Dr Koshy Kurien Best Doctor EVER!
My big news is that I now have a new blue sportier model cast that is light weight, handles well, easy to maneuver over obstacles, and I can now bend my knee!!!!!! Yay. I still can't put any weight on it, maybe in two weeks, and I will still have to wear this new cast for 5 more weeks so that's a bummer but hey, I can bend! and most importantly my bones are healing very well. When the cast came off I thought there would be a huge bump but it is almost completely smooth. And the Xray according to the doctor is very good!
Also Colin is doing really good, he has avoided the stomach virus and he is still having a great time with the monks and chasing monkeys, Flying kites and he is climbing trees like crazy, I love it, he hasn't really spent a lot of time doing that and it is one of the monks favorite things to do ( poor trees) I am so happy he is having fun outside! We also have school 5 days a week unless we need to go somewhere. And he is doing really good with his studies. He is finally settling in which will make the rest of our time here much easier!
So glad your doing better! Love the photos.
Thank you so much David! and I am so glad you are enjoying the pictures!
Wonderful news about your leg! When I broke mine many, many years ago, the two months on crutches left me with amazing upper body strength -- a happy side benefit that I hope you're experiencing. How are you getting around? Crutches?


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1. A 69-year-old male presents with dyspnea on exertion. His medical history is notable for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, hypertension, and hyper-lipidemia. On exam, he has jugular venous distention and mild peripheral edema. His electrocardiogram shows normal sinus rhythm with normal voltage. Echocardiogram demonstrates severely increased wall thickness of both ventricles, biatrial enlargement, a trace pericardial effusion, and a restrictive filling pattern. The clinical concern is for cardiac amyloidosis. What is the next best test?
A. No further testing. The diagnosis is secure.
B. Serum free light chains to assess for light chain amyloidosis (AL).
C. SPECT study for transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTR).
D. Cardiac MRI for transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTR).
1. ANSWER: B. Amyloidosis is characterized by the deposition of misfolded proteins that aggregate into β-sheet fibrils. In the heart, amyloidosis can result from a plasma cell dyscrasia related to immunoglobulin light chains (AL) or from transthyretin (ATTR), which is further subdivided into wild-type and mutant forms. Wild-type ATTR, also referred to as senile systemic amyloidosis, typically affects white males with a median age of 70 and is often accompanied by bilateral carpal tunnel syndrome. In patients with mutant ATTR, heart failure typically develops at a similar age to wild-type ATTR. Even though the end result of cardiac amyloid deposits is a restrictive diastolic profile and heart failure, AL and ATTR are distinctly different in their initial presentation, diagnosis, and treatment. Therefore, in a patient with suspected cardiac amyloid, the investigation should begin with biochemical testing to identify a monoclonal protein in the blood or urine.
Falk RH. Diagnosis and management of the cardiac amyloidoses. Circulation. 2005;112:2047-2060.
Ruberg FL, Berk JL. Transthyretin (TTR) cardiac amyloidosis. Contemporary reviews in cardiovascular medicine. Circulation. 2012;126:1286-1300.
2. The above patient is eventually referred for SPECT testing. Which radiotracers can be used to diagnose cardiac amyloidosis?
2. ANSWER: D. Developed initially for bone imaging, 99mTc-phosphate derivatives also accumulate in the heart after an acute myocardial infarction. The radiotracer typically accumulates several days after an infarct, possibly related to calcium overloading of the mitochondria. Subsequently, 99mTc-DPD (technetium-3,3-diphosphono-1,2-propanodicarboxylic acid) and 99mTc-PYP (technetium pyrophosphate) have both been shown to accumulate in patients with cardiac amyloidosis. More recently, 99mTc-HDP (technetium-hydroxymethylene diphosphonate) has been similarly detected in patients with ATTR. In Europe, 99mTc-DPD is the predominant agent, but is not approved by the Federal Drug Administration. 99mTc-PYP is therefore most often used in the United States, and unfortunately, there are no studies that directly compare 99mTc-phosphate derivatives.
Glaudemans AWJM, van Rheenen RWJ, van den Berg MP, et al. Bone scintigraphy with 99mtech-netium-hydroxymethylene diphosphonate allows early diagnosis of cardiac involvement in patients with transthyretin-derived systemic amyloidosis. Amyloid. 2013;21:35-44.
Sobol SM, Brown JM, Bunker SR, et al. Noninvasive diagnosis of cardiac amyloidosis by technetium-99m-pyrophosphate myocardial scintigraphy. Am Heart J. 1982;103(4 Pt 1):563-565.
3. What is the primary reason for the early poor diagnostic performance of nuclear studies for cardiac amyloidosis?
A. 99mTc-phosphate derivatives were not available.
B. Diagnostic testing was performed only in patients with abnormal echocardiograms.
C. Early nuclear testing predated the era of routine typing of AL versus ATTR amyloidosis.
D. None of the above. Nuclear studies have always had an excellent performance for the diagnosis of cardiac amyloidosis.
3. ANSWER: C. Early studies using 99mTc-phosphate derivatives to diagnose cardiac amyloidosis were underwhelming, primarily because they were performed in an era before routine typing of AL versus ATTR amyloid. The predilection of 99mTc-DPD for ATTR was subsequently demonstrated, though the underlying mechanism remains poorly understood. Presumably, 99mTc-phosphate derivatives have a calcium-binding affinity for amyloid fibrils. Given the indolent course of ATTR compared to AL, the slower accumulation of fibrils in ATTR may be associated with increased calcium deposition.
As discussed, 99mTc-phosphate derivative have been available for decades (choice A). In addition, diagnostic testing for cardiac amyloidosis is usually performed in patients with abnormal echocardiograms (choice B), and it is unclear if the diagnostic performance would be as good in patients with normal echocardiograms who are presumably at an earlier stage of disease.
Falk RH, Lee VW, Rubinow A, et al. Sensitivity of technetium-99m-pyrophosphate scintigraphy in diagnosing cardiac amyloidosis. Am J Cardiol. 1983;51(5):826-830.
Kula RW, Engel WK, Line BR. Scanning for soft-tissue amyloid. Lancet. 1977;1(8002):92-93.
In general, visual scoring has a high positive and negative predictive value for ATTR in patients with suspected cardiac amyloidosis. Interestingly, the relative decrease in bone uptake on planar imaging in ATTR may not be entirely explained by competitive reduction in bone, but may also be attributed to extensive overlying soft tissue uptake, though this finding is typically better appreciated on SPECT-CT imaging.
Hutt DF, Quigley AM, Page J, et al. Utility and limitations of 3,3-diphosphono-1,2-propanodicarboxylic acid scintigraphy in systemic amyloidosis. Eur Heart J Cardiovas Imaging. 2014;15(11):1289-1298.
Perugini E, Guidalotti PL, Salvi F, et al. Noninvasive etiologic diagnosis of cardiac amyloidosis using 99mTc-3,3-diphosphono-1,2-propanodicarboxylic acid scintigraphy. J Am Coll Cardiol. 2005;46:1076-1084.
5. For this patient, a quantitative assessment is also performed by comparing counts over the heart to the contralateral chest (Fig. 7.2). The ratio of counts over the heart compared to the contralateral chest is 1.8. What is the diagnostic utility of this ratio?
A. A ratio < 1.5 is highly sensitive and specific for distinguishing ATTR from AL cardiac amyloid.
B. A ratio > 1.5 is highly sensitive and specific for distinguishing ATTR from AL cardiac amyloid.
C. A ratio > 1 has a high negative predictive value for AL cardiac amyloid.
D. A ratio > 1 has a high positive predictive value for AL cardiac amyloid.
5. ANSWER: B. Compatible with the hypothesis that AL fibrils may have less calcium, about a third to one-half of AL patients will have a positive 99mTc-phosphate scan, typically with a milder degree of tracer uptake. Given this overlap, in certain situations, a quantitative evaluation of uptake may improve the diagnostic yield for ATTR versus AL. In fact, by comparing counts over the heart to the contralateral chest, a ratio of >1.5 had nearly perfect sensitivity and specificity in distinguishing ATTR from AL. More recently, this ratio has also been shown to have prognosis significance.


Elbow Patch Cardigans – do we love them? | Do We Love It?
Elbow Patch Cardigans – do we love them?
But there they are – in my living room.
And while I still think they have absolutely zero redeeming qualities from a style-standpoint, they did an excellent job of keeping my calves and feet warm last winter. And for that I thank them.
I am especially digging that navy blue one and the gray wrap sweater.
And I mean over my dead body will you EVER find these on my feet. And if for some reason one of you decides to literally put them on my dead body as a joke, I will haunt you for all of eternity.
This entry was posted on Tuesday, November 1st, 2011 at 2:16 pm	and posted in Uncategorized.	You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed.


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You are here: Home / CEBU / Mactan Shrine – Mark of the Filipino's Bravery
Mactan Shrine – Mark of the Filipino's Bravery
March 17, 2017 By ChayaJane Leave a Comment
Mactan Shrine is one of the pride of the Mactan Island. Located in Barangay Mactan, Lapu-Lapu City, this has been one of the major tourist spots on the island who wants to take in a little breath of the island's history. From the airport, it would take approximately 10-15 minutes to get to the shrine.
Mactan Shrine History
Mactan shrine is said to be the place where the very first Filipino hero, Datu Lapu-Lapu, defeated the Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan in the Battle of Mactan.
The Portuguese explorer, Ferdinand Magellan, was successful in bringing in Christianity in Cebu. However, before he reaches the shore of Mactan Island, he was attacked and slain by Datu Lapu-Lapu and his men. Datu Lapu-Lapu was then the first Filipino to have repelled European aggression on April 27, 1521. The battle then was coined as the famous "battle of Mactan".
The Mactan Shrine
The shrine was built to honor Datu Lapu-Lapu's bravery against the Spaniards, led by Portuguese, Ferdinand Magellan.
Since Magellan's body was never found, they created a shrine for Magellan in the exact same place where he was said to be slain, honoring him as a great explorer. The memorial tower is made of coral stone and approximately 30-meters high. They call it Magellan's Marker.
The shrine also held a 20-meter bronze monument of Datu Lapu-Lapu carrying a sword and a shield, honoring his valor against the Spanish invaders.
The battle of Mactan was then portrayed by a mural painting inside the shrine, across the memorial tower of Magellan, hanging on the wall. The painting shows Datu Lapu-Lapu and his men fighting Magellan and his Christian soldiers.
There are also stalls that sell local trinkets and souvenirs. One of the products sold is capiz shell decors.Food stalls are also available. Visiting the shrine is free.
Every April, the island celebrates "Kadaugan sa Mactan" where there is a re-enactment of the Battle of Mactan and a lot more activities to make it more festive.
Location map of Mactan Shrine.
Filed Under: CEBU Tagged With: BATTLE OF MACTAN, CEBU TOURISM, CEBU TOURS, DATU LAPU-LAPU, FERDINAND MAGELLAN, LAPU-LAPU SHRINE, MACTAN HISTORY, MACTAN ISLAND, MACTAN SHRINE, MACTAN TOURS

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


From the popular web game "Kancolle", Yukikaze finally sets sail for new adventures on your shelf!
From the Japanese free-to-play online social card game "Kantai Collection" comes this great 1/7-scale PVC statue of Akagi.
There are 10 kinds to collect (9 types + 1 secret).
Aoshima presents a sweet 1/8 scale figure of Kongou from the popular moe military anime, Arpeggio of Blue Steel: Ars Nova.
Kantai Collection (KanColle) fans rejoice! We have a new KanColle figure featuring the lovely Japanese Cruiser Akitsushima!
From the popular anime about moe battleship girls KanColle, comes an exquisite figure of Japanese Aircraft Carrier Shokaku in her Kai Ni form.
From the popular anime about moe battleship girls KanColle, comes an exquisite figure of Japanese Aircraft Carrier Zuikaku in her Kai Ni form.
Here comes the refuelling ship Hayasui from "Kantai Collection -Kan Colle-".
From the popular anime about moe battleship girls KanColle, comes an exquisite figure of Takao Class Heavy Cruiser Maya in her Kai Ni form.
From the popular anime about moe battleship girls KanColle, comes an amazing figure of Mutsuki Class Destroyer Mutsuki in her Kai Ni form.
AOSHIMA is going to release this 1/8th scale figure of Izetta from Shuumatsu no Izetta a.k.a Izetta: The Last Witch .
The sultry Assassin of Red, Semiramis, from the amazing light novel and anime Fate/Apocrypha gets a new 1/8 scale figure from Aoshima and FunnyKnights.
Here's a kawaii figure of Sagiri Izumi from the popular anime and light novel series Ero Manga Sensei.
Aoshima and FunnyKnights presents a spectacular figure of Hikari Tsuneki from Seiren.
Here comes a striking figure of Kuma Class Torpedo Cruiser Kiso Kai Ni from "KanColle"!
Arsene from "Persona 5" debuts Aoshima's ACKS character figure kit lineup!
From "Girls' Frontline" comes a 1/7th scale figure of submachine gun Suomi KP-31!


La Villa Des Sens is a luxury holiday villa situated in Kerobokan, which is just off the trendy beach town of Seminyak and offers a spacious experience of Balinese luxury. The 3-bedroom holiday retreat has expansive grounds and tropical gardens, ideal for those who are traveling with children or simply are looking for a relaxing retreat while staying close to the best Seminyak has to offer. The villa affords you the quiet and tranquility, yet keeps you close to all the best spots in Seminyak!
The master suite is one of the most lavishly decorated rooms of the villa with a four-poster king-sized bed with wooden columns residing in the middle of the room. The traditional structure of the room itself adds an authentic Balinese touch to its décor with a wooden chest of drawers and a writing desk placed strategically.
The two guest bedrooms are housed in separate living pavilions and both of them open out to the swimming pool and gardens. Each room is furnished with king-sized beds and comes with a semi open-air private en-suite bathroom.
The three air-conditioned bedrooms are all include dressing room and populated with exotic plants in the bathrooms.
The gorgeous outdoors of La Villa Des Sens is a massive garden with tropical plants and trees, with a lavish and glistening swimming pool nestled in between. The beautiful pool with its cool waters is ideal for some fun and frolicking around with your loved ones and after you are sated with your refreshing swim, be sure to rest up on one of the many sun-loungers placed around the pool. The expansive grounds of the villa are the best way to play some games with your kids and your families, do some yoga, or simply walk around bare-foot on the freshly-cut green grass and enjoy your natural and breezy surroundings. An enormous traditional structure stands amidst the garden and foliage and lights up magnificently when the sun goes down. It is not only in the mornings and afternoons that you get to enjoy the beauty of Kerobokan; it is equally majestic when the evening rolls in.
The villa is made up on two main pavilions and a traditional Balinese joglo, and it is this joglo which houses the massive and opulent living area of La Villa Des Sens. The living room and the dining area are aesthetically pleasing and decorated with traditional accents and exotic artwork all around the walls and corners. The comfortable and cosy living space is furnished with plush couches and armchairs and some recliner chairs out front, from where you can take in the glorious view of the outdoor swimming pool and lawns. Just behind the sitting area lies a lavishly set-up wooden dining table which can comfortably seat up to 10 people, for making it convenient for guests. A fully-equipped modern kitchen is also accessible to the guests of La Villa Des Sens, fitted with the best amenities and appliances, if you wish to cook for your family and friends.
The staff at La Villa Des Sens is perceptive and hard-working, and they will cater to all your need without hesitation. You can approach the staff in case you require additional services for example, a baby sitter, a car for the day, to book a tea time at the nearby Nirwana Golf Club or simply a massage by the pool.
La Villa Des Sens is located right beside bustling Seminyak which gives you access to excellent restaurants such as Metis, Sardine and other places like the Oberoi 'eat-street'. If you want to head to the beach, Petitenget and Batu Belig beach are not far from the villa premises!
We've never stayed in a villa like this before; it's incredible! Such a beautiful setting, finished to a very high standard. We didn't want to leave. Service was brilliant, pool was a real treat and loads of space to lounge around and hangout with friends. Probably one of the most memorable weeks we've had. Highly recommended, Stephane and Marcia are super easy to communicate with too.
My wife and I just fell in love at first with the villa. It's modern yet has a Balinese traditional architecture, there is so much space indoors and outdoors, and most of the staff is extremely helpful, always with a smile on their face! We will definitely be back!
For the third time, a charm :-) Great location, great staff, great place ! We had a great time in Villa Des Sens, again, and can only recommend it !
When you don't want to leave, you know you're close to perfect place. Charm is every where in this villa ! The design, the garden, the orchids, the pool and even the staff is a ray of light on your daily relaxing activity. We felt at home and loved the place. We'll be back.
Villa was perfect. Stunning grounds & lovely stafff. Would highly recommend Villa Des Sens & would definitely stay there again. Many thanks to the villa staff.


Ticks vary in color by species. Adult ticks can be smaller than a sunflower seed (over 1 cm long if engorged with blood), while tick larvae can be less than 1 mm.
Females and males of most species feed on blood of mammals, birds and reptiles.
Various options are available depending on the level of outbreak. In some cases permanent lockable Ticks stations can be placed in areas of concern. Locations are noted for re-servicing. These stations are checked at the time scheduled pest treatments ,monthly during winter months, otherwise as required.


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Call for papers! Home matters: Meanings, metaphors and practices
By	Charlotta Järf	on	21.03.2018	in	Calls, Conferences
Helsinki Collegium for Advanced Studies, University of Helsinki, invites you to participate in debates at an international conference on new imaginaries and globalised inclusions and exclusions in practices of making home. The conference Home Matters: Meanings, metaphors and practices will be held 31 May – 1 June 2018 in Helsinki.
The conference will bring together new thinking about how home is imagined, practiced and experienced and consider the political and personal implications of particular ways of imagining home for different groups of people in different places.
You are invited to submit your abstracts of 300 words in English. Submit your abstract by 23 March 2018 by clicking this link and following the instructions.
The metaphor of home has long been overdetermined, burdened with symbolic meanings, emotion and experiences and understood through metaphorical meanings at multiple levels. It comprises both place and time and functions as a site of equilibrium, belonging, ontological security and nostalgic yearning. It is because this symbolic desirability remains a strong contemporary current that notions of home, at national and local levels is such a mobilising and emotional metaphor. Home matters because it impels both political and personal behaviour. Its very imprecision makes the metaphor powerful because it can be imagined in personal ways and experienced as collective. Yet, the apparent simplicity of the term masks more complex and multiple notions of home that include the unpleasant and unromantic where homes can function as sites of hatred, unhappiness, unequal power relations, compulsory heterosexuality, abuse and exclusion as well as inclusion for at least some members.
A major aim of the conference is to consider the multilevel imaginaries of home that lie at the heart of many of the dramatic political changes across the globe. In the Middle East, many African countries, Europe and the USA, struggles over who belongs and who should be excluded from particular nations, are justified by reference to nations as homes. The metaphor of nation as home and domestic has contradictory potential. It serves to justify nationalist exclusions of migrants from national identities and buttresses attempts to claim belonging on the basis of assumed similarities. At the same time that it serves to exclude some who have lived in a nation for a long time, it also authorises the welcoming of some new migrants 'home'. Papers in the conference will examine new imaginaries and globalised inclusions and exclusions in practices of making home.
A further aim is to consider new approaches to analysing the multiplicity and complexity of home and the centrality of the imaginary to practices that produce versions of home (Blunt and Dowling, 2006).
This conference will be interdisciplinary and include a range of different methods. Overall, the conference aims to bring together different imaginaries of home with a view to gaining new insights into how home is imagined, practiced and experienced. It will consider the political and personal implications of particular ways of imagining home for different groups of people. The empirical work and/or theorisation presented might include (but not be limited to) the following sites and issues:
• Why and when does home matter?
• Homes as dwellings including family homes and out-of-family care
• Making home in institutions including educational and employment institutions etc.
• Localities and national policies and institutions
• Transnational families
• Migration and refugees
• Belonging
• Imaginaries of family and nation
• Inclusions and exclusions from home
• Intergenerational imaginaries, complementarities and contestations
• Intersectional commonalities and differences
• Political claims to home
• Memory and temporalities—past, present, future & Being and Becoming
Co-organised by
Ann Phoenix, Jane & Aatos Erkko Professor, Helsinki Collegium for Advanced Studies and Professor of Psychosocial Studies, UCL, UK
Tuija Pulkkinen, Professor of Gender Studies, Director of Doctoral programme SKY. Faculty of Arts, University of Helsinki
Confirmed Invited Speakers
Professor Jill Bradbury, Wits University, JOHANNESBURG
Dr Casper Laing Ebensgaard, Queen Mary University, LONDON
Professor Julia Brannen, UCL, LONDON
Professor Ann-Dorte Christensen, Aalborg University, DENMARK
Professor Michelle Fine, CUNY, NEW YORK
Professor Helma Lutz, Frankfurt University
Professor Marjorie Faulstich Orellana, UCLA, LOS ANGELES
Dr Olivia Sheringham, Queen Mary University, LONDON
Professor Corinne Squire, UEL LONDON
Professor Nira Yuval-Davis
There is no registration fee. Conference venue: Helsinki Collegium for Advanced Studies, University of Helsinki, Finland
About the Author: Charlotta Järf is in charge of the communications and marketing activities for JustEd, The Nordic Centre of Excellence, an international research network with 14 partner universities in 8 countries. With ten years of professional experience in Communications and Marketing, and five years as a TV, radio and newspaper journalist, Charlotta has a practical set of skills in strategical communications, PR, social media, graphic design, video and content production. More from this author.
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Community Development & Planning
COVID-19 MRPC Small Business Assistance Grant Program
The purpose of this COVID-19 Relief Fund is to support small businesses impacted by COVID-19 crisis. Grants of $1,000 will be available to businesses that need access to funding due to hardship. Deadline September 30, 2020
Please click: https://www.mrpc.org/home/news/small-business-emergency-assistance-grant-sbagp-program for more information and the application. Please be sure to read thoroughly the eligibility requirements. Contact Glenn Eaton: geaton@mrpc.org or call 978-345-7676 X310
Economic Update on Coronavirus
The Baker-Polito Administration announced on March 18, 2020, that the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will offer low-interest federal disaster loans for working capital to Massachusetts small businesses suffering substantial economic injury as a result of the Coronavirus (COVID-19). The disaster declaration makes SBA assistance available following a request from Governor Charlie Baker on March 17, 2020.
The disaster declaration makes SBA assistance available in the entire state of Massachusetts; and the contiguous counties in neighboring states.
Small businesses, private non-profit organizations of any size, small agricultural cooperatives and small aquaculture enterprises that have been financially impacted as a direct result of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) since Jan. 31, 2020, may qualify for Economic Injury Disaster Loans of up to $2 million to help meet financial obligations and operating expenses which could have been met had the disaster not occurred. Eligibility for Economic Injury Disaster Loans is based on the financial impact of the Coronavirus (COVID-19). The interest rate is 3.75 percent for small businesses. The interest rate for private non-profit organizations is 2.75 percent. SBA offers loans with long-term repayments in order to keep payments affordable, up to a maximum of 30 years and are available to entities without the financial ability to offset the adverse impact without hardship.
Here are a few key links that will assist businesses in navigating the COVID-19 outbreak
Applicants may apply online, receive additional disaster assistance information and download applications at the SBA website.
Applicants may also call SBA's Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email SBA for more information on SBA disaster assistance.
Individuals who are deaf or hard‑of‑hearing may call (800) 877-8339. Completed applications should be mailed to U.S. Small Business Administration, Processing and Disbursement Center, 14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, TX 76155.
Any interested business needs to apply directly to the SBA.
https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/loans/coronavirus-relief-options
Businesses can learn more about the SBA's response to COVID-19 here.
SBA Express Bridge Loan Program
The Express Bridge Loan Program is available to businesses that have an existing business relationship with an SBA-approved lender; speak to your lender about accessing this option while you await a decision on long-term financing.
SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan Advance
The Economic Injury Disaster Loan Advance is a Loan Advance of $10,000 that is available to applicants who have been approved for an Economic Injury Disaster Loan; it does not need to be repaid, so you can think of the Advance as a grant for business expenses.
Visit the SBA's website to submit an application for the Economic Disaster Injury Loan and Loan Advance.
SBA Paycheck Protection Program (PPP)
The Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) is a loan program designed to provide a direct incentive for small businesses to keep workers on the payroll. Loans are up to $10M, with a 0.5% interest rate and a 2-year maturity; there are no payments for the first six months.
SBA Debt Relief
The SBA is also offering Debt Relief to small businesses. Under this relief, the SBA will pay the principal and interest for six months beginning March 27th, 2020 for qualifying new and current holders of 7(a) loans.
Executive Office of Labor & Workforce Development Resources
The Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development offers resources for businesses related to employee benefits and has a new resource page. Programs include:
The WorkShare program, a tool to help employers avoid layoffs during a downturn – read more about WorkShare.
The Rapid Response program, which works closely with companies to avert layoffs and keep a skilled workforce engaged in the existing regional economy or industry; read more about how the Rapid Response Team can help businesses.
Information regarding unemployment resources can be found here.
Maribel Cruz
Phone: 978-630-4074 ext. 1
City of Gardner - Manca Annex
115 Pleasant Street - Room 201
43D Priority Development Areas
Gardner Redevelopment Authority (GRA)
Industrial Site Study
Major Employers & Industries
PACE - Property Assessed Clean Energy
State & Federal Business Links
MA Department of Business Development
MA Economic Development Council
MA Online Services for Businesses
MA Small Business Development Center
Urban Renewal Plans
Business Service/Membership Organizations
Business Reopening Announcements


Gorgeous, relaxed deep comfortable outdoor sofas.
The Harris range of outdoor sofas and deep armchairs is defined by its organic shape, beautiful materials and craftsmanship.
Sink into the sofas, lie back and relax!
The sofas are made with an outdoor synthetic weave with detailing of the natural teak legs.
Seat and back cushions can be ordered separately for the Harris sofas.
The seat height of both sofas 33cm.
Back and seat cushions are available to order separately.


The roads to Glade Park and Pinon Mesa are an important part of the lives of residents. We have spent a lot of time driving on them, dealing with the physical conditions, and the issues surrounding them. It seems only fitting to dedicate a page to them.
We knew this would not go away, didn't we?
National Park status for CNM - Saga Continues.
In spite of a working group made up of all interested parties putting a lot of time an effort into studying the subject of whether the Colorado National Monument should be changed to a National Park, and recommending against it, the push goes on relentlessly. The politicians from both parties are involved. Now even the famous documentary film maker Ken Burns has weighed in for changing it to a National Park, saying he knows the people of the Western Slope very well. Have we met his acquaintance?
If you would like more information, or want to know what you can do to help out, here is a website to answer those questions.
The more than century-long intermittent effort to turn the Colorado National Monument into a national park moved forward Tuesday when U.S. Sen. Mark Udall, D-Colo., and Rep. Scott Tipton, R-Colo., unveiled a proposal that could lead to legislative action on the change this year.
"It is never too late," Udall said of the effort begun in 1907 by monument founder John Otto. "There is a broad cross section of western Colorado that still believes John Otto's vision was the correct vision."
The announcement of a "working group summary" kicks off a 90-day public-comment period.
The proposal, which Udall termed "a draft summary of a bill," is also guaranteed to revive controversy. The change from monument to park status has alternately been cast in the Grand Valley of western Colorado as economically beneficial; as if-it-ain't-broke-don't-fix-it tinkering; and as a ho-hum nonissue.
Former Colorado National Monument superintendent Joan Anzelmo, who got the ball rolling with Udall on park status, said she does not like the new proposed name. She had proposed Colorado Canyons National Park. "I think Colorado loses out if the name 'Colorado' is left out," she said.
Tipton issued a statement saying he has not drafted a bill calling for park status and that he wants the process to be "community driven and locally supported."
National Park status for CNM still being pushed.
For some time now a committee that includes Glade Park residents has been considering whether Colorado National Monument should become a National Park. It seems to primarily be a marketing scheme, so that more people will find out about it, and flock here, boosting the economy in the Grand Valley.
For the citizens of Glade Park it should be pretty obvious that it is likely to lead to a lowered quality of life. Travel through the CNM, which Glade Park is entitled to historically, and by a hard fought court battle, is not likely to get easier. More tourists mean more congestion. More cars, more bicyclists.
There is also the impact on Glade Park Volunteer Fire Department, which is a first responder for accidents in the CNM. It is already stretched to the breaking point by increased calls for emergency services as well as fire fighting. Although CNM has contributed equipment and support, there is no monetary compensation. Increased traffic in CNM will stretch the GPFD even more.
To some it might seem selfish to advocate for the self-interest of Glade Park on this issue. That might be true, unless GP interests are also tied to the best interests of Colorado National Monument. It seems that the present level of visitation is already stretching the capacity of this small park. Increased traffic will impact travel through CNM, wildlife, and trail use. Right now it is a well cared for jewel. Why make it into an over crowded, well beaten path?
It appears that this issue has generated more than regional interest. The New York Times recently posted a story on it.
Residents, many who grew up ranching the high mesas or exploring the monument's desolate canyons years ago, said the monument was special precisely because it was so easily overlooked by tourists bound for marquee national parks. Some said they worried about car crashes, fires, garbage and increased pollution. They worried that its boundaries would grow, pushing at their property lines.
Here is a spooky experience. A time lapse trip from Glade Park, down the Colorado National Monument. Whether you continue to Salt Lake City is up to you. Not sure who recorded it, and put it on YouTube, but "Brock 1912" might provide a clue.
"Fast Times at Colorado National Monument"
Today I discovered the blog of Colorado National Monument's new "transportation scholar." I do not know what a transportation scholar does, but it will be interesting to learn. With the past history one cannot help wondering how the information he collects will be used in future interactions with Glade Park.
A graduate student did some extensive research, and wrote a history of the interaction between Colorado National Monument and Glade Park residents. Although she editorializes at times, it is still the best source of information on this subject.
Due to the ongoing controversy, now on changing the status of CMN to a National Monument to bring more attention, visitors, and tourism dollars to the area, this document continues to have relevance.
Is "Thelma and Louise" to blame for this?
In case you have missed the flashing portable electronic billboard...and did not get handed a flier at the Colorado National Monument entrance gate. Think they are trying to tell us something? It is all about the wrecked mess left in Red Canyon by an apparently suicidal woman last fall. It was all so "Thelma and Louise," I makes you wonder if that unfortunate ending to an otherwise good movie may have led this poor woman to believe this would be a glorious way to end it all. It is not the first time movies have glorified ill conceived actions. As a previously blogged, it is a double tragedy when someone is both suicidal and bent on going out in a dramatic way that will cost thousands of dollars in clean up, not to mention some risk to the rescue and clean-up crews, inconvenience to commuters, and loss of access to tourists. How much money and man hours will the CNM have to spend on this mess, that could have been better directed toward their mission. That is a poor memorial to a life. New barriers have been installed along the road. Hopefully no one else will be inclined to subvert them to do another "Thelma and Louise."
On a separate occasion, a man intentionally drove his van into the canyon. Although he was suicidal, it was obviously not his time to go.
"Drug use, speeding, suicides plague National Monument," is the headline for the Daily Sentinel article about the challenges for Monument staff. If you have traveled that road after dark you have noticed the activity does not cease at sundown. It used to be mainly couples trying to find a find a romantic spot with a view of the city lights. But drinking and drug use have increased, including meth. Cold Shivers point is a hot spot for drug use, as well as suicidal people. Of course Glade Park commuters, and the trucks and vehicles that bring us goods and services, are discussed. It appears to be an unusual situation for a national park road to also be the feeder road for a community. But this interchange has been going on for a long time. (see Glade Park Library, "Classic Western Quarrel"). Be aware that they do have a radar gun now, and they issued 56 speeding tickets in 2006. If you do get a ticket you are dealing with the Feds. They also have some new signs on the way to address the interaction between motorists and cyclists. I will be glad to see that, if anyone pays attention to them. Why do drivers feel that they are entitled to go out around a cyclist wherever they encounter them, even when moving into the oncoming traffic lane on a blind corner? That is nuts. There is lots of food for thought in this article. Let's digest it, and think about what role we can play to improve things. The decision to move to Glade Park should include acceptance that we need to allow plenty of time for the commute. We have to be willing to share the road with sight-seers and cyclists. Take a deep breath and relax. Maybe that slow poke will keep you from getting a speeding ticket. And if you have a cell phone and notice suspicious activity at night, move on past it, then call it in. Glade Parkers can have a big impact on how safe that stretch of road is.


It's hard not to get excited about October's arrival. There's no better time for consuming copious amounts of dark, hoppy beer in tall glasses while wearing tall white socks with suspenders or frilly white jumper dresses. Oktoberfest, in case you were wondering, was founded by the Prince of Bavaria in 1810 as a way of celebrating his wedding engagement. Besides that, the coming month offers several very compelling culinary events whose proceeds go to charity, as well as an exciting lineup of chef seminars at NYC's Eataly, chicken dancing in Baltimore and a coffee crawl in Stumptown.
Oktoberfest kicks off at the Brooklyn Brewery October 1st with co-host Edible magazine. Theo Peck of Peck's and Nick Suarez of Backyard Cooking Company will be dishing up a Bavarian feast of bratwurst, pretzels, sauerkraut, pork belly and more. There will also be seasonal desserts and plenty of Brooklyn Brewery's finest.
Starting in September and throughout October, Manhattan brewery Paulaner is fest-ing with a special menu, live music, drink specials on Thursdays, and Oktoberfest party packages for your own private party.
In Los Angeles, check out the second annual All-Star Mixology Competition on October 1st at SKYBAR at Mondrian. California's elite mixologists will present drinks to a panel of judges from the media and hospitality industries, and a winner will be chosen. Guests will enjoy various cocktails as well as food provided by Herringbone. Proceeds will benefit the non-profit Covenant House California.
Chicago chefs will compete to make the most sumptuous macaroni and cheese on October 4th at the Mac and Cheese Fest. Entry includes all-you-can-eat plus drink tickets. There's a long list of participating restaurants, including Table Fifty-Two, Fatso's Last Stand, Chicago Q and oh so many more.
Get buzzed October 16-17 during the Portland Caffeine Crawl, which is more or less what it sounds like — buzz around the Stumptown drinking the most wonderful beverage ever made from a tree fruit. Each stop will include a short educational presentation and of course, a sampling.
All you lovers of fettucine, gnocchi, salami, and other Italian favorites: clear space on your calendar from October 9-12. New York City's Eataly will be bustling with action during Identitá Golose, an event that brings together prominent Italian and American chefs in a series of multi-course dinners and seminars. The series will kick off with chefs Lidia Bastianich & Rosanna Marziale, and you'll want to see what they're cooking.
Hey Charleston eaters! Get your tickets to the No Kid Hungry campaign dinner, featuring chef Anne Quatrano, host Steve Palmer of The Indigo Road Restaurant Group, chef Jeremiah Bacon of The Macintosh and Oak Steakhouse and special guest chefs cooking a multi-course meal. In addition, diners can contribute to the cause during the final days of September by eating at one of the thousands of Dine Out For No Kid Hungry's participating restaurants nationwide.
Baltimore's Oktoberfest takes place October 11, and features 150 local, domestic and international beers, wines and schnapps, plus sausages and other Bavarian fare. Feel like dansing? Live regional bands will perform polka and oompah numbers and chicken dancing. Chicken dancing!
Bloktoberfest, a free all-ages block party in Philly, is back for its sixth year. South Street will be taken over by craft breweries, food vendors and trucks and live music. The event is not-for-profit, and beer proceeds will be directed toward neighborhood initiatives.
Last but not least, New Yorkers, stop by the NYPL on October 1 for this free panel of chefs in conversation about the reality of chef life with Nach Waxman and Matt Sartwell of Kitchen Arts and Letters.


In the lead-up to the FIFA World Cup 2018, the bookmakers offer a variety of bets on the title winner, a number of team's points and their finishing position in the groups. The outright bets are becoming extremely popular nowadays and it is better to place them in advance. Certainly, a lot can change within next month, and we do not have enough information so far to make any bold assertions, but on the other hand, when such information becomes available, the odds can change and lose their value. Furthermore, let us not forget that such tournaments are always unpredictable and you still will not know about the players` readiness, coaches` plans or their strategy and tactics. You could have carefully analyzed the situation and teams` strength in 2004, but you could hardly imagine that the Greece national team will shockingly become the winner of the Euros! Now just try to remember what you were thinking when you analyzed Group D at the previous World Cup in 2014? Who will be the best in the quartet – England or Italy? Or, maybe, the first place will be sensationally occupied by Uruguay? Probably you have considered different options, but still could not imagine that Costa Rica would win the group stage, and Italians left in the basket, while England would be the last… Football is an unpredictable game, and at such tournament, as World Cup, sensations happen at every step along the way. That is why you should hardly expect that the more information you own, the better your bets will be.
The bookmakers, unlike you, do not look for sensation and do not try to predict it. And if after the first round, they will be able to estimate the teams` strength and offer 'correct odds' for the next games, then they offer World Cup Outright bets, building solely on the general and available information, such as latest results, number of star players, big-named head coach, past achievements in this tournament or just a FIFA rating. However, they leave no room for sensation! In their betting lines, you did not see Greece among the candidates for the title or Costa Rica as the winner of the group stage? In fact, the betting sites are rarely right in such cases, and their favourites do not win the group and do not win the title! If you are going to earn on World Cup 2018 Outright bets, then you need to think outside the box. Let us try to find nice bets on upcoming football festival in Russia!
Betting Tip: Group A. 3th place: Russia @ 3.80 with Bet now!
The Sky Blue should not have any problems with qualifying from group A, in fact, even the second place seems unlikely. The team has a convenient schedule – they can secure a ticket to the playoffs in the first two meetings, because Egypt and Saudi Arabia are the rivals that must be defeated. But even if Suarez and Co. will have some unforeseen difficulties, then in the last game, they can count on points against Russia and play with the hosts based on the situation in the standings. It is hard to believe that their rivals` defence could stop swift-footed Cavani and Suarez, while it is unnecessary to say that Uruguayans` head coach is a brilliant tactician, and Cherchesov or even experienced Cuper could not outwork him.
Betting Tip: Group A. 1th place: Uruguay @ 1.96 with Bet now!
Egypt is able to present surprises in Russia. The team has no star players except stunning Salah, but that did not stop them from becoming the second in Africa Cup of Nations in 2017. The Pharaohs under the leadership of Hector Cuper turned into a disciplined team that can punish any rival in counter-attack. Given that Saudi Arabia and Russia could use defensive tactic, then in the meetings of these teams draws or wins with a low score are possible, which probably makes the Egyptians favourite in games with such tactic. The Pharaohs begin a group stage against Uruguay and if they fail, they will have to play next game to win. It is quite possible to see their win over the Green Falcons and draw with Russia, so the chances of getting into the playoffs seem quite good, at least they are definitely above 30%, which offered by bookmakers.
Betting Tip: Group A. 2nd place: Egypt @ 3.40 Bet now!
The Green Falcons qualified for the World Cup, taking second place in their group after Japan and ahead of Australia due to better goal difference, while we have not seen good football from this team. Saudi Arabia is a clear outsider of Group A, which is likely to take the last place and bookmakers agree with that fact, because they estimate probability of this event as 80%. The Saudi Arabia has played in three World Cups (1998, 2002 and 2006), and predictably has been poorly handled with their task, losing seven of nine matches with a goal difference of 4-26. In 2002, they have lost all three games in the group stage and not scored a single goal. Given the strength of Uruguay and the fact that Russia and Egypt will play defensive football, Saudi Arabia probably will not score a single goal again. Mohammad Al-Sahlawi scored almost half of all the team's goals, so the Green Falcons` rivals will just need to "neutralize" this player.
– Saudi Arabia @ 10.00 with Bet now!
In 2016, Selecao became the triumphant of the European Championship, showing a very boring and pragmatic, but still effective football. It is difficult to judge about the prospects for the Portuguese, hardly the team will go far, but, of course, there should not be problems with getting to playoff! Cristiano and Co are obliged to take 6 points in matches with outsiders of the quartet and secured a second place. The schedule is convenient, because in the first meeting Selecao will cross the swords with arch-rival and favorite of Group B, Spain. More importantly, the weakest side (Iran) will be the last enemy and it is unlikely that the Portuguese will misfire in such a game. Of course, we can expect any surprises from Portugal, but it is unlikely that they will get three points against the Spaniards, which means, even in the case of draw in the first game and next two wins, they would need to have a better goal difference than Spain to become the first and given the manner playing of this team, it seems unlikely, so the second place is a bet!
Betting Tip: Group B Straight Forecasts – Spain / Portugal @ 2.00 with Bet now!
Overwhelming favourite of group and one of the title contenders should take first place in quartet B. When the best players of such clubs as Barcelona and Real Madrid are coming onto the field, it is hard to imagine opposition from Iranian or Moroccan footballers… The only challenge for Furia Roja will be Portugal, however, one game has apparently not effected chances of getting into the playoffs. Despite failed previous European Championship and World Cup, do not expect another misfire from the team with probably one of the strongest squads in the world. Furia Roja has conceded only three goals in 10 qualifying games. Most likely, we will see impregnable defence once again and, as a result, no more than one conceded goal in the group stage. The Spaniards definitely will not have problems in the last two games, but no one will risk – they will beat Portugal at the start of the campaign.
Betting Tip: Spain To Win All Group Games @ 2.80 with Bet now!
Morocco qualified for World Cup for the first time since 1986, when they became the first African national team, which managed to pass the group stage in this tournament. Morocco has an experienced squad, although most of the footballers play in the average European clubs. Nevertheless, the main trump card of the Atlas Lions is their head coach Herve Renard, who became a real specialist in African teams, having managed to lead Zambia and Côte d'Ivoire to triumph in the Africa Cup of Nations in 2012 and 2015. Of course, the chances for a playoff are small, most likely, they simply do not exist, but still the Atlas Lions are capable to beat Iran, as well as to concede fewer goals than their main rival for the third place.
Betting Tip: Group B. 3rd place: Morocco @ 2.40 with Bet now!
Princes of Persia are clear outsider of Group B, the Iranians were not lucky with final draw, because this is worst-case scenario – to get such rivals as Portugal and Spain… There will a big competition between these two favourites, so the only possible point for Persians is a game against Morocco, but the African team is much stronger now, so the Iranians` chances of win in the first match are low. It is unlikely that Princes of Persia set a goal to reach playoffs; the main thing for this team is just to play as successfully as possible, that is, to avoid hammering in games against favourites. Anyway, the Iranians will bet on defensive football. The Persians` key force is their Portuguese coach Carlos Queiroz, who had enormous experience! Queiroz led Portugal national team, Sporting and Real Madrid and always knew how to put a strong defensive play. Under his guidance on the last World Cup, Iran has managed to keep a clean sheet against Nigeria and offer battle to Argentina, which has managed to win thanks to Messi with a goal on 91 minutes. Iran will take the last place in Group B, but will avoid thumping.
Betting Tip: Group B: Iran Under 1.5 Points @ 1.763 with Bet now!
Looking at the Tri-colours` squad you just forget to breathe! With such players, they should think about the chances of gold medal, but not about what place they will get in Group C. France often disappointed their fans in the group stage, but this time there should not be any difficulties – all rivals are much weaker and the Blues seem to be absolute favourites. The schedule is convenient as France begin with the weakest side in the quartet and finish with the most dangerous rival. Starting two games should bring six points and salt all questions about playoffs away. It might be that the last game against Denmark will turn into a formality and both teams will be satisfied with one point. As for starting game against the Australians, then earning three points is unlikely to be a problem, however, we should not expect high-scoring clash. Peru knows well how to defend and will be happy with a draw against the heavyweight. On that basis, it is not entirely clear to whom France will score many goals; also, it is hard to believe that the pragmatic Frenchmen will be able to score two or more goals in each game. The bookmaker offers too big individual total of France.
Betting Tip: Total Group Goals Scored France – Under 6.5 @ 1.40 with Bet now!
The best result of Australia in the world cups is their performance in 2006, when Socceroos managed to get into the playoffs, where they lost to Italy as a result of very controversial penalty. Unfortunately, now Australia simply is not capable of such performance! In 2006, the great Guus Hiddink led the Australians, and players like Mark Bresciano, Mark Schwarzer and John Aloisi were dazzling on the field, now Tim Cahill is the only one who left from those 'golden generation'. And the fact that 38-year-old striker is still the best player of this team speaks for itself. Socceroos had to get a ticket to Russia in the play-offs against Honduras and although they made it easy, Australia disappointed with their football in this qualifying round. Not surprisingly, Angelos Postecoglou was fired, and experienced Bert van Marwijk in 2018 led the team, who by that time brought Saudi Arabia national team to World Cup 2018. Perhaps this football genius will be able to patch things up for six months. The Australians got highly inconvenient schedule, because they will start against the French, and in the next game, they will have to fight with still motivated Denmark. No matter how things will go, the last game against Peru will definitely not be an easy walk also. Even if Socceroos will be able to pick up one point, that will be true success for them.
Betting Tip: Group C: Australia Under 1.5 Points @ 2.10 with Bet now!
Peru has had some impressive friendly matches on the eve of the World Cup, defeating Croatia and Iceland, but it is hardly worth considering these results seriously. The Incas looked poor in South America World Cup Qualification, and despite they bypassed Chile by better goal difference, Peru was remembered only for a weak play in defence, conceding in 15 of the 18 games. The Incas have not experienced any problems with New Zealand in the play-offs, but they still could not beat such poor rival on the road. The Incas will go to the World Cup for the first time since 1982, but they unlikely will be able to loudly announce themselves. Their schedule is hard, so two defeats from the start are quite likely. As for the last game against Australia, the Peruvians can hardly be called a clear favourite even in it. If a point tie with Socceroos will be in the end, most likely, the Australians will have better goal difference. Peru defence is more like a passing yard, which means that their chances to take only the fourth place in Group C are high, anyway, the bookmakers offer too generous price on that outcome.
Betting Tip: Group C. 4th place: Peru @ 2.90 with Bet now!
The Euros 1992 triumphant always unsuccessfully performed at the World Cups, breaking group stage barrier just three times in the history. It could hardly be said that current Denmark's squad is capable of very much right now, also coaching talent of Age Hareide is questioned. The Norseman achieved success only with Molde, Rosenborg and Malmö, teams that were always leaders in their championships, and it was not so difficult to get trophies with them. It is quite a different story when it comes to success of the team, whose squad can be called average at best. Danish dynamite did not seem explosive in the WC qualification, having managed to defeat only the outsiders in the group, not including the single success against Poland. Nevertheless, the Danes demonstrated an excellent play on the defensive (which actually is not normally for them) and we all know – a leakproof defence can take you a long way in World Cups! There are clearly serious problems with attacking line, as Age Hareide has no good striker in the squad. Denmark is a pragmatic team and obviously will not give points to Australians and Peruvians, so that much would depend on the last game with France – and here, the sensation is quite possible! By the way, the biggest win of Denmark in the history was just over the French with a score of 17:1! If we had to seek a sensation in the group stage, then Danish dynamite is an option!
Betting Tip: Group C. 1st place: Denmark @ 5.00 Bet now!
Argentina is one of the most titled national teams in the world, for which, it seems, the best guarantee of success is the continent where the tournament is held. The Albiceleste has won World Cup twice, in Argentina and Mexico, also they played three times in the finals – in Uruguay, Brazil and Italy. As you can see, in Europe, this team has not achieved anything! Of course, now the Argentines are stronger than ever and rightly regarded as one of the main favourites in Russia. Messi and Co. are capable of crushing any opponent, however, this team makes such an impression only on paper when you look at big names in its squad. In fact, the Albiceleste qualified for the World Cup 2018 with great difficulties, taking only third place in the group, and came ahead of Peru (who had to play promotion playoffs) by only two points! At the same time, Argentina has scored least of all teams who qualified from South America, and won only 7 of the 18 games! No one would argue that Argentina has world-class players in every line, but still its attacking line has the right to be considered the strongest, nevertheless, this line does not work! It seems that the principle of 'give the ball to Leo – he knows what to do' does not work too! Sure thing, the first place in the group will not be a problem for the Albiceleste, but to score 5 goals to three rivals who perfectly know how to defend, sounds unlikely.
Betting Tip: Total Group Goals Scored Argentina – Under 4.5 @ 1.75 with ) Bet now!
Well, it's done! Iceland goes to the World Cup! After a fantastic performance at the Euros 2016 under the leadership of Lars Lagerbök, his former assistant Heimir Hadlgrimsson takes 'Our Boys' to Russia to conquer new peaks and it seems the Icelanders are ready to challenge! The national team of picked only legionaries, already shocked everyone in France when not only easily get out of the group, but destroyed England in 1/8 finals, and then though lost to the hosts of Euros, but still scored two goals to them in the quarter-finals. Iceland confidently passed the WC 2018 qualification and is unlikely become flustered even in the face of such strong opponents as Croats and Argentines. The schedule and rivals for the northerners are such that they have no sense in playing for a draw or defensive football in any game. First of all, they must beat Nigeria if they want to progress from the group. Iceland will not be able to keep a clean sheet against the Croats and the Argentines, so they will have to attack. 'Our Boys' have never been afraid of anyone and has a unique ability to score 10 goals, having 11 shots on goal.
Betting Tip: Total Group Goals Scored Iceland – Over 2.5 @ 1.60 Bet now!
The Blazers started writing their history of appearances at the world cups in 1998 (before that, this team simply did not exist and we will leave all the previous successes to Yugoslavia) and immediately took bronze! Of course, now the Croats do not have 'golden generation', as then, but still this team is formed by world-class stars. Croatia confidently spent qualification, however, the Icelanders took the first place in Group I and now the Blazers have a chance to get revenge! Despite only two defeats in qualifying, the Croats surprised by a poor play in the attack, having scored more than one goal in only two of ten games. The team was able to score only three goals in four games against such weak rivals as Finland and Turkey, whose defence cannot be called safe… Zlatko Dalic had to draw conclusions and understand – to achieve success in Russia they need to play more aggressively! Dalic has Mandzukic, Kalinic, Perisic, Rakitic and Modric on hand – all these guys can not only create, but also score goals. The Blazers begin tournament against Nigeria and here we can count on at least two scored goals. Then there will be Argentina, to take points with this team without scoring is mission impossible. It is difficult to guess what the situation will be in this quartet by the last round, but we can be sure that game versus Iceland will be a crucial and, probably, high-scoring. Despite poor attacking record in qualifying, Croatia can surprise with goals in Russia.
Betting Tip: Total Group Goals Scored Croatia – Over 3.5 @ 1.60 Bet now!
Super Eagles have always successfully performed in World Cups, having managed to progress from the group in three out of four attempts, but in Russia it will be difficult to replicate these successes. Despite the fact that the team has a lot of experience and good players, the last years, Nigerians are weak, they could not even qualify into two last Africa Cup of Nations. It is worth noting that Super Eagles spent the World Cup 2018 qualification above all praises, winning all the games except one, while their rivals were strong. Nevertheless, the chances of success in Russia are small for simple reason that all their rivals in Group D are much stronger. In addition, coaching talents of Gernot Rohr does not exactly instill confidence, German manager has trained four African national teams over the past few years, but still has no experience of big tournaments. Perhaps Nigeria is able to gnaw out draw with Croatia or Iceland, but they will not be able to win any game. The bookmakers offer too much for their fiasco.
Betting Tip: Group D. 4th place: Nigeria @ 2.40 Bet now!
Brazil has spent South America World Cup Qualification fantastically, having lost only one game, and completed the qualifying round with a total score of 41:11. Certainly, the team's main striking force is its offensive line, because almost half of the squad can easily convert a dangerous moment at the opponent's goal. Hardly the goalkeeper's position and defence can be ranked among the best in the world, but that never stopped this guys from winning. It makes no sense to assess the Brazilians` chances to progress from the group, the question on everyone's mind, will they be able to win all three games? And let's face it, they will do it, if they wanted to! Pentacampeons always played 100% in every game and never thought about saving energy. Given Brazil's squad depth, even in the last game, without any motivation and the second team on the pitch, they can beat Serbia without any effort!
Betting Tip: Group E: Brazil Over 7.5 Points @ 2.35 Bet now!
Switzerland has reached 1/8 finals in three of the last four World Cups and it seems that the tournament in Russia will not be an exception. Of course, four years ago, Costa Rica shocked the world with their performance in Brazil, also Serbia is a tough nut to crack, but the Red Crusaders` fans got used to success of their team and the results of the WC qualification confirms the ambitions of this 'small big' team! The Swiss have won 9 out of 10 games in qualifying, having scored 23 and conceded only 7 goals. There are few world-class players in the team, however, they have talented and experienced performers in each line. Therefore, it is not at all surprising that their rivals never know where the ball comes from! If you look at the current lineups, it turns out that the Swiss forwards have scored 46 goals, while the midfielders managed to find the net 46 times also, and no matter how strange it sounded, this team's defenders upset their colleagues with 22 goals! In this team, everyone knows how to score goals! Whatever the result will be in game against Brazil, it seems that Switzerland is obvious contender for the second place and the bookmakers offer too generous price on this outcome!
Betting Tip: Group E. 2nd place: Switzerland @ 2.70 Bet now!
Four years ago, Los Ticos became the most sensational team of the World Cup in Brazil, having managed to take the first place in the group with such rivals as Uruguay, Italy and England! In the quarterfinals, Costa Rica held the Dutch to a draw and lost by penalties… Of course, we cannot wait for one more triumph of this team, although Brian Ruiz can still do his job! It is hard to say anything about this team's current strength. On the one hand, Los Ticos had convincing World Cup qualification, having twice defeated solid USA, but at the same time, they looked poor against such teams as Honduras and Trinidad and Tobago. Also Costa Ricans left a sad impression in the friendly games. It is unlikely that the Swiss will be able to secure a playoff after two rounds, as they start against Brazil, which means that the last game of group stage will be crucial, and Los Ticos can hardly be called the favourite in that match. The chances to get points against Celesao are also not good. There remains a duel against Serbia, but the chances are equal at best. Thus, we cannot ask for another sensation, Los Ticos is a clear outsider of the quartet E.
Betting Tip: Group E. 4th place: Costa Rica @ 1.88 Bet now!
The Serbs did well in the WC qualification, having won their group (without strong opponents in it) and lost only once in Austria. Also they have tied with Wales twice and this is a key indicator of the White Eagles` strength. Perhaps, this team has not strong defensive line, where there are no high-level performers besides Kolarov, and the goalkeeper's position is questionable also, but the Serbs compensate for this lack by discipline and orchestrated actions. On the plus side, Serbia has a striking power in the person of 'Englishmen' from Southampton, Manchester United, Crystal Palace and Fulham, which can upset any defence. The Serbs are a real dark horse and can both easily fail this tournament and make a noise. Let us make a bold speculation that they will beat Costa Rica and take one point with Switzerland, but lost to the Brazilians and the Swiss will go through by the better goal difference.
Betting Tip: Group E. 3rd place: Serbia @ 3.20 Bet now!
In the 21st century, Germany permanently played in the World Cup semi-finals, and although 'DFB Eleven' are inferior to the Brazilians by the number of titles, no team played in the finals more than Germans. The stability of this team's performances is amazing! Just think about it – since 1938 Germany played in 16 World Cups and only four times failed to get into the Top 4! In Russia, the Bundesteam is one of the favourites for a gold medal once again and we would be surprised if someone took this 'killing machine' less seriously. At the same time, this is not to say that the Germans bring in Russia the strongest squad in the world. Of course, this team has many world-class stars, but if you look at their offensive line, it is significantly poorer in comparison with other tournament's favourites. In general, 'DFB Eleven' has clearly weaker squad than the Brazilians, Argentines, Spaniards or even the French, however, no one will be surprised if Germany will play in the semi-final as always, while one of the above star teams will pack their bags! When you are trying to predict this team's result, remember the words of the legendary Gary Lineker: "Football is a simple game. Twenty-two men chase a ball for 90 minutes and at the end, the Germans always win." The German machine is able to win all three games of the group stage with minimal efforts.
Betting Tip: Group E: Germany Over 6.5 Points @ 1.58 Bet now!
Mexico can be called the most stable team in the World Cups, because the Tricolor always progressed from the group in the last six tournaments, but lost in the 1/8 finals. What can change this year in Russia? Probably, this series should be interrupted and it is unlikely that we will see the Mexicans in the quarterfinals. It goes without saying that Germany is a clear favourite of this quartet and South Korea is an outsider. It follows that everything will depend on face-to-face meeting between Mexico and Sweden, however, if they get a tie, the second will be a team with better goal difference. In this scenario, the chances of the Blue-Yellow seem to be higher. Mexico plays with Germany in the first game, when the favourite will be aimed only at three points. Beating the Mexicans, the Bundesteam will be enough to beat the Koreans in the last game, which gives some hopes for the Swedes in the second round. Moreover, they play later than the Mexicans, and will already know how many points the Tricolor got after two games. Such small advantages can play an important role, so Mexico will become only the third.
Betting Tip: Group F. 3rd place: Mexico @ 3.00 Bet now!
Looking at the squad of the Swedish team, hard to believe that the Blue-Yellow is capable to cope with big challenges, however, their performance in the qualification suggests the opposite. The team left behind the Netherlands, and then, in the play-offs, did not leave any chance for Italy. Sweden looks dangerous, but unpredictable, the Three Crowns managed to beat France in qualifying, while losing to weak Bulgaria… Poor attacking line is immediately apparent, so probably the Swedes will bet on defensive football, so they will become unfavorable rivals for Korea and Mexico. Sure thing, it is mission impossible to get points against Germany, but to achieve a positive result with the main competitor and beat the Koreans is not beyond northerners` abilities.
Betting Tip: Group F Outrights – Sweden To Qualify @ 2.38 Bet now!
Betting Tip: Group F: South Korea Under 2.5 Points @ 1.79 Bet now!
The golden generation of Belgians are not getting any younger and this World Cup can be the last for many team`s leaders, at least they will not meet the next tournament in their prime. Time goes by, and the Red Devils are still without titles and even without roaring successes. How many more years will the Belgian football have to wait for a generation of such talented players? Perhaps a trip to Russia is the last chance to write their names into history. In 2016, the team easily reached the quarterfinals in Euros, but then the Welsh Dragons simply destroyed the Belgium. Two years before, at the previous World Cup, the Belgians had hardly passed USA in extra time, but again in the quarterfinals, stumbled over Argentina, which won 1-0 thanks to Higuain's goal in the first minutes. It is hard to say how things will go in the playoffs, but troubles at the group stage are not expected. Belgium will win the first two games, securing Round of 16, and probably a draw in the last match against England that both teams can live with.
Betting Tip: Group G: Belgium Over 6.5 Points @ 1.88 Bet now!
Panama for the first time in its history qualified for the World Cup and this fact alone is enough to feel like the winners. The Canal Men are obvious outsiders of Group G and the only game in which they can claim points is a game with Tunisia. We can say that Panama is a chance-comer in Russia, because this team owes their success not to their strong performance in qualifying, but rather to the failure of the US team. The Canal Men took third place in qualifying after Costa Rica and Mexico, while winning only 3 of 10 games with a negative goal difference ahead of their main competitors by only one point. Theare are only a few players from Liga Panameña de Fútbol, other performers played in MLS or average South American clubs. Only three footballers played in Europe, but career in such clubs as Dinamo Bucharest, 1904 DAC and Ghent II hardly suggest their silky skills… The only chance to take points is a draw with the Africans team.
Betting Tip: Group G: Panama Under 1.5 Points @ 1.78 Bet now!
In 1978, Tunisia became the first African national team that won at the World Cups. Surprisingly, the Eagles of Carthage defeated Mexico (3-1) in their first game in tournament and since then has not been able to win a single game in the history! Tunisia took part in four World Cups and managed to ensure only four more draws during this time. In Russia, Africans have excellent chances to win their second game, and it is certainly about a match against Panama. As for the prospects of reaching Round of 16, they just simply do not have it. Despite the fact that Tunisia confidently won their group in the qualification, having not suffered a single defeat, the team`s squad seems weak. We can say that Tunisia is amalgamation of youthfulness and experience, but that is the point: all experienced performers play in the Saudi Arabia or Tunisian Championships, and their rising generation, which represented mainly by French Legue 1, simply do not have any game practice in their clubs. Thus, to beat Panama is the best thing that the Eagles of Carthage could do.
Betting Tip: Group G. 3rd place: Tunisia @ 1.95 Bet now!
For a long time the Three Lions have not pleased their fans with successful performances at the World Cups, the last semifinals was back in 1990. At previous World Cup in Brazil, England has shocked the world with the last place in the group without even having been able to win one game. The British always demonstrates a terrific football in the qualification, but then frustrated over and over again. For example, they have won all the games in the qualification for Euros 2016, having conceded only in two out of ten matches. In qualifying for this World Cup, the Three Lions were without peers, having won all the matches, not counting two draws. And again, England demonstrated a stunning football in defence, conceding only in two games. Despite the fact that this team`s main stars are attacking players, Gareth Southgate should prefer a precautionary approach and defensive football so his team has every chance to keep a clean sheet in the first games – neither Panama, nor Tunisia do not look capable to find the net in the games against such leakproof defense. The last clash vs Belgium might be amerely a formality, which means that we will not see any struggle and many goals.
Betting Tip: Total Group Goals Scored England – Under 2.5 @ 1.70 Bet now!
The bookmakers consider Colombians to be favorites of Group H, however, many reasons offer grounds for doubting that fact. Certainly, the Coffee Growers` squad is impressive with big names, but Poland look more balanced and disciplined now. In addition, the White Eagles have awesome forward line and win in the game against arch-rival can be achieved through their high-powered offense. Group H can be surprising, because we can write off only the Japanese. Most likely, everything will be decided in the last round and here the advantage is on the Polish side as they will fight with the Samurai Blue. Poland impressed with its aggresive football in qualifying, scoring two or more goals in all games except one, and looks like a favorite of this quartet.
Betting Tip: Group H Winner – Poland @ 2.75 Bet now!
Like any African team at the World Cup, Senegal is a dark horse that can present many surprises. You only have to look at their squad to understand that these guys should not be underestimated – most of starting XI is an 'English contingent', and let most performers are not in the first roles in their clubs, it means nothing – they have gone through the English Premier League and have a huge an experience. Players from Serie A and Ligue 1 can also guarantee problems for their rivals. Senegal forward line with Sadio Mané, Moussa Sow and Mame Biram Diouf looks extremely dangerous. Senegal begins with Poland and foremost priority will be not to lose to the potential leader of the group, and there is no way to do this without scored goals, because it is impossible to keep a clean sheet against the White Eagles. Then there will be Japan, which the Lions of Teranga need to beat with a big score to improve their goal difference. The last game versus Colombia, regardless of previous results, should be hot! Senegal scored a lot in the qualification, most likely, in Russia we will see an atypical for the African national teams productive football.
Betting Tip: Total Group Goals Scored Senegal – Over 3.5 @ 2.30 Bet now!
The Tricolors has strong performer in every line, however, their squad is not what you would call balanced… There is Zapata in defence, but his assistants are not impressed, Hames Rodriguez will shine in mid-field, but he will not get solid support, the forward line is solid and Falcao is world-class star, however, the rest of the performers are hardly stronger than Senegal has. At the same time, the Coffee Growers did not look at all powerful in the attack in qualifying, having scored just two goals more than outsiders of the group. It is unlikely that Colombia can be called a clear favorite in the clash with the Poles, and the last game against Senegal would be nothing like a picnic. Of course, the Coffee Growers are favorites on paper, but let us remember how they played in the WC qualification! In games against the best five teams of South America, the Colombians were able to beat only weak Peru, taking their points in the games with obvious outsiders, that is saying something. Let us make a bold assumption that Colombia will fail the group stage and become only the third.
Betting Tip: Group H. 3rd place: Colombia @ 4.65 Bet now!
Japan won their group in WC qualifying with just one point ahead of Saudi Arabia and Australia, losing only two games (the first and the last, which did not mean anything). Despite such successful result, the Samurai Blue was not impressed with their football. Let friendly games on the eve of a trip to Russia mean little, however, the team frankly failed them. The line of attack left considerable doubt, because Keisuke Honda is old, and 'German contingent' of forwards from Stuttgart, Mainz 05, Cologne and Fortuna Dusseldorf could hardly be effective against solid defence of Poles or Senegalese. The change of head coach in April right before the start of the World Cup is cause for concern also. Samurai look like outsiders and it is unclear how they can beat any opponent in Group H. Given their rivals` strength, every team will bet on taking three points against Japan, because whoever makes a misfire in game with Japan, they practically lose the chance of success.
Betting Tip: Group H – Finish Bottom – Japan @ 2.25 Bet now!


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Date Created: October 1, 2018
PowerPoint: Tutorials, Articles, and Conversations with Presentation Experts
Smart Dynamic Guides in PowerPoint 2016 for Mac
Do you notice that any object you move, resize, or align in PowerPoint actually helps make your task easy! Move it a little closer, resize a wee bit, or even try spacing slide objects and the screen shows all sorts of helpful indicators in the form of dashed lines. The red and grey, dashed lines that show up and then disappear are Dynamic Guides.
Learn about Dynamic Guides in PowerPoint 2016 for Mac.
PowerPoint and Presenting News: October 9, 2018
We first bring you Jerry Weissman's post on how to overcome writer's block. Next, Mitch Haile talks about his add-in for PowerPoint on the Mac called Bit Lasso Reveal, which is a great way to search slides. We also look at various Office 365 Subscriptions.
We learn how you can create PowerPoint Outlines in Microsoft Word 2016. PowerPoint 2016 for Mac users will learn about Converting Text to Shape by Intersecting, and Repositioning Text Boxes. And if that wasn't enough for this week, make sure you do not miss the quotes, press releases, and templates released in the last week.
Creating PowerPoint Outlines in Notepad for Windows
When you start creating a new presentation, many users just launch PowerPoint and start creating their slides. Actually, there are three common ways in which you can create slides. Yet, the best way to start creating presentation slides is not from within PowerPoint but by creating an outline in another program. Many purists say that you should not even launch PowerPoint until you have an outline in place.
Learn how you can create outlines for PowerPoint presentations in Notepad.
Creating PowerPoint Outlines in Microsoft Word 2016 for Mac
Typically, there are three common ways in which you can create slides in PowerPoint. The first of these three ways is to create an outline, but all these three ways can be combined with each other. Having said so, it is best to start by creating an outline for your presentation in another program. Mac users can create outlines in TextEdit. You can also use Microsoft Word. In this tutorial, we'll show how you can use Word 2016 for Mac to create an outline for a PowerPoint presentation.
Learn how to create outlines for presentations in Microsoft Word 2016 for Mac that are formatted for failsafe import into Microsoft PowerPoint.
Bit Lasso Reveal: Conversation with Mitch Haile
Mitch Haile has extensive experience designing software for data systems in corporate environments. He was an early engineer at ground-breaking compression company Data Domain. Mitch later co-founded virtual machine backup company Pancetera, which the team sold to Quantum, a respected data backup company. Mitch has served as an executive other start-ups involved with software security, storage, and backup. In this conversation, Mitch talks about Bit Lasso Reveal, his new program that helps search slides.
Writer's Block: How to Break Through
Writer's block is the proverbial stuff of legend and literature. The latest variation on the theme is Limitless, the Hollywood film starring Bradley Cooper and Robert De Niro. In it, Mr. Cooper plays a down-and-out writer who beats his severe case of writer's block with a new drug that not only jump starts his creative output, but gives him many other advanced mental capabilities. Of course, the story is fictional—A.O. Scott's review of the film in the New York Times called it, "an energetic, enjoyably preposterous compound… a paranoid thriller blended with pseudo-neuro-science fiction and catalyzed by a jolting dose of satire" — but the situation is very real: writers do run dry.
Read more in this post by Jerry Weissman.
Creating PowerPoint Outlines in Microsoft Word 2016 for Windows
An outline encompasses the text content within your presentation slides. In many ways, this text is the story or the structure of your presentation and forms an ideal starting point for a bunch of slides. PowerPoint can import outlines created in many applications. In this tutorial, we'll explore the procedure of creating a structured outline in Word 2016.
Learn how to create outlines for presentations in Microsoft Word 2016, formatted for fail-safe import into Microsoft PowerPoint.
Office 365 Subscriptions
Office 365 is Microsoft's cloud-based subscription offering that lets you run always upgraded and updated Office applications on the desktop, on tablets and smartphones – and also online. This Office 365 product is different from the perpetual versions of Office. Additionally, some plans also include extra niceties like a subscription to the Skype for Business web conferencing tool, hosted email via Microsoft's Exchange Online, online storage through OneDrive, plus phone talk time via Skype.
Learn about the different Office 365 subscriptions.
Reposition Text Boxes in PowerPoint 2016 for Mac
Sometimes you want your Text Box to be placed in an exact position on your slide. Yes, you can select a Text Box and move it around by dragging it with your mouse, and then let it go wherever you want it placed. However, for all practical reasons this process is just visual and not accurate enough. Thankfully, PowerPoint provides a way to accurately position any Text Box just where you want it located.
Reposition text boxes accurately in PowerPoint 2016 for Mac.
We first explore some simple animation effects that work in all versions of PowerPoint. We then interview Mike Power of Neuxpower, who tells more about the new NXPowerLite Desktop 8 for Mac. Learn how you can get a cheaper or free copy of Microsoft PowerPoint.
PowerPoint 2016 for Mac users can learn how to Duplicate Shapes by Dragging, and how to Flip Shapes. PowerPoint Online users can learn about Resetting Pictures, Duplicating Slides, and Changing Presentation Aspect Ratio from Widescreen to Standard (and Vice Versa). And if that wasn't enough for this week, make sure you do not miss the quotes, press releases, and templates released in the last week.
Stay informed about updated tutorials and happenings related to PowerPoint and presenting.
Convert Text to Shape by Intersecting in PowerPoint 2016 for Mac
PowerPoint has several features that may amaze you, but there's nothing quite like what we will explore on this page: an option to convert regular text into a shape. First of all, this is an undocumented feature. And then, this is such an utterly useful option. For example, you can now easily create logos in PowerPoint without using any other application. Or use a fancy font and then share that presentation with others in the knowledge that recipients can see the font exactly as intended, even if it's not installed on their computers.
Convert PowerPoint text into an editable shape using the Intersect command in PowerPoint 2016 for Mac.
Change Presentation Aspect Ratio from Widescreen to Standard (and Vice Versa) in PowerPoint Online
PowerPoint Online defaults to widescreen slides in all new presentations. However, you can change your presentation's aspect ratio from Widescreen (16:9) to Standard (4:3), and also do the reverse. PowerPoint Online has some features up its sleeve that make these changes of aspect ratios easier to understand, and some quirks too! This tutorial will help you understand both scenarios better.
Learn how to change a presentation's aspect ratio from Widescreen to Standard (and vice versa) in PowerPoint Online.
Flip Shapes in PowerPoint 2016 for Mac
The shape on your slide looks perfect. It's got the right color and it works well with your slide content. Yet there's something that could be better? There are times when most slide designers think exactly the same thoughts! And the easiest task you can do to your shape is to flip it. There are other options, and some of these options depend upon the shape in question.
Learn to flip shapes in PowerPoint 2016 for Mac.
Microsoft Office for Free?
We all realize that nothing is really free in today's world, yet we all look for free stuff all the time. Well, maybe we were partially wrong when we said "nothing is free", because you can get a free, or at least a cheaper copy of PowerPoint and Microsoft Office. When we say Microsoft Office for free or cheap, we do not refer to bootlegged copies, but genuine, original software. Here are some options for you to get a cheaper or free copy of PowerPoint.
Learn how you can get a cheaper or free copy of Microsoft Microsoft.
Neuxpower NXPowerLite Desktop 8 for Mac: Conversation with Mike Power
Mike Power owns and runs Neuxpower, the company behind the popular compression software NXPowerLite and now also the free online version WeCompress. A big fan of helping people feel more awesome by making software that just gets the job done without making a fuss! He aspires one day to create software that will actually give people superpowers. In this conversation, Mike talks about the new NXPowerLite Desktop 8 product for Mac.
Duplicate Slides in PowerPoint Online
Duplicating slides is a task that can be helpful, yet its value is not always understood. The first question asked is why would anyone want to duplicate slides? There are many reasons to do so. You may want to create another slide that is similar to what you already have. You may want to use the same slide twice. You may also need to create a slightly edited chart than what you already have on an existing slide. Duplicating and editing is easier than redoing it again.
Learn how to duplicate slides in PowerPoint Online.
You May Also Like: Customize Quick Access Toolbar in PowerPoint 2016 for Windows | Font Dialog Box in PowerPoint 2016 for Mac
Restoring Earlier Versions of Presentations in PowerPoint 2010 for Windows
Learn how to restore earlier versions of your current presentation in PowerPoint 2010.
What is Animation in PowerPoint?
Learn what animations is and how to effectively plan animation for PowerPoint.
Apply Bevel Effects to Shapes in PowerPoint 2016 for Windows
Learn how to apply bevel effects to shapes in PowerPoint 2016 for Windows.
Creating Curved Shapes in PowerPoint 2010 for Windows
Learn how to create curved shapes in PowerPoint 2010.s
Do You Get in Your Own Way?
PowerPlayer PowerPoint Digital Signage: Conversation with Ken Hilliard


I finally got my fabric from the US!
So yesterday I finally got to bring home my fabric from fatquartershop.com! Work has been more then a little crazy lately through and I wouldn't have had much time to sew anyway until now to be honest.
It was the most amazing feeling to open up the package and actually get to take it out, see the fabrics I'd dreamed of for so long after seeing them around the net! It was amazing! It is so much fun to have so many different fabrics that match so nicely, and not to mention how fantastically fun it is to not have to spend so much cutting! My left hand always hurt when I cut so this is so great.
Emerald is back and how I hate Maltese customs!
I've finally finished my Christmas table runner, it turned out very nice I think, I really like it now. Had I made it today through I would have put all the kitties facing the same direction.
I get to the customs office with my notice they left me, my ID card and my wallet, should be enough right?
The officer replies "So curtains?"
I reply figuring this man isn't the sharpest pencil in the box, "No quilts, bedding".
Ok, so I'm slowly going crazy, not a word form the sewing machine guy, any day now I'll go over there and take a hostage to be returned when I get my machine, I kid you not.
There's one, ONE person on the island that repairs sewing machines, and when we finally got there when he felt like being in the store (took 3 tries) he told me he couldn't fix anything electrical should that be the problem and that "I was lucky to have such an amazing quality machine". No offense little Emerald but you and I both know you really aren't THAT high quality even though I love you.
He would give Emerald some TLC and see if he could fix the issue with the thread tension. No promises made through.
I naturally asked, "How much will this cost me"?
He replied "Not very much".
So I ask again, "How much will this cost"?
He also said it'd be done in the beginning of next week, hopefully, no promises there either. So I'm more then a little upset at this point as I'll be without a sewing machine for so long, and not knowing if it will be repaired or not. :( All in all, I've not been a very happy quilter lately.
Edward says he knows he's not allowed on this particular table, but what if he only walks on the very edge?
I'm also contemplating some hand applique and how best to do it, also one of my "left since the summer" projects. So I'm doing some youtube watching to learn some new techniques, any tips and tricks you might have is much appreciated.
So since I'm currently just able to do hand stitching my progress hasn't exactly been of lightning speed lately so I thought I'd show you something that I almost finished this summer but that's been in my pile of "whenever I should feel like hand stitching pile" waiting for it's binding to be hand sew on the backside. It got a border just a few days ago and I thought I'd show it to you since I still haven't finished the binding of my Christmas runner that I talked about a few posts back... Embarrassing I know, but I really hate sewing by hand.
So here's my wiggly table runner, made at Mia's quilting retreat this summer. It was so much fun to make and really quick too. I quilted it in the ditch using invisible thread, that however is not something I want to do again soon, tricky!


Susan Klopfer is a former acquisition and development editor for Prentice Hall, as well as an award-winning Missouri and Texas journalist. Her books Who Killed Emmett Till and Cash In On Diversity were nominated for Global eBook Awards by Dan Poynter Publications. She is also author of The Emmett Till Book and Where Rebels Roost; Mississippi Civil Rights Revisited.
Susan and her husband lived in the Mississippi Delta for two years on the grounds of Parchman Penitentiary where Fred was the state's chief corrections psychologist. Knowing little of Mississippi's civil rights history, Susan quickly took the opportunity of living in the Mississippi Delta to visit its small Delta towns, meeting people and learning their civil rights stories.
She found men and women in the tiny cotton hamlet of Drew, Mississippi who remembered, as school children, when young Emmett Till of Chicago was murdered in 1955. She read old newspapers, visited historical sites and learned a great deal about the Delta's secrets, including the lynching of Till.
"I got hooked, and started writing about Mississippi civil rights history. But some stories need to be told in a fiction framework, and that's what I've done in The Plan. I really hope that readers enjoy this new book."
Writing books presents me with an opportunity to give my point of view to a large audience about subjects I care about deeply. My ninth book is my first fiction novel and it dares to challenge the way we have looked at conspiracies in the United States.
I have always had an interest in the murder of President Kennedy. He was murdered when i was a sophomore in high school; I remember some of my classmates cheering! After years of reading anything I could find on the topic, and learning about the murders of two black, gay Deep South lawyers who were working on cold cases, I decided that I was ready to share what I think about the murders of John F. Kennedy and Martin Luther King Jr. and the resultig cover up.
Years after the assassination of President Kennedy took place, I knew, like so many others, the American new media had not given us the full story of what really happened on that November day. Because so many conspiracy theorists have been made fun of by the traditional media, I took it upon myself to learn facts about it. My focus became those who allegedly gathered secret information, and were murdered because of it, as well as people who were murdered during the modern civil rights movement.
My first books relating to these themes are nonfiction works set in the Mississippi Delta: Where Rebels Roost, Mississippi Civil Rights Revisited; The Emmett Till Book; and Who Killed Emmett Till?
I have now written eight books and have two degrees, in communication and business management. I've moved to Cuenca, Ecuador where my husband and I have retired. But I still can't figure out how to stop my dog from chasing my cat! And I will keep writing until the end.


3D Berry White African Daisy is covered in stunning white pincushion flowers with deep purple centers at the ends of the stems from early summer to mid fall. The flowers are excellent for cutting. Its spiny narrow leaves remain green in colour throughout the season. The fruit is not ornamentally significant.