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Trust In Action —
That's The Legacy We're Building.
For more than twenty-years, our talented team of like-minded, committed bankers and advisors have upheld our founding principle of being complete bankers to our clients. In doing so, we have become a home for the best middle market businesses in Southern California.
Leon Blankstein
President, CEO and Director
Patti Vollmer
Executive VP, CCO
Suzanne Dondanville
Executive VP, COO
Philip Feghali
Executive VP
David A. Wolf
Karen Schoenbaum
Executive VP, CFO
Robert F. Schack
Chairman, Emeritus and Director
Robert I Usdan
Chairman and Director
Donald P. Johnson
Vice Chairman and Director
Jon Schlobohm
Trent D. Merrill
Edith Matthai
Gaurav Malhotra
Pasy Wang
In 1998, Leon dreamt of a bank made by entrepreneurs for entrepreneurs. His four partners shared in that dream, and ABB was born. Leon Blankstein currently serves as President, CEO, and Director of American Business Bank. Doing the right thing, and being a servant leader are the tenants that guide Leon in both his long term strategy for the Bank, and in his day to day dealings with the Southern California business community.
The passion, smarts and his genuine heart for his clients and employees have been constant throughout his banking career which began in 1982. After earning a B.S. in Economics from USC, Mr. Blankstein started his career at Bank of America where he was quickly promoted to Loan Officer. He stayed at B of A two years before accepting a position as a Corporate Banking Officer at 1st Business Bank.
Mr. Blankstein's career at 1st Business Bank spanned 14 years, during which time he was promoted to Vice President/Group Manager in the corporate downtown office. After Mellon Bank purchased 1st Business Bank in 1997, Mr. Blankstein and four other senior banking officers left 1st Business Bank to form American Business Bank. Mr. Blankstein and his partners personally raised more than $14 million used to capitalize ABB. This was the second largest management driven bank capitalization in California history at the time. The most enjoyable parts of Leon's role as CEO continue to be serving his clients and contributing to the development of the individual employees at the Bank.
In addition to his professional responsibilities, he and his family are involved with raising funds for both the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and for Cancer Research. Mr. Blankstein was a former Board Member at the Jewish Home for the Aging.
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Patti A. Vollmer, Executive Vice President and Chief Credit Officer, has been part of the American Business Bank since 1999.
A founding year employee, Patti Vollmer began as she continues to this day maintaining strong relationships with middle market businesses in Southern California. As a Vice President and Relationship Manager, Vollmer joined the Bank in its first year of operation, and her career has grown in tandem with the Bank over the last two decades. Moving from her role as an Relationship Manager to Regional Vice President of the South Bay office for the Bank, she saw an opportunity to not only support the burgeoning middle market business community, but to also support the robust non-profit sector in the Greater Los Angeles area. Whether it be with clients addressing needs of the community from the homelessness crisis, to jobs for those in recovery and education for the underprivileged, Vollmer has married the art of caring with her high business and finance acumen. After leading the South Bay Region, she was asked to assist the Founding Chief Credit Officer as his Deputy in 2016. There she was tasked with ensuring the Bank's loan portfolio stayed in compliance with all regulatory requirements; she performed a full overhaul of the systems, processes and procedures, and credit policy for the Bank. Her apt for quality, efficiency and prepared nature resonates in her position and service. Upon her predecessor's retirement, Vollmer took the helm as the Chief Credit Officer for the institution. In this lead role, she has successfully overseen tremendous growth of the loan portfolio of over $300MM while maintaining minimal substandard loans. Vollmer continues to contribute daily to the growth of the Bank and the health of its loan portfolio.
After graduation from Scripps College in Claremont CA, Suzanne Dondanville began her career in banking in 1984 with Security Pacific Bank.
For over 35 years, Suzanne Dondanville has contributed to the shaping of the banking industry in Southern California. Following her training at Security Pacific Bank, Dondanville gravitated towards regional and community banks. Seeing the direct impact this style of banking has on the community, and its business owners, she desires to continue to quietly power that economic engine. Currently serving as Executive Vice President and Chief Operations Officer at American Business Bank, Dondanville has made a significant impact on the Bank's operational efficiencies and professionalism. Dondanville maintains an eye on the future and has pioneered technological platforms for the Bank that have dynamically enhanced its ability to conform to critical regulatory compliance requirements while lightening the burden for employees and most importantly creating an enhanced customer experience. Her innate objective for excellent service and effective productivity is a profound imprint on the bank's overall performance. As a graduate of Scripps College of Claremont, CA, over her career, Dondanville has held several executive-level positions. She is also known to serve as a mentor to aspiring staff who hope to elevate and prosper within the bank, which gives constant opportunity for growth and enrichment.
Philip Feghali, Executive Vice President of Corporate Banking, graduated from USC in 1989 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Finance. With decades of commercial banking experience, Phil has contributed dramatically to the success of the Bank, and equally important, to the success of his clients' businesses. He began his banking career at Security Pacific Bank in 1989, and later served as a Relationship Manager for First Interstate Bank and First Business Bank. In 2001, Phil joined ABB as a Relationship Manager and Team Lead, and quickly rose to the role of Regional Vice President, establishing the Bank's Inland Empire regional office.
Despite Phil waiting three years after ABB began to join the Bank, his fingerprints are all over our DNA. Phil's drive and desire to see his clients succeed, and his passion for sharing business intellect and wisdom with his clients, prospects, and the SoCal business community as a whole are a tremendous asset. His contributions to the organization transcend his role, and his influence and representation of our culture have been paramount in growing and attracting the best clients and bankers in the Southland to American Business Bank.
His involvements outside of his professional role include 22 years as a member of Tournament of Roses and a Board seat for Casa Colina Hospital and Centers for Healthcare.
David A. Wolf, Executive Vice President of Corporate Banking, has over 3 decades of corporate banking experience, each year underscored by his desire to see others succeed. He began his time with American Business Bank in 2004 opening the first regional office and serving as Regional Vice President of Orange County.
In the years since he joined ABB, David has been instrumental in overseeing the Bank's growth by leading a team of seasoned bankers. His greatest motivation is to influence people for the better, and he does so with a ton of energy and passion each and every day. David desires for his legacy to be improving others and hopes to see them excel towards their dreams and aspirations.
His banking career began at Wells Fargo Bank as a Relationship Manager in Los Angeles. While there, he was elevated to Vice President of the Business Banking Group. In 1998, he joined Mellon 1st Business Bank as Relationship Manager, where he later became Regional Vice President of the South Bay Region before joining American Business Bank.
In addition to his professional responsibilities, Mr. Wolf currently serves on the Board of the Easter Seals of Southern California. His involvement spans over 20 years, including his current roll as Treasurer and Audit Committee member. In 2019, he was elected to the Board of MemorialCare's Saddleback and Orange Coast Medical Centers.
A native of Los Angeles, Mr. Wolf graduated in 1983 with a Bachelor of Science in Finance from Arizona State University. He currently resides with his family in Orange County.
Karen Schoenbaum joined American Business Bank as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer in October of 2017. She previously served as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of California United Bank (CUB) from October 2009 until its sale in 2017. During her tenure with CUB the Bank's assets grew from $456 million to over $3 billion; the growth was primarily organic yet supported by three strategic acquisitions. Ms. Schoenbaum managed investor relations, oversaw public financial reporting, the investment department and the Treasury function while maintaining the SOX/COSO internal control framework for the organization and ensuring strong corporate governance in those areas. She also oversaw the Bank's information technology systems ensuring best practices for cyber security. Prior to joining CUB, Ms. Schoenbaum served as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer at several Los Angeles banks with assets up to $6 billion, where she was responsible for Financial and Regulatory Reporting, Accounting, Treasury Asset and Liability Management, General Services, the Corporate Real Estate department and technology. She also worked at the Big 4 accounting firm, EY, from 1985 to 1992. Aside from her professional bank career Ms. Schoenbaum serves as a director of the University of Southern California's Leventhal Board of Advisors, and is currently a director of the Los Angeles EY Alumni Association. In 2017 she was elected to LAUP, now known as Child360, Board of Directors; a nonprofit dedicated to early childhood education, and is also the Chair of their Finance Committee. Ms. Schoenbaum received a B.A. in Business Administration, a M.A in Accounting, and a certificate in computer science from the University of Southern California.
Robert F. Schack is founding Chairman of American Business Bank. He has been in the banking business since the late 60's at both Security Pacific Bank and 1st Business Bank. In 1998, he joined four other executives to form American Business Bank, a financial institution serving small and middle size companies in Southern California.
Additionally, Mr. Schack serves as a member of the Board of Directors of Dallas Capital Bank, a growing financial institution serving middle market companies in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
Active in many civic groups over the years, Mr. Schack currently serves as immediate past Chairman and head of the Audit Committee of MemorialCare Health Services. He is also active on the Board of the YMCA of Greater Long Beach, as past chair. Reflecting his commitment to higher education, Mr. Schack is also a member of the Board of Governors of Long Beach State, for which he has served as chairman of the Corporate Scholars Council. Mr. Schack also acts as an advisor for the Endicott Group, a private equity firm specializing in investments in the financial services industry.
Mr. Schack holds a Bachelors of Science and MBA from Long Beach State and an Executive MBA from UCLA.
Mr. Usdan is a Co-Founder and Principal of The Endicott Group, a private investment and advisory firm specializing in the financial services industry. Prior to founding Endicott in 1996, Mr. Usdan was an Associate Director at Sandler O'Neill & Partners, L.P. Mr. Usdan received a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Virginia.
Donald P. Johnson, Vice Chairman, and previous President and CEO, was one of the original organizers and founders of American Business Bank. After Mellon Bank purchased 1st Business Bank in 1997, Mr. Johnson and his partners personally raised the more than $14.2 million used to capitalize American Business Bank. This was the second largest management driven capitalization in California history. Mr. Johnson obtained his undergraduate degree in 1968 from the University of North Carolina where he served as both Junior and Senior class president. After college, he was a full Lieutenant in the U.S. Navy and served a tour of duty in Vietnam. He earned his MBA from Pepperdine University in 1977. In 2004 he was elected to the Board of the California Bankers Association.
Mr. Schlobohm retired in 2007 as President of National Corset Supply. He now lives in Hawaii on the island of Maui. He and his brother grew National Corset Supply to be one of the largest family-owned lingerie businesses in the country. A CPA, Jon graduated from UCLA and competed on the swim team.
After graduating from USC, Mr. Merrill began his career with Ernst and Young, specializing in financial services for closely held companies up to $500 million in sales. In 1995, Mr. Merrill left Ernst and Young to become the Executive Vice President of Lucky Brand Dungarees. He helped grow Lucky Brand's business from $45 million to $450 million in sales over the next 9 years. In 2004, Mr. Merrill became the Head of Real Estate for Liz Claiborne and managed the retail real estate expansion for a number of companies including Juicy Couture, Kate Spade, Liz Claiborne and Lucky Brand Jeans. In 2012, Mr. Merrill became the CEO of Triple R, LLC which specializes in Retail Realty Representation for existing and developing retailers.
Ms. Matthai is a partner in Robie & Matthai. She has been a trial lawyer specializing in representation of attorneys in malpractice actions for over thirty years. She handles matters arising from nearly every field of practice including complex business transactions and litigation, probate and family law proceedings, securities, intellectual property and bankruptcy proceedings. She is a fellow of the American College of Trial lawyers and in 2008 was named "Trial Lawyer of the Year" by the Litigation Section of the California State Bar. Ms. Matthai is a past president of the Los Angeles County Bar Association, the California Defense Counsel, The Association of Southern California Defense Counsel and the Los Angeles Chapter of ABOTA. She has also received many prestigious honors, too numerous to mention.
Mr. Malhotra is an audit partner and has been with the accounting firm Lucas Horsfall for over 15 years. He works with middle market companies with revenues up to $400 million and specializes in businesses with international operations. He advises clients year-round on tax law changes, reviewing merger acquisition opportunities, helping improve internal control structures and other processes. Mr. Malhotra provides audit and consulting services to non-profits and takes joy in helping people who help the world. Mr. Malhotra was born in India and came to the U.S. to attend UCLA. He is a part of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and California Society of Certified Public Accountants.
Mr. Sanchez is the co-owner, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Jonathan Louis, one of the largest, fashion-forward furniture manufacturers in the United States with operations in Los Angeles, Mexico and North Carolina. He obtained his BS in Business Administration with an emphasis in Marketing from University of Southern California.
Ms. Wang, CFA is the Senior Managing Director of Investments for California Institute of Technology Investment Office, which oversees the university's $3 billion endowment. Ms. Wang previously co-managed a portfolio of opportunistic hedge funds for Pacific Alternative Asset Management Company(PAAMCO) a leading investment firm for institutional investors. She is a graduate of the University of California, Los Angeles and also holds a MBA in Finance from Columbia Business School.


In this game, warriors and wizards are fighting against each other. These characters are... barcodes !
The game consists in an electronic device with a barcode scanner included, and a set of cards representing heroes, enemies and equipments. There's also a few blank cards that you can use to create your own characters with any barcode found on common products.
Weiterführende Links zu "Barcode Battler"


New data reveals that a college education is more than worth the money. The data, from the Economic Policy Institute and analyzed by The New York Times, shows that the pay gap between college graduates and people without a degree has reached an all-time high.
In 2013, college graduates earned 98% more than people without a college degree, The Times reports.
That translates into a lot of money, enough to cover the cost of college in a single year. In 2012, the household earnings gap between people with and without a college degree was $30,298 to $58,249, the journal Science reports. Repeat, $30-58,000 more a year.
Multiplied over the course of an individual's working years, the number is staggering. Calculates The Times: "The true cost of a college degree," compared to not having a degree, is approximately minus "$500,000." That means it has a value of approximately $500,000 more in earnings over the long run.
This can be hard to swallow, especially if you're one of the millions of people earning less than your neighbors who have college degrees. Take heart – it's never too late to go back to school, or to start saving to give your kids a better future.


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Model Call
Meet the Gordon Family
As a fourth generation hairstylist, the beauty industry is truly in Tony Gordon's blood. He is a former Aveda Purefessional & an Intercoiffure member for over 10 years, having worked NYFW and with large fashion house names like Versace. He is passionate about growing hairstylists into haircutting & coloring masters.
Tony's great-grandmother was a wig maker for the Chicago Lyric Opera. His grandmother was a principal of the American Beauty Academy in Chicago, founded Elizabeth Gordon Hair Designs in Hyde Park, and was considered to be one of the top colorists of her time.
His father, Jerry Gordon, was a legacy in the Chicagoland hair industry. Jerry owned one of the first Aveda Salons in the United States, J. Gordon Designs. He was recognized as the 1990 Hair Salon Owner of the Year. Tony's sister, Katherine Gordon, is a hairdresser in New York and Los Angeles and has worked with numerous celebrities on films and television.
Pamela is also a multi-generational hairstylist and started in the hair industry with Tony. She has worked on the floor in every location Gordon Salons has opened, being the first Senior Master Stylist at Gordon Salon and continuing to provide her award winning team with the leadership and guidance necessary to build a successful career in the beauty industry by providing above and beyond services for her guests.
Tony and Pam's two children, Jessica and Michael Gordon are 5th generation hair stylists and have been working with the Gordon Salon teams on the floor and front desk for over 20 collective years. Both are business graduates as well as passionate hair designers. They have done hair on stage with industry legends, competed for Intercoiffure Nouveau & won next generation leadership awards 2 years running by the 2-to-10 Conference. Currently, Jessica is a stylist and the Director of Human Resources For Gordon Salon and Michael is the Director of Marketing and a Finance assistant.
4th & 5th Generation Hairstylists
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We at Gordon Salon believe that continuing education beyond beauty school is crucial to the overall success and longevity of any hairdresser's career.
Every stylist on our team has extensive knowledge of their field. Our rigorous training program ensures that all Gordon Salon hair designers receive expert education, specializing them in both cut and color.
Additionally, we firmly believe that your overall wellness is sacred. We proudly use only Aveda's naturally-derived products. By tapping into the essences of plants and flowers, we ensure only the healthiest ingredients touch your skin and hair while conserving the planets resources.
OUR HISTORY.
Gordon In Ravinia
465 Roger Williams
Tony and Pam Gordon founded Gordon Salon in 1999. Upon opening their first location, Gordon in Ravinia, they sought out to solve a prevalent problem that most salons were facing at that time.
"As Salon owners, one thing that we knew was that the salon industry lacked advanced, consistent training available to stylists after they graduate beauty school. Because of this, we saw a lot of hair dressers becoming burnt out and switching careers after a few short years. It saddened us that so many people failed to accomplish their dreams of becoming successful stylists. So, we created a training program that addressed those issues."
Gordon In Lakeview
3336 N Clark St.
The second location was opened a few blocks from Wrigley Field in North Lakeview in a 100 year old historic brownstone. The salon was expanded to 2 levels with a full spa & education center in 2005. From 2003 until 2017 we saw over 5,000 clients and did most of our early education training. The historic building was eminently domained in 2017 by the City of Chicago for the planned Red & Purple line CTA expansion which knocked down 21 buildings along N. Clark Street. At the time it was the largest CTA expansion project in Chicago history, but luckily allowed us to easily transition our stylists and staff to our new Lakeshore East location, opened in 2017.
Gordon In Highland Park
653 Central Ave.
In 2007, Pam and Tony relocated their Ravina salon to Central Ave in Downtown Highland Park. As residents of Highland Park themselves, Tony and Pam love being able to interact with members of their community on a regular basis. This salon is conveniently located next to restaurants and shopping for those looking to spend an entire afternoon downtown.
Gordon In Wilmette
3232 Lake Ave Ste. #160
Wilmette, IL
Gordon Salon in Wilmette emanates beauty and wellness. Located right off of the Eden's Expressway, it is located perfectly for guests who may be coming from different suburbs of Lake or Cook County. Wilmette is also where Pam Gordon can be found working her magic on the floor on Tuesdays and Saturdays! Our Wilmette Salon is a cozy environment and home to our largest Gordon Salon team, currently with 16 Gordon Salon stylists.
Gordon In Glenview
1992 Tower Drive
Enjoy all the natural light and beauty of the Glenview Town Center at Gordon Salon. Located in a gorgeously rehabilitated airplane hanger from the 1950s, our soaring ceilings and prominent corner location is a beautiful sight to be seen. Relax and rejuvenate your look at this conveniently located salon around historic modern artwork. This two story space is home to a large portion of the Gordon Emerging Artist program. The Town Center is filled with things to do such as see a movie or take a pilates class. There are tons of places to eat and shop, making this location a perfect spot for your regular hair appointments.
Gordon In Lakeshore East
333 E. Benton Pl.
Ste. #106
Nestled in the hidden gem of downtown Chicago is Gordon Salon in Lakeshore East. Tucked away behind the Blue Cross & Blue Shield building on East Randolph is a picturesque park filled with restaurants, shops, a Mariano's grocery store and now Gordon Salon. The team of the former Gordon in Lakeview relocated to this space at the the end of 2017.
We are able to validate parking in the Mariano's parking garage for up to 3 hours for $4. If parking is an issue, public transit to Lakeshore East is available via the CTA Bus Route #60.
Gordon In Evanston
2018 Central St.
Currently under construction, Gordon Salon is located at 2018-2020 Central Street in downtown Evanston in a 101-year-old historic brownstone, just a few short blocks from Northwestern University's campus. The biggest space yet, we are thrilled to open this location up later this year!
2021 Copyright Gordon Salon & GordonSalon.com. Privacy Policy.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


Neil Fuentes...The Singing Chef... Competing...REWRAPPED...December 6th!
Festivities begin at 12pm....Come eat lunch at JOJOTO and watch him on the Food Network with us!!
Reservations Highly recommended and sharing tables with new friends may be needed!


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Triggered Students at Washington and Lee University Want to Remove George Washington and Robert E. Lee Images from Diplomas…because "Racism"
Jose Nino |
Washington & Lee University School of Law students are demanding that their administration remove portraits of controversial figures such as George Washington and Robert E. Lee from their graduation diplomas.
Students currently attending the law school along with alumni and staff are passing around a petition to allow graduates to get rid of the pictures of the university's namesakes.
The men's legacies as slaveowners have generated enormous controversy in our age of political correctness.
The petition's statement reads: "Given the aftermath of the 2017 Unite the Right Rally in Charlottesville and the heightened awareness of making Washington & Lee an inclusive and compassionate environment to all students, we believe this request provides alumni the ability to honor their alma mater without the presence of the portraits that some may find controversial or offensive."
Specifically, the petition states that organizers are not demanding for a "mandatory" change to all diplomas but gives students the choice to do so.
The organizers cite previous changes in the diploma's design in the past that reflected student's demands. For example, going from sheepskin diplomas to paper.
"The goal of establishing this option is to create a diploma that alumni are proud to prominently display in their homes and places of work," the statement adds.
So far, several hundred people have signed the petition.
This call to remove pictures from the law school's diplomas isn't the first step university students have made in trying to sully Lee's legacy.
After significant pushback from students, Confederate flags were removed from Lee's place of burial in the university's Lee Chapel back in 2014.
One group, 'The Generals Redoubt', has push backed against the petition.
"The General Redoubt (TGR) strongly disagrees with this petition which seeks to provide an option to remove the likeness of our namesakes George Washington and Robert E. Lee from the law school diploma," they declared in a statement.
"The Generals Redoubt is very concerned with this action which is seemingly supported by several employees of W&L and is concerned that the member of the careers services program does not see the harm in supporting such a petition and apparently failed to advise against such action," the organized added.
The General Rebout argues "that the petition is an attempt to upend the university's traditions."
They argued: "The petition is a symptom of strong undercurrents within the University to dismantle the traditions, values and history of Washington and Lee."
"The removal of the likeness of George Washington and Robert E. Lee, which adorns the offices and homes of many of our alumni is a severe affront to the generous and loyal alumni who respect the character and values of our namesakes."
The General Redoubt says the likeness of George Washington and Robert E. Lee are "necessary to bring sanity" in response to the petition.
BLP has reported on numerous attempts to remove Civil War monuments and even artifacts from the nation's founding.
The modern-day Left is never satisfied. Confederate figures are an easy target for them. But the real prize will be the Founding Fathers. Wiping their legacies out of the public consciousness will enable them to implement globalist policies at will.


Lowell Stereoviews from the period of 1860s-1890s were selected from collections owned by the Lowell Historical Society and the University of Massachusetts Lowell and housed at the Center for Lowell History.
These Stereoviews show three-dimensional images of various places and topics, allowing armchair travelers to have a "you are there" experience. These sturdy cards feature two photographs or printed images positioned side by side about two and half inches apart, one for the left eye and one for the right. When one uses a stereoscope, a device for viewing stereoviews, these two flat images are combined into a single image that gives the illusion of depth.


Log messages in files are a pain: they are hard to get hold of, difficult to search, and different sources are tedious to combine. This talk shows you ways to use logs as a real time source of information to react on problems – even before you users file a ticket!
Each node in every layer of your application has its own log file. In a production environment you need an admin to grant you access to the log files. Whenever you search for the causes of an error you will need to combine multiple log files to get the information you need.
This talk puts the spot light on three tools that help handling log messages. All of them provide access controls for your logs and can alert you when there are problem. But each of them has a different focus. These tools are Errbit, logFaces and graylog2.
Errbit will receive all error messages from your application, from the back end and the frontend. It will group them for you so you know how many times the same error occurred. With every occurrence of an error it will store all context information so that you can easily browse it. It can also store release information to show you when this error occurred for the first time and when it was fixed.
logFaces receives the full log stream from your application and makes it searchable. You can prepare search filters that help you with recurring tasks. From a given log message you can dig into your logs to find more about the same user, session or class. You can even see a live log stream of your application.
grayLog2 gives you a highly scalable architecture and will process all your log files. It will index them using elasticsearch and search it for you using simple and complex queries. You can put the results as performance indicators or charts on dashboards that show you the current health status of your system. graylog2 has been completely redesigned for release 0.20; this talk will show the new features.
This talk will help you to choose the right tool for the job. It will enable you to find the information without the hassle. These tools are the key to find and solve problems before your users complain and file a ticket.
Alexander Schwartz is Principal IT Consultant at msg systems. He's been in Web development for more than 15 years and in Java development for more than 10 years. He has been a developer, scrum master, team leader, architect, and project manager in various projects. He enjoys productive working environments, agile projects and automated tests.


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Ghost in the Mythe
Guardians of the Pattern, Book 3
Genre: Science Fiction/Romance
Novel: ~104,000 words (~301 pages)
Publication Date: 7 June, 2015
Miko Asada does not belong in the human world, not since the jump drive accident that warped him into something other. Fragile, beautiful, and silent, Miko remains an enigma, even to those who know him best.
Ajhani Guardian Tarrin Rhivana no longer belongs on the world of his birth. Exiled for choosing his clan's safety over the sanctity of human life, Tarrin attempts to escape aboard a ship belonging to the Sky People who have invaded his world.
When Tarrin's ignorance of Federation technology threatens his sanity and his life, he is saved by a beautiful ghost, and brought to the Institute for Psionic Research. There, he meets Miko and learns that one of the Sky People has bonded to one of the ancient artifacts his people are sworn to protect.
As a Guardian, it is Tarrin's duty to return to his clan and convince them of the danger the Sky People represent. But his fellow Guardians will kill an exile on sight, and Miko may be the only one who can prevent them from executing Tarrin before he can deliver his warning.


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Destination Reports
UAE Review
Dubai aims to be top destination
Dubai's skyline is changing continually as more and more new buildings come up.
Dubai's Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) is pushing ahead with the goal of making the emirate one of the top tourism destinations in the world. This target is looking increasing attainable, despite the present upheaval in the industry, DTCM Director-General KHALID A BIN SULAYEM tells TTN.
Q. DTCM along with other Dubai government organizations, has been promoting the business as usual message following the recent events in the US and Afghanistan. Could you please outline the extent of impact of those events on the tourism and travel industry in Dubai and specific measures being taken and planned in the near term by DTCM to counter that impact?
A. There is no denying the effects of the events of September 11 on the tourism business worldwide. Dubai however, has been very proactive in playing an active role in turning around the circumstances to a large degree by going ahead with our commitments as planned.
While the international tourism industry in general has been employing a "wait and see" approach - Dubai is leading the way forward in supporting the local and international travel trade.
We have enhanced our efforts in restoring confidence within the travel trade in Dubai and some of our major markets around the world and are undertaking a drive to rebuild consumer confidence.
Two major promotions we have launched post September 11, include the Dubai Christmas Shopping Package which ran from November 15 to December 15 and a campaign targeting the international travel trade that was launched at the World Travel Market in London.
The second package is designed to attract more than 1,500 travel agents on a Dubai familiarisation trip from major overseas markets from across Europe. They will be given a thorough orientation of the destination and will spend three nights/four days in the emirate to experience at first hand its lifestyle and tourist attractions.
Through stepped up promotional activity within our stronger markets such as the GCC and Europe and through a series of key initiatives, we may even be able to turn around these losses.
Q. Longer term, what is DTCM's vision of the future of tourism in Dubai and the wider Gulf and Middle East region?
A. The Dubai Government is deeply committed to the development of trade and tourism. As the sole planning, development and regulating authority for tourism in Dubai our policies have been made with an eye to safeguard the long-term interests of the destination.
Dubai is already the leading tourist destination in the region and has what it takes to become increasingly popular and be counted among the world's top international tourist destinations.
The major infrastructure developments taking place in Dubai will ensure that we are well placed to meet the demands of the future.
While the future outlook for the international tourism industry appears unexciting for the moment, we are optimistic that things will get back on track soon.
Dubai in the meanwhile will do everything it takes to expand its share further.
The long-term forecasts for the industry based on the vision of His Highness General Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, UAE Minister of Defence and Chairman of the DTCM envisages 15 million visitors by 2010.
Q. What are the new tourism projects underway to promote tourism to Dubai? And are you targeting any specific sectors/markets, especially in the light of the general worldwide downturn?
A. There are a series of major projects coming up in Dubai. As a matter of fact there are currently 730-new multi-storeyed buildings under construction in Dubai to give you an indication of the construction boom in the emirate.
Projects such as The Palms (formerly Palm Islands) developments, Dubai International Airport Expansion, Dubai Marina, Dubai Festival City and a series of new hotels between now and 2005 will ensure that the emirate is well placed to handle the growth in arrivals.
Moreover, a huge 7,500 sq.m. Convention Centre is being readied in time for the World Bank/IMF conference in Dubai in 2003, which will bring the focus of the world's meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions industry on the emirate.
The DTCM is setting up a Dubai Convention Bureau to market and sell the Convention Center.
Q. Have you seen an increase in tourist figures as a result of promotional campaigns undertaken by you over the past few years?
A. Yes indeed. To give you an indication - Dubai's hotels received over one million guests in 1993 and in 2000 Dubai's hotel establishment guests crossed the 3.5 million mark.
We have played an active role in creating awareness about the destination and can take fair share of credit for this substantial growth.
Q. Many of DTCM's promotional campaigns have reportedly targeted regional tourists both from the Gulf and the wider Mideast region. Can you give me facts and figures on the results of such campaigns?
A. It is difficult to accurately quantify such figures. However, through targeted promotions within the region and internationally, we have managed to diversify Dubai's visitor appeal and established the emirate as an all season destination rather than a winter escape.
Dubai's tourism industry has shown progressive growth patterns over the last couple of years against sustained growth in the number of hotels and hotel apartments.
To give you an example, Dubai's hotel establishments have recorded substantial growth in guests from the GCC, up by 22.54 per cent in 2000 to 771,032 as against 650,475 in 1999 which was a growth of 18.53 per cent over the previous year.
Q. What are you doing to further attract this segment of tourists?
A. We employ the entire range of our integrated marketing campaign to target the regional visitor which avails of traditional and non-traditional media across all channels including direct mail, personal marketing visits, promotions such as breakfast seminars and workshops, trade and consumer advertising, marketing communications, roadshows and exhibitions, tele-marketing, news bulletins, newsletters, the web and e-mail as well as hosting of familiarisation visits.
Q. Number of visitors to Dubai?
A. Between 1999 and 2000 the numbers have grown by 13 % to reach the 3.5 million mark.
Q. From which area have you seen the maximum inflow of tourists?
A. Conventionally Europe and the GCC have been our strongest tourism origin markets. Practically 30 per cent of the total hotel guests come from Europe followed by Asia 22 per cent, GCC 21 per cent while inter-emirate guests accounts for seven per cent.
Q. Any other relevant facts and figures?
A. An interesting figure recently released by the Ministry of Planning states that in the 30 years since the formation of the UAE, more than $225 billion have been spent on infrastructure and development.
Creating a demand for skiing
UAE-wide development
UAE airports investing $12.5bn in expansion
Dubai investing $81bn in aviation projects
Sharjah's got more than you know
Russia, US in Abu Dhabi's feeder plan
Hotels headed for a 'good end to the year'
UAE's 55,000 rooms are world's largest pipeline
Titanic CITY
BBG Hotels & Resorts Management redefines spirit of hospitality
Al Raha launches wedding packages
At Emirates Palace, business is a pleasure
Sharjah woos Russian tourists
Emaar introduces 'Lofts' living to Dubai
Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority plans major push in Europe
Dubai: a success story
'We are promoting Dubai as a whole'
Jebel Dhanna ready to open
ADNH eyes mixed-use properties
Grosvenor House to open in 2005
Dubai's first Conrad set for Sheikh Zayed Road
Emirates Palace readies for opening by year-end
Sofitel Hotel woos MICE market
Second Trader Vic's for Dubai
Towers Rotana stays ahead of the game
Ueberroth, Moukarzel and Lewis ... new beginning ready to open
IndeCorp expands into Middle East and Africa
Al Diar Siji celebrates fifth year
Courtyard set for Green Community
Special offers at Al Jazira
Regal experience at Royal Mirage
Ramada Continental opens doors
UAE tourism industry set for robust growth
Dubai hotel revenue up 49pc
$1bn gains from Dubai hotels
Travel-less at the Taj Palace
Stone Age delight at the Grand Hyatt
Sofitel gets set for Dubai 2003
Royal treatment at Le Meridien
Retreat to Hatta Fort
Resort is perfect training ground
Relax at the Jebel Ali Golf Resort and Spa
Regal majesty at the Royal Mirage
Mina A' Salam set for opening
Jebel Ali International Hotels proposes expansion
Hotel revamps auditorium
Hotel bucks industry downturn
Hotel gets facelift
Banking on 'business as usual'
Dusit extends special offer
Tourists coming back: Agency
Taj group unveils plans for major regional expansion
Sheraton getting new look
Rotana set to open new hotels
Regional focus
New resort promises an ultimate
Metropolitan spreads wings
Marriott opens executive apartments in Dubai
Le Meridien ends year on high note
Kempinski will open two hotels
Hyatt predicts bright future
Fairmont sets new standards
Dutco offers prime choice
Dubai Marine resort on a roll
Diversification 'holds key to Gulf tourism'
Accor bid to lift profile of Sofitel
TTN Worldwide
TTN is the most established trade publication in the Middle East distributed on a controlled circulation basis to members of the travel and tourism industry.
Published monthly by Al Hilal Publishing and Marketing Group, the region's foremost trade publisher, TTN is aimed at professionals in the industry, from travel agents to airline and hotel personnel.
TTN provides in-depth and extensive coverage of relevant issues in the Middle East and North Africa as well as in other parts of the world. Travel related news, analysis, and new appointments together with information on up-coming exhibitions, marketing and promotional campaigns are presented in an innovative and striking colour tabloid.
Every issue also contains a collation of international and regional news and topical features of interest to readers.
Bahrain: +973 1729 3131
Dubai: +971 4 3422 020
London: +44 208 943 3630
©Copyright Al Hilal Group 2017. Designed and Developed by Northstar Technologies.


As soon as we read this book my 9 year old daughter jumped in that she wants to do this! I think she loved the story and the leading toward giving this Christmas season.The illustrator does an outstanding job of capturing the emotions of the characters in the story! You can see the joy bursting out of Sam.
I loved how the book didn't replace Sam's gifts by giving away all he would normally get, but instead added in support for those in need. Sam was doubly blessed with his giving and chose to open the sparkle box first on Christmas morning.. setting aside the gifts to see what the box was all about.
Each time you do something giving for someone in need, it is a gift to Jesus. You put the name of the action on a paper and tuck it into the sparkle box for Christmas. This is your gift through the season to present to Jesus.
Beautiful story, awesome action plan!
We pray and thank Jesus. We also try to act like God would want us to. We relay the message of Christmas and try to give to others. Showing God's Love by being loving people is very important.
We do things for Jesus throughout the year. So many people only participate in giving to others during the Christmas season, forgetting that help is needed year round. We give monthly to the food bank. I take our little dog to visit people in a nursing home one afternoon a week. We walk the dogs at our local SPCA. We also give to a number of favorite charities. At Christmas, we do get the names of two families who need assistance and we do gifts and food for them. We buy for everyone in the family, not just the kids. In addition to a turkey dinner, we provide extra food and a grocery card. Thanks for the super giveaway opportunity. Keep up the terrific blogging.
My five year old wants to get him a present. We are going to read lots of bible stories and really make sure our children know the real meaning of Christmas.
we watch faith based movies all year long and always help others when we can. The smallest gestures of kindness like visiting the elderly or giving a meal to a homeless person are good ways to help. I always tell my son you never know who your really helping and that god is always watching.
I am going to try to show others the love that Jesus has shown me and try to keep myself and my family focused on Him instead of presents as much as possible.


text:
Fatigue Detection and Mitigation on the Jobsite
By Evelyn Long
It's been a long couple of years living in the shadow of a global pandemic, and people are tired. They're physically and emotionally exhausted, and it's starting to take its toll. People from all walks of life are struggling to keep up with these demands, and for some, this perpetual exhaustion is more dangerous than others. In the landscaping business, how can we manage fatigue detection and mitigation?
Why is fatigue a problem?
At its simplest, fatigue is defined as physical or mental exhaustion. Anything can cause fatigue – from lack of sleep to trying to complete too much during a given day. Regardless of the causes, when the body and mind are both exhausted, things such as situational awareness, reaction time, and concentration are all affected. According to the CDC, driving or operating heavy equipment after not sleeping for 18 hours is roughly equivalent to a blood alcohol content of 0.05%. Increase that time to 24 hours and the effects are equal to a BAC of 0.10%.
If a breathalyzer could read fatigue like it can alcohol, that would put you above the legal limit anywhere in the United States. If you have a drink after work, the effects of that alcohol will be increased because of your already existing exhaustion.
When you add heavy equipment to the mix, no matter the industry, this fatigue could lead to accidents or even fatalities on the jobsite.
Causes of fatigue in industrial settings
Any number of things can cause fatigue in the workplace, including but not limited to:
Employees experiencing insomnia or other sleep interruptions due to stress or illness.
Long shifts with insufficient time to recover in between.
Lots of overtime or working more than 50 hours a week.
Overworked employees trying to make up for business stress linked to a shrinking labor pool.
Unhealthy eating habits.
Chronic health conditions.
Drug and alcohol use or substance abuse disorders.
Tasks that require high levels of concentration.
Repetitive or mundane tasks.
Environmental conditions such as extreme heat or cold.
Overnight work hours.
Physically demanding tasks.
An unhealthy work/life balance.
Even with all of these possible options, this is by no means an exhaustive list. The problem isn't only in the source of the fatigue, but in what we can do to detect when an employee might be fatigued on the job, and what we can do to mitigate the risks that this fatigue might cause.
Employing fatigue detection
The first step toward managing the risks that fatigue in the workplace presents is in determining when someone is fatigued. Most people, especially those who may be concerned about their position within a company, aren't going to complain about fatigue, even if they're exhausted. The CDC recommends adopting fatigue monitoring and detection technologies (FMDT) to help protect people on jobsites from fatigue-related risks.
The CDC's suggested roll-out plan includes seven steps. Start by defining the plan's objective, whether that is to reduce fatigue on jobsites or prevent fatigue-related incidents from putting employees at risk. Regardless of the details of the objective, it will provide the foundation for your fatigue management program.
Next, work to develop a policy that outlines how fatigue detection devices will be used, who is expected to wear them, and when they're expected to be worn. You will also need to establish a policy that outlines what data is collected, how it will be stored, and what steps you'll take to protect the privacy of those involved.
Next, schedule a pilot program — a test run for your FMDT system to see what works, what doesn't, and what needs changes. Gather feedback from your team. They're the ones who will be using the technology most, so they're the ones who should be consulted when you're trying to tweak your program into something that meshes seamlessly with your existing policies.
Once the pilot program is over, inform your team of the new policies, train your supervisors and safety professionals, and roll out the fatigue detection plan. Finally, make sure you're evaluating your program frequently to ensure it is still working well and doesn't need any major alterations to improve its function.
Mitigation on the landscaping site
While monitoring is critical, there are also a few management tactics and technologies that can help keep workers safe on the job.
Some equipment manufacturers include safeguards to try to prevent fatigue, and systems to help keep operators focused and comfortable. Making sure heavy equipment operators are sharp minded can do wonders for jobsite safety.
All workers can benefit from strong policies on working conditions, including regular breaks and smart shift scheduling to keep landscapers from being too worn out on the job. Putting health at the front of mind can make sure work gets done without sacrificing a worker's mental or physical ability to stay awake and focused.
Fatigue feels like an unavoidable part of the modern adult experience, but it doesn't have to be — and in situations where it could put people at risk, it should be avoided at all costs. Fatigue detection and mitigation is just one piece of the puzzle, but in an industrial setting where fatigue in the workplace can be fatal, it is an essential piece. Other solutions, such as fostering a healthy work/life balance or ensuring employees have sufficient time to recover after a long shift, can also help ensure people are alert and awake while they're on the job.
Evelyn Long is a writer and editor focused on home building and construction. She is the co-founder of Renovated, a web magazine for the home industry.
Equip Exposition to celebrate 40th anniversary with 2023 show
Making the Most of Your 2023 PPE Budget
Performance Marketing in a Traditional Industry
Multifamily Buildings Have Unique Landscaping Needs


text:
Q: Link from Wordpress site to Buddypress Profile I try to link from the Wordpress Page Editor to the Buddypress Profile.
I installed 'Insert PHP v1.2' to use php, but i still dont get it. Actually I do the following steps in my Wordpress page:
[kleo_h3]Füge weitere [kleo_colored_text color="#F00056"]Fotos [/kleo_colored_text]zu deinem Profil hinzu.[/kleo_h3]
[rtmedia_uploader]
[insert_php]
&var = bp_loggedin_user_domain();
echo do_shortcode('[kleo_button url=&var style="standard" size="small" round="round" icon="{fontawesome-icon,after" target="_self"] Profil [/kleo_button]');
[/insert_php]
But the programm crahes. How I get that URL into the shortcode?

A: Got it finally:
[kleo_h3]Füge weitere [kleo_colored_text color="#F00056"]Fotos [/kleo_colored_text]zu deinem Profil hinzu.[/kleo_h3]
[rtmedia_uploader]
[insert_php]
//$var =bp_core_get_userlink( bp_loggedin_user_id());
$id= bp_loggedin_user_id();
$name = bp_core_get_user_displayname($id);
$url = site_url()."/members/$name";
echo do_shortcode('[kleo_button url='.$url.' style="standard" size="small" round="round" icon="{fontawesome-icon,after" target="_self"] Profil [/kleo_button]');
[/insert_php]

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


text:
Q: Azure Management API produces 403 error I'm trying to use the Azure Management API to get metrics data.  However it is throwing a 403 exception.  Does anyone have any idea why this code wouldn't work?  I feel this code is pretty simple and is based on the MSDN article but still throws a 403.  Any help is greatly appreciated!
    private string GetAccessToken()
    {
        var authenticationContext = new AuthenticationContext(string.Format("https://login.windows.net/{0}", TenantID));
        var credential = new ClientCredential(clientId: AppID, clientSecret: SecretKey);
        var result = authenticationContext.AcquireToken(resource: "https://management.core.windows.net/",
            clientCredential: credential);

        if (result == null)
        {
            throw new InvalidOperationException("Failed to obtain the JWT token");
        }

        string token = result.AccessToken;
        return token;
    }

...
        using (var client = new HttpClient())
        {
            string header = GetAccessToken();

            client.DefaultRequestHeaders.Authorization = new AuthenticationHeaderValue(
    "Bearer", header

    );

            if (! resourceID.StartsWith("/"))
            {
                resourceID = "/" + resourceID;
            }

            string url = "https://management.azure.com" + resourceID +
                "/providers/microsoft.insights/metricdefinitions?api-version=2016-03-01";
            var response = client.GetStringAsync(url).Result;

            return response;
        }

A: Please have a try to create the service principal and assign the corresponding role to the service principal. We can create it easily using PowerShell. More Info about how to get access token please refer to the article.
New-AzureRmADServicePrincipal -ApplicationId $app.ApplicationId

New-AzureRmRoleAssignment -RoleDefinitionName Contributor -ServicePrincipalName $app.ApplicationId.Guid

As I have no metricdefinitions info in the resource, when I try to get metric info then I get 404 error. While I try another API /providers/microsoft.insights/alertrules?api-version=2016-03-01 . It works correctly for me.


Link Motion Announces Strategic Partnership with AutoNavi for its Smart Ride Business | Link Motion Inc.
BEIJING, July 24, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Link Motion Inc., (NYSE: LKM), a leading smart car and smart ride company, has formed a new strategic partnership with AutoNavi Software Co., Ltd., a leading digital mapping, navigation and location service solutions provider in China and a subsidiary of e-commerce conglomerate Alibaba Group (NYSE: BABA).
Pursuant to the terms of the agreements that have been executed establishing the strategic relationship, AutoNavi will guide riders directly from its popular mapping application to Link Motion's smart ride service in all of Link Motion's operational markets and locations. In addition, Link Motion will utilize AutoNavi's leading mapping and navigation solutions and services in its smart ride business and applications.
"As we prepare for the commercial rollout of our Smart Ride business scheduled for this summer, we recognize AutoNavi as a key partner," said Duo Tang, executive vice president and head of Link Motion's Smart Ride Business. "We will rely on their best-in-class mapping and navigation services as a key technology solution for our smart ride platform, and we believe the significant order flow that could be generated directly through integration with their mapping application could be of paramount importance to rapidly securing a large user base. We look forward to further strengthening our strategic partnership with AutoNavi and announcing further initiatives with them in the near future," concluded Tang.
"Link Motion's innovative smart ride concept is a natural fit for AutoNavi users, who are accustomed to seamless and best-in-class transportation and mapping solutions," said Mr. Curtis Tong, General Manager of AutoNavi's Open Platform. "As active technology leaders in the transportation space, we believe that our mapping solutions are highly synergistic with Link Motion's smart ride service.
"Cars are an environment, where individuals spend a significant amount of time, and which through connectivity can become an important part of life. We believe there are many high-value opportunities for cooperation with an industry thought leader like Link Motion, and look forward to a strong working relationship going forward," concluded Mr. Tong.
AutoNavi is a leading provider of digital mapping content, navigation, and location service solutions provider. Since its inception in 2002 and after 16 of development, AutoNavi has accumulated leading technology, built a high barrier for the entire mapping industry, and become an industry leader in the development of other related businesses. In April 2014, the Company was acquired by Alibaba Group, a leading e-commerce conglomerate (NYSE : BABA). AutoNavi's business capabilities cover the entire industry ecosystem of mobile maps, navigation and transportation including the data, software, cloud service, open platforms, tourism service, information service, and auto navigation market.


text:
Saybrook Manor is een plaats (census-designated place) in de Amerikaanse staat Connecticut, en valt bestuurlijk gezien onder Middlesex County.

Demografie
Bij de volkstelling in 2000 werd het aantal inwoners vastgesteld op 1133.

Geografie
Volgens het United States Census Bureau beslaat de plaats een oppervlakte van
2,5 km², waarvan 2,0 km² land en 0,5 km² water.

Plaatsen in de nabije omgeving
De onderstaande figuur toont nabijgelegen 'incorporated' en 'census-designated' plaatsen in een straal van 16 km rond Saybrook Manor.

Externe link

Plaats in Connecticut

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


text:
Posted on May 22, 2015 May 17, 2017 by Mary Wade
23 Appropriate Books to Challenge Young Readers
Has your young student's reading level exceeded their grade level? Having trouble finding texts that are challenging but still age-appropriate? We're here to help you find that "just right" book. Below are 23 texts with upper grade difficulty, but lower grade interest and appropriateness. (Fountas-Pinnell Levels Q-U, interest grades 1-3).
Cabin Creek Mysteries: The Clue at the Bottom of the Lake, by Kristiana Gregory, Level Q
Brothers Jeff and David and their cousin Claire are certain they've witnessed a crime-cover-up when they see someone dump a large sack into the lake at 2:30 am. Once they manage to fish it out, they quickly discover that they may have hooked more than they bargained for. This series of high adventure outdoor mysteries will have your reader on the edge of their seats. Others include The Blizzard on Blue Mountain, The Legend of Skull Cliff, and The Haunting of Hillside School.
Charge of the Triceratops, by Rex Stone, Level Q
In this second book in the Dinosaur Cove series, Tom and Jamie return to the age of the dinosaurs by stepping onto fossilized footprints to map out their discoveries. They quickly come face to face with danger, and must decide how they'll survive and get back home!
Little House in the Big Woods, by Laura Ingalls Wilder, Level Q
What childhood would be complete without living in the frontier life through Laura Ingall's eyes? Students will vicariously churn butter, curl up on the cabin hearth, make maple syrup, and more.
Dancing the Seas, by Ben M. Baglio, Level Q
Dolphin-lovers will love joining Jody McGrath and her family on their year-long scientific voyage called "Dolphin Universe." As they work with some dolphin-friendly tuna fishers in the Polynesian Marquesas Islands, they run into trouble, and it will be up to Jody to help save their friends–human and dolphin alike.
Fourth Grade Rats, by Jerry Spinelli, Level Q
Suds has always loved school, but now that he's in fourth grade, his best friend, Joey, has decided to be a trouble-making rat. Suds doesn't know about joining in his friend's antics, and finds himself facing a new set of problems with the new year.
Mr. Popper's Penguins, by Richard Atwater, Level Q
Mr. Popper lives a simple painter's life–until he brings home a penguin. As their home is adapted to meet their Antarctic friends' needs, and as the penguins multiply, humorous strain is placed on the suburban home.
The Fantastic Secret of Owen Jester, by Barbara O'Connor, Level R
Owen faces a set of problems that a lot of kids can relate to–moving away, his dad losing his job, and avoiding the nosy next-door neighbor. But not every kid runs into a real submarine dropped off a train.
Charlotte's Web, by E.B. White, Level R
The charm of this classic, heartwarming tale of goes deeper even than the enchanting tale of Fern, Wilbur, and Charlotte. It's about their genuine loyalty, friendship, and love, woven in ways that children and adults alike will never forget.
The Family Under the Bridge, by Natalie Savage Carson, Level R
Armand is a Parisian hobo who loves the simple life, pushing all his possessions in a baby buggy and sleeping under bridges. When a homeless family show up under the bridge just before Christmas, something inside begins to change.
Pride of the Green Mountains, by Carin Greenberg, Level R
Anyone who has experienced the close bond shared between pet and owner will be captivated by the story of Rosalie and her horse, Major. It's 1864, and with Rosalie's father fighting for the North, her mother is trying to make ends meet–and it looks like selling Major is the only way to help the family survive.
Twice Upon a Time Series Sleeping Beauty: The One Who Took the Really Long Nap, by Wendy Mass, Level S
Listen to both sides of the tale of Sleeping Beauty as the chapters hilariously alternate between Princess Rose's story and the Prince's story. Young readers will be thrilled with all the extra details Wendy Mass weaves into plot, characters, and setting.
Muggie Maggie, by Beverly Cleary, Level S
Maggie is just fine with print handwriting, thank you very much. But when she becomes the class mail messenger–and carries notes that are exclusively written in cursive–she starts to wonder if there's something to the cursive after all. Beverly Cleary brings to life real kid humor and predicaments yet again with Muggie Maggie.
From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler, by E. L. Konigsburg, Level S
Tired of all the injustices of her suburban life and chores, Claudia decides to run away to the city–specifically, the Metropolitan Museum of Art. As she and her brother Jamie adapt to their new way of life, they discover a mystery of a statue that just might have been sculpted by Michelangelo himself.
Matilda, by Roald Dahl, Level S
Matilda doesn't seem to fit in with her family–not her book-hating father, not her bingo-obsessed mother, and not with her television-junkie brother. Though, given the fact that she was checking out Dickens' Great Expectations from the time she was four years old, she definitely isn't exactly normal. And her exceptionality becomes even more pronounced when she discovers she possesses some unusual powers.
The Borrowers, by Mary Norton, Level S
The Clock family lives in the floorboards of a human house, quietly borrowing and minding their own business. Restless with the quiet life of scampering, Arrietty dares to befriend the human boy who spied her father, Pod. This is a serious oldie but goodie, complete with some good old-fashioned British language.
The Curse of King Tut's Mummy, by Kathleen Weidner Zoehfeld, Level T
Studying the ancient Egyptian pharaohs has always been tremendously meaningful for Howard Carter. But when he makes the ultimate discovery of King Tut's remains, he can't help but wonder about the rumors of curses. Students will love the true story of one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of all time.
The Children of Green Knowe, by L. M. Boston, Level T
Ever since his mother died, Toseland has been living at his boarding school. But now, his Great-Grandmother Oldknow has sent for her grandson to live with her at Green Knowe. He enjoys his new life there, but he starts to notice that Granny's stories of the children that have lived at Green Knowe come with strange apparitions.
The Magician's Nephew, by C.S. Lewis, Level T
The Magician's Nephew is the first of the Chronicles of Narnia series. Filled with curious children, magic, treachery, and fantastical new worlds, it may be one of the most overlooked masterpieces of the series, as it often gets overshadowed by book #2, The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe. (Note: The other books in the series may vary up to level W).
A Pizza the Size of the Sun, by Jack Prelutsky, Level U
Eyeballs for sale, a spaghetti farm, an eternal poem–this collection of poems will provide hours of giggles and silliness.
Thumbelina, Tiny Runaway Bride, by Barbara Ensor, Level U
Barbara Ensor's retelling of the story of Thumbelina, complete with silhouette cut-out illustrations, brings to light a spunky side of the tiny girl we've never known before.
Stay! Keeper's Story, by Lois Lowry, Level U
Kids will love this poetry-writing, witty canine, with the story uniquely written from his perspective as he tries to find his family. This is exceptionally challenging and enjoyable for students with advanced vocabularies.
Flora & Ulysses: The Illuminated Adventures, by Kate DiCamillo, Level U
When 10 year-old Flora discovers her superhero poetry-writing squirrel friend, Ulysses, neither of them realize the extent of his life-saving abilities! Kids are guaranteed to laugh, wonder, and exclaim, "Holy bagumba," as they follow their adventure!
Ella Enchanted, by Gail Carson Levine, Level V
If students think they know this Gail Carson Levine story from watching the movie, they will be surprised with this read! Ella is under a curse of obedience–but that makes her anything but docile. Kids will love watching this headstrong and courageous character's journey as she tries to break her spell amid fantastical creatures including fairies, elves, giants, ogres, and more!
Featured Image: Sharon and Nikki McCutcheon
Categories#BookLove, Curriculum Resources Tagsbook review, books, elementary, engaging with students, reading, resources, suggestions
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Gluten sensitive? Not a problem. Healthy never tasted this gooood.
Our gluten-free counterpart to our best-selling, absolutely delicious, melts-in-your-mouth Vegan Dark Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies. When heated, these Super Cookies are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Super awesome, delicious cookies that will rock your world without the gluten, dairy milk, butter, eggs, and refined sugar (How awesome is that?).
Plant-based. Proudly locally made. 100% Super.
Gluten-free. Casein-free. Vegan. Dairy-free. Egg-free. Refined sugar-free.
...while suprisingly giving you that same delicious chocolate chip cookie experience.
* Photos & actual may vary.
Sorghum flour, red or brown rice flour, coconut sugar, Belgian dark chocolate chips, walnuts, cassava starch, potato starch, coconut oil, soy milk, vanilla extract, baking soda, xanthan gum, sea salt.
Original: Made with whole wheat flour. Soft and chewy.
Gluten-Free: Made without wheat flour (which gives you that stretchy, chewy texture). Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside when heated.
Shelf Life & Storage Store at room temperature for up to 5 days after production date at the bottom of the pack. Best if refrigerated and toasted for 2 minutes to enjoy warm cookies that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months, just defrost and toast before serving. Enjoy!
To ensure freshness, we don't deliver on weekends or the day before a holiday to avoid long idle time of the product with our courier or in closed offices. If an order is paid on a weekend (Friday, Saturday, or Sunday), we will ship this out on Monday, to arrive the next day, Tuesday. Please note that if you are ordering other products, they will be shipped together with the cookies.
You deserve only the freshest batch!


Don't give away sensitive information, valuable corporate trade secrets, business plans, personal files and letters, or traces of Internet or newsgroup activity with the old computers that you or your company resells, donates, reassigns to different departments or removes from operation. Deleting all the files or even formatting the hard disk is not enough to stop people to restore information using basic recovery programs. East-Tec DisposeSecure 2006 however removes all traces of data from the computer hard disk, by overwriting and destroying beyond recovery every sector and bit of information. Data is removed according to U.S. Department of Defense standards or custom user security levels. East-Tec DisposeSecure 2006 can be operated from a floppy disk, CD or DVD to sanitize any drive or partition from the computer, regardless of the file system or the operating system. Whether you want to prevent identity theft, protect your privacy or stop competitors from stealing your sensitive information, East-Tec DisposeSecure 2006 offers the solution.


Leyshon Resources has announced that its wholly owned subsidiary Pacific Asia Petroleum Limited (PAPL) has completed the drilling and wire line logging of the ZJS5 well. The well was drilled without safety incident by Great Wall drilling Company to total a depth of 2,155 meters, then wire line logged and side wall core samples taken by contractor China Oilfield Services Limited.
The analysis of the logs and samples is ongoing however initial results have indicated that about 56.4 metres pay intervals have been encountered. In particular, around 30.8 metres of the 56.4 metres have exhibited relative high porosity measurements which indicate that these zones could have the potential to flow gas at commercial rates. Following the open hole logging program, a production casing string has been installed which will allow multiple opportunities to conduct flow tests on the potential pay zones. Management expects to conclude testing the first of the potential pay zones by the end of the year.
The second well in the program, ZJS6, is expected to spud shortly with well completion scheduled towards the end of the year. Both wells are located within approx. 10 kms of a tie-in point on the recently commissioned Lin-Lin pipeline which supplies the growing demand in Shanxi Province where well head contracts have recently been struck in the US$ 6 - 7.5 per mscf range.
PAPL has a 100% interest in the exploration phase of the Production Sharing Contract (PSC) with PetroChina, which has the right to buy back a 40% interest at the development stage.
The Company has A$ 47 million in cash and 249 million ordinary shares on issue (approximately A$ 19 cents per share and 12 pence per share). It has recently purchased 1.9 million shares at an average price of A$17 cents per share and has a further 17 million shares available to be purchased in the current on-market share buy-back up to September 2013. The cash position does not take into account interest due or liabilities for the first well.


ACREAGE, VERSATILITY, EAST OF ROUTE 1! Bring your vision to 4+acres in a prime Lewes location! Amazing venue delivers spacious, welcoming 4-bedroom farmhouse with expansive wraparound front porch ~ great for al fresco dining, morning coffee and lively happy hours. Currently self-sustaining with garden beds, a barn with stalls, pond, and more, property offers unlimited potential for your enjoyment - and business and recreational ideas. Consider a B&B with space for entertaining; yoga studio and wellness retreat with nature and fitness trails...you decide! Tons of potential for your own party destination, even room for a pool and tennis courts, with both privacy and proximity to the best of coastal life! Enjoy easy access to the beach, downtown Lewes shops and restaurants, and the bike trails to Cape Henlopen State Park and Rehoboth Beach. Explore the possibilities today!
Exclusions Certain Plants; Garden Ornaments.


text:
Admiral Golovko is a  of the Russian Navy. She is the first ship in the class to be equipped with domestic powerplant, rather than imported from Ukraine.

Design
The Admiral Gorshkov class is the successor to the  and  frigates. Unlike their Soviet-era predecessors, the new ships are designed for multiple roles. They are to be capable to execute long-range strikes, conduct anti-submarine warfare and to carry out escort missions.

Construction and career
Admiral Golovko was laid down on 1 February 2012, and launched on 22 May 2020 by Severnaya Verf in Saint Petersburg. She is scheduled to be commissioned in 2022.

It was reported that Admiral Golovko would be the first Russian surface ship to be armed with Tsirkon hypersonic missiles, but the Russian frigate Admiral Gorshkov and first of the class was the first ship armed with Tsirkon hypersonic missiles. She was expected to be deployed with the Northern Fleet once commissioned.

On 26 November 2022, Admiral Golovko went to sea for the first time and started factory sea trials.

References

2020 ships
Ships built at Severnaya Verf
Admiral Gorshkov-class frigates


text:
package usabilityimprover.streatgy;

import hostactivator.HostActivator;
import hostactivator.ISettingFelix;

import java.lang.reflect.InvocationTargetException;
import java.lang.reflect.Method;
import java.util.List;

import org.osgi.framework.Bundle;

import parameterobjects.objectclass.Streatgy;

public class StrategyFactory {
	private static Bundle bundle;

	static {
		bundle = HostActivator.getFelix();
	}

	public static Streatgy getStreatgy(Integer streatgyNum)
			throws NoSuchMethodException, SecurityException,
			IllegalAccessException, IllegalArgumentException,
			InvocationTargetException {
		if (streatgyNum.intValue() == 1) {

			Object tabView;

			tabView = getControlledObj(
					ISettingFelix.effectorService, "getTabView",
					null,null);
			System.out.println("StreatgyFactory : get tabview " + tabView.toString());

			Class[] parameterType = {List.class};
			Method method =  tabView.getClass().getDeclaredMethod("constructUITab",
					parameterType);

			return new Streatgy(method,tabView,streatgyNum.intValue());

		}
		return null;
	}

	public static Object getControlledObj(String serviceImplName,
			String methodgetName, Class[] parameterTypes,Object[] parameters)
					throws IllegalAccessException, IllegalArgumentException,
					InvocationTargetException {

		for (int i=0;i< bundle.getRegisteredServices().length;i++) {
			System.out.println("StreatgyFactory : in for length" +bundle.getRegisteredServices().length);
			Object service = bundle.getBundleContext().getService(bundle.getRegisteredServices()[i]);
			System.out.println("StreatgyFactory : service get"+service.getClass().getName());
			if (service.getClass().getName().equals(serviceImplName)) {
				System.out.println("StreatgyFactory : in if");
				try {
					Method serviceMethod = service.getClass()
							.getDeclaredMethod(methodgetName, parameterTypes);
					System.out.println("StreatgyFactory : get method" + serviceMethod.getName());

					return serviceMethod.invoke(service, parameters);

				} catch (NoSuchMethodException e) {
					e.printStackTrace();
				}
			}

		}

		return null;
	}

}

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


In 2009, Project Management Institute (PMI) Northern Nevada was founded with the help and support of PMI-SVC (Sacramento) and our local volunteers. Founded with the vision of providing advanced knowledge and skills of project management practitioners in the Reno Sparks area. This year we are celebrating 10 years of progress towards that vision, and we would like to invite you to be part of this celebration.
In addition to a special celebration, this anniversary dinner will feature Keynote Speaker: Michael Dietrich: The State of Nevada's Chief Information Officer (CIO) and Deputy Director of Administration. Prior to his 2018 appointment, Michael spent 25 years in the private sector, leading large product development and engineering organizations, as well as merger and acquisition technical integration activities for various companies to include Ericsson, Microsoft, and its subsidiary LinkedIn.
We hope you can join us to celebrate this important milestone.
The format is roundtable, relaxed with lots of discussion about real-life experiences in project management. The meeting is free, each attendee is responsible for their breakfast order.
PDU's: Attendees will qualify for one (1) PDU. - Please register for restaurant planning purposes.
Registration: Meeting registrations are posted on the top right corner of this home page.
The format is roundtable, relaxed with lots of discussion about real-life experiences in project management. The meeting is free, each attendee is responsible for their lunch order.
The Northern Nevada Chapter of the Project Management Institute (PMI) is composed of members from many industries who share a common goal to implement project management skills, tools, and techniques to their work activities. The Chapter meets several times each month to allow members to socialize, network, and share information. The Chapter sponsors training to help members achieve and retain their certification as a Project Management Professional. Network virtually with fellow project managers can be done on our LinkedIn group. See the LinkedIn icon at the bottom right of this screen. We also offer access to MindEdge's online project management classes.
To learn more and how to join the Northern Nevada Chapter click here.


Our business networking and communication skills workshop is perfect for anyone who wants to become more effective before, during and after networking events, feel more confident when networking and get more business through networking.
This workshop will be delivered by two coaches including famous and successful opera singer Katerina Mina. The session is designed to last 3 hours and will be followed by networking drinks starting at 5.30pm. Access to the networking event is included in the ticket fee along with the first drink.
British opera singer and voice coach, Katerina Mina talks about voice production and introduces specific breathing techniques and vocal exercises in relation to speech therapy, to help you present yourself in public using the natural tone of your voice, projected with certain confidence and charm.
French entrepreneur and networking coach, Victoria Salem focuses on networking techniques and how to build a strong network. Victoria has run networking events for years and helps you develop successful relationships with others, both online and offline, and helps you raise your profile and create new opportunities through networking.


You throw a party (any excuse will do – birthday, Christmas, Thanksgiving …or just for the fun of it!).
You make a movie at the party (but not just any old movie – cute family shots just don't cut it any more – we're talking real movies here…!) based on a great Movie Parties script.
After a well-earned rest for some food, you watch the movie you've just made on your TV or computer. If you're lucky, the kids will only make you watch it six times…if you're unlucky…well, let's just say you'd better keep the rest of the evening free!
Peace breaks out all over the world and cures are discovered for all major diseases.
OK, so only steps 1-3 are directly covered by throwing a movie party, but hey, we can hope.
Find out more about how a movie party works.
Making a movie at a party? Is that it?! Sounds pretty straightforward, we know. But making a fun, original movie with a clear plot, great characters and cool special effects – a movie that covers the stuff you just know that kids love to do – is a truly memorable experience for everyone involved.
Put together a few kids, a great script, a camera and a few tricks of the trade, and pretty soon you'll have the next Hollywood blockbuster on your hands. Failing that, your kids and their friends will have had the best party they can remember!
Interested? Movie Parties scripts come as part of our great Party Packs.
Take a look at what other parents say about their movie party experience.


text:
Arts/Lifestyle
Brennan: NSA has poor record on answering phone
Added by Tom Brennan on August 18, 2013.
Saved under News & Commentary
By TOM BRENNAN
You have to wonder what the National Security Agency will do with the millions of phone calls it is tracking when it has such a poor record of listening when its own phone rings.
Take for instance the call from the Russians warning Washington that two American crackpots were meeting with Russian terrorist bad guys. The Russians said we might want to keep an eye on those two, the brothers Tsarnaev; they could be trouble.
The warning was ignored and the two Americans went on to bomb last spring's Boston Marathon, killing three people and injuring 264.
U.S. authorities blew off the Russians and blood spilled in Boston, marring a marathon that represents one of the nation's great traditional running events.
Dzhokar Tsarnaev, the brother who survived a gunfight with Boston police, said he and his late brother Tamerlan had bigger plans after Boston. They planned to go on to New York City, where they hoped to set off lethal explosions in Times Square.
And then take the case of the Army psychiatrist at Fort Hood, Texas, who was flagged by his fellow officers – and Army evaluators – as having a screw loose and potentially dangerous.
Nothing was done about Major Nidal Malik Hasan so in 2009 he pulled a pistol in a crowd of unarmed soldiers, shouted "Allahu Akbar" and opened fire. He killed 13 people and wounded more than 30 others.
Currently on trial for the murderous rampage, Hasan had ties to various terrorist groups. Just days after the shootings, it came out that a Joint Terrorism Task Force was aware of emails between Hasan and a cleric in Yemen considered a serious security risk.
Gives you a lot of confidence in the capabilities of our spy outfits, doesn't it? So why are they tracking millions of phone calls when real warnings fall in their lap and they don't take them seriously?
The battle between the City of Wasilla and Matanuska Electric Association brings up a sore subject in Anchorage.
MEA wants to string a high-voltage transmission line up the Parks Highway – with the requisite massive towers along the way – to carry electricity from a new power plant going online at Eklutna to connect with existing lines in Wasilla.
(The view of the mountains surrounding Wasilla is breathtaking, as long as you don't look down to the budding urban sprawl on the land below.)
The new lines themselves would impact the incredible mountain views along the Parks Highway, and the installation would involve erection of 80- to 100-foot towers to elevate the lines.
MEA General Manager Joe Griffith says eliminating the view damage by burying the lines would quadruple the project cost – boosting it from $10 million to $40 million.
That is a problem to ponder, and it reminds many Anchorage people of an unkept promise dating back 25 years or more. That's when the City of Anchorage promised residents that the overhead web-work of utility wires in older parts of the city would be buried.
It was to be done over a period of years as the municipal budget allowed.
Overhead telephone and electric wires are unavoidably ugly and mar the view of this city's incredible surroundings.
They are not generally a problem in newer parts of the city, where the rules for new subdivisions have long called for burying utility wires. (Though it has been so long since much housing construction went on here that young children ask their parents: "What are new subdivisions?")
But the city's promise was that overhead wires and cables in older parts of the city would gradually be undergrounded. In the quarter century or so since that promise was made only a few feet – if any – have been buried.
Instead the older parts of the city still have a network of wires dangling overhead, visible whenever you look up.
With municipal budgets growing ever tighter and production from the North Slope oilfields falling steadily – threatening future state revenues — it makes one wonder if that promise will ever be kept.
Those who track the economy say the state's finances are still in good shape, but unless Alaska's oil output is somehow rejuvenated the future looks rather unpromising.
Having ugly wires hanging over our heads could be the least of our problems.
Overheard in Washington:
President Barack Obama getting tough with Russian President Vladimir Putin: "Now, listen up, Vladimir. Sit up straight. Stop slouching. And sneering. And send that Snowden kid back here."
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These faces! Meet the team.
It takes a fun, passionate, dedicated group to promote and support the CREATION Health Employees lifestyle - meet your CREATION Health team. They're here to answer questions, inspire and motivate and are chock-full of resources - need to find an on-campus program? Find one of these faces, have a chat and get the ball rolling.


Microsoft has problems getting its stock price up where it thinks it belongs. Some analysts believe that the reason, in part, is that Google has introduced free substitutes for the Microsoft Office products. These substitutes are called Google Apps and include spreadsheet and word processing applications. The fear is that Google's advertising-supported free applications will force Microsoft to reduce prices on Office products where it enjoys a 70% gross margin. These fears are premature and probably overblown.
Google Apps is a long way from offering a true challenge to the Microsoft Office programs. They do now, and probably will for the long-term future, appeal only to small customers. By small customers, we mean customers who buy in very small quantities and account for less than 10% of the total market (see Basic Strategy Guide Step 2). The big buyers are likely to stay with Microsoft for a long time. If history is any guide, Microsoft will have to suffer reliability problems with its Office programs, failing its customers, before a low-end competitor is likely to gain much market share (see Basic Strategy Guide Step 7).
When, and if, it must respond, Microsoft has a number of options (see "Turmoil Below: Confronting Low End Competition" in the StrategyStreet/Tools/Perspectives section. One option is to duplicate exactly the Google business model. Microsoft would introduce a product with the same features as the Google Apps product. It would offer the product for free and rely on advertising to pay for the product. Given Microsoft's much longer experience with Office-type products, their features and reliability are likely to be easily as good as, and more likely much better than, Google Apps. If "free" is what the customer wants, and in return the customer is willing to put up with advertising and somewhat stripped features, reliability and convenience, Microsoft should be able to match Google with little problem. This would effectively end the Google challenge to Microsoft.
Will this hurt Microsoft's margins? It is unlikely, providing Microsoft does this soon. Microsoft could design a product specifically for smaller customers and use advertising to support it. These are customers that are not likely to buy the Microsoft Office product anyway. Or at least they wouldn't buy it for themselves. They may already use Office at work. Microsoft is probably on pretty sure footing, as long as it acts expeditiously.


It's a well-known fact that technology does not stand still, and the fantastic world of fine art is no different. As the result, the technique of creating paintings and large sculptures changes every year. However, among a great variety of traditional, modern, and antique items, there are several absolutely unique large art pieces that occupy a special place in the hearts of art lovers. Here is our top 5 list of the world's most interesting large sculptures!
This bronze outdoor sculpture installed in 1984 is actually a group of large sculptures that decorate Williams Square in Las Colinas, Irving, Texas. Created by Robert Glen as a memorial to the evolving culture in North America, it has become an epitome of the unfettered lifestyle, initiative, and drive inherent to Texas in its pioneer days. For today, this art installation represented by nine wild mustangs running through a watercourse is considered the largest equestrian outdoor sculpture in the world.
The Force of Nature is a series of bronze, aluminum, and stainless steel large sculptures located in the United States, England, Singapore, Monaco, and some other countries. It was created by the Italian artist Lorenzo Quinn, who had witnessed for himself the destruction caused by hurricanes in the Southern U.S. and Thailand. Each outdoor sculpture from this series represents Mother Nature pivoting planet earth around with a piece of cloth. Such a furious and powerful image is another reminder of the false sense of security people hold towards the power of nature.
This art installation created by Dennis Oppenheim in 2005 is definitely one of the most unusual sights of Vancouver, Canada. It represents two 30-feet diamond engagement rings made of aluminum, stainless steel, and translucent plexiglass boxes. Such a fantastic illuminated outdoor sculpture, as well as its variations located in Nevada, California, Finland, and Austria, symbolizes the power of love and the strength of marriage.
This impressive outdoor sculpture created by Marco Cianfanelli to honor South African politician Nelson Mandela is placed near the town of Howick, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The beauty of this art installation consisting of 50 laser-cut stainless steel columns cannot be seen at a glance. However, if you look at it from the right angle, you will see a profile portrait of Mandela. It's interesting that this piece of modern large sculptures is positioned close to the spot on the road where this great man was captured in 1962.
The last on our list of the most interesting large sculptures in the world is the De Vaartkapoen statue created by the talented Belgian artist Tom Frantzen in 1985. Such a humorous outdoor sculpture of a toppling policeman illustrates famous cartoon serial about Quick and Flupke. Located in Molenbeek, Belgium, this unusual and a little bit childlike piece of art represents an idea of overthrowing authority.