text:
Syria: why the left can't abandon anti-imperialism
Dan Poulton
With the West determined to get a foothold in the Arab Revolutions the left cannot afford to downplay the serious threat of imperialist intervention in Syria, argues Dan Poulton
The easiest way to rubbish an argument that doesn't suit your sensibilities is to reduce its various proponents into a homogenous grouping. This was the approach taken by Jamie Allinson in his recent article, 'Syria: Neither Riyadh nor Tehran but Popular Revolution,' in which he described those who oppose imperialist intervention in Syria as being 'anti-anti-dictatorship'.
It was of course George W. Bush who crystallised this trick of 'false polarity' when he coined the slogan 'you're either with us or against us' in the early days of the War On Terror. So it's rather distressing when these kinds of arguments are put to us from within the left.
It's true that some on the left (a very small minority) do actually view the Assad regime as a progressive bulwark against US imperialism, and this is of course inexcusable. But these types are rather easy to identify. They tend to give out leaflets and hold meetings with titles like 'Victory to Assad'. And they usually take the opportunity to attack the Stop the War Coalition (STW) in pretty much the same hysterical breath. So it is of course perverse when STW and those who agree with its stance on Syria get lumped in with their opponents as 'anti-anti-dictatorship'.
Allinson's caricature of the anti-intervention argument attempts to catch a diverse range of anti-imperialist commentators in its web:
"…the Syrian revolution, whether it has popular roots or not, has now become a purely military endeavour of Sunni supremacists acting as the catspaws of a Saudi-Qatari-U.S. (perhaps also Franco-Zionist) effort to topple Assad, the last redoubt of the anti-imperialist forces in the region. This externally funded rebellion represents an extension of the U.S. imperial project launched after the 9/11 attacks, embracing the occupations of Afghanistan and Iraq."
It is easy to rubbish this 'conspiracy theory' version of events, yet it is the lynchpin of most of Allinson's argument.
Popular revolution
The Syrian uprising began as a popular uprising against a brutal dictator and is part of the Arab Revolutions which began with a revolt in Tunisia in December 2010. This is the position that Counterfire (John Rees, referenced by Allinson, being a leading member) took towards the Libyan uprising of that year. But, like in Libya, the fate of the popular uprising is directly threatened by the extent to which the imperialist powers manage to successfully intervene in the course of the revolutionary process.
In Libya NATO set up a no fly zone with the backing of the Gulf States and a deadly air bombardment followed, killing up to 30,000 (the third war with a Muslim country in a decade). The Libyan popular uprising, like in Syria, was militarised at an early stage and defections of rank and file soldiers took place, followed by defections from increasingly higher ranks of command until generals, and eventually regime officials, began to steadily accumulate on the anti-Gaddafi side.
This process was supported by the West. An internal power struggle within the revolution even led to the assassination of one of its leading figures. Now a pro-imperialist bloc is in power and seems unable to control Libya's rapid descent into bloody sectarian chaos.
The difference between the imperialist intervention in Syria and that in Libya is one of degree. The West has not been able to intervene directly as it did in Libya primarily because Russia and China, who approved the UN resolution which was used by the US, UK and France to justify military intervention, don't want to find their remaining allies purged from the region.
Instead the West has had to rely on various groups supplying weapons and aid to the Free Syrian Army. To that end CIA advisors are on the ground actively selecting who should receive weapons and who shouldn't. This is because the Syrian 'opposition' is not a homogenous whole. There are many in its ranks who oppose Western intervention, many who are socialists and anti-imperialists and many, no doubt, whose recent experience tells them to not trust the Western powers.
It would be folly on their own part for the West to arm sections of the revolution who actively oppose its presence in the region. That said, as Libya showed, it is very likely that the brutal and ongoing assault from Assad's forces (which has far exceeded the pre-intervention death toll of Libya) have convinced many ordinary people to put aside their better judgement and accept Western military support.
This would be folly. It was folly in the case of Libya, but let's not forget that it was also folly on the part of those in Iraq who welcomed Western intervention because they wanted rid of a brutal dictator. The end result in Iraq was a million dead. The anti-war movement may have had a more complex -and for some, hard to swallow- argument to win but who can really doubt the absolute necessity there was to win that argument at the time?
What's sad is the short-term memory of some on the left. Many who now attack Stop the War and Counterfire supporters as 'anti-anti-dictatorship' (or however they choose to formulate their complaint) were also arguing against the invasion of Iraq to remove Saddam from power in 2003. Others, of course, who made the 'anti-anti-dictatorship' argument, were not on the anti-imperialist side at all, Nick Cohen and the late Christopher Hitchens being two high profile examples from recent years.
As such anti-imperialists who take Allinson's position on Syria find themselves with awkward bedfellows: often arguing on the same side as liberals who refuse to acknowledge that imperialism is even a factor in the War on Terror.
A major difference in the current situation from Iraq is the extra element of a revolution taking place in the very country being eyed-up for intervention by the United States and its allies. This seems to have been enough to send some sections of the left into a state of confusion.
Allinson's accusation that those on the left who oppose intervention are pro-regime is false.
Anyone who seeks to discredit reports of atrocities committed by the Assad regime in order to simplify their argument, or because they are in fact pro-Assad, should rightly be criticised, just as anyone who attempted to downplay the brutality of Saddam Hussein's regime should be criticised. But, for the most part on the anti-imperialist left, this argument is yet another straw man.
It is possible, and necessary, to both acknowledge an oppressive regime and simultaneously object to its replacement by a regime subordinate to the Western powers. This is because, as the Western rulers themselves admit, what really matters is what happens on 'the day after' Assad is toppled.
Picking up the power
Opposing the overthrow of a regime by the West can in no way be conflated with opposing the overthrow of a regime by a popular revolution. Although both aim to remove a ruling class figurehead from power, the two processes are completely different. This is because, as John Rees and others have argued, in the early stages of a revolution power falls into the street, so to speak.
At a further stage, a struggle then takes place as to which element of the popular movement picks up the power. The history of modern revolutions since Russia in 1917 shows quite clearly that it is not automatic that those who do the bulk of the fighting in a revolution are its natural beneficiaries.
In many cases, from Iran in 1979 to South Africa (with the election of the ANC in 1994) to Indonesia (when the post-Suharto 'Reform' period began in 1999), it is sections of the middle class and the old ruling class order who pick up the power, leaving the most radical elements of the movement isolated and vulnerable to -often bloody- purges.
Ironically, in dismantling his own straw man about conspiracy theorists, Allinson provides an analysis which begins to undermine his central argument, when he acknowledges that:
"It is no secret that the U.S., and its more vociferous junior imperial partner, wants rid of Assad and in this aim they are joined by Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the GCC more generally. The Saudis and Qataris are providing money, and in some cases materiel, to those bits of the FSA of which they approve. Nor is it any revelation that Western (and Turkish) agencies are attempting to broker the flow of these resources into the country and thereby exercise influence over the revolutionary situation. In any revolution, anywhere, now or in the future, outside powers will try to do this."
Here he attempts yet another obfuscation (asserted at a more shrill register by Pham Binh). Because, he argues, attempts to intervene in a revolutionary process are an inevitable part of any uprising the idea that one should be concerned by outside interference in Syria is foolish.
Balance of forces
This assertion rides roughshod over any attempt to assess the balance of forces within any given revolutionary process, instead making sweeping generalisations. There was an overt intervention in the course of the Russian revolution by imperialist Germany. The German rulers helped Lenin get to Russia from his exile in Switzerland because they, rightly, anticipated that he would mount a revolution that would pull Russia out of the First World War.
But then the strength of the Russian movement, organised as it was into militant soviets and backed by the working class and the peasantry, meant that German influence could not penetrate further than it did inside the movement.
The key point here is that the revolutionary process had its expression in the form of a working class revolutionary institution (the Bolshevik Party, linked to workers' soviets) which was capable of picking up the power after it had fallen into the street.
The lack of such a representative institution in the Syrian movement coupled with the mounting intervention of the West and its regional allies, the reality of civil war and the rise of sectarianism, could well spell disaster for the popular movement.
This is a point that Allinson and his sympathisers refuse to acknowledge, bending over backwards to find evidence to support their theory that imperialist interference is negligible inside Syria's popular movement despite considerable evidence to the contrary.
Allinson asks us to believe that it is 'very wrong' to claim that, 'the Syrian revolution, as a result of these attempts, now consists of 'sundry' elements working for Western intelligence agencies and abetting the recolonisation of the country.'
He draws this conclusion because the rebels remain significantly under-armed and only select groups get any real military aid. He would do well to remember that the West provided no arms to the Libyan movement, preferring instead to rain death from above. This is partly because it is not possible to re-use a bomb once it has gone off- there's no risk of arming 'the wrong people'.
Quite clearly the West's preferred strategy would be to rob the uprising of as much self-determination as possible whilst ensuring that pro-Western elements are given as much support as necessary. If Allinson is right to argue the West are unable to locate that many people to actually arm it may perhaps be a testament to the fact that most Syrian's don't want Western tutelage.
Or it may be that the West doesn't trust what compromised rebels might do on 'the day after' they receive military backing. Nonetheless there is significant evidence that arms supplies are getting through, presumably to the 'right sort of people'. As Seamus Milne explained in early August:
"The US, which backed its first Syrian coup in 1949, has long funded opposition groups. But earlier this year Obama gave a secret order authorising covert (as well as overt financial and diplomatic) support to the armed opposition. That includes CIA paramilitaries on the ground, "command and control" and communications assistance, and the funnelling of Gulf arms supplies to favoured Syrian groups across the Turkish border. After Russia and China blocked its last attempt to win UN backing for forced regime change last month, the US administration let it be known it would now step up support for the rebels and co-ordinate "transition" plans for Syria with Israel and Turkey."
Good arms and bad arms
Allinson belies his own lack of grasp of revolutionary dynamics when examining the question of the procurement of arms by the Syrian resistance:
"Most of the FSA's light arms seem to come from the Syrian army itself, through defection or purchase [sic] with money from Syrian exile businessmen in the Gulf."
Both means of procurement are very different. Defections within the army are to be welcomed and actively sought, although high level defections pose a real threat of co-option by elements of the old regime. Revolutions, especially successful ones, have historically got their arms from the process of fracturing the regime's military forces.
In fact, successful social revolution is dependent on this happening. It's worth reminding ourselves that the threat of splits in the Egyptian army motivated the Generals' decision to ditch Mubarak. In such a way revolutions can win serious gains. So for Syrians to get arms from the regime army through defections (as happened in the early stages of the Libyan uprising) is a good thing.
Receiving arms from Gulf 'businessmen', however, is fraught with peril. Who are those businessmen and what strings come attached to their military backing? One might argue that it is ok to accept arms from the enemy as long as one doesn't also accept their political direction. (One could also argue it's possible to accept protection from the Mafia without doing them any favours in return. Yes it's possible, but expect big trouble.)
Without the formation of a coherent anti-imperialist organisation within the revolution there is no guarantee that the sections of the movement armed by the West won't also accept their political instruction. By way of example, Tawakal Karman of Yemen is more than happy to accept Western political influence, as symbolised by her acceptance of the Nobel peace prize and witnessed by her subsequent attempts to condemn elements within Yemen who are not pro-Western enough (by accusing them of being Iranian stooges.)
The formula is really rather simple. Arms from military defections = good. Arms from pro-imperial elements = bad. UNLESS the revolution has built up enough, both material and ideological, strength to offset the corrupting effects of political overtures from imperialist forces. It would take a real Pollyanna to confidently read such strength in Syria's divided uprising.
Civil war, what civil war?
Allinson is at pains to argue that the Syrian revolution has not simply 'morphed' into civil war, as he accuses many on the 'Western left' to be arguing.
He is of course essentially correct when he argues that:
"There is no doubt that what Syria is now undergoing is a civil war, albeit one in which the dynamics of a revolutionary process are still present… The Free Syrian Army was formed out of armed detachments protecting demonstrations, only really beginning in earnest last summer."
Despite Allinson's attempts to illustrate (using Youtube videos) that demonstrations are still happening in Syria, albeit under constant threat of attack from regime forces, it is quite clear that armed struggle is now the dominant form of resistance. There simply aren't that many demonstrations left to protect.
Yemen again
Let's take a look at the ever instructive example of Yemen. The mass demonstrations carried out by the movement were some of the most impressive in the whole Arab Revolutions. What was also incredible is that, for a largely tribal country with nearly three guns to every person, mass mobilisations remained dominant throughout. The role of armed revolutionaries was to protect these demonstrations and tribesmen often laid down their arms to join in the protests. Armed struggle never replaced popular mass action.
The same cannot be said of Syria. One can argue whether this was a subjective error on part of the movement or an objective reality of a weakened left facing an intransigent regime. The point is that we have to deal with the situation we find ourselves in, not some other, more desirable, reality.
Allinson continues:
"The Syrian regime has been 'militarized' for decades. If it persists in some form, the solution favoured by some on the left, the Syrian people will continue to suffer its violence. They are not to be condemned for fighting back."
It's never made entirely clear who exactly is 'condemning' Syrians for shooting at regime forces. But what we can be absolutely certain of is that George Galloway, Tariq Ali and John Rees (all explicitly accused of being 'anti-anti-dictatorship' in the article, though only Galloway is quoted) would be the first to uphold the movement's right to defend itself from a brutal regime. We're back in straw man territory again.
The real elephant in the room in Allinson's article is the question of revolutionary strategy. He seems much more comfortable with a crude form of moralism, chastising longstanding Marxists for apparently rubbishing a popular revolution, promoting pacifism and opposing imperialist intervention- an eclectic set of accusations if there ever was one.
It must be noted that it's not just sections of the so-called 'Western' left who oppose imperial intervention in Syria and argue that the popular mobilisations have become secondary to militarised struggle. As Syrian revolutionary and president of the National Co-ordination Body for Democratic Change, Haytham Manna argued in June this year:
"…the pumping of arms to Syria, supported by Saudi Arabia and Qatar, the phenomenon of the Free Syrian Army, and the entry of more than 200 jihadi foreigners into Syria in the past six months have all led to a decline in the mobilisation of large segments of the population, especially amongst minorities and those living in the big cities, and in the activists' peaceful civil movement. The political discourse has become sectarian; there has been a Salafisation of religiously conservative sectors."
Although Manna is wrong to argue for an exclusively non-violent revolution for reasons already stated, it's hard to write-off his assessment of the negative impact that support from counterrevolutionary actors has had on the popular movement. Daily reports from a wide spectrum of sources seem to reinforce his analysis.
Three main things really need to happen to get the Syrian revolution back on track.
1. The movement must oppose sections of the uprising who take aid from imperial and sub-imperial actors, whilst agitating against intervention
2. All effort must be made to rebuild mass mobilisations and argue for unity instead of sectarianism
3. The movement must strive to organise a central revolutionary institution which can provide leadership to the mass of ordinary Syrians in struggle and challenge attempts by unrepresentative groups like the SNC to gain control of the uprising
In so doing the conflict could move from a deadlocked war of attrition to a situation where a united Syrian movement could force splits in the military, procure the arms needed to defend itself and take its place at the forefront of the Arab Revolutions. It's hard to see why serious revolutionaries would reject such a strategy.
However, one can make endless prescriptions for the Syrian movement, but it's impossible to influence the revolution from the outside. It's up to the Syrians to build a movement which can topple Assad and play a leading role on 'the day after' his downfall.
For our part, revolutionaries in the imperial countries can do something that no Syrian -indeed no Arab revolutionary- can achieve: concentrate our fire on opposing any further attempts by the imperial powers (our governments) to intervene in Syria like they did in Libya and Yemen.
Dan is a writer, broadcaster and campaigner. His most recent documentary was The New Scramble For Africa and his documentaries have appeared regularly on the Islam Channel. He is an organiser for Counterfire and a regular contributor to Counterfire site.
Striking McDonald's Workers rally outside Parliament. Photo: John Rees
Striking while the iron is hot is the only way to win back some of what's been taken from working people – weekly briefing
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Photo: Wikimedia Commons
'The resistance is coming from all sections of society': Hindu nationalism and its opponents
Shabbir Lakha
Nicolas Maduro. Photo: Kremlin
Defence and offence: the struggle in Venezuela reaches critical
Orlando Hill
Former president Luiz Inácio "Lula" da Silva. Photo: Wikimedia Commons
Brazil: protestors reject biased judicial system
Emmanuel Macron. Photo: Wikimedia Commons
The election of the French parliament: a huge shake-up, but polarisation continues
John Mullen


text:
Q: Ibatis2 and test context I'm having a stupid configuration issue with Ibatis in my Spring project. Please don't jump on me about how all this was setup, I'm just following the "in house project structure policy".
So here is the structure, we have the "src/main/resources/META-INF/" folder that contains all of our config files used by the application, and then there is a "src/test/resources/META-INF/" that contains only the config files that have different settings to run unit testing.
Well in our case that's only one file, the src/main/resources/META-INF/spring/application-config.xml became the src/test/resources/META-INF/spring/test-application-config.xml. I'm am not going to outline the small differences between the two, because that part works fine.
The test-application-config.xml imports the src/main/resources/META-INF/spring/data-access-config.xml file just fine, which in turns use the src/main/resources/META-INF/ibatis/sqlmap-config.xml successfully... After that is when it goes to Hell.
See up until now we're using Spring to find the next config files in the classpath, but when we hit sqlmap-config.xml we leave the spring framework for the ibatis framework I believe, which loads the resource files defined inside it relative to the classpath (that's taken from the doc, whatever that means).
Inside the sqlmap-config.xml are defined a few resource files we're using that live inside the src/main/resources/META-INF/ibatis/mapping folder.
They are referenced like this:
<sqlMapConfig><sqlMap resource="/META-INF/ibatis/mapping/MyObject.xml"/></sqlMapConfig>

That works fine when I run the app normally, but when I run my JUnit test cases I get an IO exception stating that it can't find the file /META-INF/ibatis/mapping/MyObject.xml.
I've tried to change the path in the sqlmap-config.xml to "mapping/MyObject.xml" but that didn't help. I've also tried to use the Spring classpath prefix "classpath:META-INF/ibatis/mapping/MyObject.xml", didn't work either.
Anyone would have any idea on how to set that Ibatis properly so it works for both the app and the junit?
Thanks.

A: To solve this problem, I removed all the the Ibatis files and folders from the src/test/resources/META-INF folder.
The sqlmap-config.xml in src/main/resources/META-INF/ibatis/mapping file now maps like this:
<sqlMapConfig><sqlMap resource="META-INF/ibatis/mapping/MyObject.xml"/></sqlMapConfig>

Please note that compared to my initial post the leading "/" is gone... I think that's what made the difference here.
Hopes this helps anyone running into similar issues.

A: Just to see whether what you are saying is actually the problem.. you might want to place your mappings (MyObject.xml) in the same folder as sqlmap-config.xml.  I say this because I've had my fair share of spring + ibatis + unit testing problems. (see resolved question asked by me)
Also, you might be getting IO exception because the mappings file does not exist outside the container (when you run tests).
You should also post definition for bean created from SqlMapClientFactoryBean.  This should have configLocation property that contains path to sqlMapConfig xml

A: I had the same problem and could not find a (quick) solution that explained what exactly could be going wrong. Hence my answer.
As Spring documentation for Ibatis says:

Remember that iBATIS loads resources from the class path, so be sure
  to add the 'Account.xml' file to the class path.

In your case by adding META-INF to your webproject build path i.e. if you used Eclipse, set <classpathentry kind="src" path="META-INF"/> in your projects' .classpath (This will be visible under Navigator view  in Eclipse)

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


text:
Pace's rapid growth recognised by UK Agency Awards
Pace, based in the Fruit Market, Hull, has been shortlisted in two categories in the prestigious UK Agency Awards.
The company is a finalist in the Most Impressive Small Agency Growth category and its senior digital executive, Tom Holgate, is in the running for the title of Rising Agency Star.
The awards – which celebrate exceptional agencies, campaigns and talent – are open to creative, design, digital, marketing, advertising, media and public relations agencies across the country.
The winners will be chosen by a panel that features leading in-house professionals from some of the UK's biggest and best brands.
Pace is a strategic insight-led creative communications agency, which was launched by MD Anita Pace as a team of three in 2015. It now employs a multidisciplinary team of 20 with skills across insight and analytics, brand and creative, marketing and comms and digital. It works for clients locally, nationally and internationally across a broad range of sectors, from construction to culture and energy to environment.
Recent client wins include international plastic roads company MacRebur, global healthcare and home giant RB, two-day music festival Humber Street Sesh and hospice charity Dove House.
Tom (left) was shortlisted for the Rising Agency Star award after impressing judges with his fast development since joining Pace in 2017. Rising to the demands of the first role of his career, Tom has quickly developed his skills across website development, SEO and PPC. He leads on all client PPC accounts and digital account pitches and helps drive the business forward and ensure the company is meeting its purpose to make a positive difference.
Pace MD Anita Pace said: "In just four years, Pace has created 20 new jobs as our reputation for excellence continues to grow.
"It's this commitment to quality that has seen us continue to win new clients, as well as develop trusted and embedded relationships with existing ones – some of which have been with us since the start.
"I'm really proud that our hard work has been recognised in this way both for us as an agency and for Tom as a young individual at the start of his career who has a bright future ahead of him."
The UK Agency Awards final takes place at the Montcalm Marble Arch Hotel in London on Thursday, September 19.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


Hazel Plush takes a look at the magnificent palaces where guests are welcome.
The magnificent Gstaad Palace is nestled in Switzerland's Bernese Alps, its flag-topped turrets flanked by snow-capped mountains. The building itself is over a century old, an imposing grand dame when viewed from the outside – but its chic interior keeps it cosy.
This hilltop palace overlooks the 1,200-year-old medina (marketplace) in the city of Fez. It was designed in the 19th century by Jean Baptist Barian, King Hassan II's very own architect and interior designer, complete with suites and a lavish hammam.
With its antique decor, regal suites and pretty shaded courtyards (a cool spot for a traditional mint tea), this regal property offers an authentic glimpse of old Morocco.
When five-star hotel chain Four Seasons acquired Budapest's Gresham Palace in 1998, it set about restoring this derelict Art Nouveau residence back to its former splendour. Hungary's finest silversmiths, artists, ceramists and mosaicists were recruited for the $110-million project.
Their skill is evident in every corner of this spectacular hotel – in the two million-piece mosaic floor, the sweeping staircase, and soaring stained glass ceilings.
OK, so you won't be staying in the actual palace itself, but The Georgian House – an imposing 18th-century residence which sleeps eight – is in the grounds of Hampton Court Palace. It was originally built to accommodate the kitchens of the Prince of Wales, but has held various uses in the royal household over the years.
The best part of staying here? You're free to roam the gardens, courtyards and public rooms of the palace during opening hours as often as you like.
In the 1920s, General Amar Singh – a local ruler – built a lavish palace in Jaipur for his family. His sprawling mansion was bedecked with fine art and furniture, with elaborate murals in typically bold Rajasthani colours.
Much effort has been taken to restore the palace's original character, and (with the exception of a few mod cons) staying here is like taking a trip back to the days of the Raj.
When Sir John Hay Williams designed a home for himself and his wife in the 1800s, he was inspired by the Loire Valley chateaux they'd seen on their travels. True to his word, he created a little slice of France right in the heart of Wales, though it did take him over a decade to finish it.
This mini castle, set in lovely landscaped gardens with views of Snowdonia, is now a private hotel with suitably grand rooms and wedding reception venue. The whole place is full of interesting touches – some of the turrets, for example, have been converted into showers for some of the suites.
This 19th-century Algarve palace is pretty in pink, after a renovation restored it to its original rose-tinted glory.
Now a five-star hotel – complete with gold furniture, luxury spa and elegant landscaped gardens – the regal property is famous for its elaborate Rococo ceilings, which are a work of art in themselves.
Just a few miles from Edinburgh you'll find the former home of Mary Queen of Scots – now transformed into an elaborate private hire venue. With room to sleep up to 85 people, it's perfect for weddings and big parties.
Be sure to bag Mary's bedchamber as your own: it boasts a hand-carved four-poster bed and has views of the hill from which Sir Oliver Cromwell launched his attack on the castle. Make your home in this unique piece of history – for one night, at least.
This Lisbon palace dates back to the 1800s, when it was built by the characterful Count of Valenças. While he dressed, he would look out over the high-end neighbourhood from the tower. And his parties – attended by Lisbon's aristocracy – were legendary.
This sprawling estate in west Ireland was once the home of the Guinness family, and has a history that can be traced back to the 1200s.
Dine in 'The Dungeon' for a medieval banquet-style experience, or quaff your favourite vintages in the cavernous wine tasting tunnels. More modern accoutrements include a 30-seat private cinema and a state-of-the-art spa, with a zip line and tree climbing trail for adventurous kids.
Overlooking the Grand Canal and a mere five-minute walk from St Mark's, the Gritti is a really special spot in venice. It was built by the Doge of Venice, Andrea Gritti, in 1475, and was later used as the residence of the Vatican ambassadors to Venice.
It's a delightful place to stay, and is positively dripping with expensive artwork and furniture. It's hard to miss the eye-popping Murano glass chandeliers, and the precious Rubelli fabrics that decorate the rooms and suites.
The ludicrously opulent Schönbrunn Palace is Vienna's most popular tourist attraction, a feast of gorgeous imperial decor, gilded furniture and magnificent marble statues at every turn. But few people realise that you can actually stay at the palace, in your very own stately suite.
This former Ottoman palace was built on the shores of the Bosphorus – a strategic spot in case of invasion, which just so happened to have incredible views too. It's on the European side of the river, so you can look out over luxury yachts and the Asian side of the city while sipping your Turkish coffee.
Pick of the rooms is the Sultan Suite, which has its very own hammam and bathtub with a view – the perfect place to have a soak while you watch the yacht in which you arrived bobbing up and down in the Bosphorus.


Description: It is an bundle of Adobe Product.
Adobe Mini Set comprises most our award-winning photography and video editing software.
"Adobe Mini Set Mac Torrent" is a Pack of All Adobe Tools, and Adobe Systems Incorporated developed this app, and the price of the applications is just $139.92/mo. if you bought them one by one. The Adobe Mini Set which comprises most our award-winning photography and video editing software: Audition CC, Dreamweaver CC, Illustrator CC, InDesign CC, Photoshop CC, Photoshop Lightroom Classic CC, Premiere Pro CC, and XD CC. Every one of the services and products enriches an expert workflow by improving image quality, saving time, also providing creative freedom. In conjunction, the goods are far better. You can download Adobe Mini Set from Official Store. If you don't want to purchase the program, then you can enjoy a trial from their website. You can use Adobe Mini Set Full Version from given download link below. In case you can't pay money for this tool, and you want to use the full version of this app.
Adobe Audition CC 2018 v11.0.2.2 [Multi]: $19.99/mo.
Audition CC is a comprehensive toolset that includes multitrack, waveform, and spectral display for creating, mixing, editing, and restoring audio content.
Adobe Dreamweaver CC 2018 v18.1 [Multi/Ru]: $19.99/mo.
Adobe Illustrator CC 2018.1 v22.1 [Multi/Ru]: $19.99/mo.
Illustrator CC lets you create logos, icons, drawings, typography, and illustrations for print, web, video, and mobile.
Adobe InDesign CC 2018.1 v13.1 [Multi/Ru]: $19.99/mo.
InDesign CC has everything you need to make posters, books, digital magazines, eBooks, interactive PDFs, and more.
Adobe Photoshop CC 2018 v19.1.2 [Multi/Ru]: $19.99/mo.
If you can think it, you can make it with Photoshop CC, the world's best imaging and design app.
Adobe Photoshop Lightroom Classic CC 2018 v7.2.0 [Multi]: $9.99/mo.
Lightroom Classic CC gives you powerful one-click tools and advanced controls to make your photos look amazing.
Adobe Premiere Pro CC 2018 v12.0.1 [Multi/Ru]: $19.99/mo.
Adobe XD CC v4.0.12 [Multi]: $9.99/mo.
Adobe XD, the all-in-one UX/UI solution for designing websites, mobile apps, and more.


text:
Home » Career Center » Interviews » Interview Questions » Tell Me About a Time When You Had to Make a Decision- But Didn't Have All the Information Needed.
Tell Me About a Time When You Had to Make a Decision- But Didn't Have All the Information Needed.
By MyPerfectResume Staff Writer
To get a handle on who you are in your professional life- interviewers want to know how you react to certain situations. It's one thing to undergo training to prepare you for various workplace scenarios- but another thing entirely to have proven knowledge of how you handle tricky incidents. For this reason interviewers often utilize behavior-related questions such as 'Tell me about a time when you had to make a decision- but didn't have all the information needed.'
Traditional interview questions usually offer the opportunity to elaborate on your work history and education. Behavioral interview questions- however- strive to tease out answers about how you react to job-related speed bumps. Employers will assess how you handled prior events as an indicator of how you will find solutions to similar problems in the future.
For example- if an interviewer asks- 'Tell me about a time when you had to make a decision- but didn't have all the information needed-' you should muster up a response that reflects how you handle difficult situations when put to the test. Decision making is a stand-by topic for behavioral questions- revealing how you analyze a situation with the tools you are given- and whether you are able to act quickly and keep a project rolling. This is your time to show your potential new boss how you approach problem solving and learn from complications. By practicing answers to such questions- you can show up to your next interview prepared to leave a stellar impression.
How to Answer the 'Tell Me About a Time When You Had to Make a Decision- But Didn't Have All the Information Needed' Behavioral Interview Question
Bring Up Any Relevant Professional Situation. Prior to your interview- make a list of times when you've had to call the shots in the workplace. For behavioral interview questions like this one- you can dig back into your work history and draw from almost any prior position. Since the goal here is to focus on your interpersonal skills with other employees or customers- your place of employment is far less relevant than how you handled the situation.
Use the STAR Method. A very helpful and highly advised method for preparing an answer is the STAR method. The key points in this method are as follows:
ST– Situation or Task
A– Action
R – Results
To implement the STAR method, you must first identify the problem, which in this case is a lack of information. Then move on to describing the action you took to solve the problem, and the positive results that were achieved.
Identify the Problem at Hand. You may have encountered myriad times in which you were called upon to take a leadership role and make some executive decisions on the fly. However, don't be distracted by part of a question, or tailor the question itself to fit an answer you've already prepared. In this example, the interviewers are not only eager to learn about your decision-making experiences, but they specifically want to know how you make decisions when you are missing key pieces of information. Be sure you address the entire question and don't merely offer half a response.
Never Focus on the Negative. You may have the perfect example, and it just might paint a very favorable portrait of your advanced problem solving skills. However, be sure to avoid a negative depiction of the other players in the scenario. Recounting how somebody else messed up by failing to provide needed information does not show your leadership skills. Instead, focus on the action you took to rectify the situation and how you helped the team as a whole reach a productive conclusion.
Accept Accountability. Playing the blame game is a big interview faux pas, and also one of the easiest to make. When answering this question, recount how resourceful you were in digging up the necessary information, and don't be worried about admitting you started out misinformed, as long as you can display that you learned from the experience. Showing how proactive you are will go a long way.
Sample 'Tell Me About a Time When You Had to Make a Decision, But Didn't Have All the Information Needed' STAR Interview Answer
I had a hard deadline of noon on a Monday, by which I had to submit a grant application on behalf of my boss, who was out of town. We had worked all weekend making sure every piece of the application was in place, but somehow we had both overlooked a key component. My boss was flying and would thus be unable to communicate until after the application was due. The information required was something that could best be provided by my boss; however, by comparing previous applications and verifying the details with the department's business office, I was able to put together the relevant information and made the decision to submit the application before the deadline. It was accepted, and we won the grant.
Behavioral interview questions can work in your favor to highlight your most impressive professional skills. By outlining and practicing these types of questions ahead of time, you will have the tools to ace your interview.
Behavioral/Situational
What Is the STAR Method of Behavioral Interviewing?
How to Prep for a Behavioral Interview
How to Use the STAR Method to Ace a Behavioral Interview
Behavioral Interview Etiquette Best Practices
See all Behavioral/Situational articles
MyPerfectResume Staff Writer
At MyPerfectResume, we are passionate about two things: sharing our knowledge about the workforce and providing exceptional tools to help jobseekers get ahead. Thanks to our well-rounded assemblage of experts, we offer industry-specific resume and cover letter writing tips and career advice for almost every job. MyPerfectResume culls detailed advice…
More Articles by MyPerfectResume Staff Writer


I took my very favorite pancakes and re-invented it into this delicious healthy almond coconut pancakes recipe. The results are scrumptious!
These are a great way to sneak nutritious ingredients into breakfast for picky kiddos. I now make the dry portion in bulk for my own super fast homemade baking mix for mornings when we are in a rush.
Cook until bubbles appear on the surface. Flip with a spatula, and cook until browned on the other side.
Serve with organic maple syrup or with plain yogurt and fresh berries. Or both if it suits your fancy. Sprinkle toasted coconut on the top. Yum!
I learned the trick of adding dry oats to the bottom of pancakes from my great aunt when I was a kid. It never fails to make your pancakes EXTRA fluffy!
This entry was posted in Coconut Oil, Healthy Eating / Organic Recipes and tagged almond coconut pancakes, coconut oil, healthy recipes by gree8956. Bookmark the permalink.


The way Tony Navarrete saw it, he could step up and represent his community or let someone else do it for him.
Tony was encouraged to run for Arizona State House by his friends, family, and neighbors. He had grown up in the district and saw the open seat as an opportunity to fully represent the families that he grew up with.
His campaign was community-led, grassroots effort that aimed to touch every corner of his district and increase voter turnout. Taking a note from the New American Leaders training, Tony made his immigrant story key to his campaign narrative to help him connect with multicultural voters across his district, which is the most diverse in the state.
Since his election, Tony has worked to champion marginalised communities. He was one of four legislators to found the Arizona Legislature's first LGBTQ caucus. He has also sponsored legislation focused on criminal justice reforms and economic justice.


SU senior Justin McCarthur put forth an excellent display of shooting from beyond the arc in Saturday's win over West Liberty University, knocking down seven of his 10 shots from 3-point range in a 98-66 win. The win was SU's second NCAA Tournament win in school history.
The Shippensburg University men's basketball team left the court last Saturday with a lump in their throats. Clearly disappointed after coming just up short in the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) Semifinals, the Raiders were hoping for a chance to continue playing.
SU (24-7) took full advantage of the opportunity when it came on Saturday night, demolishing Atlantic Region powerhouse West Liberty University, 98-66, in the Atlantic Region Quarterfinals of the 2018 NCAA Tournament at host Virginia State University's Multi-Purpose Center.
The Raiders used a torrid start and a tremendous defensive effort to hold the nation's leading scoring team — West Liberty (26-4) entered the contest averaging 106.6 points per game — 40 points below its average Saturday. The Raiders also shot the lights out, shooting 58 percent on the night, including 48 percent from 3-point range.
SU received a historic night from senior captains Justin McCarthur and Dustin Sleva, as McCarthur recovered from a tough 1-for-10 shooting night in the PSAC Semifinals by knocking down seven of his 10 shots from 3-point range Saturday. McCarthur finished with a game-high 33 points, while Sleva scored 20 points, grabbed 12 rebounds and dished out six assists.
The Raiders used an 11-2 run in the first six minutes before holding a 21-12 lead at the midway point of the first half. SU then put together a 17-5 run to extend the lead to 38-20 with 5:30 left in the frame. SU held a 45-33 halftime advantage.
After finishing the first half on fire, the Raiders picked up where they left off, using a quick 9-0 scoring run to begin the second half to extend the lead back to 20 points. SU led by 16 points or more the rest of the night.
Coming into the game, West Liberty was ranked No. 12 in the country, in large part because of a scorching-hot offense that put up 100 or more points in 20 of its 29 games. The Hilltoppers were ranked No. 12 in all of Division II basketball and had accumulated more wins (272) in this decade than any other men's basketball program across all three divisions entering Saturday's contest.
West Liberty's leading scorer, graduate guard Dan Monteroso, was held to just 17 points and six assists. The Hilltoppers' sharpshooter, Dalton Bolon, finished the night with just two points, despite averaging three or more 3-pointers per contest.
The Raiders contained a typical sharpshooting team by smothering them on the perimeter and crashing the boards, using a mismatch in height to their advantage. SU posted a 36-17 advantage on rebounds in the game and scored 98 points on a season-high 23 assists.
With the rebounding edge clearly being a point of emphasis for SU, Sleva was able to have an excellent night snagging rebounds, as his 12 rebounds broke the SU all-time record for career rebounds, placing Sleva in sole possession of first place in SU history for points scored and total rebounds. Sleva now has 2,037 points and 1,119 rebounds to go along with 326 assists.
With McCarthur's 33 points, he moved into the Top 5 on SU's all-time scoring list, passing Ken Miller (1,606 points from 1962-66). While shooting 70 percent from 3-point range, McCarthur also shot 10-of-11 from the free-throw line, including a four-point play in the second half. McCarthur now has 1,609 points for his career.
SU also received strong contributions from the rest of its starters, as Antonio Kellem scored 13 points, including three 3-pointers, while Clay Conner and John Castello each had eight points. The SU bench combined for 16 points in the win, with Manny Span, Jake Biss, Lamar Talley Na'Quan Council and Daylon Carter rounding out the scoring.
With the Raiders' first 3-pointer of the night, the team broke the school season-record of 317 3-pointers that it set last season. The Raiders shot 13-of-27 from 3-point range on the night.
Dustin Sleva scored 20 points for the Raiders while grabbing 12 rebounds in the win. Sleva finished four assists shy of a triple-double and became SU's all-time leading rebounder for his efforts.
SU also won a game in the NCAA Tournament in back-to-back seasons for the first time in school history, as the Raiders improved to 2-4 in the NCAA Tournament all-time.
The Raiders will now turn their attention to the host, Virginia State University, who advanced to the second round of the tournament by upending CIAA rival Virginia Union University 81-76 during the 5 p.m. game Saturday. Virginia State demonstrated a strong ability for making the extra pass and an uncanny ability to shoot from outside, finishing the night with 24 assists and a 10-of-22 shooting mark from deep.
Virginia State (26-4) will host SU in the second game, following a matchup between West Chester University and East Stroudsburg University. With the Raiders advancing to the second round, three of the four remaining teams are from the PSAC East Division. East Stroudsburg University won the conference title over Gannon University last Sunday.
SU and Virginia State will tipoff at 7:30 p.m. Sunday night at the Virginia State University Multi-Purpose Center.
This story has been updated to reflect that the Raiders shot 13-of-27 from 3-point range on the night and not 10-of-22 like previously published.


text:
VH-3 History
A BIT OF HISTORY: VH-3 Squadron "...Lieutenants Darcy and Sam Davis outside VH-3 Summer 1945. My father, Edgar "Bud" Stanford was a pilot with VH-3 from May 1945 through September 1945..." Contributed by Martin Stanford mtstanford@adelphia.net [23SEP2005]
A BIT OF HISTORY: VH-3 Squadron "...Enlisted of VH-3, NAS Tanapag Harbor, Saipan, Marianas Islands, June 1945. My father, Edgar "Bud" Stanford was a pilot with VH-3 from May 1945 through September 1945..." Contributed by Martin Stanford mtstanford@adelphia.net [23SEP2005]
A BIT OF HISTORY: VH-3 Squadron "...Officers of VH-3, NAS Tanapag Harbor, Saipan, Marianas Islands, September 1945. My father, Edgar "Bud" Stanford was a pilot with VH-3 from May 1945 through September 1945. He is back row, #8 from the left..." Contributed by Martin Stanford mtstanford@adelphia.net [21AUG2005]
A BIT OF HISTORY: VH-3 Squadron "...VH-3 Squadron Headquarters, Saipan, August 1945. My father, Edgar "Bud" Stanford was a pilot with VH-3 from May 1945 through September 1945..." Contributed by Martin Stanford mtstanford@adelphia.net [21AUG2005]
A BIT OF HISTORY: "...VPB-208 CruiseBook Circa 1945. Page 42 and 43 - USS Hamlin (AV-15) 'Believe following a day's record in Tender maintenance X at 0645. Hoisted out C-11 (VPB-208 and took aboard F-5 (VH-3) a strike plane and removed both engines X at 1300 hoisted out F-5 and brought aboard F-4 ((VH-3) for engine change X latter completed just too late to hoist out before nightfall..." Contributed by DAUM, F. David (Deceased) and forwarded by Drake A. Daum Drake.Daum@wpafb.af.mil [03MAR2005]
A BIT OF HISTORY: "...VPB-208 CruiseBook Circa 1945. Page 45 - From the Task Force Commander to VPB-208 and VH-3, June 14, 1945..." Contributed by DAUM, F. David (Deceased) and forwarded by Drake A. Daum Drake.Daum@wpafb.af.mil [03MAR2005]
A BIT OF HISTORY: VH-3 Squadron "...Japan - Circa 1945 - photo's taken by my father Gordon C. PETERSEN (Deceased)..." Contributed by PETERSEN, Gordon C. (Deceased) c/o His Son Gordon B. Petersen mpandgp@msn.com [14AUG2002]
A BIT OF HISTORY: VH-3 Japan "...Japan - Circa 1945 - photo's taken by my father Gordon C. PETERSEN (Deceased)..." Contributed by PETERSEN, Gordon C. (Deceased) c/o His Son Gordon B. Petersen mpandgp@msn.com [14AUG2002]
A BIT OF HISTORY: "...My dad served on the USS Bering Strait (AVP-34) from commissioning thru the end of the War. I recently met an old gentleman who served with VP-21, I believe, and we were sharing stories and pictures. He drug out his log book and we discovered that his aircraft as well as the USS Bering Strait (AVP-34) were at Kerama Retto on March 28, 1945. I have attached a picture of the USS Bering Strait (AVP-34) and part of her flock of PBMs from VH-3 at Keramo Retto, circa March 28-April 1, 1945..." Contributed by Wayne Tudor a.w.tudor@worldnet.att.net [E-Mail Updated 05JUL2001 | 31DEC98]
A BIT OF HISTORY: "...Rescue Squadron - THREE [VH-3} departed Tanapag, Saipan late on the evening of 28 March 1945 enroute to Kerama Retto, Okinawa along with VPB-21, VPB-18, & VPB-27 or VPB-28. Ours was the first seaplane (PBM-3R) to land the following morning 3 days prior to the invasion of Okinawa. The Retto had just been secured the day before and bands of enemy troops still eluded the 77 Inf. Div. until early june. VPB-21 was based aboard the USS Chandeleur & VH-3 aboard the USS Bering Strait. On 11 May I was on plane watch when we received word that a crew from -21 had been shot down that afternoon. We were standby SAR and were airborne at 0500 on 12 May. The weather was terrible with low hanging black clouds and a worsening sea. We sure did not want to have to land in these conditions but knew what was expected of us. We arrived about 80 miles ESE of Kyushu around 0800 and began a square search. On the 10th & most northerly leg we sighted smoke 8 miles north. We landined in 15-18 foot swells, broke of the pilot's seat, the main spar behind the engines gave way, port inboard flat gave way, tail section crumpled, and the hull buckled. All 13 survivors were brought aboard & although we were badly damaged we were able to take off with 4 JATO units & return to base. Lt Simms was their pilot and John DiGulio had been the radioman that vectored in carrier planes on 7 May against the Yammato suicide Task Force. Our PPC was Lt. Wallace D. Eddy formerly of VP-102 during the defense of the Philippines. He was an NAP with VP-102..." Contributed by Lee Way ex-VH-3 LEEWAY104@aol.com [24FEB2000]
A BIT OF HISTORY: Contributed by John Lucas john.lucas@netzero.net [16MAR2002]
A BIT OF HISTORY: "...Just a few comments on the 6 VH Rescue Squadrons. Each unit when formed consisted of 6 PBM-3Rs & 6 R4D-5s land-planes. The dual mission would be: PBMs as SAR & R4Ds as Medical Evacuation. However instead of R4D-5s, VH-1 were utilizing PB2Y-3s. The 4 engined flying boats. This dual mission looked good on paper. But, having 2 separate commands at different bases proved unfeasable. Around 15 December 1944 the land plane & PB2Ys from VH-1 and VH-2 were formed into VE-1. Likewise VH-3 and VH-4 formed VE-2 & VH-5 and VH-6 formed into VE-3. These 3 Evacuation squadrons operated from newly won airstrips and seadromes under intense enemy fire oftentimes to remove the wounded to the rear area where they could be operated on. An amazing feat of VE-1s PB2Ys was accomp- lished when they flew many severly wounded men from the forward area Islands back to San Francisco. Only making stops for fuel & provisions and landed at NAS Alameda, California 48 hours later. Words fail describe the role these unsung heroes played in getting these men out of harms way. For decades the exploits of the VH rescue squadrons & the VE Evacuation squadrons have been one of the best kept secrets of WW2. Every pilot and aircrewman can stand tall who has set down on a tempestuous sea or braved enemy fire in order to rescue airmen or sailors and footsloggers who would have possibly died from lack of attention..." Contributed by Lee Way ex-VH-3 LEEWAY104@aol.com [17FEB2000]
A BIT OF HISTORY: "...VH Rescue Squadron (existed) from 1944-1946..." http://www.history.navy.mil/branches/squades.htm [10JUL98]
A BIT OF HISTORY: "15APR44--Air-Sea Rescue Squadrons (VH) were formed in the Pacific Fleet to provide rescue and emergency services as necessary in the forward areas. Prior to this time the rescue function was performed as an additional duty by regularly operating patrol squadrons." http://www.history.navy.mil/branches/avchr5.htm [10JUL98]
Circa Unknown
Can you identify the Month and or Year?
A BIT OF HISTORY: "...These photos were taken from the personal collection of Raymond Lutz. Raymond was a crew member aboard VH-3. This shows a VH-3 search and rescue base on NAS Tanapag Harbor, Saipan, Marianas Islands. Shown is "The Creeper", the only type of bus moving on Saipan, thus named because it never stopped, if you wanted a ride you had to run along and get on while it was moving or you were out of luck..." Contributed by John Lucas JohnLucas@netzero.com [16APR2005]
A BIT OF HISTORY: "...These photos were taken from the personal collection of Raymond Lutz. Raymond was a crew member aboard VH-3. This shows a VH-3 search and rescue base on NAS Tanapag Harbor, Saipan, Marianas Islands. In the foreground A "Colored" Engineer outfit working on the runways. (This was in the recent dark ages when the black americans, or african americans were segregated into their own outfits and called "Colored")..." Contributed by John Lucas JohnLucas@netzero.com [16APR2005]
A BIT OF HISTORY: "...These photos were taken from the personal collection of Raymond Lutz. Raymond was a crew member aboard VH-3 out of NAS Tanapag Harbor, Saipan, Marianas Islands..." Contributed by John Lucas JohnLucas@netzero.com [20MAR2005]
A BIT OF HISTORY: "...Air-to-Air Shoot Downs by Navy and Marine Corps Patrol Type Aircraft During World War II - This Squadron Mentioned...Naval Historical Center ADOBE Download File: http://www.history.navy.mil/avh-vol2/Appen4.pdf [12FEB2004]
Air-To-Air Shootdowns 118KB
A BIT OF HISTORY: "...Patrol Aviation in the Pacific in WW II - Part 2 - By Capt. Albert L. Raithel, Jr., USN (Ret.)...This Squadron Mentioned...Naval Historical Center ADOBE Download File: http://www.history.navy.mil/download/ww2-20.pdf [25MAY2003]
Patrol Aviation in the Pacific in WW II - Part 2 2049KB
A BIT OF HISTORY: "...Other USN squadrons that operated R4D=92s included Air Transport Evacuation Squadrons One, Two and Three (VRE-1, -2 and -3); Rescue Squadrons Two, Three, Five and Fourteen (VH-2, VH-3, VH-5 and -14); Utility Squadrons Four and Seven (VJ-4 and -7); Utility Transport Squadron Two (VRJ-2); Air Ferry Transport Squadrons One to Four (VRF-1 to -4); and Air Ferry Service Squadron One (VRF-1)..." http://www.microworks.net/pacific/aviation/r4d_gooneybird.htm [18MAY2000]
Waiting for permission to post entire article.
A BIT OF HISTORY: "...The rest of the war we flew with VH3 , picking up survivors, and giving support to Planes Bombing Japan, right on up til both ATOMIC BOMBS. We moved up as Islands were taken, living in the PBM 5 most of the time. Sea Pane tenders, the Berring Straits, The Gardeners Bay, and at Okinawa - The Pine Island, supplied us. Day and Night we were under attack by Kamikazis. Thank the Lord the pickett planes and ship's guns knocked them down...We had to leave the planes and go to sea during the Typhoon, then to Saipan and then to NAS Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii where they "surveyed" our planes. I asked out and was sent to San Diego on the Destroyer Escort, The USS Slidel. Then to the New Orleans Separations Center. My highest rate was ACCMF...There were a number of PBM's that were lost or BLEW UP ON TAKE OFF when JATO ROCKETS ignited the loads of 100 Octane Fuel..." Contributed by William E. "Bill" Lavinghousez MPTM38B@Prodigy.com [10JUL98]
"VH-3 Summary Page"


Model Year: 2014 Mileage: 689 Miles Transmission: Automatic Engine Size (in ccm): 5,204 Fuel: Petrol Interested?
Find out where we are About Us At Carworld we have over 25 years experience within the motor industry and the past several years we have been at our Massive 6 acre site at Ivatt Way, Westwood, Peterborough.
With up to 500 cars on site, covering most manufacturers" and their models alike, we actually operate "the lower car price possible policy"
Bank Holidays 10.30am - 05.00pm Interested?
Want to buy this Lamborghini Gallardo car?


Do More That Matters® wowed audiences in Las Vegas, Chicago, Boston, Baltimore and beyond.
Having shared hundreds of presentations, keynotes and workshops at local, regional and national conferences, Ron and Greg bring new energy to every event. Using their personal brand of storytelling, the authors relate, captivate, and illustrate with clarity the undiscovered potential to Do More That Matters®.
Even in a room of 1,000, theirs is visibly not a one-sided conversation!
You can expect to see people nodding in agreement as Ron and Greg draw the audience into participation and build a foundation for new thinking and motivation for action that propels positive change.
As a keynote speaker, panel member, or workshop leader, meeting your needs is our number one objective.
Send us a quick note here, and we'll get back to you ASAP.
Both Ron and Greg — together or individually — deliver custom-crafted messages that resonate from the boardroom to the home – and can align with your objectives. They tune their message topics so that each presentation is personalized and culturally relevant for their audience. In the presentations listed here, they shine a spotlight on the many elements that influence the philanthropic and wealth management experience with humor, energy and real-world anecdotes.
A truly inspirational presentation designed to help people "live more and give more." Many people have excess wealth, but live and plan as if they don't. Imagine being able to give life to the impact you'd like to make – both during your lifetime and through the legacy you'll leave behind – for the people, causes, and organizations you personally care about. If you knew you could, and that doing so wouldn't disrupt your lifetime financial objectives or your plans for children and loved ones, wouldn't you?
Most people agree "True Wealth" is more than money. When you think differently and plan wisely you can identify your true wealth and do what matters most to you personally. True Wealth gives you a fresh perspective and a roadmap so you can take action towards a life that positively impacts your life, your loved ones and your community.
Do you ever feel as if many of your daily conversations seem irrelevant? Be more proactive by living in a way that leads to making the world a better place. This program ignites fruitful conversations among accomplished people who want to think more reflectively, talk in a more engaged way, and ultimately do more about the significant things that matter to us personally. Discover that you have more capacity, more motivation, and more energy to make a difference.
Today, charitable organizations are challenged to do more with less. Imagine the impact of redirecting inheritance dollars – that otherwise would be allocated for government taxes – to successful organizations that are making a real difference. For non-profit leadership teams trying to figure out how to inspire and motivate people to give more substantially or just where-to-go-from-here, Ron and Greg get the conversation going. They demonstrate how to connect with average affluent donors -- blending discovery with instruction to help your leadership team get on the same page.
This presentation for business owners introduces new possibilities and perspectives – demonstrating how a philanthropic mindset can be a unifying and motivational tool to drive business growth, improve workplace dynamics, and make a positive difference in society.
Are You a Doctor or a Pharmacist?
Financial professionals in all areas -- accountancy, law, investments, insurance, or other niche areas -- who value trusted client relationships, desire to guide clients as holistically, comprehensively, and strategically as possible. Due to the need to maximize efficiency and minimize expenses, we are often not well-positioned to serve clients in this more complete manner. In our broader community of professionals, we are not skilled at effectively communicating with each other to coordinate our various roles. Unfortunately, this forces our clients to assume the role of a "doctor," directing their professionals, managing administrative details, and writing their own "prescriptions." This thought-provoking presentation, invites you to consider whether you are serving clients as a doctor or a pharmacist – and the advantages of functioning in the optimal role.
What do you consider the "wealth of your life?" Most people readily agree it's about more than money. But, unless you begin to think differently and plan better, you're at risk of missing your God-given opportunity to do the "more that matters" to you strategically, personally, and with impact. What if you had "excess" wealth? Wouldn't you want to know that? In fact, more people do have excess wealth, but they're currently living and planning as if they don't. And getting to a point of believing that you have more than you need for yourself and your family might empower you to think meaningfully about your legacy -- or inspire you to give more to the people, causes, and organizations you personally care about. This presentation opens your heart and mind, enabling you to think differently.
This faith-based presentation describes God's call for us to live lives of impact that leave a lasting legacy. Based on Psalm 90:12, it focuses on prioritizing our lives and thinking about what's truly important. There is so much need in the world, and we only have a number of days. Wealth accumulation is held up as the ideal: risk management, peace of mind, freedom, security. Lack of accumulation is something to be feared. So the goal of life is to build up the pile. But God wants us to renew our mind, challenge the status quo, and think about His purposes creatively. The local church is where we can be encouraged to connect to God's purpose. It gives us a place to find out how and to see results by adding our voice and resources. If we are going to serve God with our money, we need to have a plan – one that helps us discover how to attach our values to our money. This presentation is a powerful spark for reflection and conversation about life's purpose and our personal legacy.
A detailed training illustrated with case studies designed to bolster a non-profit organization's ability to generate more immediate gift and planned giving opportunities. As an introduction to, or refresher on traditional and non-traditional planned giving tools and strategies, this presentation simplifies planned giving vehicles often viewed as too complex. Development professionals learn to show donors how they can generate lifetime retirement income while creating a larger inheritance for heirs and a legacy to the non-profits they care about. Tax Advantaged Gifts, the IRS IRA Gift Match Program, Donor Advised Funds, Uncommon Charitable Uses of Commercial Annuities, Charitable Remainder Trusts, Enhanced Charitable Trusts, Tax-Free Wealth Replacement Plans and more are covered. A special bonus section on proven donor marketing strategies is included.


Veteran Devery Henderson, part of a three-man starting group at wide receiver, suffered a concussion last week against Washington and is not expected to play in Carolina on Sunday.
With Adrian Arrington also out, second-year speedster Joe Morgan and veteran special teamer Courtney Roby step into the role together as the third wide receiver in the Saints' pass-oriented offense, no minor task.
Morgan appeared in the season opener last week but did not fare well, not connecting on two passes from Drew Brees in the fourth quarter.
Newly re-signed veteran Greg Camarillo, a late training camp addition who was re-signed this week, is also on the roster at wide receiver.
Arrington was placed on injured reserve this week but could return to the team at some point later this season thanks to a new NFL rule that allows one player per team per year to return from injured reserve - usually a season-ending list. Arrington has been fighting a knee injury throughout preseason, and missed all five exhibition games after minor meniscus surgery.
The Saints also will be without rotation DE Turk McBride and nickel defensive back Johnny Patrick. Rookie Corey White has been playing in place of Patrick in the secondary.
The Saints plucked T Bryce Harris off the practice squad of the Atlanta Falcons to replace rookie T Marcel Jones, lost to injured reserve last week.
Starters CB Jabari Greer (groin) and SLB Scott Shanle (leg) are questionable for Week 2.


Great match versus Moose CC! Well done all. Thanks to our guestplayers! Compliments for our approach to the game and the spirit of cricket! Well done lads!!
This entry was posted in Vereniging by Dolf Nijbroek. Bookmark the permalink.


When the first surge of spring flooding filled the Mississippi River, the gates at the Bonnet Carré Spillway were opened to reduce the risk of flooding in south Louisiana.
There was some concern about marine life in the Mississippi Sound from that discharge of fresh water. The primary concern was with oyster beds just recovering from Hurricane Katrina. So far there have been no reports of adverse effects from the April opening of the spillway.
There's a new cause for concern related to the Mississippi River.
Experts are watching to see if the next surge of floodwaters from the Mississippi River enlarges the dead zone in the Gulf of Mexico. A recent study speculates the dead zone could grow from 6,000 square miles to 10,000 square miles and reach into waters off the coast of Mississippi.
The dead zone has long been identified off the coast of Louisiana. The dead zone is created by the flush of fertilizer runoff into the Mississippi River that is channeled into the Gulf of Mexico. The same nutrients that make corn grow tall in the Midwest feed algae in the Gulf of Mexico. The algae growth leads to a depletion of oxygen, and only the marine life that can swim out of the way survives the dead zone.
Steven Lohrenz, chairman of the University of Southern Mississippi's Department of Marine Science, reported there are two dead zones off the state's coast. One is near the barrier islands and the other near the Mississippi River Delta. Neither is as serious as the dead zone off the coast of Louisiana.
The prospect of ever-larger dead zones in the Gulf of Mexico is troubling. Water quality off the Mississippi coast can be the result of environmental practices from here to Minnesota and Montana. The vast levee network speeds the flow of fertilizer-laced water to the Gulf of Mexico. The dead zones in the Gulf of Mexico reflect the need for better land and water practices in the Mississippi and Ohio river drainage systems.
The report of dead zones ought to serve as a warning that the immense Gulf of Mexico is vulnerable to man's impact. The health of the waters off our coast is sometimes determined by farming practices in places such as Iowa and Arkansas.


Technically Apple may not be as bad as Internet Explorer (versions 8.0 & below) but truthfully Apple's reputation as a cloud provider took a major hit.
After hearing the news that "numerous" celebrity accounts were hacked, the perception (at least among my non-geek friends & family) is that iCloud is insecure, is a joke, and a waste of time (as well as money).
Apple's craptastic response to the incident did not help either, which apparently came off as an arrogant iDenial (infuriating some of my non-geek friends).
Although many words can be typed highlighting were Apple went wrong, the minds behind Cupertino could adopt a few measures to help thwart these massive hacks in the future.
Enlighten iMinds: Most lovers of iDevices are unaware of features like 2-factor authentication for iCloud despite using it for email services. Apple needs to inform users of this feature as people will not lock a door if they do not understand how to setup the combination.
Geo-Locking: Remember Geo-fences‽ Apple should offer something similar for iCloud, which would only open up if they were within the physical home (or office) of the user.
Bug Bounty Please: No one has a monopoly when it comes to security, hackers, etcetera. Apple needs to offer significant monetary incentives for hackers who discover exploits (as the bad guys do).
Rapid Response: Apple should consider starting a public blog as well as actively using social media (Twitter, Facebook, etcetera) to quickly respond to harmful rumors/reports.
There are probably a zillion other measures Apple could take in order to make iCloud more secure.
But honestly all of it will be for naught if Apple does not communicate this with the masses (instead of being super secretive about security breaches).
Dear Google, Help Microsoft Fix Security Exploits Faster!


text:
Red Sox manager brings World Series trophy home to Puerto Rico
By DANICA COTO
Nov 04, 2018 | 1:00 AM
| CAGUAS, Puerto Rico
Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora arrives at his hometown of Caguas, Puerto Rico, on Saturday, bringing the World Series trophy with him. (Carlos Giusti | Associated Press)
Hundreds of arms stretched into the sky in the hometown of Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora on Saturday as fans took pictures and video of the first man from Puerto Rico to lead a team to a World Series championship.
Cora held up the trophy that he had been cradling in his arms as he arrived in the city of Caguas with pitchers David Price and Eduardo Rodriguez and catcher Christian Vazquez, among others, including Red Sox chairman Tom Werner.
The Red Sox beat the Los Angeles Dodgers on Oct. 28 to win their fourth championship in 15 years.
"They didn't put any boundaries on their manager," Cora told reporters. "They trusted a kid from Caguas, Puerto Rico."
The Boston Red Sox say they haven't decided whether they will visit the White House if invited by President Donald Trump. Cora said if that happens, it offers what he called a "huge platform."
"I know what it represents, and I think I've done a good job so far representing my country and Latinos, and if as an organization we decided to go, I'll use this platform the right way," he said. "I'm not going to embarrass the organization, or my country or myself."
When asked by The Associated Press to specify what he meant by "the right way," Cora grinned and only said, "You'll have to wait and see."
Before meeting with reporters, Cora got on stage and addressed the crowd, saying the win wouldn't have been possible without the players.
"Everyone's talking about Alex, about the coaches, about the owners, but what these guys do every day is worthy of admiration," he said, adding that he heard stories about Puerto Ricans staying up until 4 a.m. to watch games.
"And that excited me because I would think, I'm not doing anything. Thank you for being here. Thank you for supporting us," he said.
Fans dressed in red and blue gushed about Cora's visit.
"He put us on the map," said Miguel Martinez, 26, who was slow dancing to salsa music with his girlfriend as they waited for Cora. "My eyes filled with tears when he won the championship because this is something historic."
Some fans had driven more than an hour for the manager's visit and praised how he helped Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria hit more than a year ago amid a 12-year recession.
When Cora, 43, negotiated his contract in October 2017, he asked his team to help with relief efforts, and they eagerly pitched in.
"Despite everything that has happened, we have a bit of happiness on the side," said Red Sox fan Arleen Cruz, who drove to Caguas with her husband from the southern town of Humacao to see members of their favorite team.
The two have been Red Sox fans since 1972.
"Puerto Rico's name couldn't be held up higher," said Cruz's husband, Ramon Reyes, who was clad in a Red Sox hat, T-shirt and towel slung over one shoulder.
They mingled with other fans stopping to buy food, beer and merchandise from roadside vendors as the smell of fried empanadillas and other local specialties wafted through the air.
Ronald Lopez-Cepero and his wife, both from Caguas, had already bought T-shirts last week that read "PROUD for Puerto Rico." He recalled how he had about a dozen baseball cards featuring Cora and his older brother, Joey, a former big-league infielder, which both of them signed.
"He's a tremendous person," said the lifelong fan. "He's very humble and helpful."
Cora, who spent 14 years in the majors and batted .243 as an infielder with six teams, steered the Red Sox to a team-record 108 wins in the regular season before Boston topped the 100-win Yankees and Astros in the playoffs.
Slumlords, housing profiteers have nowhere to hide under Hartford's new rental licensing program


You know that feeling when you were supposed to call a distant relative ages ago and calling them gets harder and harder every day so you eventually don't so it at all? Well, that's how I've been feeling with writing this blog so I decided to give myself a clean slate and just talk about the last three days. That should put me back on track for the remainder of the challenge….
This is getting silly. I'm so snowed under by everything that I don't even have the energy to write a couple of lines a day anymore. I feel like my life is a race and I keep running and running but someone is forever moving the finishing line further away from me.


The 1st Olive Garden restaurant in the Middle East was inaugurated by Americana Group back in 2010. Olive Garden is a family of more than 780 restaurants around the world committed to providing every guest with a genuine Italian dining experience. It is an internationally recognized restaurant brand that meets the criteria of— quality, service, innovation, great taste, exciting menu, and casual family dining experience.


text:
GOP candidate Schilling on health care reform: 'No one silver bullet'
Sees competition across state lines & HSAs as part of solution
by: Jim Niedelman
Posted: Jun 1, 2020 / 11:45 AM CDT / Updated: Jun 1, 2020 / 11:45 AM CDT
Bobby Schilling is on the record saying health care reform needs to be a priority.
We've seen in recent years no bipartisanship can be found and it's one of the biggest issues this election year.
This is the third part of our conversation on this week's 4 The Record.
Schilling's positions on health care reform focus on things like putting limits on malpractice lawsuits and being able to buy insurance across state lines to increase competition.
We've seen millions of Americans lose their jobs during the crisis, including jobs that provide health insurance.
Schilling addressed the argument that the pandemic highlights a weakness in the employer-based insurance system.
Schilling was just treated for a serious condition.
He has some financial means as a successful businessman that a lot of Americans don't when it comes to medical coverage.
Schilling discussed how the government can help the people who don't qualify for Medicaid or are too young for Medicare.
Watch the full conversation in the video above.
Local 4 News, your local election headquarters, is proud to present 4 The Record, a weekly news and public affairs program focused on the issues important to you. It's a program unlike any other here in the Quad Cities. Tune in each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. as Jim Niedelman brings you up to speed on what's happening in the political arena, from Springfield, Des Moines, Washington, D.C. and right here at home.
More Election Coverage
Trump campaign bus makes stop in Davenport
Duckworth: Military action against Iran justified if U.S. attacked
4 The Record / 2 years ago
Presidential candidate Klobuchar visits Muscatine
Politics / 2 years ago
Beto O'Rourke claims he can win Texas for Dems as nominee
Beto O'Rourke prefers public option over Medicare for All
O'Rourke says any trade agreement must be 'good for workers and farmers'
Beto's a punk
O'Rourke commits to two-state solution in Israeli – Palestinian conflict
Supporters — and hecklers — greet presidential candidate Joe Biden in QC
More 4 The Record Stories
Winckler OK with Iowa governor's emphasis on expanding broadband access
by Jim Niedelman / Jan 18, 2021
Iowa is on solid ground. That's the message Governor Kim Reynolds tried to get across in her Condition of the State address this week.
She did not bring up the fact the state's positivity rate for the coronavirus is above 35 percent -- among the highest in the country.
Winckler critical of Reynolds' pandemic approach
Iowa State Representative Cindy Winckler joined 4 the Record this week. This is the second part of that conversation.
Madigan could still wield power behind the scenes while no longer Illinois speaker
It's been a historic week in politics on the national and state levels.
Donald Trump gets impeached for a second time, Michael Madigan is gone as Speaker of the House in Illinois and Governor Kim Reynolds lays out her agenda in the Condition of the State address.


In this video #Cyclotron for the #class12 is discussed. To understand the working of #Cyclotron understanding of the #Lorentz force is important. In the first part of this video the basic idea of Lorentz force is discussed.
The #Electric force is responsible to accelerate the particle while no contribution of the # Magnetic force except to change in the direction. The #velocity does not affected by the magnetic force. In a uniform magnetic field (same magnitude everywhere of the magnetic field in a specified area.) when a moving #charge particle enters it realize a force which acts like a centripetal force and hence a circular motion. The direction of the force can be found with the help of #Fleming's left hand rule, where the thumb represent the direction of #force, first finger direction of the magnetic field and middle to the direction of velocity of the moving charge particle.


text: const char* mime(const std::string& file_path);

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


text:
Q: Regex to match symbols before delimiter I'm trying to remove all symbols which occur before my specific delimiter which is a colon.
Example text:
Pigeon.Salmon-3201@:Cashew123!

Desired output:
PigeonSalmon3201:Cashew123!

As you can see all symbols which occured before the ":" have been removed.
I've found out that .+?(?=:)
will highlight everything before my ":"
And that this regex is good enough to match all the symbols, but I don't know how to incorporate both regex's together.
[-!$%^&*()_+|~=`{}\[\]:";'<>?,.\/]

A: You could use a regex like this:
[-!$%^&*()_+|~=`{}\[\]:";'<>?,.\/@](?=.*:)

"Match a symbol only if there is a : after it". This means that the regex will match all the symbols before the last : in the string.
Demo
IMO, a regex-only solution is not the best solution for this. You can first find the index of the :. Then loop from that index to 0, removing any symbols you see.

A: You could simply split on ':' delete all the symbols in the first part and join them with ':' without even using a Regex. The answer to the Regex question is interesting but not necessary here.


St Jude's is a Church of England voluntary aided primary school situated in South Brixton. The school can trace its history back to 1834 and though it has undergone many changes in its long history, it has always strived to serve the local community and its needs, expressing throughout the Church's concern for the education and welfare of the children. We are a multi-racial school and as such make every effort to reflect this in the life and activities of the school.


Takes place during First Friday Art Walk.
"Reyna Grande is an award-winning novelist and memoirist. She has received an American Book Award, the El Premio Aztlán Literary Award, and the Latino Book Award. In 2012, she was a finalist for the prestigious National Book Critics Circle Awards. Her works have been published internationally in countries such as Norway and South Korea.