, original watercolor paintings, created to celebrate the history of the jerseys of the MLB Cincinnati Reds franchise. Each of these 16 original paintings, and more than 1500 other MLB, NFL, NHL, NCAA football and CFL uniform paintings, is available for sale at our Heritage Sports Art Cincinnati Reds web page.
Just the quickest of blogs to let you know that I have recently loaded all the Chicago White Sox uniform images, 14 images in total, to Flickr and to Facebook.
Flickr: You can see all the Chicago White Sox uniforms here.
Facebook: You can see all the Chicago White Sox uniforms here.
These are highly detailed, original watercolor paintings, created to celebrate the history of the jerseys of the MLB Chicago White Sox franchise. Each of these 14 original paintings, and more than 1500 other MLB, NFL, NHL, NCAA football and CFL uniform paintings, is available for sale at our Heritage Sports Art Chicago White Sox web page.
Just the quickest of blogs to let you know that I have recently loaded all the Baltimore Orioles (initially the Milwaukee Brewers in 1901, then the St. Louis Browns from 1902 to 1953) uniform images, 14 images in total, to Flickr and to Facebook.
Flickr: You can see all the Baltimore Orioles uniforms here.
Facebook: You can see all the Baltimore Orioles uniforms here.
These are highly detailed, original watercolor paintings, created to celebrate the history of the jerseys of the MLB Baltimore Orioles franchise (initially the Milwaukee Brewers in 1901, then the St. Louis Browns from 1902 - 1953). Each of these 14 original paintings, and more than 1500 other MLB, NFL, NHL, NCAA football and CFL uniform paintings, is available for sale at our Heritage Sports Art Baltimore Orioles web page.
People ask me all the time for trivia challenges for their favorite team, so I decided to learn how to do this - initially using an app from a company called "Wildfire" who designed a trivia app for use with Facebook. Although I have reproduced the questions below, if you want to answer the questions and see how many you get right, you'll need to take the quiz in Facebook or on Wildfire's trivia site.
The first quiz I have done happens to be the Detroit Red Wings - why the Red Wings? I'm not 100% sure - it just came to me.
The Trivia Quiz on Wildfire's "Microsite"
As always, feedback is welcome and please share with Red Wings fans! More Trivia Quizzes to follow.
PS This stop-you-in-your-tracks beautiful framed piece of art, and over 1500 others each featuring an original watercolor painting of NHL, NFL, MLB or NCAA uniforms, is available for sale at Heritage Sports Art.
1. When they first entered the NHL in 1926-27, the Red Wings were known as the Detroit Cougars. Why?
A. Detroit's MLB team was the Tigers, their NFL team the Lions, so Cougars were a natural third team name.
B. Detroit had been the home of a popular minor league hockey team known as the Cougars.
C. When the Western Hockey League closed its doors, the Victoria (British Columbia) Cougars moved east to become the Detroit Cougars.
D. The Detroit Free Press ran a contest and Cougars was the most popular team name capturing 34% of the votes.
6. When Detroit entered the NHL in 1926-27, how many teams wore two-color uniforms?
7. What is the origin of the Red Wings' winged wheel logo?
A. Team owner james E. Norris once played for the Montreal AAA hockey team, whose nickname and logo was the winged wheel.
B. The winged wheel pays tribute to Detroit's already longstanding position as the center of the US auto industry.
C. The winged wheel was the logo of a highly popular minor hockey league team in Detroit.
D. The Norris family chose 7 possible team logos and the readers of the Detroit Free Press decided on their favorite logo – 26% chose the winged wheel.
8. How many of the Red Wings' 11 Stanley Cup Championships were won with final series sweeps?
9. The Wings played their final game at the Detroit Olympia on December 15, 1979, but when was the Olympia actually demolished?
Just the quickest of blogs to let you know that I have recently loaded all the Atlanta Braves (initially the Boston Braves, later Milwaukee Braves) uniform images, 15 images in total, to Flickr and to Facebook.
Flickr: You can see all the Atlanta Braves uniforms here.
Facebook: You can see all the Atlanta Braves uniforms here.
These are highly detailed, original watercolor paintings, created to celebrate the history of the jerseys of the MLB Atlanta Braves franchise (initially the Boston Braves, then the Milwaukee Braves). Each of these 15 original paintings, and more than 1500 other MLB, NFL, NHL, NCAA football and CFL uniform paintings, is available for sale at our Heritage Sports Art Atlanta Braves web page.


North Carolina's contributory negligence law can often eliminate the rights of injury victims when they have even a small degree of liability for their accidents. Thus, it stands to reason that a trespasser would have few grounds for a claim against a property owner who maintains dangerous premises. If the trespasser is an adult, this would be true; however, a Charlotte injury lawyer would say that the legal issues are very different when the injury victim is a child.
This doctrine completely relieves children under age 7 of negligence under any circumstances. Older children are held to increasing negligence standards, as appropriate.
Of course, these determinations are often rather subjective. A skilled injury attorney has the experience needed to present compelling evidence to help ensure a child's rights to fair compensation.
Extraordinary attempts at access: Virtually any child can gain access to an attractive nuisance protected by a four-foot chain-link fence or an unlocked door. However, if children have to bring special equipment — such as ladders or crowbars — the law may recognize that this type of forethought illustrates their ability to make better decisions.
Excessive burden to property owner: In some cases, property owners meet or exceed reasonable safety standards. Further protection might be costly and beyond measures a reasonable person can expect. For example, if an area that is already well-protected requires a metal building around it for full safety, judges or juries may decide find in favor of the property owner in a premises liability case.
Defining what constitutes an attractive nuisance: Children might be attracted to virtually anything they see, but that does not mean property owners need to fully childproof their premises beyond making reasonable efforts. Again, the definition may be subjective, but a lawyer can help parents decide if it makes sense to pursue a claim.
The Attractive Nuisance Doctrine makes a significant difference in how the state's premises liability law operates when children are involved. Even if children are injured due to their own actions, parents need to seek experienced legal support to learn their rights to recover damages under the law. Call Brown Moore and Associates at 844-452-3688, or use our convenient online contact form to schedule a free initial consultation.


text:
I Will File For Presidency – Spio-Garbrah
A former Minister for Trade and Industry, Ekwow Spio-Garbrah has disclosed that he will file his nomination to contest for the presidential slot of the opposition National Democratic Congress.
Dr. Spio-Grabrah told host of Starr Chat Bola Ray that he has what it takes to win the presidential slot of the NDC ahead of the 2020 general elections.
"I'm going to file my nomination for presidency when the time is due," former Ghana's ambassador to the United States and Mexico said Wednesday.
Asked whether he can beat former President John Mahama if he decides to contest, Dr. Spio-Garbrah said "I am not there to beat anybody, I am there to present myself and win regardless of who is there…everybody goes into a race to win."
The opposition NDC goes to congress in 2018 to elect new leaders ahead of the 2020 presidential and parliamentary elections.
Born in Kumasi to former Ghanaian ambassador Britton Spio-Garbrah and poet Elizabeth Spio-Garbrah, Ekwow was a top student at Ghana's premier Achimota School, received his B.A in English from the University of Ghana, completed coursework for a Master's degree in communications from the same university and obtained a MA in international relations from Ohio University in Athens.
He is a former Ghanaian Minister for Trade and Industry, Former Minister of Communications, Former Minister of Education and a former Acting Minister of Mines & Energy.
He also previously served as Ghana's ambassador to the United States and Mexico.
Source: peacefmonline.com


Here at ThinkGeek, we've launched women's Star Trek swim lines for the past few years. We didn't want our male fans to feel left out, so now we've added swim trunks to our Star Trek line, both Original Series and Next Generation.
You're sure to make a splash at the next geeky event in these Star Trek TNG Swim Trunks. Risa may not be on your list of ports of call, but that's no reason to hold back your fandom. Although we have to admit that since these are uniform-based, they're pretty subtle to be so geeky. And we tested: even washing the car or mowing the yard is more fun when you're in a Star Trek uniform.
Note: We also have a Horga'hn you can pair with these if you're so inclined.
Waist 28" 30" 32" 34" 36" 39"
Inseam 6 3/4" 7 1/4" 7 3/4" 8 1/4" 8 3/4" 9 1/4"


Our searchable league table, published today, reveals the top 100 secondary schools in England according to A-level results for qualifications sat in summer 2014.
Released today by the Department for Education, the league tables reveal the A-level and equivalent results for examinations taken at all types of schools in England in summer 2014.
Schools have been ranked according to the average points score per student and then by average points per exam entry.
Also included in the table is the percentage of students gaining at least two As and a B in 'facilitating subjects': the subjects preferred, or more often required, for entry to a Russell Group university, including English, maths, the sciences, languages, history and geography.
Colchester Royal Grammar School, came top of the league tables for A levels for the third year running, bettering their average point score per pupil of 1412 in 2013.
Furthermore, 77 per cent of students gained at least two As and a B in facilitating subjects, 5 percentage points higher than the 73 per cent achieved in 2013.
Note: Schools with no data are excluded from the tables for several reasons, including: small numbers of pupils (which risks an individual pupil's results being identified); investigations into maladministration of tests; or for other reasons beyond the school's control. Many independent and state schools score zero (or very low scores) if they enter all or most pupils for alternative qualifications that are not accredited by the Government.
Keep up to date with the latest university news and application advice via our newsletter.


ASIMO shows off some of its skills during a recent demonstration for STEM students at Honda Heritage Center in Marysville,Ohio.
Honda's commitment to encouraging the growth of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) education among young students is now bringing those concepts off the page and into the real world – courtesy of Honda Robotics.
For the first time, students from Central Ohio schools had the unique opportunity to see real-world applications of many Honda's latest robotics technologies last week at the Honda Heritage Center in Marysville, Ohio. You can view a video of this demonstration here.
Students participating in programs from 15 different schools and career centers experienced a variety of products from Honda Robotics, including Honda's state-of-the-art humanoid robot ASIMO, the UNI-CUB and the Walking Assist Device. These demonstrations were designed to show the students the practical uses of many of the concepts and practices that they are currently learning about in their courses of study.
ASIMO showcased its balance and mobility by climbing stairs, kicking a soccer ball and dancing. The wide-eyed students also saw a demonstration of Honda's newest personal mobility device the UNI-CUB.
In addition, the students learned first-hand about Honda's commitment to improve mobility for those in need during a demonstration of the Walking Assist Device using volunteers from the audience and led by Honda R&D engineers. The Walking Assist is designed to support people with reduced walking ability due to injury or illness, or people with weakened leg muscles due to aging or other causes.
Honda seeks to be a company that society wants to exist, creating products and technologies that improve the lives of people while minimizing the environmental impacts of its products and business operations to ensure a sustainable future for society. Honda is also committed to making positive contributions to the communities where we do business, to socially responsible business practices and to the promotion of diversity in our workforce.
From our involvement in STEM education and Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) to our support of pediatric brain tumor research, and support of volunteer efforts by Honda associates, including environmental clean-up activities, Honda believes in giving back to the communities where we live and work. Honda's long-standing commitment to the support and success of the nation's HBCUs began more than 26 years ago with the establishment of the Honda Campus All-Star Challenge, a program designed to showcase the academic gifts and prowess of HBCU students. American Honda began its support of Honda Battle of the Bands more than 13 years ago as an effort to support HBCU music programs. Find out more at csr.honda.com.


text:
Testing the Air: Lessons Learned from Hunt Fund Reporting
Center for Health Journalism Member Posts
By Kari Lydersen
Science – like journalism -- is rarely neat or straightforward, and the elements that are confounding and aggravating are sometimes what yield the most important insights, provided you are willing to have an open mind when results lead you in directions different than your original idea or plan.
As a journalist who covers science, I was already well aware of these tenets, but the air testing I did for a story thanks to support from the Hunt Fund for Health Journalism drove the message home in a very direct way, and also shed light on the reasons that air pollution from non-point sources is such a hard problem to tackle.
For the centerpiece of my three-story project on the health impacts of goods movement, I tested for black carbon around rail yards and trucking routes in the Chicago area. Black carbon is an indicator of the level of diesel pollution from vehicles including trains and trucks, known to have a range of serious health impacts on nearby residents. That story along with my other piece on the health impacts of the BP refinery expansion in northwest Indiana – in order to process more Canadian tar sands – appeared in The New York Times Chicago edition, produced by the Chicago News Cooperative. My third piece, for The Progressive Magazine, looked at the health impacts of truck, train and ship emissions on low-income communities around the port of San Diego.
Based on my own and others' previous anecdotal reporting and studies in California including by the California Air Resources Board and University of Southern California scientists, I expected to find high levels of black carbon around massive rail yards in the Chicago area, which with a few exceptions are in poor black and Latino neighborhoods.
Compared to background levels I did find slightly elevated levels of diesel pollution around the rail yards, but they were not as high as I had expected, and weren't uniformly higher than other parts of the city I tested.
In talking with experts about my results I learned more about the extreme and highly variable effect that wind patterns and weather have on the distribution of diesel emissions even around ground-level sources like rail yards. The fact that it was an especially windy and rainy spring week in Chicago probably meant I got vastly different results than I would have on a still, dry summer day. But more importantly, my results showed just how difficult using testing to support a hypothesis in a story can be. (For more details on my testing and specific tips on making the most of hands-on testing in journalism, please see the end of this blog.)
I had not originally planned to make trucking routes a focus of my story, since I was most interested in the emissions from locomotives and equipment within rail yards. But lacking dramatic results around rail yards, I also tested along busy trucking routes and found significantly elevated black carbon levels on busy streets lined with homes, schools, parks and day care centers. These trucking routes were disproportionately but not exclusively in low-income, black and Latino neighborhoods. A few of the city's trendiest and most upscale neighborhoods also have busy trucking routes running through them, exposing people who live in expensive homes and diners in expensive sidewalk cafes to high levels of diesel emissions – indicating that such emissions are an environmental justice issue but also affect people in high-income communities.
Also by coincidence during my week of testing the Chicago city council was considering an ordinance to limit diesel emissions from construction equipment, and road work was going on on my block, where I logged temporary black carbon levels up to 100 times or more background levels. On the same block, children were leaving an elementary school and a number of elderly and disabled individuals spent long hours, as is their habit, sitting on the sidewalk watching the world go by.
Hence between the rail yards, construction equipment and trucking routes, I ended up with interesting and potentially significant results, but results that lacked a systematic plan involving controls and enough samples to make anything close to an academically respectable conclusion. I of course had such a plan to begin with, but at the outset I did not understand the equipment I was using or the variables enough to realize that it would take probably a year of testing, not a week, to do a decently rigorous study.
I had originally conceived of the air testing in part because I was shocked that there seemed to be no previous attempt to quantify the public health impact of rail yards in Chicago, one of the nation's primary rail hubs. I can't help here quoting the inane refrain that plays constantly over the speakers at my gym: "What gets measured gets improved." If the level of air pollution around rail yards specifically has never been quantified, it is that much harder to argue that it is a health risk and an environmental justice issue, even if various factors and anecdotal evidence would suggest it is.
However my experience with air testing helped me better understand why such studies have not to my knowledge been done in the Chicago area or most other urban areas. The huge variety of factors involved – weather, wind, seasonal economic fluctuations, specifics of a given rail yard's equipment and layout, the lifestyles of nearby residents – would make statistically significant and methodical testing a hugely expensive and time-consuming undertaking.
It was also a reminder of one of the main challenges in reporting on public health and environmental issues in general: we can almost never prove causation, and even scientific studies exploring correlation rarely yield clear, unequivocable, unassailable results. Even when we do have test results that provide real reason for concern, it can be hard to make them sound dramatic enough to attract attention and spur action. For many pollutants including diesel emissions, there is no "safe" level – even normal urban background levels like those I found in Chicago could harm one's health. The levels I found around rail yards, for example 3 micrograms per cubic meter compared to background levels of 1.5 micrograms, could represent a real health risk to some nearby residents, depending on their level of exposure, age and other factors. But such numbers are hardly going to strike fear in residents or light a fire under policymakers.
Actually the lack of knowledge or concern about rail yard diesel emissions among Chicago residents partly attracted me to the topic and also frustrated me. Unlike in Oakland or Los Angeles where environmental justice groups have embraced the issue, it is barely on the radar screen among Chicago activists and neighborhood groups, who are also dealing with more "obvious" environmental threats like coal plants and oil refineries, not to mention crime, unemployment and other problems.
Reporting my other two stories for the Hunt Fund project was an antidote on this front – in northwest Indiana and in San Diego, relatively small but highly active groups of residents are very concerned about the health impacts of the oil refinery and the port, respectively, and have gained concrete improvements because of their activism. In San Diego, residents affiliated with the Environmental Health Coalition have over the years logged a number of victories related to the port, including forcing an end to the spraying of toxic chemicals on shipped produce near an elementary school, and changing the routes of trucks through residential neighborhoods. In northwest Indiana, BP is in the process of making considerable improvements to its expansion plans, including greatly reducing flaring of toxic gases, thanks to action by environmental and citizen groups (along with the US EPA).
I know that my air testing results in Chicago will not likely provide the fodder for groups to demand increased emissions controls from rail companies, as I might have ideally hoped. But I know the project greatly expanded my own understanding of an important issue I will continue to cover, and also hopefully created some increased awareness and motivation for future study and dialogue -- all part of the slow and non-linear process of exploring and addressing inequities in and threats to public health. This experience will make me personally more methodical, cautious and selective in doing hands-on testing in the future. While it showed me such testing is much more challenging and resource-consuming than I previously realized, it also drove home the importance of first-hand testing as a journalistic tool, and makes me grateful that the Hunt Fund continues to help make this tool available to reporters.
Tips for Hands-On Testing in Reporting:
When I decided to do my own air testing for pollution around rail yards in the Chicago area, I really didn't know what I was getting into. I assumed hiring a consultant, renting equipment and/or teaming up with a university would be a relatively straightforward undertaking. I soon found things to be a lot more complicated. After months of searching online and asking around, I signed a contract with a non-profit that partners with community organizations to do their own testing and activist campaigns around a number of different pollutants. While I admire the group's work greatly, I eventually realized that it was not the right fit given that I was not looking to explicitly launch a campaign or deeply involve community members in my project. Committing to that plan without adequately considering whether it was really appropriate ended up wasting my and their time and costing me some money, though it was all part of a learning process for me. I ended up renting a hand-held black carbon monitor called a Microaeth from a California company, which was relatively affordable and offered instant results though also had some disadvantages for the kind of open-air testing I was doing -- it is more commonly used for tests in tail pipes and small confined spaces. Even with the best preparation, hands-on testing for stories will likely always involve some measure of risk and luck. Keeping the below tips in mind as one considers and executes a project should help.
1. Along with thoroughly understanding the larger issue you are covering, do copious research on the specific testing methods and equipment available, including all the practical factors that might make them more or less appropriate for your project. Factors to consider include cost, length of time needed for testing, number of locations and controls needed, method of getting results (will something need to be sent to a lab?), and availability of data for comparison – do government agencies and/or academics use the same equipment and units of measure?
2. As much as possible reduce the number of "wild card" factors that could throw your testing off course. For example in collecting and analyzing your results, avoid relying on untrained helpers, the weather, the postal service or other parties out of your control when possible.
3. If little or no previous testing or data exists on your topic, try to understand why.
4. Once you have decided on a certain type of equipment or test, interview people who have used this equipment to get specific advice on how best to make use of it and what pitfalls to avoid.
5. Make sure an official representative of the company or other entity which provides the testing equipment is available for tech support and advice in interpreting results.
6. Also share your results with various independent experts for interpretation and comment.
7. Resist the temptation to emphasize or de-emphasize any results or expert comments because of how they fit or do not fit with your original story angle.
8. In your story, strike the delicate balance of explaining key points for your audience while also honestly conveying both the uncertainty and variables inherent in all testing and the specific methodological limits (ie weaknesses) of your own testing.
9. Ultimately, do as much preparation and planning as possible before starting your test while also being ready to switch directions and revise plans as complications or new situations arise.
This checkbox is to test whether or not you are a human visitor and to prevent automated spam submissions.


Whether you're stuck, feel overwhelmed or any other reason prohibiting you from mastering your life, there is always someone who is able to guide you in finding your own answers. A person, just like you, able to help you reach your goals.
Reach out to, connect with, and acknowledge Beautiful Souls is nowadays easier than ever. Besides sharing a smile with your neighbor, being friendly to the lady behind the counter, care for other living creatures; treating each other with respect in our daily encounters, we also have various opportunities through social media.
Every now and then I share a quote/phrase/saying which touched me personally, created by the Beautiful Souls I've found and find across our virtual Dreampack.


What is Nancy Drew: Secrets Can Kill REMASTERED?
Nancy Drew: Secrets Can Kill REMASTERED is a Adventure, Point & Click, Female Protagonist PC game, developed by , available on Steam and published by .
According to Steam user reviews, 0% of the 0 user reviews in the last 30 days are positive. For all time, 0% of the 0 user reviews for Nancy Drew: Secrets Can Kill REMASTERED are positive.


text:
Home Magazine Departments Recycling Wood as an Art Form
Recycling Wood as an Art Form
by Dan Smith
The story below is from our September/October 2019 issue. For the full issue Subscribe today, view our FREE interactive digital edition or download our FREE iOS app!
When you cut down trees for a living, you see a lot of fascinating wood tossed away. Carrie and James Poff decided to put that wood to good use with an unusual business.
Heart Wood
A little more than three years ago, Carrie and James Poff started a tree salvage business in Boone's Mill and it didn't go anywhere, so they moved it to their driveway in Roanoke County and found some success.
Problem was that a business in your driveway in a residential neighborhood is bound to draw some complaints and when it did, the Poffs knew the end was near. Then the old Ralph Smith Building (the former Roanoke mayor's business) became available and the Poffs moved in.
Prematurely, as it turns out. Seems the City of Roanoke has a lot of hoops to jump through and the Poffs didn't know about them. So, while the business was actually going pretty well, the goal of recycling some of the wood they were harvesting had to be tempered until the city was satisfied or until a new place was found.
Seems Heart Wood Tree Salvage is beginning to come together. The Poffs went to work satisfying the city and, meanwhile, just in case that fell through, they went to Vinton Assistant Town Manager Pete Peters and the Advancement Foundation and found a smaller building that would be perfect for a retail outlet.
Heart Wood Art
While James provides the muscle, Carrie, an artist, looks toward the final product: a warehouse for the wood and for curing and preparing it (a new kiln is on the way); and a retail space for displaying the products Roanoke's art community comes up with from what would have been scrap wood.
The couple still owns Brown Hound Tree Service, the core of the overall business and the source of the wood.
"We made a vow not to waste trees," says Carrie.
James says, "We are artistic and hate to throw anything away. There is a lot of cool stuff in trees: knots and wraps and roots and patterns. I think people feel better spending their money on something given new life by wood workers. It's really neat."
Carrie is especially grateful at this point that she has a real office.
"I'd been working out of a small part of [the couple's] 1,000 square foot house and taking care of two children [who are 2 and 4]," she says. "I've been able to get back to being myself."
Initially, Carrie and James contacted artists when they had an exemplary piece of wood, but "they are coming to us now," says James.
He says that the way they're doing business—collaborating—is "changing the way" the tree business is being conducted in the Roanoke Valley, where competition has traditionally been intense.
"You just run into so many cool things cutting trees," says James, "that it's fun to share." And, they hope, profitable.
... for the rest of this story and more from our September/October 2019 issue, Subscribe today, view our FREE interactive digital edition or download our FREE iOS app!
Miss a Recent Issue? Check Our Digital Archives!
Digital Edition Index
Download Our iOS App!
Choose Your Lists:
Deals & Giveaways from TheRoanoker.com
This Month on TheRoanoker.com
You can unsubscribe at any time. Emails serviced by Constant Contact.


text:
Seeds of Promise
'The law imposes no penalties, so everything hinges on public pressure. All it needs is for a few companies to provide that guarantee and then pressure may grow on others to follow suit…. Harnessing public disgust and opprobrium is the key to driving out slavery from the supply chains.'
Last month saw the gold-winning garden from 2016's Chelsea Flower Show bring new meaning to breaking new ground in the fight against Modern Slavery. Now touring Britain, The Modern Slavery Garden, designed by Julie Sergeant, captures the contradiction between appearance and reality which has, for too long, allowed Modern Slavery to thrive behind Britain's closed doors.
The Garden poses a question of moral courage — the decision, or not, to look through the brightly coloured door to the truth behind it — and, with its wider #AskTheQuestion campaign, also gives us a means to answer it. By giving consumers a mandate — a call to upload product photos to social media and directly question its transparency status — every individual is empowered to play their part.
As The Times' Melanie Griffiths observes, the Modern Slavery Act requires all companies of a certain size to disclose their efforts to ensure supply chain transparency in a 'prominent' website statement —but the penalty remains declarative rather than fiscal, and enforcement is unclear. Modern Slavery cannot be legislated away: change must come from all of us. In a week when a new report estimates the number of slaves globally to be around 46 million — double the current estimate of the International Labour Organisation — the task ahead remains daunting.
This garden and the campaign it supports is a chance to grow the seeds of awareness into a powerful new grassroots campaign — harnessing the consumer power needed to truly drive supply chain accountability. And that is something to be hopeful about.
Read more about the External Rate of Return: the new 360-metric driving transparent, social and sustainable business practices in the new age of Good Business.
Previous PostYoung & Restless
Next PostLies, Damn Lies & Statistics
Hardship & Misery for Refugees
Gender-Cation
Now Teach


text:
Write a review Sign in
A Plus Automotive
Sharing is caring! Have something to share about A Plus Automotive? Use RevDex to write a review
Reviews → A Plus Automotive
A Plus Automotive Reviews (4)
Reviewer12420033
Sign in to contact user
I reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID ***, and find the resolution is satisfactory to me
I have taken my Passat TDI, my wifes Passat TDI, my son's Jetta TDI and my other son's GTI to Jose and the man is an automotive super sleuthHe found and fixed all issues with all the vehiclesAnd the work is nothing short of outstandingHe is very conscientious about the work done there as if it were his own vehicle he was working onI HIGHLY recomend him to my family and friendsHe has return customers for sure with just my family alone
Unfortunately this scenario is true we had run a promotion for a string trimmer with a free blower in May, we had placed an order for quite a few of these and were told we would receive the amount on order in a timely manner from Milwaukee Tool the manufacturer. Later we were told there would be a...
slight delay which we worked to pass on to our customers, then eventually told we would not receive many of these item until August. While we were being told several different things from the manufacturer unfortunately we had miscommunication to customers. We currently do not have any of these items and will not receive them until August at the earliest, once we received the August date we reached out to all of our customers to relay the bad news. We can/will honor the deal again once products are available again but in the meantime we canceled the pending orders. As an apology we sent out a letter with a package of $50 worth of Milwaukee accessories and hand tools to all those who unfortunately were not able to take advantage of this deal in a timely manner. We will of course also honor the free good promotion for anyone affected once those items are available again.
Reviewer8304
Had to have all repairs redone at another mechanic.
Empty reviews don't really do much!
Increase visibility and credibility of your review by adding a photo
Reply Close
Check fields!
Write a review of A Plus Automotive
A Plus Automotive Rating
Overall satisfaction rating ▲▼
Address: 1528 N Main St, Cape Girardeau, MO, 63701-7029
+1 (515) 962-5800 0 0
www.aplusautomotive.net
Add contact information for A Plus Automotive
Add new contacts
A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z | New | Updated
Revdex's aim is to improve the connection between consumers and businesses. We provide the customers with an opportunity to browse and post the complaints and reviews about businesses and we make it easier for their voice to be heard by the companies.
© 2021 Revdex all rights reserved


We are proud to announce the release of our LALD series low drift linear servo amplifiers. These linear servo amplifiers offer unmatched performance in terms of overall drift over the operating temperature range. With less than 400uA of drift, worst case, from 0 to 70 degrees C, these amplifiers offer over 100x drift improvement over prior models.
With their true linear output control, these amplifiers eliminate the radiated noise and distortion typically found in pulse width modulated (PWM) servo amplifiers that can cause undesired motion and interference in high resolution noise sensitive motion control applications.
The LALD series of transconductance Linear Servo Amplifiers are now available in 6 power levels from 500W to 3800W, with up to 40 amps peak output current. These current mode servo amplifiers are well suited to drive a wide range of inductive loads such as brushless and brush servomotors or voice coils. They are ideal for driving low friction air bearing stages due their inherent stability and up to 20kHz bandwidth. Bus voltage has been increased over prior models, allowing up to +/150VDC operation.
The design of these amplifiers includes our exclusive "Safe Operating Area" protection that monitors output power in real time and protects the amplifier from destructive over-power conditions. The on-board DSP monitors all key system functions in real time and provides an intelligent user interface that allows setup and storage of all system parameters via a serial interface. Non-volatile memory provides storage of the parameters during power off conditions.
Due to the low drift design of these amplifiers, no balancing or calibration is needed once they leave the factory. They are inherently balanced for all operating conditions.
Varedan Technologies designs and manufactures custom and standard motion control products such as servo drives, stepper drives and motion controllers for OEM applications. Visit us on the web at www.varedan.com.


text:
Riding a hot streak
Towerlight News
By: Sarah Van Wie, Staff Writer
Towson secured the second seed in the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) Championships and earned its second straight series win by sweeping CAA rival UNC Wilmington in a doubleheader Saturday at the TU Softball Complex.
"It feels really good knowing we are going in as the two seed," senior pitcher Ambar Hickman said. "It just puts us in a really good spot to succeed."
The first game ended with Towson (34-15, 11-8 CAA) defeating UNCW (29-20, 8-10 CAA) 6-5.
In the first inning, the teams battled to make it on the scoreboard, but were unsuccessful.
In the top of the second inning, the Seahawks took a 2-0 lead thanks to an RBI double from sophomore infielder Kelsey Bryan.
However, the Tigers cut their deficit to 2-1 in the bottom of the second inning when freshman designated hitter Nicole Stockinger was brought in by an RBI double from junior second baseman Caroline Reid.
Later in the inning, Reid came around to score on an RBI single from sophomore center fielder Kendyl Scott.
The Seahawks came back in the top of the third inning to take a 5-2 lead thanks to a three-run home run to left field off of the bat of junior infielder Lauren Moore.
However, Towson rallied in the bottom of the sixth inning when Reid scored on an RBI double from senior left fielder Olivia Yabrough to make the score 5-3.
Later in the inning, sophomore catcher Shelby Stracher sent a two-run home run over the center-field fence to tie the score 5-5.
Then with freshman pinch-runner Bailey Boyd on base, sophomore shortstop Brook Miko hit a double to right to end the game and secure the Tigers a 6-5 victory.
"I think we just stepped it up when it mattered," Yarbrough said, "And that's what we need to continue."
In the second game of the doubleheader, Towson defeated UNC Wilmington 8-2.
The Tigers got out to a fast start by scoring five runs in the first inning.
In the bottom of the second inning, Towson expanded its lead to 6-0 after Stratcher hit an RBI double to left field that brought Yarbrough in to score.
In the top of the third inning, the Seahawks scored two runs on an RBI double from freshman third baseman Hannah Adamczyk that brought the score to 6-2.
However, Towson scored the final runs of the game after a home run from junior first baseman Holiday Cahill in the fourth inning and a home run from Miko in the sixth inning.
The Tigers hung on to win the game 8-2 and sweep the doubleheader. The pair of wins also landed the Tigers a No. 2 seed in the CAA Championships.
The CAA Championships will be held in Harrisonburg, Virginia, at James Madison on Wednesday, May 11.
First pitch is scheduled for noon.
InAmbar Hickman, Caroline Reid, Towson University Athletics, Towson University Softball


Mineral Resource AssessmentsProviding solutions for 25 years.
In some parts of the country, developments can potentially sterilise mineral resources.
As part of the planning process, Mineral Resource Assessments may be required in order for the Planning Authority to determine if the development can proceed despite the potential sterilisation of important mineral resources.
GRM's team of Geologists can provide a suitable assessment.


text:
Exploration Partners, LLC
Exploration Partners, LLC protests the issuance of funded Space Act agreements to Space Exploration Technologies Corporation (SpaceX) and Rocketplane Kistler Limited Incorporated by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) under announcement No. COTS-01-05, which solicited research and development proposals in support of the agency's Commercial Crew/Cargo Project Office.
View Decision (PDF)
B-298804, Exploration Partners, LLC, December 19, 2006
Matter of: Exploration Partners, LLC
File: B-298804
Royce Jones for the protester.
James H. Roberts, III, Esq., Van Scoyoc Kelly PLLC, for Rocketplane Kistler, the intervenor.
Vincent A. Salgado, Esq., Eve Lyon, Esq., Amy Voigt, Esq., and Jonathan A. Arena, Esq., National Aeronautics and Space Administration, for the agency.
Guy R. Pietrovito, Esq., and James A. Spangenberg, Esq., Office of the General Counsel, GAO, participated in the preparation of the decision.
Under the Competition in Contracting Act of 1984 and GAO's Bid Protest Regulations, GAO will not review the issuance of Space Act agreements pursuant to agency's –other transactions— authority, because the issuance of the Space Act agreements pursuant to that authority was not tantamount to the award of contracts for the procurement of goods and services and was, therefore, outside GAO's bid protest jurisdiction; GAO will review, however, a timely protest that an agency improperly used a non-procurement instrument, such as an –other transactions— instrument, where a procurement contract was required.
–Space Act— agreements are issued by NASA under its –other transactions— authority pursuant to the National Aeronautics and Space Act of 1958 (the –Space Act—). 42 U.S.C. sect. 2473(c)(5) (2000). A –Funded Space Act Agreement— is –an agreement under which appropriated funds will be transferred to a domestic agreement partner to accomplish an Agency mission, but whose objective cannot be accomplished by the use of a contract, grant, or Chiles Act cooperative agreement.— NASA Policy Directive, NPD 1050.1G, Nov. 13, 1998, at 1-2.
NASA established the Commercial Crew/Cargo project to:
implement U.S. Space Exploration policy with an investment to stimulate commercial enterprises in space,
facilitate U.S. private industry demonstration of cargo and crew space transportation capabilities with the goal of achieving reliable, cost effective access to low-Earth orbit, and
create a market environment in which commercial space transportation services are available to Government and private sector customers.
Announcement at 1. In support of these objectives, NASA informed interested firms that the agency envisioned a two-phased approach to be known as the commercial orbital transportation (COTS) project. Phase 1 was described as a –period of development and demonstration by private industry, in coordination with NASA, of various space transportation capabilities . . . determined to be most desirable for the Government and other customers.— Phase 2 was described as a –potential competitive procurement of orbital transportation services to resupply the [International Space Station] with cargo and crew, if a capability is successfully demonstrated and the Government determines it is in its best interest.— NASA issued the announcement, which is the subject of this protest, to implement phase 1 of the COTS project and stated that the agency intended to enter into –at least one and preferably multiple— funded Space Act agreement(s). Id. at 2.
Firms were also informed that NASA anticipated providing funding of up to $500 million over a 4-year period; firms were also informed that –[i]n order to maximize capability coverage, participants are expected to secure additional funds to supplement the NASA funding.— Id. at 12. In this regard, the announcement stated
Payments will be made upon the successful completion of performance milestones as proposed by the participants and negotiated with NASA. NASA's contribution will be a fixed amount and will not be increased based on the participant's ability to obtain private funding.
Id. at 3.
The announcement requested proposals from interested firms and provided instructions for the preparation of proposals. Proposals were to describe the firms' business plans and technical approaches, and to provide the firms' anticipated costs, estimated operational prices, and business financial information. See id. at 16-22, app. C. The announcement also stated that selection of proposals for issuance of Funded Space Act agreements would not be governed by the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) or the agency's FAR supplement because the announcement did not provide for the award –of a contract, grant, or cooperative agreement.— Id. at 23.
NASA received proposals from a number of firms, including Exploration Partners, SpaceX, and Rocketplane. Six firms, including SpaceX and Rocketplane, were invited to proceed to –negotiations—; the protester was not. Subsequently, NASA issued Space Act agreements to SpaceX and Rocketplane.
Exploration Partners protests that, as –the only company that offered a fully funded end-to-end transportation system,— it should have received a Space Act agreement. In the alternative, the protester requested that the –COTS program . . . be re-bid under the original terms and conditions without interference in obtaining Shuttle hardware, cost data or interference in commercial business relationships.— Protest at 7.
NASA and the intervenor argue that the Space Act agreements protested here are not procurement contracts subject to our bid protest review under the Competition in Contracting Act of 1984 (CICA). Instead, they assert that these agreements were issued pursuant to the agency's –other transactions— authority under the Space Act. Accordingly, the agency and intervenor request that we dismiss this protest.
Under CICA and our Bid Protest Regulations, we review protests concerning alleged violations of procurement statutes or regulations by federal agencies in the award or proposed award of contracts for procurement of goods and services, and solicitations leading to such awards. See 31 U.S.C. sections 3551(1), 3552 (2000); 4 C.F.R. sect. 21.1(a) (2006). We generally do not review, however, protests of the award or solicitations for the award of cooperative agreements or other non-procurement instruments because they do not involve the award of a procurement contract. See, e.g., Sprint Communications, L.P., B'256586, B-256586.2, May 9, 1994, 94-1 CPD para. 300 at 3 (GAO does not have jurisdiction to consider the award of a cooperative agreement).
The jurisdiction of our Office to review the issuance of these Space Act agreements turns upon whether NASA's exercise of its –other transactions— authority is actually the award of contracts for the procurement of goods and services. NASA's authority to enter into –other transactions— was provided by the Space Act, which provides, in pertinent part, that the agency may
enter into and perform such contracts, leases, cooperative agreements, or other transactions as may be necessary in the conduct of its work and on such terms as it may deem appropriate, with any agency or instrumentality of the United States, or with any State, Territory, or possession, or with any political subdivision thereof, or with any person, firm, association, corporation, or educational institution.
42 U.S.C. sect. 2473(c)(5). The Space Act does not define –other transactions,— but Congress recognized at the time of its promulgation that this was a grant of –broad authority.— [1] See H.R. No. 1770, at 19 (1958), reprinted in 1958 USCCAN 3160, 3178; see also H.R. No. 1758, at 50 (1958).
The starting point for our analysis is the statutory language used by Congress. See Consumer Prod. Safety Comm'n v. GTE Sylvania, Inc., 447 U.S. 102, 108 (1980) (–We begin with the familiar canon of statutory construction that the starting point for interpreting a statute is the language of the statute itself.—). Here, the Space Act in its grant of authority to NASA plainly distinguished between contracts and –other transactions.—[2] It is a cardinal principle of statutory construction that a statute ought to be so construed that, if it can be prevented, no clause, sentence, or word shall be superfluous, void, or insignificant. TRW Inc. v. Andrews, 534 U.S. 19, 31 (2001), citing United States v. Menasche, 348 U.S. 528, 538'39 (1955). Applying this principle to the language of the Space Act, we find that entering and performing –other transactions— cannot be the same as entering and performing procurement contracts. Therefore, we conclude that NASA's issuance of these Space Act agreements pursuant to its –other transactions authority— is not tantamount to the award of contracts for the procurement of goods and services, which would be subject to our bid protest jurisdiction.[3] This conclusion is consistent with our earlier decisions, cited above, in which we concluded that our Office's bid protest review authority did not generally extend to cooperative agreements and other non-procurement instruments.
Notwithstanding our conclusion, we will review, however, a timely protest that an agency is improperly using a cooperative agreement or other non-procurement instrument, such as NASA's Space Act agreements, where a procurement contract is required, to ensure that an agency is not attempting to avoid the requirements of procurement statutes and regulations. Id. at 3; Energy Conversion Devices, Inc., B'260514, June 16, 1995, 95-2 CPD para. 121 at 2. For example, the Federal Grants and Cooperative Agreement Act provides, in pertinent part, that an executive agency must use a procurement contract when:
(1) the principal purpose of the instrument is to acquire (by purchase, lease, or barter) property or services for the direct benefit or use of the United States Government; or
(2) the agency decides in a specific instance that the use of a procurement contract is appropriate.
31 U.S.C. sect. 6303.
Here, Exploration Partners did not timely challenge NASA's issuance of Space Act agreements where the protester believed that procurement contracts were required.[4] The protester's contention that NASA allegedly misused its –other transaction— authority by issuing Space Act agreements to firms that had not offered completely funded end-to-end transportation solutions does not, as the protester apparently believes, provide us with an independent basis to review NASA's issuance of Space Act agreements here. To the contrary, the protester's arguments actually concern NASA's selection of Space Act agreement recipients under the announcement, rather than the propriety of its use of its –other transactions— authority.
Gary L. Kepplinger
[1] Since 1958, Congress has extended the authority to use –other transactions— to a number of other federal agencies, including the Department of Defense (DoD) (10 U.S.C. sect. 2371 (2000)), the Department of Homeland Security (Homeland Security Act of 2002, Pub. L. No. 107-296, sect. 831(a), 116 Stat. 2224), the Department of Energy (Energy Policy Act of 2005, Pub. L. No. 109-58, sect. 1007, 119 Stat. 932), and the Department of Transportation (Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century, Pub. L. No. 105-178, sect. 5102, 112 Stat. 423).
[2] We note in this regard that DoD's grant of –other transaction— authority also clearly distinguishes that authority from the authority provided DOD to enter into contracts. See 10 U.S.C. sect. 2371(a).
[3] This conclusion is consistent with the long-held views of those agencies that have been granted –other transactions— authority and within the federal procurement community generally. See, e.g., NASA's Space Act Agreements Manual, NPR 1050.1, Nov. 21, 2003, at 3 (–As discussed in this document, these 'other transaction' agreements (referred to as Space Act agreements) also do not include procurement contracts. Therefore, procurement laws and regulations are not applicable.—); Memorandum of DoD Under Secretary of Defense (Acquisition, Technology & Logistics) Paul Kaminiski to Secretaries of the Military Departments, Dec. 14, 1996 (–other transactions— are –alternatives to contracts,— which are not subject to procurement statutes and regulations such as CICA and the FAR and are not subject to GAO's bid protest review); see also Department of Defense –Other Transactions—: An Analysis of Applicable Laws, American Bar Association Monograph, Jan. 5, 2000. GAO's reports to Congress have also reported that –other transactions— are –other than contracts, grants, or cooperative agreements that generally are not subject to federal laws and regulations applicable to procurement contracts.— GAO-03-150, –Defense Acquisitions: DOD Has Implemented Section 845 Recommendations but Reporting Can Be Enhanced,— Oct. 2002, at 1; see also GAO'05-136, –Homeland Security: Further Action Needed to Promote Successful Use of Special DHS Acquisition Authority,— Dec. 2004, at 1 (–Other transactions are agreements other than government contracts, grants, and cooperative agreements . . . [and] are exempt from the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), the government's Cost Accounting Standards, and various federal statutes. . . .—) (footnote omitted); GAO/NSIAD-00-33, –Acquisition Reform: DOD's Guidance on Using Section 845 Agreements Could Be Improved,— Apr. 2000, at 3 (–[o]ther transactions are generally not subject to the federal laws and regulations governing standard procurement contracts—); GAO/NSIAD-96-11, –DOD Research: Acquiring Research by Nontraditional Means,— Mar. 1996, at 2-3.
[4] Such a challenge here was required to be filed before the closing date set for receipt of proposals, given NASA's announcement that it would be issuing Space Act agreements. 4 C.F.R. sect. 21.2(a)(1).


text:
const DEFAULT_PUBLICATION = 'meteor_table_generic_pub';
const DEFAULT_TEMPLATE = 'meteor_table_generic_template';
const DEFAULT_ENTRIES = [10, 25, 50, 100];

const subs = new SubsManager();

/**
 * The global namespace for Tables
 * @namespace Tables
 */
Tables = {};

Tables.registered = {};

Tables.registerTable = function (options) {

  if (typeof options.table_id !== 'string')
    throw new Error('Options must specify table_id');

  if (options.table_id in Tables)
    throw new Error('Table with table_id: '+options.table_id+' already registered.')

  if (!(options.collection instanceof Mongo.Collection))
    throw new Error('Options must specify collection');

  if (!(options.fields instanceof Object))
    throw new Error('Options must specify column fields');

  if ('selector' in options && !(options.selector instanceof Object))
    throw new Error('Selector must by instance of Object');

  if ('extra_fields' in options && !(options.extra_fields instanceof Array))
    throw new Error('Extra fields must by instance of Array');

  if ('dynamic_fields' in options && !(options.dynamic_fields instanceof Array))
    throw new Error('Extra fields must by instance of Array');

  if ('entries' in options && !(options.entries instanceof Array))
    throw new Error('Entries option must by instance of Array');

  if ('default_sort' in options && !(options.default_sort instanceof Object))
    throw new Error('Default sort must by instance of Object');

  if ('state_save' in options && (typeof options.state_save !== 'boolean'))
    throw new Error('State save option must by instance of boolean');

  if ('hard_limit' in options && (typeof options.hard_limit !== 'number'))
    throw new Error('Hard limit option must by instance of number');

  if ('classes' in options && (typeof options.classes !== 'string'))
    throw new Error('Classes option must by instance of string');

  if ('sub_manager' in options && (typeof options.sub_manager !== 'boolean'))
    throw new Error('Subscription manager option must by instance of boolean');

  Tables.registered[options.table_id] = {};
  Tables.registered[options.table_id].pub = options.publication || DEFAULT_PUBLICATION;
  Tables.registered[options.table_id].template = options.template || DEFAULT_TEMPLATE;
  Tables.registered[options.table_id].selector = options.selector ? {$and: [options.selector]} : {$and: [{}]};
  Tables.registered[options.table_id].collection = options.collection;
  Tables.registered[options.table_id].fields = options.fields;
  Tables.registered[options.table_id].entries = options.entries || DEFAULT_ENTRIES;
  Tables.registered[options.table_id].default_sort = options.default_sort || Helpers.generateDefaultSortingCriteria(options.fields);

  if ('extra_fields' in options) {
    Tables.registered[options.table_id].extra_fields = options.extra_fields;
  }

  if ('state_save' in options) {
    Tables.registered[options.table_id].state_save = options.state_save;
  }

  if ('classes' in options) {
    Tables.registered[options.table_id].classes = options.classes;
  }

  if ('sub_manager' in options) {
    Tables.registered[options.table_id].sub_manager = subs;
  }

  Tables.registered[options.table_id].hard_limit = ('hard_limit' in options)
    ? options.hard_limit
    : Number.MAX_VALUE;

  if ('dynamic_fields' in options) {
    Tables.registered[options.table_id].dynamic_fields = options.dynamic_fields;
    Tables.registered[options.table_id].session_id = options.table_id.concat('_new_columns');
  }

  return Tables.registered[options.table_id];
};

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


It is a very natural process which works with the well-understood ways in which the mind works. For more details read the hypnotherapy page.
– DOES RONA WORK WITH COMPANIES?
Yes – either to work with individuals on a one to one coaching or therapy basis, or with groups to cover issues that relate to several people, including performance.
– WHAT GUARANTEE IS THERE THAT SESSIONS ARE CARRIED OUT PROFESSIONALLY?
Rona is a qualified clinical Hypnotherapist, who has had lengthy training to achieve her qualifications and has extensive experience working as a therapist in both Australia and the U.K. See here for more details. Rona works within the National Code of Hypnotherapy Ethics – giving clients reassurance that the service will be in keeping with clinical standards.
– WHAT DOES THE MEDICAL PROFESSION THINK ABOUT HYPNOTHERAPY?
There is now a strong belief amongst the conventional medical profession that Hypnotherapy and other therapies such as CBT have a role to play either alongside drugs or in isolation. There are a lot of articles available on line to research this.
– WILL IT WORK FOR ME?
– WHERE WILL MY HYPNOTHERAPY SESSION TAKE PLACE?
Sessions normally take place in Rona's Hypnotherapy practice in Littleworth Common, Burnham, Bucks. Its a very peaceful relaxing environment and well suited to Hypnotherapy.
-WILL I BE IN CONTROL OF MYSELF DURING THE SESSION?


I've owned domains for the last twenty years, and I never thought it would happen to me :) At first I thought no big deal, I'll just use my backup devbee.net domain (which I registered a month after devbee.com and so was able to recover it before it expired). But I've been using [email protected] for my client work for about ten years now, and there's nothing that says amateur hour like bounced email.
I am in touch with the new owner of my domain, and I'll definitely be reporting back on the results of our discussion.


text:
Active Directory/Exchange Specialist – Honolulu
The Defense Group of Leidos is seeking Active Directory/Exchange Specialists to support efforts for the Navy-Marine Corps Intranet (NMCI) portion of the NGEN-R Service Management, Integration, and Transport (SMIT) contract.
The Leidos team will support the NGEN-R SMIT portfolio, the largest IT services program for the Navy, by delivering the core backbone of the NMCI; inclusive of cybersecurity services, network operations, service desk, and data transport. Ultimately, Leidos will support the Navy in unifying its shore-based networks and data management to improve capability and service while also saving significant dollars by focusing efforts under one enterprise network.
Qualified candidates will be responsible for supporting the operation, servicing, trouble shooting, and account administration of Active Directory (AD), Exchange, Active Directory Application Mode (ADAM), and the Global Address List (GAL).
May include the following, based upon level:
Provide support for the operation, servicing, trouble shooting, and account administration of Active Directory (AD), Exchange, Active Directory Application Mode (ADAM), and the Global Address List (GAL).
Service end user accounts
Perform life cycle events on end use accounts to include:
Upgrade/downgrade accounts access.
Delete or transfer network end user data, as required.
Manage web-based active directory (AD) tool for reporting and queries against the end user accounts.
Manage AD group objects including user accounts, computer accounts, and other group manageable units.
Perform life cycle events for AD groups to include:
Create new Groups
Modify Group attributes
Modify Group Object Type
Deactivate and delete Groups
Support the enterprise messaging service to process, deliver, store, and receive email and associated attachments.
Ability to send and receive signed and encrypted email and attachments using PKI certificates.
Configure email service to utilize mandated and accredited messaging protocols and configuration to ensure interoperability and remote access.
Manage server mailbox restorations.
Manage smart/mobile device email service infrastructures and manage synchronization with mobile capabilities.
Manage the unclassified and secret capability to access email via a web-based application.
Junior Specialist
High School Diploma with minimum 1+ years' experience
and DOD Secret Clearance
Experience with information technology (IT) including AD and/or Exchange experience
Familiar with standard concepts, practices, and procedures in information technology
Most possess Information Assurance Technician (IAT) Level I
Must possess a Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) or Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) or a Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS) certification.
Mid Specialist
High School Diploma with minimum 5+ years' experience or BS in Computer Science, MIS, Business or related field with 2+ years' experience
Prior IT problem solving/ Trouble Shooting experience
Must possess Information Assurance Technician (IAT) Level II
Experience with Navy/Marine Corps, Defense Information System Agency (DISA) and Joint interoperability of network design, integration and implementation.
Experience in documenting processes and procedures and creating Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
Must possess a Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) or Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS) certification in Windows Server or Exchange Server path.
External Referral Bonus:
Potential for Telework:
Clearance Level Required:
Yes, 10% of the time
Scheduled Weekly Hours:
Requisition Category:
Job Family:
Leidos is a Fortune 500 ® information technology, engineering, and science solutions and services leader working to solve the world's toughest challenges in the defense, intelligence, homeland security, civil, and health markets. The company's 38,000 employees support vital missions for government and commercial customers. Headquartered in Reston, Va., Leidos reported annual revenues of approximately $11.09 billion for the fiscal year ended January 3, 2020. For more information, visit www.Leidos.com.
Pay and benefits are fundamental to any career decision. That's why we craft compensation packages that reflect the importance of the work we do for our customers. Employment benefits include competitive compensation, Health and Wellness programs, Income Protection, Paid Leave and Retirement. More details are available here.
Leidos will never ask you to provide payment-related information at any part of the employment application process. And Leidos will communicate with you only through emails that are sent from a Leidos.com email address. If you receive an email purporting to be from Leidos that asks for payment-related information or any other personal information, please report the email to .
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, ethnicity, age, national origin, citizenship, religion, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy, family structure, marital status, ancestry, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law. Leidos will also consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with relevant laws.


text:
Tampa Bay Rays Brad Miller Not Thrilled About Move to Second
Sep 24, 2016; St. Petersburg, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Brad Miller (13) hits a two RBI double during the third inning against the Boston Red Sox at Tropicana Field. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /
In his year with the Tampa Bay Rays, Brad Miller has already had three primary positions. Understandably, he is not enthused with his latest shift around the diamond.
In theory, when the Tampa Bay Rays traded for Brad Miller, they had solidified their shortstop position. And they did, at least for 100 games in 2016, before they realized he was less than a stellar defensive option at short. He then shifted over to first, and was expected to open the 2017 season there as well. It appeared as though Miller had found a home with the Rays.
Then, Tampa Bay traded Logan Forsythe, creating another opening in the lineup. Shortly thereafter, they re-signed Logan Morrison, leading Miller's spot in the lineup in question. Now, it appears that the Rays are going to deploy Miller at second, his third primary position in less than a year.
Understandably, he is not exactly enthused about the move. He is saying the right things, claiming to be on the same page as Rays officials, but the underlying tone seems to indicate otherwise. As this change is coming so late in the offseason, one can hardly fault Miller for being somewhat displeased about this latest positional change.
It does, however, speak volumes as to how much the Rays value his bat. In 2016, he produced a .243/.304/.482 batting line, hitting 30 home runs and 29 doubles. He was second on the team in homers, trailing only Evan Longoria, while proving to be a key part of the Rays lineup.
Miller also has some experience at second base. In his three seasons with the Mariners, he had at least eleven games at second each year. While the numbers may not be great, Miller has produced a slightly above league average 4.68 range factor at second. He has also cost the Mariners four runs. Granted, his 37 game sample size is not exactly the largest, but there is some hope he can handle the position.
Should Miller not be able to make the transition to second, then he may fall into what could be his worst case scenario. He could become a super utility player, appearing at four or five different positions a week to try to keep his bat in the lineup. As he seems to value the stability of having a set position, bouncing Miller around the lineup could limit his effectiveness with the lumber as well.
Next: Jaime Schultz piece for the Rays future
Right now, Brad Miller may be the primary option for the Tampa Bay Rays at second. If he falters defensively, one has to wonder how long it will be before he is moved elsewhere once again.


text:
Q: Magento 2 / Wordpress Translation function __() I have a Wordpress installation with a sub directory /shop where I have my Magento 2 installation.  I've included wp-load in Magento's index.php (root) so that I can make use of WP functions within the shop such as get_header() etc.
I have an issue where both Wordpress and Magento are trying to declare the function __() for translations.  This was solved by adding the following around the function in the functions.php file of Magento (/app/functions.php).
if (!function_exists ('__')){
    function __() {
        .......
    }
}

This solved my immediate error of trying to redeclare the function but I then ran into my next error:-
Recoverable Error: Argument 1 passed to Magento\Framework\Exception\NoSuchEntityException::__construct() must be an instance of Magento\Framework\Phrase, string given, called in....vendor/magento/module-store/Model/StoreRepository.php on line 60

So, I checked what's on this line and it's a call to the __() function
throw new NoSuchEntityException(__('Requested store is not found'));

The return of the __() is giving a string and not an instance of Magento\Framework\Phrase because it's the WP declared version of the function.  If I remove __('Requested store is not found') and pass null (ie don't pass a string) then the error is resolved.  Obviously this is not what I want to do since those errors will be useful to me.
So, my question is, is there a way around this problem without having to re-name either the WP and Magento 2 functions as this would mean going through the entire code base and changing all calls to the function.
Thank you in advance.

A: Your problem is attempting to load both frameworks simultaneously in the first place, as you say:

I've included wp-load in Magento's index.php (root) so that I can make use of WP functions within the shop such as get_header() etc.

This is a very bad idea, on account of performance penalty and the inevitable conflicts you will encounter between them (like this __() collision).
In short, no, there is no way to resolve this conflict except changing all references in one system or the other.
The proper way to do this would be to forget your hopes of combining the systems (and themes), and implementing your Magento theme to match your Wordpress site through its native theme system. It will be a lot of work, but you're not hacking apart any system in the process. Long-term, this will save you an immense amount of time and pain.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


Local Americana act Eric Bolander celebrates his Sophomore release "The Wind", recorded and produced by Duane Lundy at Shangri-La Studio. Support by Grayson Jenkins & the Resolutions, Sean Whiting, and Derek Spencer. Vinyl, CDs, and shirts available for sale at the show and pre-order on pledgemusic.com.