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#AudioBookSeriesTour #BookReview – Some Can See by J.R. Erickson
Blog Post	08/02/2020
Author: J.R. Erickson
Narrator: Allyson Voller
Length: 7 hours and 26 minutes
Series: Northern Michigan Asylum Series, Book 1
Publisher: J.R. Erickson
Genre: Paranormal
The dead have stories to tell. Are you listening?
On a sunny August morning, in 1935, 13-year-old Sophia Gray finds her friend Rosemary wandering in the woods. Rosemary's yellow dress is tattered and stained, she walks with a strange lurch, and her eyes are vacant and glassy. She beckons to Sophia, desperate to show her something, and Sophia follows.
In an abandoned cabin, beneath a tattered blanket, Sophia discovers Rosemary's body. It was not Rosemary who led her there, but Rosemary's ghost.
Step into the Northern Michigan Asylum for the Insane
Twenty years after Sophia discovers Rosemary's body, she finds herself trapped in the sprawling, and eerily beautiful, Northern Michigan Asylum for the Insane, in the hands of a malevolent doctor who preys on patients who exhibit paranormal abilities.
Sometimes the dead don't rest
In 1965, Hattie, much like her mother, 30 years before, is led by a ghost. A newspaper hidden in an attic reveals a secret that has shaped the lives of Hattie and her siblings. Hattie with her sister, Jude, embark on a crusade to remedy the wrongs of the past and discover the tale of deception that stole their mother a decade before.
Hattie and Jude are in a race against time to discover a murderer and save their mother from a horrific fate.
Get lost in a uniquely chilling story that spans the life of a family and the ghosts who haunt them.
J.R. Erickson (aka Jacki) is an indie author who writes murder mysteries woven with elements of the paranormal. Since childhood, J.R. has been fascinated by otherworldly things. She started penning creepy stories in her adolescence, but didn't pursue a career in writing until her mid-twenties. Like most paths, J.R.'s has been winding and filled with detours.
Today, she lives in the forests of northern Michigan with her excavator husband and her critter-loving son. In addition to writing, J.R. teaches yoga, hosts the true crime podcast Bitter Endings, and spends every spare minute hanging with her family and her kitties.
Her latest series, the Northern Michigan Asylum Series, is inspired by a real former asylum in Traverse City. J.R. regularly visits the former asylum that has been partially renovated into shops, restaurants and condominiums.
Website⎮Twitter⎮Facebook
Allyson is an accomplished actor with a fun, versatile style. She's been working professionally for more than two decades in Chicago's theatre and improv community. Her body of work appears in hundreds of projects in all mediums: film, television and commercials, both in front of the camera and behind the microphone. Allyson's love of performing led her into narrating audiobooks and she has never looked back. She has a degree in theatre, as well as having studied improvisation at both The Second City Conservatory and iO Chicago. In addition to narrating audiobooks she lends her multifaceted voice to the country's oldest running radio drama as a company member.
Website⎮Twitter⎮Facebook⎮Instagram
Doctor Kaiser held the framed photograph in his hand. His mother had been beautiful and terrible like a witch from a fairy tale who appeared golden and glowing until you saw her reflection in the mirror. Then you'd see her molten skin and flashing red eyes, her hands like claws reaching out for you when you turned your back. He put the photograph in his desk, locked the drawer and stood.
Would you believe it if someone came to you and said they see ghosts? Do you believe in ghosts? If your answer is yes to both, this is definitely the book for you. Erickson's first installment in the Northern Michigan Asylum Series is pretty interesting. Readers may be able to predict some of the mystery, but it is one of those stories hard to put down.
Hattie and Jude grew up with their grandmother, Gram Ruth, after an accidental death took their father and mother away. After Hattie begins seeing ghosts, she questions those around her as to why she has never seen her mother, even though she has called to her countless times. The short answer, their mother is not dead. The longer answer is bit more complicated than that. This story switches back and forth as the narrator transitions from Jude, Hattie, and Sophia. The readers get to understand each character on a more personal level rather than if the narrator was observing each character with the focus on just one. While Jude and Hattie are in search for answers, Sophia has escaped from the asylum she has been locked up in for the past nine years, and she must figure out how to clear her name. Being locked up for seeing ghosts is the least of her problems. She was also convicted of two murders, soon to be three, and everyone is out for her blood, including the evil Dr. Kaiser, the man who has an unhealthy obsession with her and his dead mother.
Erickson leads her readers into a cold and dark world, but quite a fascinating one. While the story and the characters are fictional, the asylum is real and has been researched thoroughly. This provides originality, while still giving the author credibility. This place, you can imagine, has a ton of creative and unusual stories and this is where Erickson is able to lure her readers into this first installment. Voller's narration is harder to critique. The story is riveting; however, Voller is quite monotone in her voice relay. Each character she narrates has the same tone, the same sound, the same everything. This makes it very difficult for the reader to differentiate between characters. It can also bore the reader as well and for such a fascinating story, it is hard to see it muddied by a narrator that doesn't keep this compelling aspect. The narrator also seemed to mispronounce words, but this could be an editing issue; it is not a huge issue, but noticeable. If you are a reader of paranormal fiction and mysteries, you may want to pick it up for a read. Since this is the first installment, readers can dive right in. Just to clarify, this is a story about ghosts, but it is not a horror story.
The audiobook was provided to Turning Another Page by Audiobookworm Promotions and in no way affects the honesty of this review. We provide a four star rating for Some Can See by J.R. Erickson.
Q&A with Author J.R. Erickson
Tell us about the process of turning your book into an audiobook. The process is pretty simple when you go through ACX. I post a script (a short sample of the book) on ACX and open the book for narrators. I also listen to narrator samples and try to find a narrator who matches the voice of the main character in my mind.
Was a possible audiobook recording something you were conscious of while writing? I'm more conscious of it now; however, I wasn't originally. Mostly it causes me to use fewer dialogue tags and to be extra conscious of repeated words in the manuscript.
How did you select your narrator? I try to choose a narrator who matches my idea of the primary character; however, since the books are spooky, I also want a certain tone. Many of the books have multiple point of view characters, so that also influences my narrator choice.
Were there any real life inspirations behind your writing? The Northern Michigan Asylum Series is inspired by a real asylum in Traverse City, which is near where I live in Northern Michigan. It's a beautiful place with sprawling Kirkbride buildings and sloping forests and grounds. The stories themselves did not originate with the asylum, but the setting is inspired by it.
How do you manage to avoid burn-out? What do you do to maintain your enthusiasm for writing? I write every morning while my brain is fresh (usually around 4 a.m.) which helps because my writing is done and out of the way before the other daily to-dos starting pouring in. Usually, I don't experience much burn out, but when I do, I just take a few days off the writing and focus on other aspects of self publishing or I just hang out with my toddler and take a break from the story.
Are you an audiobook listener? What about the audiobook format appeals to you? Yes, I love audiobooks. Honestly, my favorite part is the convenience. I can listen while driving, cleaning, etc.
If you had the power to time travel, would you use it? If yes, when and where would you go? Hmm… my immediate response is yes, of course, but then I come upon all these moral dilemmas like needing to go back in time to stop major catastrophes or on a more personal level wanting to go back and see people I love who've passed away. I guess that means I'm not sure if I'd use it or if I'd be paralyzed by the possibilities.
What do you say to those who view listening to audiobooks as "cheating" or as inferior to "real reading"? Nope. I totally disagree. It's different, absolutely, but a story told through words leaves us to develop the images and that's what is so wonderful about reading whether we're doing it with our own eyes or someone else's.
How did you celebrate after finishing this novel? I'm terrible about celebrating the completion of a novel. After the book goes live, I breathe a big sigh of relief and usually take a few days off before I start the next one.
What gets you out of a writing slump? What about a reading slump? Finishing a project is probably the best way to get out of a slump, but sometimes I step away and work on a short story or an upcoming novel just to give my brain a break from the current story-line.
In your opinion, what are the pros and cons of writing a stand-alone novel vs. writing a series? I really like what I've done in this series because it's a series connected by a larger story, but all of the books are stand-alone. My first ever series were five books connected by a single narrative and after a while it became difficult to juggle all of the characters and the overarching plot. The pros of stand-alones are that we get to start fresh with a new story each time. The cons are that readers want to stay with characters they've grown attached to and it's hard to let them go at the end of the book.
What bits of advice would you give to aspiring authors? My biggest advice is to write every day. Even a hundred words a day will create a book within a year (a small one, more like a novella, but still…). Not only does writing daily help you improve your craft, it gets your brain in the habit of being within a story. It's also a reminder to yourself and to those around you that this is important, that time needs to be allotted for this. I personally spent years only writing when the muse struck, but the less you write, the less you feel inspired to write. You're the muse, you've got to show up for yourself.
Do you have any tips for authors going through the process of turning their books into audiobooks? I'm exclusive with ACX and the process is so easy and has been great. My advice is to go there.
What's next for you? I'm currently writing the 8th, and final, book in the Northern Michigan Asylum Series, which is called Let Her Rest. I plan to start another haunting/paranormal series, but I haven't dialled in on exactly what it will be yet.
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Tags: Allyson VollerAudiobook Series Blog TourAudiobookworm PromotionsJR EricksonNorthern Michigan Asylum
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#AudiobookSeriesTour #BookReview – Summoned by McKayla Eaton
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Ron has been a professional musician since the 1970's. Touring the world with many top artist such as Barry Manilow, Ann Margret and Air Supply. Ron is also a founding member of the band Combo and Uncle Festive.


Loving this lost laundry board created by The House of Smiths. It's perfect! Although I think for most of us moms, we'd need either 50 clips for single items or 10 boards lined up in a row!
Overall though, this is a great way for younger children to remember missing items. Likely excellent for teenagers too! Easily adaptable to fit with any decor, it's a super quick and easy project for any do-it-yourself'r. Be sure to use their hinge technique tip when applying the vinyl. In fact, that exact technique can be used for a variety of purposes when crafting.


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Baahubali 2 tamil full movie with english subtitles
Baahubali 2 tamil full movie with english subtitles. Baahubali 2 2019-01-13
Sunday, January 13, 2019 7:23:39 AM Jorge
Baahubali 2: The Conclusion (Telugu with English Subtitles)
Mitravinda is his only daughter. His family has lived under the curse that no warrior will live for more than 30 years, and will not accept death until he has killed a hundred enemies in the battle. Bhairava courageously attacks and kills 100 soldiers. Now it is Harsha's turn to prove his innocence and remind Indu of their previous birth. Could have been given more in the flashback as a Maharani.
Julie 2 Telugu Movie With English Subtitles Online Download
On learning that Indu's father accepted her love for Harsha, Raghuveer kills the father, implicates Harsha in the murder and takes Indu away to Udaygadh. In the process, Harsha drops falls from a helicopter into a lake, only to be saved by Solomon. The final showdown is more of a battle between true love and lust. Other than that, the Movie is a must watch. The Movie is Epic in every sense. Finally, Indu believes Harsha and proclaims her love for him. Brilliant direction, brilliant acting, good score.
Sher Khan challenges Bhairava to save the princess from his men. It will take you through a rollercoaster of emotions. Senthil Kumar Production Designer: Sabu Cyril Music Composer: M. They both fall off the cliff and the last words between them remain unsaid. Ranadev eyes Mitravinda and wants to get the kingdom by marrying her. Kala Bhairava is a warrior who trains the army of the kingdom. Later, Ranadev and Sher Khan reach the place where Bhairava and Mitravinda are offering prayers to Lord Siva.
Baahubali: The Beginning (Tamil) (2015) Tamil in HD
Vijay Kumar, Ajay Kumar G Hindi - Manoj Muntashir Tamil - Karky Follow us on: Facebook - Twitter - Instagram - Pinterest - Tumblr - Note: If you wish to share this video, please make sure you embed the link and share the original source. South Indian Film Industry has advanced to the point of matching Hollywood or even exceeded in some respects, like reasonable cost of production. Ranadev turns traitor and joins hands with Sher Khan. Thanks for uploading it fast. There is a kingdom called Udaygadh in ruled by King Vikram Singh.
Watch Baahubali 2
The film will also be dubbed in Hindi, Malayalam and in several other foreign languages. Bhairava kills Ranadev but Ranadev stabs Mitravinda. He happens to meet Indu and whenever he touches her, he is reminded of something that happened in the past. The action sequences were a delight to watch. Satheesh Stunt Choreography: Peter Hein Additional Stunts: King Solomon, Lee Whittakar, Kaloyan Vodenicharov Dance Choreographers: Prem Rakshit, Shankar, Dinesh Kumar, Jani Editor: Kotagiri Venkateswara Rao Costume Designer: Rama Rajamouli, Prashanti Tripirneni Dialogues: Telugu - C.
The king, who knows about the curse, requests Kala Bhairava to reject the hand of the princess as he does not want his daughter to become a widow. This is one of the greatest Indian movies ever made. In order to win her hand, both Ranadev and Bhairava take part in a contest and Bhairava emerges the winner. The story is told in a series of flashbacks, starting with the present time, 2009. . Srinivas Mohan Sound Design: P. Artistic impression is too good.
His brother-in-law enjoys the property illegally. Baahubali is a two part Indian movie that is simultaneously being shot in Telugu and Tamil. Tamannah excelled as a dream girl. The latter's son Raghuveer is spellbound by Indu's beauty and goes to their home and promises to return the entire property with the hopes of marrying Indu. Make us dream something greater :. Prabhas and Rana have great physique to display. He is also the personal caretaker of the royal family.
Baahubali: The Beginning JYK subtitles
Please avoid other methods of copying or duplicating the video, and help us support anti-piracy measures in any way you can. Raghuveer's guru Ghora tells him that he cannot win Indu as long as Harsha is alive. Beyond all that this is the exact kind of movie that gives brown people the hero stories we need. Easier to dream myself up as Amahendra Baahubali than white superman haha That's what movies should do for us right? But the princess loses her heart to Bhairava. Ranadev Bhilla is her cousin.
Baahubali 2: The Conclusion (2017) Tamil in HD
Thank you - Baahubali Team. Indu's father fights a legal battle for Udaygadh kingdom as it was his ancestral property. He invades the kingdom and kills the king. Though Harsha tries to explain the truth to Indu, she doesn't believe him. He falls in love with her and she reciprocates the love. During her last moments, Mitravinda requests Bhairava to proclaim his love for her. In the final fight, Harsha kills Raghuveer by cutting off his hand where he holds indu and Raghuveer Fall down from the cliff and Dies.


Winter can be dark, cold, foreboding. But if you plan ahead and prepare for the elements, you'll likely never regret your decision to show up.
For many runners, one of the greatest joys of the sport is belonging to a running community. But if you're new to running or moving to a new town, how do you find your people?
If running is all you do, what happens when you can't run anymore? Keeping your athletic goals in perspective will make you a happier runner.
Fartlek? Tempo? If you're confused about all the running terms you hear, the New Runner's Dictionary is for you.
The newest members of Saucony's Freedom Track Club take advantage of the team's family feel to push themselves toward new goals.
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The Brooks Booster Club outfits cash-strapped programs with gear and money to keep young athletes running.
Strategically designed programs called Girls On the Run (GOTR) help girls in elementary and middle school gain confidence and build life skills.
Childhood obesity is a growing problem in the United States, and Saucony wants to do something about it.
Got a runner on your holiday list? We got you covered. These gift ideas for runners are sure to make this holiday a little faster.


Wellness Advocates are responsible for working directly with patients, providers and the clinical team in supporting the management of patient panel plan of care in an ambulatory clinic practice for the Employee Value Based Care (VBC) Organization.
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Education: Bachelors degree OR A technical diploma or certificate in Medical Assisting required. Associates Degree in Medical Assisting from an accredited Program of Study such as the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) preferred, OR Graduation from a certified Paramedic or EMT-Intermediate education program required.
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School district to appeal e-mail release order
An attorney for the Clark County School District indicated in court Tuesday that the district would appeal to the Nevada Supreme Court a judge's order to release a year's worth of School Board members' e-mail records to Karen Gray, a Henderson resident who is researching school law.
March 4, 2009 - 10:00 pm
School district attorney Bill Hoffman was unsuccessful in persuading District Judge Susan Johnson to recuse herself because of a conflict of interest.
The judge said she had previously disclosed in court that her husband, Eric Johnson, had once sued the district and Nevada Interscholastic Athletic Association to create more athletic opportunities for girls. The case is no longer in litigation.
Johnson upheld her own order, saying that she was going to err on the side of public disclosure.
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12 die after suspected arsonist hits Japan animation studio
July 17, 2019 - 9:18 pm July 17, 2019 - 11:13 pm
A Japanese fire official says at least 12 people are presumed dead and more could be missing after they were trapped by fire at a popular animation production studio in Kyoto.
Golf ball hit by father strikes, kills 6-year-old daughter
Relatives of a 6-year-old Utah girl who died after her father accidentally struck her with a golf ball are remembering her as a loving, playful child.
Pilot suspected of flying drunk, arrested after crashing in Mesquite
By Katelyn Newberg / RJ
July 17, 2019 - 8:43 pm July 18, 2019 - 12:05 am
A pilot was hospitalized, then arrested, after a plane crashed and caught fire Wednesday at the Mesquite Municipal Airport, officials said.
Kamala Harris' campaign opens Nevada HQ in Las Vegas
By Rory Appleton / RJ
Two senior officials with Sen. Kamala Harris' presidential campaign discussed the importance of Nevada as a diverse early state and shared some insights on the candidate's preparations for the second national debate.
Clark County school leaders offer ideas to save deans
By Amelia Pak-Harvey / RJ
The goal, school leaders say, is to keep all middle and high school deans while equally distributing the financial burden across all the schools.
Paul McCartney working on 'It's a Wonderful Life' stage musical
The ex-Beatle is collaborating with "Billy Elliot" playwright Lee Hall and West End producer Bill Kenwright.
US detains immigrant after he spends year in Seattle church
Jose Robles was ordered deported in 2013 following two arrests in a misdemeanor domestic violence cases that were later dismissed.
Thousands march in Puerto Rico demanding governor's resignation
By Michael Weissenstein The Associated Press
The island is struggling to emerge from a debt-driven financial failure and a more than decade-long recession.
By Shea Johnson / RJ
The new funding is meant to curtail a mounting trash problem throughout the city.
Las Vegas OKs $226K for 25 transitional housing units for homeless
By Briana Erickson / RJ
The units, converted motel rooms and apartments, will be filled on a case-by-case for up to a year by clients who also receive case management and supportive services.


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Body investigating Qasr-e-Naz tragedy seeks fumigation record
The fact-finding committee that was formed to investigate the Qasr-e-Naz tragedy, in which six members of a family from Balochistan, including five children, died in the city due to suspected food poisoning, has sought a detailed report from the relevant officials involved in fumigation at Qasr-e-Naz, the guesthouse where the family stayed.
It has been reported that the guesthouse had been fumigated when the family came from Balochistan to stay there. The effects of fumigation, which involved a toxic compound aluminium phosphide, have also been suspected as a possible reason for the deaths, in addition to the consumption of toxic food by the family which they purchased from a restaurant.
Regarding the report on fumigation, a letter has been sent by the Pakistan Public Works Department, the government of Pakistan to an executive engineer of the Central Civil Division, Karachi.
The subject of the letter is "Fact Finding Inquiry into unfortunate death of guests staying in Room 58-A, Qasr-e-Naz, Karachi". The letter asks the executive engineer to provide the relevant record pertaining to the supply of aluminium phosphide. It also seeks details regarding the responsibilities of various officials, including the sub-engineer, assistant executive engineer, executive engineer and superintending engineer.
"Besides when you joined duties why you failed in adopting precautionary measures to maintain store of lodge in accordance with rules and why the charge of the store was not handed over to Sub-Engineer who is also residing in the Federal Lodge Qasr-e-Naz, Karachi," the letter reads.
The letter also charges the officer with concealing facts. "You have clearly forgotten the duties of Sub-Engineer as well as Assistant Executive Engineer which clearly indicate that you are concealing the facts," it reads.
The executive engineer was directed in the letter to furnish attested copies of some record on March 10, 2019 at 9am positively, so that the inquiry could be conducted without any further loss of time as a report has to be urgently submitted to the Ministry of Housing and Works.
The officer was told to furnish details of the authority to purchase aluminium phosphide and whether any precautionary measures were taken while using the substance in Qasr-e-Naz. The letter stated that parliamentarians who visited Karachi on official tours also stayed at the guest house whereas officers of the federal government also frequently resided there due to which extra care was required in running the affairs of Qasr-e-Naz.
The executive engineer was also told to explain the rules and regulations of carrying out fumigation and whether aluminium phosphide was allowed in fumigation as it was never used in federal lodges in Islamabad, Quetta, Lahore and Peshawar.
Record regarding the initial approval of aluminium phosphide was also sought along with the instructions issued for its utilisation as per the Quarantine Act, 1976. Other relevant record was also sought including tenders invited for fumigation, up-keep material and Form-8 of the up-keep material of Qasr-e-Naz.
The officer was also told to explain his stance on the sum of Rs4.6 million deposited in the bank account. "If the same amounts are no more required why the same are being charged when the very purpose is void now," the letter reads.
The letter also sought the inspection report during the officer's tenure and an explanation over the residing of the sub-engineer in the servant quarter of the guesthouse for a long time. "Who authorised him?" the letter asks, adding that the sub-engineer was also drawing house rent allowance.
"Furnish inspection report of Superintending Engineer as required under Pak PWD Code. Why you failed to act upon the contents of Pak PWD, Code under which you were duty bound to point out the mismanagement of your predecessor. Why Sub-Engineer/AEE failed to enter Aluminum Phosphide in Form-8?" the letter reads.
"The store was to be kept under the custody of Sub-Engineer [who would] issue Aluminum Phosphide to the caretaking staff with the specific instructions to Controller of Qasr-e-Naz," the letter states. "Furnish documentary evidences related to pest control/ fumigation/ anti-termite works carried out by the department of Pak PWD, for the last 5 years."
According to sources, the fact-finding committee is headed by MB Khattak who is also the chief administrative officer. The committee shall submit its final report after the submission of above record by the officials in question. Further investigations are under way.


I'm just a regular guy who likes to cook and eat. Food has always been a big part of my growing up.
Some of these recipes I have adapted from family recipes or just saw something I thought I'd like and made my own changes.
Keep in mind that everyone's tastes differ. So feel free to make adjustments to suit YOUR taste.
Even when I use a recipe, I ALWAYS change it to suit my tastes.
Also….a lot of the recipes I write down are written after I've already made the meal and I am not following a recipe, so I am estimating with the ingredients.
Either way, if you try any of this stuff, please let me know, leave a comment or share the recipe.


I have always (since 16) predominantly been a tea drinker. Then around age 21, I started dabbling in the world of coffee…regular coffee, flavored coffees, lattes, cappuccinos, espresso shots… you know how it goes. I had really never expected to come a regular drinker of coffee, but the again, it was always in my blood (mom and dad both love their coffee).
Recently, I decided that I wanted to try going back to drinking strictly tea – specifically black, green and oolong. I've been wondering if I was generally just better off with tea… maybe my skin wasn't as dry for starters? Well, if you look around you can find plenty of information on why you should avoid coffee, and caffeine in general. Then again, you can also find tons of info/research on caffeine's benefits.
I'm certainly not here to demonize coffee. I think everyone is different and moderation is always key. But I do think that coffee drinkers can benefit from going organic with their coffee since it is a highly pesticide-ridden crop. Other than that, I think most people do fine with coffee as long as they don't over do it.
For me, I wanted to see what it was like even attempting to avoid coffee completely. Could I do it? Well I'm now on day 24 of no coffee (or espresso) and I have to say that I surprisingly don't really miss it. My goal was to see if I could do 30 days minimum. I actually think I might continue to stick with my daily tea time long term (with an occasional tasty coffee or latte thrown in here and there). As with dieting, being rigid never works and I'm not trying to deprive myself. I just think I feel better with tea. Plus, my skin isn't as dry/dull and I no longer have any afternoon slumps. Those 2 benefits alone are enough for me to want to stick with my new coffee-free routine.
Plus, I'm also sticking with tea for another reason. I always enjoy a cup of tea, but when it comes to coffee I feel like it's hit or miss, especially when you don't make it at home. Too many times, the aroma alone has made me want a cup, but then the actual cup of coffee does not taste at all as delicious as it smelled. Do you know what I mean?
Well no matter what you choose, I hope you enjoy every cup and feel good after consuming your caffeinated beverage of choice!
Do you drink tea, coffee, or both? Or neither?! (the answer to which I am always fascinated) Any specific favorites? Do you think you could benefit from decreasing or switching your source of caffeine?
< Previous Spring At Last!
And since I'm always thinking about teeth… both tea and coffee can stain your teeth, but tea can actually help keep your gums healthy in the process!
Wow, I'm so impressed that you've given up coffee for 24 days! I used to drink more tea and in the last 5 years or so, I've been into coffee with the occasional cup of tea. But recently I've been having days, sometimes weeks at a time when I don't have any coffee and I don't really miss it either. I'm not giving it up or anything, I just realized that I don't need it as much as I thought I did.
Sooo happy to hear that you are going to stick with the no more coffee. I used to drink it all throughout the day for years until I did the Fat Flush Plan/detox two years ago, where you have to eliminate all caffeine. It wasn't easy dealing with the massive migraine those first couple of days but once I overcame the addiction, I would never go back. I still LOVE the smell of coffee but don't miss the acidic addicted feeling.
For my favorite teas that give me the boost of caffeine – I LOVE mate tea (Celestial Seasonings Morning Thunder is terrific) and Trader Joe's has a wonderful organic blend.
I have also been leaning towards green tea and really love white teas with peach.
For all of my teas I mix some honey and soy and it's the perfect treat.
I'm going to go make some now come to think of it!
You know I love this subject. I'm a huge fan of tea and coffee, I've always been.
I have 1 cup of coffee in the morning, during the day I drink tea and a lot of water and then I have 1 more cup of coffee when I get home from work(a new habit). I agree when you say that moderation is key!
I usually drink at least one cup of green tea everyday. Occasionally I'll have a cup of coffee or an iced coffee. I must say iced coffee is my weakness in the summer time.
Coffee smell is almost always better than the actual cup, so true!! you are doing great so far!
I drink both! But lately I've been favoring tea – it just feels healthier. And I put so much sugar in my coffee so I know tea is better for me! But like you said, I can't deprive myself either, so…coffee every now and then it is!
I love both but I love tea more, esp flavored teas.
I'm a tea drinker too, and I recently dedicated a post about it. Come check it out when you have time. And thanks for sharing the insightful information.
I am strictly a tea drinker! I've never been into coffee, just don't like the taste of it. I usually drink about 2 cups of caffeine free (or so it says) tea per day.
I hope you have a great weekend Annie!
Annie-I love this post and I had no idea coffee had so many pesticides. I love drinking coffee in the morning and tea in the afternoon. Do you ever drink tea with cardamom and cloves or black tea with ginger? those are my favorites.
I rarely have coffee because I don't make it at home. And I do feel like tea is healthier.


text:
Q: ASP.NET Core Middleware Breaks Physical File Controller Method I use the following middleware to replace the response content:
app.Use(async (context, next) => {
    var body = context.Response.Body;

    using (var updatedBody = new MemoryStream()) {
        context.Response.Body = updatedBody;

        await next();

        context.Response.Body = body;

        updatedBody.Seek(0, SeekOrigin.Begin);

        var newContent = new StreamReader(updatedBody).ReadToEnd();

        // Replace content here ...

        await context.Response.WriteAsync(newContent);
    }
});

This works fine. However now say I have the following action method:
public IActionResult Image() {
    return PhysicalFile(@"C:\myimage.jpg", "image/jpeg");
}

When it tries to display this image it won't load, but if I remove the middleware then it does.
Please note that I am using ASP.NET Core 3.

A: Something like this maybe:
    app.UseWhen(context => context.Response.ContentType == "text/html", subApp => subApp.Use(async (context, next) =>
    {
        var body = context.Response.Body;

        using (var updatedBody = new MemoryStream())
        {
            context.Response.Body = updatedBody;

            await next();

            context.Response.Body = body;

            updatedBody.Seek(0, SeekOrigin.Begin);

            var newContent = new StreamReader(updatedBody).ReadToEnd();

            // Replace content here ...

            await context.Response.WriteAsync(newContent);
        }
    }));

A: Here's the solution I have come up with:
app.Use(async (context, next) => {
    var body = context.Response.Body;

    using (var updatedBody = new MemoryStream()) {
        context.Response.Body = updatedBody;

        try {
            await next();
        } catch {
            throw;
        } finally {
            context.Response.Body = body;
        }

        if (context.Response.StatusCode == 200 && context.Response.ContentType != null && context.Response.ContentType.Contains("text/html", StringComparison.InvariantCultureIgnoreCase)) {
            updatedBody.Seek(0, SeekOrigin.Begin);

            using (var reader = new StreamReader(updatedBody)) {
                var newContent = reader.ReadToEnd();

                // Replace content here

                await context.Response.WriteAsync(newContent);
            }
        } else {
            if (updatedBody.Length > 0)
                await context.Response.Body.WriteAsync(updatedBody.ToArray());
        }
    }
});

This article helped thanks to @CodeCaster's suggestion. As an added bonus I have fixed an issue where it breaks the developer exception page by wrapping a try/catch around the call to the delegate.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


text:
Richard Moore, Guitar Player
Lessons & Contact
Bio (short & sweet)
Pics - Early
Pics - England
Pics - Newer
Tribute to Mark
Richard Glen Moore
June 3, 1949 – April 30, 2016
January 29, 2017 5-8 pm Chico ,CA Elks Club
Facebook Group "Richard Moore Celebration of Life Event"
Please join the group for more info and if you want to participate in the music jam at the event.
Sadly, Richard passed away on April 30, 2016, ten months after being diagnosed with lung cancer. He received chemotherapy at UCSF in San Francisco. In early January 2016 he and his wife Louise were jubilant to learn that the therapy had successfully shrunk the lung tumor and his scheduled surgery was cancelled. He was told that six weeks of outpatient lung radiation would most likely result in remission. However two days after he started his lung radiation in late February, he showed symptoms that led to further tests which revealed brain cancer. He had some further treatment and hospitalization in San Francisco. On April 6 he went home to be with his friends, his cats and his house and on April 30 he went to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He was laid to rest in the Chico Cemetary in Chico, CA.
Richard was born in Vancouver, BC. His Mother saw his gift and arranged piano lessons for him at age six. He excelled and also enjoyed the adventure of taking the city bus across town by himself to his lessons. She was usually a protective Mother, but somehow thought it was safe for him to travel across town alone. But this was in Canada in 1951. Perhaps this was what sparked the fearlessness he carried through life. When he was nine the family moved to Vancouver Island to a little house on the shore of a beautiful lake just outside Victoria. The city bus trips were traded for building rafts from scraps of wood for navigating the lake and long hikes by himself in the nearby forests. He never got lost due to his use of "landmarks" to find his way home. His love of nature remained throughout his life. His music lessons continued and expanded to clarinet. He joined an award winning high school jazz band when he was 11. He had been very affected by seeing Elvis on the Ed Sullivan show in 1956, but didn't trade in his clarinet for a guitar until he was 15. He and some fellow local musicians became obsessed by the blues and he was in the first successful blues band,"Blues by Five," in Victoria. The friendships formed in that band lasted his lifetime. As a young man, his love of music and desire to perform took him from Vancouver Island over the water to the city of Vancouver to play blues, then to California to form a rock band that was signed with Warner Bros (and fell apart when two of the members were drafted) and then to remain in the US to tour with a country band for two years, and then to England (with a one way ticket and enough money to stay a month) to seek his fortune in the heart of the music scene of the time. His parents, who struggled to provide a home for their four children in tough economic times, were unusual in that they never encouraged Richard to get a "day job." They believed that a successful life comes from love of family and following your true calling. Shortly after arriving in London he auditioned for the band "The Troggs" and 3 hours later found himself on the way to a gig with the band. Two years later he met his American wife Louise in London. During his years with the Troggs he recorded 3 albums with them which included some of his original songs, toured many countries, met a lot of well known musicians, and had a lot of fun. After seven years in England he and Louise moved to the Algarve, Portugal, where they built a home near the ocean and he commuted to London to do recording sessions with many bands, including some newly formed punk bands. In 1982 they sold the Algarve property and moved to Santa Barbara. He continued to have his own band, "Cruise Control," and also played with other bands including a big band that performed at exclusive country clubs and private parties for many celebrities. He also obtained his real estate brokers license. He perfectly balanced his real estate business and his music. His love of people and his always collaborative attitude served both well. In 2009 he and Louise moved to Chico, CA. Both, before meeting each other, had lived in the San Francisco area in the 60's and early 70's and had longed to return to Northern California "one day." That decision has blessed them over and over. The wonderful friends, many of whom are amazingly talented musicians, the beautiful town and the natural beauty all around have made their lives in Chico very rich.
A note from Louise -
I wish to thank all Richard's friends for their love, kindness and support especially since his diagnosis and subsequent illness. He praised God for your love which lifted him up every day.


The Wet Season is over, the land was been fed, the waterholes topped up. In the blink of an eye Southern Australia gets a chill and the town awakes from the slumber to a busy bustle with motorhomes, caravans and some seriously kitted-up 4WD's. The sky is abuzz with scenic flights swooning over Lake Argyle, The Bungles and the diamond mine.
The markets emerge from their dormancy. Buskers entertain the crowds of young families, grey nomads and weekenders. Producers display their toil in the form of local bush honey, zebra rock art, fresh mango smoothies to fresh produce and more. Zucchinis, pumpkins, melons, gourmet lettuces, fresh herbs and delicious local red grapefruit!
Locals are easy to spot, she's the one matching thongs with scarves.
Thick muddy roads dry up and the grader operators fire up, smoothing out the dirt roads and corrugations. At last, the roads are open. Hello Bungle Bungles, Hello El Questro, Hello ….. well, there are some secret spots that we just can't share! Camping trips swap extra beer for billy tea – battery powered fans for extra sleeping bags – bathers for books.
Café numbers triple! Pumphouse sundowners overlooking Lake Kununurra, yes please! Farm-direct home prepared café food at Ivanhoe Café or seasonal lunches at the Hoochery Distillery add to the inventory of lunch options.
Road trains carting cattle tower over road vehicles. The rodeo brings the bush to town with jeans, jillaroos and swagger. Farmers bundle their hay crops, wave off corn and chickpea shipments bound for international markets. The Agricultural Show displays the best of the town from equine competitions, pet pavilions, the best scones and the annual fireworks display.
For us, Winter means the air becomes thinner, lighter. The crowds become thicker and busier. Energy, eagerness and excitement. A chance to share our love for the East Kimberley to visitors pleasantly surprised. Winterful Kununurra.


For a moment, the question caught me off guard. I had stopped by the vet with Magic to drop off some paperwork on his October heartworm test in Quincy, Illinois, drop off a "sample," and check on Magic's weight.
And we waited about 15 minutes for the examination room with the scale to become available.
There is another examination room behind the cashier counter and that room is used only for one activity. I know that room. Cody, on January 8th, Tyler in 2003, and other pets of my past have been in that room with me. There is a large framed print on the west wall entitled, His Master's Bed…a white Labrador sound asleep on a large bed, a window looking out on a pastoral scene, curtains blowing gently, very peaceful.
A woman, about my age, with curly reddish blond hair stepped out of that room. She was in full grief, holding an orange cloth over her eyes…sobbing. I know that room. I wanted to comfort her but she moved quickly to one of the open examination rooms and was gone.
A gorgeous Border collie mix came in off-leash with his owner, a woman about 30 wearing Adidas athletic warm-ups and a Chicago Blackhawks hat. The dog, Homer, was quite a gentleman. His lower body was white and reddish tan ticking, his upper body was gray, black and white ticking…topped off with a large parallelogram of pure black on his back and left side. He jumped up on the wooden bench next to his Mom and was very well behaved.
And what about Magic? Magic always receives high compliments for his handsomeness – "my o my what a gorgeous boy, oh' that dog is gorgeous, oh he is beautiful. I am so lucky. And Magic was very good, very respectful. Just a look and he sits…amazing how that communication works between man and dog.
Magic weighed in at 46.2 pounds. I know that Kathy P. and the good-hearted volunteers from Great Lakes Border Collie Rescue (GLBCR) will be thrilled with Magic's weight – he weighed only 33 when he came into rescue.
Magic's progress with obedience, behavior, learning and sweetness has been a joy to watch. I have increased his off-leash time outside and he really gets it…responds immediately to "Come here, Magic." He pays attention, a very sharp boy! An EXTREMELY sweet boy!
A simple square box, black, Cody (January 8th 2015). Within, is a brass metal can and Cody's paw print in plaster.
This entry was tagged border collie, border collie rescue, Cannon Beach, Crossing the bridge, death of a pet, dog, dog behavior, dogs and people, herding dogs, life with a dog, life with dogs, old dogs, Oregon Coast, pet rescue, rainbow bridge. Bookmark the permalink.
Yes, me too. I was very certain I had burned off all of the grief, until I held his remains in my hands and had him next to me in the car. Still tough.
Tom, I am remembering a trip to my vet's office, probably near exactly ten years ago. I'd received the call that my beloved Murphy-girl's ashes were back and ready to come home with me. I made the mistake of stopping in on my way home from work and the clinic's waiting room was a flurry of activity. When the box was placed in front of me on the counter, I wrapped my arms around it and seemingly froze in a well of grief, unable to move and very aware of all of the people in the room behind me. I'm not sure how long I stood there, probably only a few minutes, but I felt a dog's head nuzzle the side of my leg and lean against me. I looked down and saw the face of a former GLBCR foster dog whom I'd help transport. That dear boy let me kneel down and soak his head with tears while his person stood quietly. I'm so grateful that they were there that day.
Love hearing how Magic is continuing to blossom under your fine care….he looks fabulous! His coming to you and Cody is one of those episodes which restore my faith that there are, after all, threads of order to this chaotic universe.
I thought I had burned off most of the grief…until I held him in my hands and he was in the car next to me. Still very tough. A lot of memories. I miss him.
I know the pain, the tears and the box. It is what we are charged for loving our pets.
It doesn't seem to get easier does it? Magic seems to be doing a great job helping you through the difficult moments. I've had the privilege of taking Kona to Canon beach just after we were married, it's a magical place. I treasure a memory of him running down the beach at full tilt trying to herd the seagulls. When we have a tough day I cling to that image, and pray we can have one more romp in that surf.
That is very touching.. You place so many wonderful details in your story that I felt as if I were there. I'm fearing that room as well. As time continues to fly (as it seems to always do) my soon to be 15 year old border collie is really acting her age. As my first dog, I am very fearful and am already starting to grieve at just the thought of losing her.


It will be difficult to change long-held opinions on the openness of Chinese markets. Naturally, different segments of the international community will vary in their views. Countries in Southeast Asia, for example, could see benefits from Chinese initiatives to accelerate the building of regional free trade areas. Financial services firms in the West also stand to benefit from removing caps on foreign stakes in banks, securities brokerage houses, and fund management firms. However, on balance, it will be hard to "exceed the expectations of the international community." China is facing an uphill battle due to three reasons.
First, surveys by the Chambers of Commerce of the United States and European Union reflect that perceptions of market access barriers in China are deeply ingrained. To change the international business community's view would take a massive new push to open Chinese markets. This is unlikely.
Second, China's political economy is based on the unique balancing of state-coordination with bottom-up initiative and private entrepreneurship. Each step at market liberalization has thus been paired with steps to strengthen state capacity. This is likely to continue, as announced reforms seek to centralize the state's role in various sectors of the economy.
While more effective state governance is needed for markets to efficiently function, the role of the state in China will continue to loom large. Consequently, Western notions of market liberalization will be hard to fulfill.
Finally, even if market openings are substantial, they will occur in sectors where Chinese domestic competitors have had time to establish themselves. Unseating these increasingly powerful incumbents will be difficult. Compared to an earlier era of reform and opening, foreign investors will face massive competitive pressures. The Chinese financial sector is a case in point. Therefore, even substantial market liberalization measures are unlikely to impress large segments of the international business community.


© 2010 – 2014, Raivenne-lations.
Unauthorized use and/or duplication of material on this blog without express, written permission from me is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links are fine, just ensure to give full, clear credit to the blog (Raivenne-lations) and/or to me directly (Raivenne) with specific direction/link to the original content.


This was just the book I needed right now. I hadn't finished a book in quite awhile, and felt like I was reading every-so-slowly, but this picked it right back up!
I love Harry Potter (Gryffindor power) and am co-hosting Randomathon Round 2 on my YouTube channel. One of the challenges was to read a Harry Potter book, so that's why I picked this up from my library.
I'm so glad I read this because it was so fast paced and it was perfect for a readathon!
Also, this cover is really cool. You should definitely study the cover a little bit after reading this, because you can tie each of the stories to one of the illustrations!
I haven't read this one yet, but have had it on my tbr for a long time. Hopefully I will pick it up some time soon!


text:
01. Portugal (758 p.)
04. Belgium (363 p.)
08. Hungary (200 p.)
09. Australia (175 p.)
11. Netherlands (150 p.)
13. Croatia (128 p.)
14. Azerbaijan (120 p.)
15. U. K. (111 p.)
16. Austria (93 p.)
20. Denmark (77 p.)
21. Cyprus (68 p.)
23. Israel (39 p.)
24. Ukraine (36 p.)
25. Germany (6 p.)
26. Spain (5 p.)
13. Czech Republic (83 p.)
14. Albania (76 p.)
18. Latvia (21 p.)
11. Serbia (98 p.)
13. Ireland (86 p.)
14. Estonia (85 p.)
16. Malta (55 p.)
17. Lithuania (42 p.)
18. San Marino (1 p.)
The interview with Norma John
The song "Black Bird" is a very calm and simple song with a strong and beautiful melody. This is a very adult song which really shines with a reduced presentation. Of course there might be some similarities to Anouk with "Birds", which was another calm and reduced song. The audience will get caught by the amazing voice of Leena and the simplicity of the Nordic sound. This entry is a real gem in this year's ESC and would perfectly fit in the Grand Final.
In Finland the national final is called "UMK - Uuden Musikkin Kilpailu"which determines the Finnish entry for the Eurovision Song Contest. The Finnish broadcaster YLE has made one instead of three shows in the Espoo Metro Arena this year. There were ten finalists with the most different music styles. The really entertaining show was hosted by the charming ex-ESC singer Krista Siegfrids. Unlike last year there were no national juries, but an international jury. Due to the fact that the Finnish entries often do not match the European taste, it was a wise idea to include an international. This show concept was the sixth edition and did not bring big success for Finland neither, only two songs made it into the Grand Finals, but there was no Top 10 song. The most sophisticated entry "Black Bird" by Norma John could win with a great majority of points.
Norma John is a band which consists of the two musicians Leena Tirronen and Lasse Piirainen. Both singers are friends and do music together since 15 years. The band exists since 2008 and there were three more singers in the beginning. In the year 2010 Norma John participated in the X Factor and made a third place. They released one album and three singles so far. Now they have won the UMK and going to represent Finland at the ESC and they have the chance to get known to a very big audience. They do write all of their songs on their own.
Author: Jens PetersenEmail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Editor in Chief of eurovisionlive.com
Due to the fact that my parents are musicians, I have a gained a great enthusiasm for music. Since 1979 my interest in the Eurovision Song Contest has grown enormously. My first ESC I joined was in Dublin 1995. Six years later I founded the website eurovisionlive.com in the year 2001. The most fascinating part for me is the original idea of the Eurovision Song Contest – the peaceful contest of the European countries. I am very happy that I have the chance to contribute my little part for the greatest music show in the world.
62nd Eurovision Song Contest
Location - International Exhibition Centre / Kyiv
Host Broadcaster - UA:PBS
Hosts - Oleksandr Skichko, Volodymyr Ostapchuk & Timur Mirochnychenko


text:
namespace Vk.Api.Schema.Common.User
{
    /// <summary>
    /// Интерфейс для представления статуса пользователя
    /// </summary>
    public interface IUserStatus
    {
        /// <summary>
        /// Статус пользователя, если доступен,
        /// иначе <see langword="null"/>
        /// </summary>
        string Status { get; }

        //TODO: audio_status

    }
}

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


text:
Your smart-home system could be making your home unsellable, according to a top real-estate agent
Libertina Brandt
People don't want a smart system that's too difficult to operate.
Luxury developers are trying to attract buyers with outrageous amenities.
But according to the California-based real-estate agent Jade Mills, who has sold over $5 billion worth of real estate in her career, overly sophisticated smart-home systems can have the opposite effect.
The ongoing amenity wars across America's hottest luxury housing markets have resulted in the creation of extravagent features such as rooftop gyms and even dog spas.
But of all innovations meant to make homes more sellable, some are having the opposite effect.
The luxury real-estate agent Jade Mills has sold more than $5 billion worth of real estate in her career and was ranked No. 6 on Real Trends' 2019 list of top US individual real-estate professionals by sales volume. She is also the top real-estate agent in sales in Beverly Hills, California, and she recently told Business Insider that one amenity in particular was likely to push her buyers away: overly sophisticated smart-home systems.
Read more: A Los Angeles broker who has sold over $5 billion of real estate says wealthy homebuyers are focused on comfort and wellness, and it's influencing what amenities they're looking for
"People want a smart system, but most people don't want something that's very difficult to operate," Mills told Business Insider.
Smart systems are generally appealing: The idea of being able to hit a button to control things like lights and temperature is attractive to buyers, Mills told Business Insider. But according to the real-estate agent, even younger buyers don't want a system they have to spend a lot of time learning how to use.
"If you're going to install some kind of a smart system, make sure it's not too complicated for the buyer to use," Mills said.
Along with the preference of Mills' buyers, smart technology even beyond the housing market is often best accepted by consumers when it is easy to operate.
Just consider the unprecedented success of Apple products. Business Insider's Steven John recently reported switching to Apple's Macbook after years of using a PC because he found the Apple product to be more intuitive.
More: Arts & Culture Real Estate LA Real Estate mansions
BI Select


· Current and future challenges for mining companies. How are they taken into account in the development plans?
09:00 Mining 4.0. Create or adopt?
09:30 Digital Transformation of Kazakhmys Holding.
09:45 Leapfrog grade shells compared to manual wireframing – Kogadyr-6 mine, Kazakhstan.
RICHARD NICHOLLS, Senior Consultant (Mining Geology), SRK (UK) Ltd.
10:00 Management of mineral resources using Seequent solutions as a platform for migration to an automated production environment.
10:15 Industry 4.0: Innovative IT solutions for Geological Exploration.
10:30 Efficiency of Quality Control Programme at an Operating Mine.


text:
Разъезд 21 () — разъезд в Чиилийском районе Кызылординской области Казахстана. Входит в состав Алмалинского сельского округа. Код КАТО — 435235600.

Население
В 1999 году население разъезда составляло 543 человека (274 мужчины и 269 женщин). По данным переписи 2009 года, в разъезде проживало 559 человек (281 мужчина и 278 женщин).

Примечания

Населённые пункты Чиилийского района

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


Choose from our variety of banquet rooms to suit the atmosphere you wish to create. Ranging in size and hosting between 10-300 guests, we have event rooms with both ocean and city views, so whether you're celebrating a bar mitzvah, birthday, or anniversary or organizing a gala dinner, conference or exhibition; we are here to help you think, design, organize and manage the entire event. From decorations and menus, to music and shows, whatever your style or whim, we are here to make it come true. The Carlton Hotel also has a variety of well equipped Seminar rooms. These can be arranged in classroom, theatre and U-Shape, for meetings, lectures and workshops. We will also provide any tools you require, including: computers, WiFi, projectors, flip charts and more.
Please visit their website http://www.carlton.co.il/en to obtain more information about their amazing services.


text:
Q: Remove checkbox from LayerList widget (ArcGIS JavaScript) Is it possible to change the design of the LayerList widget in this ESRI tutorial ?
I would like the LayerList with no checkboxes and to select one layer at a time just by clicking it's name.
I know you can hide the checkboxes with display: none but how do you select the layers?
Michelle.

A: Well, Here is the working solution for this-
Use selection color to select/Unselect the layerList Items:-

JSFiddle:- https://jsfiddle.net/vikash2402/5dcLh450/3/
Below is the working code for this-

<!DOCTYPE html>

<meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8">
<meta name="viewport" content="initial-scale=1, maximum-scale=1,user-scalable=no">
<title>Layer List Dijit</title>
<link rel="stylesheet" href="https://js.arcgis.com/3.20/dijit/themes/claro/claro.css">
<link rel="stylesheet" href="https://js.arcgis.com/3.20/esri/css/esri.css">

Hoping this will help you :)


At Geelong Pest Control we frequently are asked by builders, and owner builders alike, when is the best time to get a termite prevention treatment done when building? The answer is Pre-Construction!!
At Geelong Pest Control we frequently are asked by builders, and owner builders alike, when is the best time to get a termite prevention treatment done when building?
The product is designed to act as a physical and chemical prevention system to deter termites gaining entry into your home. The product is impregnated with a chemical called Bifenthrin, which is a tried and tested termite repellent. Homeguard Blue is also manufactured right here in Australia.
The installation process is broken down into two stages, Part 'A' and Part 'B'.
Part 'A' installation consists of our technicians arriving once the concrete preparation is complete eg. All tarp, Rio steel and boxing is complete with the penetrations or plumbing in position but without lagging if possible. Then our technicians will install collars on all the penetrations before the concrete is poured to limit termites creating mud leads on the outside of the pipes to gain entry.
Part 'B' installation is applied once the concrete has cured or set, then the chalk lines should all be clearly marked to help our technicians see what areas need Homeguard Blue or areas you'd like us to avoid. Then we would apply the Homeguard Blue roll around the edge of the slab, which would sit under the bottom plate and then tie in with the brickwork if it were a brick veneer home for example. This is designed to limit the access to the bottom plate through any cracks in the mortar.
What are the benefits of applying these products opposed to the old spray methods?
The industry standards have changed which has limited our ability to apply spray treatments at the construction phase, and for good reason.
Treatments conducted via a spray are typically disturbed heavily after hand over, due to landscaping, concrete pathways and driveways being added. This will almost definitely completely remove the termite management system or remove large amounts of soil that have been previously treated.
What is the warranty period for Homeguard Blue PB?
Homeguard Blue PB has a 50-year product warranty, as per Australian pest control industry standards, there must be annual inspections to uphold this warranty. You will typically receive a letter in the mail or an email reminding you to have your annual inspection conducted. There will also be a sticker installed in your meter box that will outline what date the products were installed and what products were used, outlining batch numbers and date of manufacture for the product. In some cases at the building phase, a meter box may not have been in place at the time of installation, so you can contact the provider and they can organise a sticker to be added.
Is Homeguard Blue PB an option for extensions?
Absolutely! Homeguard is also a great option for a slab that will be poured as an attachment to an existing home. Call us to find out more.
Can Homeguard Blue PB be used for a home on stumps?
Yes! Homeguard blue can be used with concrete stumps under the ant caps. To find out more, call us.
For more information and proof that we are an accredited user of Homeguard Blue PB go to the Homeguard website.
Please provide your details and one of our friendly staff will get in touch with you.


An easy fit top with ruching from waist to hem. The generous length is adjustable - it scrunches up nicely. It has a wide boatneck and short dolman sleeves. Perfect in all fabric options, shown here in Pine merino blend.


This paper describes the development and implementation of qualitative behavioural criteria in order to analyse the conduct of pedestrians and vehicles when they are required to interact with each other, with particular interest to street designs with elements of shared space. The new behavioural analysis technique is developed by identifying the fundamental principles that underpin existing traffic analyses, such as traffic conflicts techniques, and adapting those to a qualitative framework that describes the mindset and rationale of road users. The technique is then applied to a case study in London, using video data from periods before and after the redevelopment of the Exhibition Road site from a conventional dual carriageway to a modern design with some elements of shared space. With the main goals being to assess the pedestrians' confidence and the vehicles' tolerance/patience when forced to interact with each other, behavioural trends are related to instantaneous characteristics of the vehicle flow (vehicle approach speed and traffic density). The data produced are used to develop and validate qualitative behavioural relationships for pedestrian-vehicle interactions, as well as location-specific conclusions for the Exhibition Road site.


Here in Israel many are left scratching their heads wondering why Hezbollah in Lebanon didn't join in the war "Protective Edge" with Hamas. One thing is certain; when they do attack Israel with over 100,000 rockets [most being very accurate and able to reach every city, moshav and kibbutz in Israel – putting every Israeli within their range], it will be something Israel has not experienced in any of the previous wars.
To be able to have the answer one would have to understand many things, known and unknown to us, with the complicated connection between Islam, Russia and then be able to come to grips with the mind of Obama. As believers in God's Word we know, at least in part, how and when things are going to happen. Then we must add to that mix the N.W.O. who feel themselves to be like 'god's' – able to decide when you should die. I don't pretend to have the answers to the above questions, but I do have an opinion, for what that's worth.
In the natural and carnal world things are seldom as they seem. More often than not we are distracted by events. As terrible as they are, they are nevertheless smoke screens designed to disguise the main event. Keeping in mind that the Devil is the author of confusion and a deceiver who wants to steal your soul.
As for the coming war here in Israel involving the enemies from the north; Israel is prepared and well aware of its capabilities. It will be terrible, but Israel, with God's help, [or possibly the other way around], will destroy them with or without that help. Israel will prevail and be here for the second regathering of the Jews from the four corners of the earth.
Isa. 11:11. 'And it shall come to pass in that day, that the Lord shall set his hand again the second time to recover the remnant of his people, which shall be left, from Assyria, and from Egypt, and from Pathros, and from Cush, and from Elam, and from Shinar, and from Hamath, and from the islands of the sea'.
Hamas has already started rebuilding their weapons factories and redigging their tunnels. Openly, in public speeches the Hamas leaders are saying they will be ready to fight once again to destroy Israel. For this reason most Israelis are very unhappy with Netanyahu for not finishing off Hamas – but instead leaving them to fight another day.
The Jerusalem Post took a poll in Judea and Samaria (West Bank) and one third of the young men said they support ISIS. In a recent poll in Gaza, over 80% of the kids under 10 said when they grew up they wanted to be a suicide bomber. In the Palestinian text books there is no mention of Israel… only 'Palestine'.
There are serious concerns for the Jews in Turkey and many are making a move to Israel or to the US. We have notified the necessary departments in the Israeli Government that we stand ready when and if needed to rescue Turkish Jews who want to come home to Israel. Diplomatically, as things stand right now between Turkey and Israel, it could only be done with the approval of the Israeli Government.
We know that the days are near for us to go into full swing in rescuing Jews who will be fleeing from Europe, and we are seriously low on finances – not to mention the need for a larger boat to reach further and carry more.
With all of this said, I can truthfully say I feel much safer here in Israel than I would feel in America. For those in the US reading this I will say again, get ready, be a 'Prepper'. There are so many ways disaster can come to the US and very quickly. Go to this link on my website "thegoldenreport.com" and then to "books and resources" where you will find many 'helps', or just Click Here.
For those who know God and his love for Israel and the Jewish people they know God will bless those who bless Israel. For those same believers know they have become part of a Jewish root. This ministry is now reaching out, almost in desperation, to those called by God to this ministry to pray about giving a sacrificial gift. We need to hear from you now.


How full is your bucket is a concept that can significantly affect your successes and failures in all walks of life!
Based on half a decade of research Tim Rath and Donald Clifton created a small and concise book that utilizes a simple bucket and dipper metaphor to explain how our interactions with others can profoundly affect productivity, relationships, health and longevity.
After years of work with those with a weight loss or health focused goal it is clear that our interactions with our selves also has such profound effects as we dip or add to our own personal buckets!
The metaphor is simple, basically every interaction you have can either add to someones emotional bucket of happiness and goodness or you can dip out of it, you can take the good stuff away.
Just think about the relationships you have had today. Have you added some happiness to someones bucket of have you taken a little out?
The children wake up, they want to play. But you are running late, How have your interactions been with your children between them waking and you dropping them to school? How many times did you fill their bucket? Or did you only dip from their bucket?
Maybe you made breakfast and served it with a kiss.
Think about how your child went to school, did they walk in the school doors with a bucket full and over flowing with love, positive thoughts and encouragement or did they walk in feeling a little stressed, deflated and rushed?
How do you think that their bucket will affect their day at school, their learning, their retention, how will it affect their confidence and self-esteem or their relationships with other people. Maybe it affects their resilience?
What about your interactions with a local business that you use? The bus driver or the guy at the desk of your office? Simple interactions can have a profound affect on someones day.
Think about an time where something that someone else did that was probably unintentional, or even was mis-read or mis-interpreted and consider how that affected you in the moment and throughout the day! Maybe you saw your boss at work and said hello, but your boss ignored you. How did it make you feel? Did it dip your bucket? Chances are your boss may have been preoccupied or distracted and it was an unintentional action but still the affects could be significant.
How does this affect your bucket?
When you fill someone else's bucket you fill yours a little too, so the more you fill peoples buckets the more your feel good. It's kind of like giving and receiving good karma. But equally if you dip in someones bucket you will equally dip in your own bucket too!
So let's now apply this concept to your own health! What about your weight loss?
For those wanting to lose weight we have this absolute skill and need to constantly criticize ourselves, our food our success. This is not productive! How does it help to call yourself a fat cow! How is it beneficial or productive to look in the mirror and gringe at the reflection, how does it help to sin foods that are healthy, how is it helpful to beat ourselves up if we do not lose 1lb or if we maintain our weight?
Each and everytime we do these things, and we all know that at some time or other we have done this, we are dipping our buckets, we are making ourselves feel bad, we destroy our self-esteem and confidence. That does not make anyone happy!
Of course if you are not happy with your physical health or body then absolutely you need to take action to make the necessary changes, join a good gym, try a health living programme like our FitERin6 plan, work with a PT or health coach but equally start filling your bucket!
What ever you say to yourself, write them down. You will be a little surprised about how often you dip into your bucket.
Once you know what you say you need to make your alternative.
Start filling your bucket, because you deserve it.
Previous Previous post: The mind monkeys that sabotage your weight loss!
Next Next post: Why Fat is not the enemy!


Ricki's clients are professionals and entrepreneurs across the country (and around the world) who are ready to make changes, big or small, that lead to increased meaning and engagement. Because most coaching is accomplished over the phone, clients do not have to be in the San Francisco Bay Area.
It's time for a change, but you don't know what that change is.
You know what change you want to make, but you are not making it happen.
You're looking for more passion and fulfillment in your work and your life.
You want to drive more performance, more results and more profits from your business without losing out on the rest of your life.
You want to change and grow your business.
You want to cultivate creativity in your work and in your life.
You want to manage more effectively and lead more inspirationally.
Coaching relationships always begin with a (complimentary) consultation to determine "fit". Chemistry is an important yet hard-to-define part of the coaching relationship. The purpose of the initial consultation is for both coach and client to determine if this is a relationship that can support the client in achieving their goals.
An initial, 90 minute Foundation session, either in person or on the telephone, to set the process in motion.
Regular, on-going coaching sessions by phone, usually 2 or 3 times per month.
"Homework" between sessions keeps the client moving toward creating and achieving their goals.
Email and telephone contact in between sessions as needed.
While Ricki does work with people in person, she works with most of her coaching clients over the telephone. She finds that, surprisingly, the telephone is even more effective than in-person work – and she is happy to explain why during your initial consultation.
Get in touch to schedule your initial consultation!


First of all, my apologies for being absent for such a long time!
The starting point for my project is an already existent app, called FixVegas, that the lab developed about a year ago.
Its purpose is to allow Brisbane citizens to snap a photo of something that needs to be fixed and submit it directly to the city council, which will take care of the issue. That explains the features pretty exhaustively already. There is no way of seeing city council feedback within the app or viewing what other people submitted.
The current idea is to use this necessity of people to have issues fixed as a hook, to get them into the app and try to persuade them to engage even more in shaping the city.
Since the whole project revolves around mobile development, I will keep you guys posted on my progress and giving some useful insights and lessons learnt. Today I will write about the first step: knowing who your user is/will be and what she wants.
The method I adopted for this app is the user centered design process. This means the user, his needs, expectations, goals and behaviors are the factors that ultimately shape your app. She's the one you always think of at every stage of the development process.
– Who are the users of your app?
– What are the users' tasks and goals?
– What's the easiest way my app can help them achieve these goals?
– What are the users' experience levels with similar apps?
– What features do the users need from the app?
– What information might the users need, and in what form do they need it?
– How do users think the app should work?
Answering these questions is very easy if there's other similar apps out there. Since eGovernment is a hot topic right now, first thing I did was to do some benchmarking. I looked at all the other apps – features, look, UI, user ratings and comments on the app store.
Luckily I also found a forum initiated by the Munich City Council, asking citizens what digital services they'd like for their city. The no. 1 topic requests a service like FixVegas for Munich. There's quite a bunch of other interesting threads. Here people make a lot of great suggestions and you can find out what is really important for users – for instance getting feedback on your fix submission.
Third, I took a look at feedback we had received from withing the other FixVegas version.
So, browsing the internet can be a good point to start. If you can't find anything, try interviewing people or talking about your idea to as many people as possible – think to ask people of different ages and from various backgrounds! This is a good opportunity to find out which segment finds your idea appealing and is likely to use it, but also if there's needs specific to that segment.
Analyzing your competition, as mentioned earlier should be one of the first steps. While doing so, think about the aforementioned questions and be critical: does the app support users is accomplishing their task the fastest and easiest way possible? Is there a better way? What's good about the app and what's not? Does the app miss critical features? Does the User Interface look the way one would expect (is it in conformity with the design paradigms for that platform)?
For now I wish everyone a great day/evening/night!
Previous Previous post: Colorful Dashboard – What do you think?


text:
zipmerge implemented in pure java.

zipmerge makes some zip-files into one zip-file without decompressing and compressing.

-----
    zipmerge by mickey-cube1

    usage: java -jar zipmerge.jar [-DhIiSsVv] target-zip zip...

      -h       display this help message
      -V       display version number
      -D       ignore directory component in file name comparisons
      -I       ignore case in file name comparisons
      -i       ask before overwriting files
      -S       don't overwrite identical files
      -s       overwrite identical files without asking
      -v       verbose mode

    Report bugs to <mickey.cube1+github@gmail.com>
-----


text:
Build-A-Bear announces its new Thanksgiving parade float
The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade is a huge event; considered a staple occasion in both New York and the United States in general, the parade is broadcasted all over the world and enjoyed by approximately 50 million people between in person and media viewings. One of the most impressive and elaborate displays in the parade is the Build-A-Bear float that pays homage to the innovative and experiential toy retailer.
In 2015 Build-A-Bear was both proud and pleased to announce the redesigning of their float in honor of the forthcoming 89th annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. The newly designed Build-A-Bear float promises to be more impressive than ever and will feature Bearnard, Build-A-Bear's icon, and his loving band of friends. Essentially, the float aims to embody all the discovery and wonder that Build-A-Bear celebrates with children and their families.
This animated float will be the first new Build-A-Bear float since 2007 and will include a variety of bear-filled scenes– all with one mission in mind: Discover Adventure! A part of the Macy's Parade family since 2002, this year's latest float marks the third Build-A-Bear float for the Parade which is sure to delight the more than 3.5 million spectators lining the Parade route on Thanksgiving Day. "Making memories and celebrating life's moments are at the heart of everything we do, and countless memories are made every year when the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, one of America's most anticipated events, takes place," said Gina Collins, chief marketing officer, Build-A-Bear. "We worked closely with the talented team at Macy's to create exciting scenes that evoke a sense of adventure and incorporate teddy bears – the icons of our brand – into one incredible new float."
The engineers and craftspeople at Macy's Parade Studio began working with Build-A-Bear on the new concept in early 2015, and construction took approximately five months. The front view of the float begins with two bears playfully riding ocean waves, while a sailboat captained by a Sailor Bear rocks gently overhead. A castle featuring Build-A-Bear's icon, Bearnard, serves as the centerpiece, complete with a friendly, smoke-breathing dragon climbing up to see a Princess Bear, who showers the crowds with confetti. The sides of the float feature different scenes of wonder and adventure including a classic teddy-bear tea party, as well as a trip to outer space on a rocket ship manned by an Astronaut Bear, who turns his head to gaze upon the world, as he flies into the air with bouncing stars. "For nearly 90 years, Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade has brought generations of families together to enjoy the wonder and magic of the official kick off to the holiday season," said Amy Kule, executive producer, Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. "Once again, we enthusiastically welcome Build-A-Bear and their new float to our glorious procession as together we celebrate the childlike spirit in everyone."
Build-A-Bear Workshop will also bring its wildly popular "Merry Mission" story to life with the return of everyone's favorite eight reindeer, along with a brand-new face, to stores this season. Glisten, the strongest, fastest reindeer of all time will light the night and help Santa and his team deliver toys to everyone on the nice list. Her special medallion unlocks the Merry Mission app and its features, and additional outfits and accessories are sold separately. Fans can download the updated Merry Mission app on iTunes and Google Play starting November 1. Additionally, Build-A-Bear and Macy's will team up to celebrate the holidays by opening shop-in-shops at seven U.S. locations. This will enable shoppers to take part in the full Build-A-Bear Workshop experience inside a Macy's store.
Recently, Gina Collins, chief marketing officer of Build-A-Bear, took some time to discuss the forthcoming float with the Examiner:
Meagan Meehan (M.M.): How and when did Build-A-Bear become involved in the Thanksgiving Day Parade?
Gina Collins (G.C.): Build-A-Bear has been a part of the Macy's Parade family since 2002, and this year's design marks the third Build-A-Bear float in the Parade.
M.M.: What did the first float look like?
G.C.: Our very first Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade float told the story of the teddy bear and its historical roots. It was bright, colorful and included furry, animated bears. It debuted in 2002 to commemorate the 100th birthday of the teddy bear. The float also featured the Build-A-Bear Workshop mascot, Bearemy, and his friend, Pawlette Coufur, who, at the time, was the "fashion advisor to the Furry Famous."
M.M.: This year will be the third float model. Is this version the most elaborate?
G.C.: We have loved every single Build-A-Bear float designed by the Macy's Studio team, but we're particularly excited about this version because it reflects our new logo and our new look and feel. The front view of the float begins with two bears playfully riding ocean waves, while a sailboat captained by a Sailor Bear rocks gently overhead. A castle featuring Build-A-Bear's icon, Bearnard, serves as the centerpiece, complete with a friendly, smoke-breathing dragon climbing up to see a Princess Bear, who showers the crowds with confetti. The sides of the float feature different scenes of wonder and adventure including a classic teddy-bear tea party, as well as a trip to outer space on a rocket ship manned by an Astronaut Bear, who turns his head to gaze upon the world, as he flies into the air with bouncing stars.
M.M.: Thus far, what has been the most rewarding part of being involved in the Thanksgiving Day Parade?
G.C.: Build-A-Bear Workshop has enjoyed a fantastic partnership with Macy's for more than a decade. From reviewing renderings, to making plans for the big reveal, working with the incredible designers at Macy's Studio and Amy Kule's wonderful team, all has been very rewarding. The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade is one of the most anticipated television events of the year, and though we've been part of the festivities since 2002, it's still heart-warming to see the Build-A-Bear float bring smiles to millions of faces each year.
M.M.: Where do you hope the Build-a-Bear float will look like ten years from now?
G.C.: The Macy's team does such a great job of translating the look and feel of our brand into something spectacular each time they create a Build-A-Bear float. In ten years, we believe Build-A-Bear Workshop will still be a truly unique place where furry friends are made and that our mission to bring a little more heart to life will still ring true. Our float may have more bells and whistles—maybe even hologram bears!—but we know our core values and "heart" will still be a big part of the finished design.
M.M.: Are there any upcoming projects and/or events that you would like to mention?
G.C.: In addition to our brand new float, this holiday season, we are once again teaming up with Macy's to offer shop-in-shops at seven Macy's locations nationwide so that shoppers can take part in the full Build-A-Bear Workshop experience inside a Macy's store.
A video of the float can be viewed here. To learn more, visit the Build-A-Bear website. Photoca of the parade can be viewed here.
Donate Life announces 2016 Rose Parade float and partnership with Paradiso
Tournament of Roses announces float lineup for 2016 Rose Parade
Rose Parade 2016 float judges are Tom Bowling, Timothy Lindsay, Jodie Petersen
Singpoli unveils 2016 Rose Parade float design 'Marco Polo: East Meets West'
Dole Packaged Foods honors Raul R. Rodriguez on 2016 Rose Parade float
Thanksgiving trivia: Turkey day Q&A's & Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade fun facts


"The Begum's Millions" is an intriguing novel by Jules Verne, the 19th century "science fiction" writer. The plot revolves around two scientists, one French and the other German, who create utopian communities in the American wilderness. Ville-France is a virtual wonder of scientific progressivism and optimism, while the German Stahlstadt (City of Steel) is a Nazi-like dystopia devoted to world supremacy and racial purity. On one level, the novel is simply a caricature of the Franco-German conflict, with the Germans (of course!) in the role of villains, Verne himself being French. It's intriguing that the stereotypes were pretty much set in stone already in 1879, when the novel was originally published! I suppose the devastating Franco-Prussian War eight years earlier had something to do with it.
However, the story may have other dimensions, too. Verne often warned about the negative consequences of technological development, and there is some discussion whether he was ever a "progressive" himself, or simply adapted to the needs of the market. What is clear is that his early novels are more optimistic, while there is a clear tendency towards dystopia and techno-pessimism in the later ones. Sometimes, Verne's earlier heroes return in the later stories, only to be revealed as villains and mad scientists! "Begum's Millions" seem to be somewhere in between the two extremes, with technology being capable of bringing both improvement and destruction, depending on who is calling the shots.
Above all, "Begum's Millions" is one of those futuristic novels which somehow called it. The striking similarities between Verne's fictional City of Steel and the much later Nazi regime in Germany have often been pointed out. Was this the first time somebody "predicted" the totalitarian-industrial system of Nazism? Verne, an avid reader of scientific and engineering journals, also predicted WMDs. One of the weapons described in the novel is similar to an atomic bomb, while another could be compared to a neutron bomb, which kills people but doesn't destroy buildings and infrastructure!
I haven't read Verne's novel for years, and had to refresh my memory by reading Wiki's summary of the plot. An ironic detail I didn't remember is that even the enlightened Ville-France had a dark side, specifically excluding Chinese! The United States did pass the Chinese Exclusion Act just a few years after the novel was published, although this hardly counts as a "prediction".


NSW Liberal party members have voted overwhelming in favour of a push by allies of former prime minister Tony Abbott to give all local members a vote in state and federal preselections.
At an extraordinary party convention at Rosehill racecourse on Sunday, more than 1200 attendees voted 748 to 476 to support the so-called Warringah motion put forward by the federal electorate conference in Mr Abbott's seat of Warringah.
The decision is a major victory for Mr Abbott and his key allies, Walter Villatora, who is president of the Warringah FEC, and retired major general Jim Molan.
"At every step of the way this has been contested by people who want the Liberal party to be an insider's club," Mr Abbott said, after receiving rousing cheers from many of the attendees.
"It's not the end of the road but nevertheless this means that the road ahead is clear," he said. "It's a clear road ahead to a democratic political party which is controlled by its members, not by lobbyists, not by factionalists, not by string-pullers, but by ordinary decent Australians."
The motion must now go to the NSW party's constitutional standing committee and then state council, its supreme policy-making body, where it will require the support of 60 per cent of delegates to change the NSW Liberal constitution.
However, there are predictions that even if it is passed there, it will only do so with significant amendments such as inclusion of anti-branch stacking measures such as a party activity test.
A former party member and long-time advocate for plebiscites, John Ruddick, had previously warned of a split in the Liberals should the Warringah motion not be supported.
A group within the party aligned with Mr Abbott's hard right faction, the Democratic Reform Movement, has been pushing a Warringah FEC motion to introduce plebiscites whereby every local party member would get a vote.
At present, voting is restricted to branch representatives and some party officials.
The ruling left and centre right factions – which currently control the state executive – have consistently claimed the Warringah reform would open the door to large-scale branch stacking by the right faction.
They supported compromise motions put by federal MPs Alex Hawke and Julian Leeser that would introduce plebiscites but with strict safeguards such as a member activity test and a requirement for three or four years' membership.
Last week Fairfax Media reported accusations that those backing the Warringah motion were trying to "stack" the convention, including by paying the $150 registration fee.
It emerged that one person spent up to $13,500 funding the registration of as many as 90 Liberal members to attend the convention, sparking accusations they are trying to "buy" the party.
The convention had been billed as the next potential flash point between Mr Abbott and Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull over the direction of the Liberal party and the government.
But on Saturday Mr Abbott applauded Mr Turnbull for offering "unequivocal support" for his position.
"As the party of freedom and of the individual, we must give every member a say," Mr Turnbull told the Party Futures Convention on Saturday. "It is fundamental."
In 2014, a panel commissioned by then prime minister Mr Abbott and chaired by former prime minister John Howard recommended a move to a plebiscite model.
The panel recommended introduction of a plebiscite system for choosing lower-house candidates whereby all financial party members in an electorate would be eligible to vote. It said participants must have been party members for at least two years.