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Writing Fiction. What Is Urban Fantasy Anyway?
Many authors don't want to categorize their writing, but the best way to immediately turn on (or turn off) a new reader is to relate your book to something they already like.
The easiest way is to pick comparison authors in a genre and in today's article, Emma Newman talks about the definition as well as how to write urban fantasy.
I had a hospital appointment back in early March which happened to fall on the same day as the launch of Between Two Thorns, my latest novel. I was rather nervous, as I had to go home and get ready for the launch straight after the appointment – unsurprisingly it was on my mind. When I mentioned it to my doctor, she lit up, excited (as most people are) to hear I was published. "What kind of book is it?" she asked. "Urban fantasy." I replied.
She gave me a blank look.
"Is that like Lord of the Rings?" I shook my head. "No, but it is a kind of fantasy. It's set in modern day Bath, but has evil faeries and mad sorcerers." She beamed again. "Oh, I like the sound of that! I thought you meant it was something with elves in it."
Variants of this conversation happen every time I mention 'urban fantasy' to anyone who is
a) not a science fiction and fantasy (SFF) reader or
b) not an SFF writer or
c) not an SFF publisher.
It's hit and miss with booksellers – some are very excited, others say "Oh, I don't do *that* section of the shop" and move away like I've been writing pamphlets extolling the virtues of eating a live frog every morning. (I don't, by the way.)
I'm a geek.
I'm a huge fan of SFF and I am immersed in that world. Just like everything that mankind has ever created, the moment you have groups of people producing, consuming and enthusing about something, it quickly becomes riddled with jargon and categorization that only means something to the group of people who produce, consume or enthuse about it.
That's true of the term 'urban fantasy' but what makes it more tricky is that we still debate what that encompasses in our community. That's true of all things though, isn't it?
So what I would like to do is talk about how a few people have defined it, what I mean when I say "I write Urban Fantasy" and point you in the direction of a few places you can dive in and experience it for yourself.
The urban angle
Urban fantasy has been defined by the places in which the fantasy (magic and or strange creatures, usually) is set – i.e. the urban environment. It gives flexibility in terms of the time period; the city could be in the Victorian, Tudor, post-American civil war – whenever. As long as the fantasy is rooted in the city, it's urban fantasy.
Whilst I can see the sense of this, I don't like to chain what I consider to be urban fantasy to being set in densely populated cities. I think urban fantasy novels can – and do – roam into the countryside, small towns and villages and sometimes only one cottage.
In some urban fantasy, the city itself is a character.
The horror angle
Paul Cornell, who recently had a rather splendid urban fantasy novel called "London Falling" published, described urban fantasy as "Horror in which the characters will probably survive." I like the thinking here; a lot of urban fantasy features monsters and the horrific to varying degrees. However, for me, 'horror' also implies that urban fantasy is often scary and I don't agree with that.
How I define urban fantasy
The way I conceptualize urban fantasy is magic and weird stuff creeping in at the edges of a world in which magic is not the norm. Everything appears normal until you walk down a particular alleyway after midnight on the third Tuesday of the month. The person sitting opposite you on the underground train looks normal but is in fact looking for a particular flavour of grief to steal and bottle up to take back to his master. The majority of the people who live there will have normal lives, oblivious to the magical all around them, hidden in plain sight.
Blurring genre lines
What makes this definition even more tricky is that urban fantasy books often straddle two or more genres (in fact, I like to do that with practically everything I write). There's a lot of common ground between urban fantasy and paranormal romance, for example. In the latter the romance between two key characters forms the spine of the plot and story progression, in urban fantasy the romance is only one of many threads and the novel isn't built around it.
Is a definition really that important?
You know, there's been a bit of me thinking that whilst I've been writing this. After all, surely it should all be about the story, the characters and the quality of the writing. Who cares what sub-genre category a book falls into?
But then I think about how we find books in shops and online and how we describe them to each other. These genre labels act as a kind of shorthand and connect us to similar books that we can discover and love. If you're a writer seeking an agent and/or publisher, it's important to know where your word baby fits into the bigger picture because that agent or publisher needs to convince booksellers to stock it and they like to know where to put your book and how to market it.
Want to dip your toe into Urban Fantasy?
One of my favorite urban fantasy novels is "American Gods" by Neil Gaiman.
If you like police procedural stuff, give "Rivers of London" by Ben Aaronovitch and "London Falling" by Paul Cornell a go.
If you like angels – but not the traditional – try "Blood and Feathers" by Lou Morgan.
If you're looking for some urban fantasy for young adults, try "The City's Son" by Tom Pollock.
If you want to try it in tiny bite-sized chunks, I wrote a year and a day of weekly short stories set in the Split Worlds that you can read here: www.splitworlds.com/stories and if you like, you can have them delivered every week to your inbox for free (the sign-up for that can be found there too). There's the first novel of the Split Worlds series "Between Two Thorns" too of course!
Have you got any urban fantasy novels you would recommend? Please do leave a comment below.
Emma Newman was born in a tiny coastal village in Cornwall during one of the hottest summers on record and now lives in Somerset, England. She writes dark short stories, post-apocalyptic and urban fantasy novels and records audiobooks in all genres. Her hobbies include dressmaking and gaming and she drinks far too much tea. She blogs at www.enewman.co.uk, rarely gets enough sleep and refuses to eat mushrooms.
Her latest book is Between Two Thorns, available now from Angry Robot Books.
Top image: Bean Chicago. Flickr Creative Commons by Justin Kern
Filed Under: Writing Tagged With: writing fiction
Pam Carter says
Dance of the Goblins by Jaq D. Hawkins is an excellent Urban Fantasy with a dystopian element. It works in a lot of known folklore and presents a plausible scenario where magicians take over ruling a broken city after a planetary disaster and by a fluke, the humans discover that a Shamanic society of goblins have been living in caverns under the city all this time. It's definitely on the dark side, but has a lot of humor too.
Steve Vera says
That was a great post! Very relatable and funny (love the frog line). And on top of that it gives a little clarity onwhat urban fantasy actully is and how to "one-line" to people who are curious, to be able to say it with authori-teh. Thanks for writing it!
Jeff Elkins says
I'm a new author trying to discover my genera. This post was great. As I read I thought, "Yep, that's me." Thank you!
Sheri-Lynn Marean says
Great post, and helpful, thank you. I do have a question, does it have to follow a certain character if there are more books in the series? I have a friend trying to figure out where to slot her book, but the next books in the series will be about different people and I know my fav's: Patricia Briggs, Faith Hunter, Ilona Andrews, they continue the story line with the same characters…or does this not matter?
Brady Longmore says
I don't think there is a hard rule about following the same characters throughout the series. Many writers write spinoffs for other characters that are still considered to be accepted canon within that world. Look at Robert Jordan's The Wheel of Time: talk about tangents! I do however think it's important that the author keep in mind that it's the characters that bring people back to read more. Definitely explore and let the story lead the way, but don't be too neglectful of your main heroes and villains, would be my humble advice.
Thanks you for a great article. I'm a discovery writer and my current work in progress has quite accidentally propelled me into the urban fantasy genre. I've been trying to wrap my head around the question of what genre my story has become. This helped! I especially enjoyed the definition: weird stuff creeping around the edges of a world where magic isn't the norm. That's exactly where I've found myself.
Karen Moore says
Great Post! I wasn't sure what my category my new story would fall into until after I read this. Thanks for sharing! Do you ever critique anyone else's work?
Neal Martin says
I don't think the horror angle in urban fantasy should be underestimated. As most good UF stories deal with monsters of varying shades of darkness, horror inevitably becomes a major focus, unless of course the story is really paranormal romance, in which case the horror will be played down a great deal. Most of the best UF books I've read have been quite dark and haven't flinched from the horror these monsters inspire, and indeed cause within the story.
Chris Stevenson says
I'm glad a similarity was drawn between urban fantasy and paranormal romance. It makes me feel better already. For the past 25 years I've been trying to explain to people what "portal" fantasy is. Perhaps you can take on that subject in a future article. Through the Looking Glass, the Narnia world and Stardust, I think, fall under the "portal" definition. Even The Bridge to Tarabithia.
Charles de Lint's books are some of my favorite urban fantasy reads.
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'Bobbie James' est un rosier grimpant de la famille des multiflora obtenu par Graham Thomas de la roseraie de Sunningdale en Angleterre en 1961. Il l'a créé dans le jardin de Lady Serena James à St. Nicholas, près de Richmond. Il doit son nom au mari de Lady James, mort en 1960. C'est l'un des rosiers-lianes les plus célèbres au monde.

Description
Ce grimpant, qui s'apparente au genre des rosiers lianes, peut atteindre 10 m de hauteur et se couvre en juin-juillet d'une floraison abondante et unique de fleurs blanches de 4 cm de moyenne en petites coupes, à étamines jaunes, et légèrement musquées. L'effet rendu ressemble à un cerisier en fleurs. Les fleurs laissent la place à l'automne à des fruits orangé fort décoratifs.

Ce rosier robuste résiste bien au froid (jusqu'à -23°) et possède un feuillage vert foncé et brillant. Cette variété est idéale pour recouvrir un bâtiment inesthétique, ou rendre vie à un arbre mort, il peut couvrir arches, pergolas ou pylônes.

Notes et références

Cultivar de rosier
Hybride de Rosa multiflora

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


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Make a Show
Portland Community Media Center
Press Release: Ten Community-Centric Productions Launch This Winter
Ten Community-Centric Productions Launch This Winter
The projects start production as part of Open Signal's new facilitation program, focused on individualized support for local media makers
PORTLAND, ORE. – February 8, 2021 – While closed to the public due to COVID-19, Open Signal staff has reworked the traditional community media access model to better support media makers in a time of social change and distance. Ten community media projects by Open Signal members started production in January as part of a new initiative focused on individualized equipment and production support for local media makers.
The program is open to productions that are led by or support BIPOC folks, English-language learners, people with disabilities, low-income communities, and non-profit organizations. Each project receives equipment kits — including training — and staff guidance based on the unique needs of the project and the media makers, with the goal of completing a production that speak on their experiences and communities.
These productions were selected by staff based through an application process that considered the community impact of the projects as well as production needs. They will receive dedicated staff support through March and afterward on a more limited basis.
Community Media Advocacy Manager KatMeow García says: "After a difficult year with many challenges, Open Signal is proud to be able to continue to engage our community to facilitate storytelling through media creation. We are excited not only because this kind of facilitation ensures completion of a project by offering support from start to finish — specific to the media maker's learning style, vision, time and resources — but also because this kind of facilitation provides stellar content and opportunities for community-building."
The projects currently in production are:
Anahuac/Turno Film by Javier Lara: A virtual platform to host films from Mexico and other Spanish-speaking cultures, complete with panel discussions with the directors and actors.
BASEPDX by Malik and Hendrix Hale: A father and son teach us about the people, places and things in Oregon.
PSA: Blacque Butterfly by Darlene Solomon-Rogers: This project will show community connections that we have forgotten about, especially in the COVID-19 era.
Cymalab Open Box and Product Review in American Sign Language by Andre Gray and CymaSpace: The Deaf community is often considered a late adopter in new technology — this project aims to make new tech products accessible through hands-on film production.
Meta Man: Freedom by Dante Edwards: A video project showcasing diversity in culture and sound through the arts, highlighting Portland musicians, artists, and activists.
Photography Design: Camera Basics During the Process of Sewing a Mask by Roshawn Woods: Learn the basics of photography while sewing a face mask.
Project D&D by Derya Ruggles: An episode of the television show Cool Couve that focuses on juvenile justice.
Reclamation by Rochelle Dixon: A short about the ways we reclaim space and cultural practices while living under the white gaze, and how we move forward while holding on to our past, our culture and each other.
Silent Revolution by Miriam Sluis: This project focuses on the area formerly known as the Albina neighborhood, and the necessity and impact of food resources made available there as Portland navigates through a long winter informed by COVID-19 and continued social unrest.
The Trauma That Links Us by Juliana Custer: An experimental documentary exploring the trauma that links three generations, through the eyes of 21-year-old exploring their identity as a queer person
Applications for the next round of projects are now open and close Wednesday, February 17th, with production support taking place April 1st to June 30th, 2021. Completed projects will air on Open Signal's cable channels and will stream online on our digital network. This program is made possible with support from the Mt. Hood Regulatory Cable Commission.
Media makers can apply at opensignalpdx.org/projects.
Daniela Karina Serna, Programs and Communications Manager
daniela [at] opensignalpdx.org
(503) 288 - 1515 x931
← Return to index
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redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


Director of CSC Players' Production of "The 39 Steps"
"The 39 Steps" is a fast-paced comedy that parodies spy stories, British culture of the 1930's, and live theatre itself. Under the direction of Rebecca Strout '15 with assistance from Zach Matson '15, the cast is comprised of four student-actors playing a total of 28 different characters. Performances will be held on Friday, Feb. 21 and Saturday, Feb. 22 at 7 p.m. in the Sawyer Center Theater at the Sawyer Fine and Performing Arts Center.


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Swinoujscie to Sweden Ferry
Swinoujscie to Sweden ferry information:
There are currently 2 ferry routes connecting Swinoujscie and Sweden, with services from Swinoujscie to Trelleborg and Ystad. On average, there are a combined number of 6 crossings each day between Swinoujscie and Sweden, which are operated by Polferries, TT-Line and Unity Line. The shortest crossing between Swinoujscie and Sweden is to Trelleborg with TT-Line and takes around 5 hours 55 minutes, while the longest crossing is to Ystad with Polferries and takes approximately 7 hours 45 minutes.
The above information is a basic summary on the services between Swinoujscie and Sweden. We recommend using our Ferry Search to find live ferry information and the latest prices.
About Swinoujscie
Swinoujscie (meaning "the outlet of Swina") is located the north western Poland at the mouth of river Swina opening into the Baltic Sea. Swinoujscie is situated mainly on the islands of Uznam, Wolin and Karsibor unlike any other Polish city. The island of Uznam is the town's main tourism island well known for fashionable spas and bathing resorts including salt springs and therapeutic mud baths.
If you catch a ferry from Swinoujscie, visit the fabulous Spa Park which is 170 years old, a neo gothic "Stella Maris" church famous for its picturesque stained glass windows, the tallest lighthouse on the Baltic Sea and many other fine resorts spread across the town's islands.
Sweden is a country with serene lakes and extensive forests.
Sweden has a lot to offer with excellent roads and transport links between various islands and between the main Swedish cities.
The Swedes are proud of their history and culture which is evident in the number of museums they have.
While in Sweden, you can also visit the longest single span Oresund Bridge between Denmark and Sweden.
Sweden is a great place for anyone who likes outside sports, including skiing, snowboarding or fishing.
The climate caters for more winter sports which aren't so readily available in the UK, so it's a brilliant opportunity to try something new. You never know, you might turn out to be quite good!
Swinoujscie to Sweden


SEOUL, May 1 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's defense authorities will take down loudspeakers installed along the border with North Korea later Tuesday in a follow-up to their summit deal last week, officials said.
An informed defense source said the North appears to have begun removing its own loudspeakers earlier in the day.
"As (we) notified, we will today begin the removal of the loudspeaker broadcast equipment from front-line regions," a military official said.
The military plans to allow the media to cover the start of the removal work at a border area in Paju, Gyeonggi Province, in the afternoon.
The South began blaring anti-Pyongyang broadcasts using high-decibel loudspeakers along the border in 1963, most recently from around 40 locations. The program included messages critical of the North's communist system, news on South Korea and even K-pop music before the South switched it off just ahead of the talks between President Moon Jae-in and the North's leader Kim Jong-un.
In their Panmunjom meeting, they agreed to cease all hostile acts and eliminate their means, including broadcasting through loudspeakers and distribution of leaflets, in the areas along the Military Demarcation Line.
It's part of various agreed-upon measures aimed at building mutual trust and turning the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) into a real peace zone.
The Ministry of Unification, which handles inter-Korean relations, requested civic groups' cooperation on the implementation of the summit agreement.
At times, conservative activists here, including some North Korean defectors, have flown anti-Pyongyang leaflets across the border by use of huge balloons. The North has responded sensitively to the leaflet campaign.
"The suspension of scattering leaflets is of importance not only in easing military tensions but also protecting the security and safety of residents in border areas and preventing social conflicts," a ministry official told reporters.
The official said the government will step up efforts for "communication' with related groups and deal with the issue in cooperation with other relevant authorities, including police and the Ministry of Interior and Safety.


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Suspect attacks man and pushes him onto Manhattan subway tracks: NYPD
By Emily Davenport
Photos courtesy of the NYPD
Cops are looking for a man who attacked someone at a Midtown subway station after the victim refused to give him money.
Authorities say that at 6:50 p.m. on Nov. 18, a 36-year-old man was waiting for the downtown B/D train at the 42nd Street—Bryant Park station on the southbound platform when an unknown man approached him and begged for money. When the victim refused, the suspect proceeded to punch the victim multiple times in the face.
The suspect then threw the victim onto the southbound tracks before fleeing the station. The suspect was last seen heading northbound on Sixth Avenue. The victim sustained minor injuries to his knee and hands and was taken to NYC Health & Hospitals/Bellevue, where he was treated and released.
The NYPD released photos of the suspect taken from the train station. He is described as a 20-year-old man with a medium complexion and a medium build, brown eyes, black hair, standing 5 feet, 7 inches tall and weighing 165 pounds. He was last seen wearing a track jacket with white and black stripes on the sleeves, red sweatpants with white letters on the legs and white sneakers.
Anyone with information in regard to this incident is asked to call the NYPD's Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477) or for Spanish, 1-888-57-PISTA (74782). The public can also submit their tips by logging onto the Crime Stoppers website or on Twitter @NYPDTips. All calls are strictly confidential.
Man dies after being kicked down a flight of stairs at Penn Station: NYPD
Person struck by E train in Manhattan, causing delays to multiple subway lines
Argument outside Manhattan pretzel shop left man severely slashed: cops


The items in the books are copied as near to the original article as possible. There has been times that I've corrected some misspelled work unintentionally and then not been able to remedy this accident. On the whole, I have tried to present it as close as possible.


Staying at the Locanda Le Due Querce with children is ideal for a relaxing holiday in nature. The location is perfect to visit the wonders of the province of Reggio Emilia. Not far from our Inn flows the Secchia, a stream of the largest tributaries of the Po.
One of the areas that kids prefer is doubtlessly the huge lawn that is located in the valley of the river sources. Green grass out of sight where to run, play ball and roll. The place is unique, also lends itself to a pleasant picnic with the whole family.
The stop in the field is a must, but first you need to get there. There are hiking trails, with easy routes suitable for children. The continuous discovery that marks every step fascinates children. The Alpe di Succiso is one of the highest peaks of the North, but the trails that go up are not tiring. Between forests and meadows you will be able to find and taste many raspberries, of which the children are greedy. To get to the source of the Secchia there are precise and clearly visible indications. At one point the rears climb, but the trait is not long and then you get to the last part of a long path, strictly on the flat, to the delight of young and old.
Once you get in the car to the Passo del Cerreto you proceed along the paths led on foot. There are points of view from which to observe not only the mountains and the flora but also the fauna. Birds, ibex and chamois, all to watch, when they show up, strictly from a distance.
A couple of hours of walking to destination at 1500 meters above sea level, in one of the most beautiful glacial valleys. The small stream from which the water flows, which after a long journey ends in the main Italian river is clear and fresh. Very good to drink. Actually form the Secchia contribute different streams, which create small waterfalls.
The surrounding mountains are covered of snow all year round. It was the ice, after all, to dig the valley. Today, however, the glaciers in the mountains on no longer exist. But the landscape reserves still great emotions.
Around the large lawn there are small paths that enter into nature by reserving pleasant adventures for children.
In the Napoleonic era it had been erected a memorial stone, torn at the emperor's fall, to witness the greatness of Napoleon. You might notice the French border, which once included part of the Apennines. History also affects children, perhaps making stories most curious and captivating.
Both in summer and in autumn the visit to the Secchia sources is recommended, children will be happy.


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Compact Commission Works On Open Meeting Concerns
By Jim Connolly
September 15, 2006 at 03:46 PM Share & Print
Members of the new Interstate Insurance Product Regulation Commission say they are taking consumer advocates' concerns about IIPRC openness seriously.
"We are working to find our own process — the right process," Diane Koken, chair of the interim management committee and interstate insurance product regulation commissioner, said here at a public hearing held during the fall meeting of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, Kansas City, Mo.
"The public had and will continue to have the opportunity to participate in the management committee and the commission itself," Koken said.
Members of the IIPRC moved unanimously to strike a provision from the IIPRC's proposed bylaws that would restrict public access to committee and subcommittee meetings.
The deleted provision states: "Committees established by the commission shall not be required to have meetings open to the public for purposes of these bylaws, when such meetings do not consist of a majority of the members of the commission and the purpose of the meeting is not to take formal action and no formal action is taken on behalf of the management committee or commission."
The amendment proposal, introduced by Ohio, would open meetings of IIPRC committees and subcommittees to the public and require that committees and subcommittees hold at least one public hearing on any proposal before sending the proposal to the commission or the IIPRC management committee.
Regulators Question Need For Travel Underwriting
With Successful IPO, Oscar Health May Be Worth $7.7 Billion
3 Ways to Keep Your Network Strong Now
Pennsylvania Justices Rule on Ameriprise Case
Improving the Long-Term Care Insurance Customer Experience
The IIPRC now is taking public comments on the proposed bylaws.
During the hearing, members of the IIPRC's consumer advisory committee criticized the IIPRC's failure to open past committee meetings to the public.
Closing committee and subcommittee meetings to the public would "promote expediency over public accountability," according to Birny Birnbaum, executive director of the Center for Economic Justice, Austin, Texas.
If Ohio lawmakers learned that IIPRC meetings continue to be closed to the public, the lawmakers "may wonder whether the passage of the compact was a wise action," said Scott Gilliam, assistant vice president of Cincinnati Insurance Companies, Cincinnati.
Michael Lovendusky, associate general counsel of the American Council of Life Insurers, Washington, spoke at the hearing on behalf of the ACLI; America's Health Insurance Plans, Washington; the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors, Falls Church, Va.; and Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company, Springfield, Mass.
The life insurance industry supports the Ohio transparency proposal because it advances public access, Lovendusky said.


We are all very shocked by the terrible attacks that took place in Brussels yesterday, which targeted important transport nodes in our city that we use every day. We extend our deepest sympathy to Polis member Brussels, which was hit in the heart so severely by these horrible events. Our thoughts are with all victims and their families, with the Brussels region and public transport operator STIB.
We are also deeply moved by and very grateful for the numerous expressions of support and sympathy that we have received from you, our members! Luckily, all Polis staff members are safe and doing well, even though some of us were very close to the places that were hit. Your kind words really mean a lot to us.
As always, this InfoPolis brings you up to date with the latest news from members, projects and the institutions. Please login to the Polis website as a member to access all information addressed to Polis members only (green headline). If you do not know your login details, please contact us.
The mayors of 20 European cities including Madrid and Paris have called for more stringent European regulations to tackle the deadly levels of air pollution caused by diesel vehicles, reports Euractiv.
Polis member Apulia Region is pleased to announce its lastest publication on cycling. Following the success of the road book of the Adriatic Cycle Route in the Apulia Region, itinerary No. 6 in the Bicitalia network, it is now ready the road book of the whole "Bourbon Cycle Route", Bari to Naples, which proposes a side trip to Matera, in homage to the City of the Sassi, the European Capital of Culture in 2019.
The city of London is severly affected by air pollution and various measures have been taken to lower emissions. Now a new patrol is in charge of tracking air quality and contribute to raising awareness of health issues among the population: the Pigeon Air Patrol.
The European Commission revealed the names of the finalist cities and towns for the EUROPEANMOBILITYWEEK Award 2015 and the 4th SUMP Award. Polis members Utrecht and West Midlands are among the shortlisted cities.
Call for speakers: Apply now for a CIVITAS Forum Conference 2016 speaker!
The call for speakers of parallel and pecha kucha sessions at the annual flagship event of CIVITAS, 2016 CIVITAS Forum Conference, is now open for proposals. In order to be considered as a speaker, download the guidelines and proposal form, fill it out and send it to forum.contributions@civitas.eu by April 22nd.


Vanderbilt Divinity School is within walking distance of Music Row, surrounded by area shops and restaurants, and just minutes from downtown Nashville. It is a 15 minute drive from Nashville's International airport. Vanderbilt Divinity School is located at 411 21st Avenue South, Nashville, TN 37240.
Conference attendees are responsible for securing their own accommodations. Lodging is not included in the registration fee. The most affordable housing option is to stay in a guest room at Scarritt Bennett Center; the Center's converted residence halls have private dorm-style bedrooms with shared baths. There are also many hotel options nearby Vanderbilt. Thistle Farms has arranged for hotel blocks at the hotels below. Please call them directly to ask about special rates for Thistle Farms National Conference attendees.
Scarritt-Bennett Center is a nonprofit education, conference and retreat center committed to addressing social justice issues through programming that promotes cross-cultural understanding, education on women's issues and spiritual renewal. Income from the rental of the center's historic facilities for meetings, conferences, events and overnight accommodations supports the center's efforts.
Book by phone: Call 1-615-327-4707 and reference block code TFG.


This recipe is from "New New Orleans Cooking", by Emeril Lagasse and Jessie Tirsch, published by William and Morrow, 1993.
I can't wait to try this recipe as I'm always craving quiche and I hardly ever cook with Salmon.
Best of all, the potato pastry can be adapted for any kind of pie, really handy for using up leftover chicken etc.
Preheat oven to 220 degrees C. Lightly grease a 9-inch deep-dish glass pie plate.
In a bowl, combine the potatoes, 1 tablespoon of the melted butter and seasoning, and toss to combine.
Add the Parmesan and toss to combine.
Press the potato mixture into the prepared pie plate, spreading to evenly cover the bottom and up the sides.
Bake until the potatoes are golden brown, 25 to 30 minutes. Remove from the oven and cool on a wire rack.
Reduce the oven to 180 degrees C.
Pour the remaining tablespoon of butter into a small skillet over medium heat. Add the leeks and saute until softened, about 4 minutes.
Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Remove from the heat.
Place the cream cheese in a large bowl and using a wooden spoon, stir in the leeks and lemon juice.
Add the eggs, 1 at a time, stirring just until combined. Add the cream, salmon, dill, salt, and pepper and mix well.
Pour the cream cheese-salmon mixture into the cooled potato crust and bake for about 30 minutes, until golden and the batter is set.
Cool quiche for 20 minutes before serving. Serve warm or chilled.


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'xXx: Return Of Xander Cage' Vin Diesel & Deepika Padukone India itinerary and trailer
Vin Diesel arrived in Mumbai for xXx Return of Xander Cage / Photo screencap from Bollyhungama via Twitter
Deepika Padukone went ahead of Vin Diesel so she could be the first to greet him on Indian soil for premiere and India release
by Jane Flowers
12 January 2017 at 05:09 12 January 2017 at 05:09
"xXx: The return of Xander Cage" star Vin Diesel arrived in Mumbai on Thursday morning, two days ahead of the movie release in India and he was met at the airport by co-star deepika padukone.
It seems that while they have been on a hectic promotion of the new movie, they travelled separately to India so that Deepika could be one of the first people to welcome him on Indian soil.
India is home turf for Deepika and Bollywood no stranger to the beautiful actress, so surely Vin will experience some awesome entertainment and fantastic times this week.
SpotBoyE wrote that "the actress has also planned a huge party for Vin Diesel and the guest list includes the A-list of Bollywood."
They have, according to Times of India, a packed itinerary full of fan interactions, a glitzy red carpet gala and a star-studded premiere." Nevertheless, Bollywood is out to give Vin Deisel the time of his life in their country.
'xXx' star Vin Diesel arrives in Mumbai, India
Deepika Padukone and Vin Diesel arrive in Mumbai for #xXxIndiaPremiere #2 pic.twitter.com/Z8ZXseFhQe
— Deepika Addicts (@deepikaddicts) January 12, 2017
The promotion tour with Vin and Deepika
Vin and Deepika have already been to Mexico and London and now they have arrived in India to promote the movie "Return of Xander Cage" and attend the Indian premiere. Travel and glittering events can take it out of even the best actors in the world, so it is anticipated that the two stars and their team will head off for some rest in their hotel before getting ready for tonight's press conference and then they will be off to their own movie premiere. No doubt Deepika will look stunning.
She blew away the red carpet event in at the London Premier when she wore her red Stella McCartney gown, so be prepared to see something from a fairytale gracing her slender body tonight!
'xXx' stars will dedicate time to movie fans
The stars of "xXx" will be spending time with the fans, so it is not just the rich and famous who will get time to hear and see them in real life, although Time of India do mention that security will be tight with up to 50 security staff in place to protect them.
They wrote that "Vin and Deepika will be spending a dedicated hour with the fans."
The movie will be released in India ahead of everywhere else on 14 January. If you have not been following the movie which is the third in the series of films about daredevil operative Xander Cage (Vin Diesel) who has to "race against time to recover a sinister weapon known as Pandora's Box, a device that controls every military satellite in the world," you need to watch the trailer and get your tickets to the theatre. This is a splendid opportunity for everyone to see their favourite movie star Deepika in her Hollywood Debut.
Watch the trailer for 'xXx: The return of Xander Cage' below
I am a freelance journalist, self-published author and a reviewer at Blasting News UK and on the USA platform. I am also a video content editor and creator.
Read more on the same topic from Jane Flowers:
'RHOC' star Braunwyn Windham-Burke shares first day at school photos 'Sister Wives': Meri Brown's National Dog's Day post swamped with loving messages Adobe Creative Cloud, the one-stop top reason for back-to-school excitement
Blasting News recommends Idris Elba gives fans the chance to date him for Valentine's Day 'Celebrity Big Brother': Nicola gets all kisses and cuddles with Jamie [video]


I have passed 10+2 in Commerce with Maths. Can i apply?
I have passed BA part 2 is on the 12th. Can i apply?
I have passed 10+2 with PCM and State Level Certificate in Softball. Can i apply?
As per the notification there are no vacancies related to Soft ball post in Eastern Railway.
Sir, i am doing BA final year. Am i eligible to apply for this post?
Sir, I have passed +2 and SSC coaching complete. Can i apply?
Sir, I have passed BE from ECE department. My qualifications in scout and guide is up-to "Rajyapal Award" from KVS. I don't have a president award. Can i eligible to apply for this post?
As per the notification candidates who had ITI with Scouting/ Guiding Qualification are eligible to apply for Erstwhile Group 'D' post in Eastern Railway.
Sir, i am Ex-Serves man candidate from AP. Am i eligible to apply for this post?
As per the notification Ex servicemen candidates who had sufficient qualification can also apply for above posts in Eastern Railway.
As per the notification of Eastern Railway candidates must possess 12th (+2 stage) or its equivalent examination with Scouting/ Guiding Qualification are eligible to apply for the post of Group 'C' (NTPC only).
I have completed Inter. Can i apply?
As per the notification candidates who possess 12th (+2 stage) or its equivalent examination with Scouting/ Guiding Qualification are eligible to apply for Group 'C' (NTPC only) post and 10th or ITI or equivalent or National Apprenticeship Certificate with Scouting/ Guiding Qualification are eligible to apply for Erstwhile Group 'D' post in Eastern Railway.
I have passed 12th exam with 63%. I have Scout and Guide Rajya Puraskar certificate. Can i apply for this post?
I have passed +2, JBT Degree, Computer Diploma. Can i eligible to apply for this post?
Sir, I have passed 12th with 75% and I get Rastrapathi awards in Scout and Guide. May i apply?
Sir, i have completed Inter (Vocational) course. Can i apply for this post?
As per the notification candidates who had 12th (+2 stage) or its equivalent examination with not less than 50% marks in the aggregate and Scouting/ Guiding Qualification are eligible to apply for Group 'C' (NTPC only) post in Eastern Railway.
As per the notification of Eastern Railway candidates who possess 12th (+2 stage) or its equivalent examination with Scouting/ Guiding Qualification are eligible to apply for Group 'C' (NTPC only) post and 10th or ITI or equivalent or National Apprenticeship Certificate with Scouting/ Guiding Qualification are eligible to apply for Erstwhile Group 'D' post.
Sir, i have passed 10th and 12th. Can i apply?
As per the notification candidates who had 12th (+2 stage) or its equivalent examination with Scouting/ Guiding Qualification are eligible to apply for Group 'C' (NTPC only) post and 10th or ITI or equivalent or National Apprenticeship Certificate with Scouting/ Guiding Qualification are eligible to apply for Erstwhile Group 'D' post in Eastern Railway.
I am student of 10th class with ITI and sports man. Am i eligible to apply for this post?
I'm 12th pass with 60%; iti in electrician, kya mai apply kar sakta hu?
I am 12th pass student, iti completed with 70%, can i apply?
As per the notification candidates who have passed 12th Class and/ or Passed out Act Apprenticeship/ ITI & had required sports qualification can apply for Category (2) posts in Eastern Railway.
सर मैं 12th पास हूँ, b.com 1sem.का छात्र हूँ क्या में अप्लाई कर सकता हूँ?
I am graduate (B-Tech in Ece) and participated in senior state basketball tournament. i did not secured any position like 1st, 2nd, 3rd. am i eligible for any vacancy related to sports Quota?
sir mai 12th science se 2015 me pass kiya hai. aur meri umar 17 saal hai kya mai is post k liye eligible hu?
Sir, main 10th pass karne ke bad electrician trade se august me Exam likha hai waiting for result, may I apply?


text:
import React from 'react'
import { connect } from 'dva'
import _ from 'lodash'
import QueueAnimate from 'rc-queue-anim'
import { WhiteSpace, WingBlank, Toast } from 'antd-mobile'
import AvatarEditor from '../../components/Form/AvatarEditor'
import { avatars, imgBase } from '../../constant'
import { delay } from '../../services/tools-fun'
import { modifyAvatar } from '../../services/user'
import routeLoading from '../../components/HighComponent/routeLoading'
import styles from './ModifyAvatar.css'

const chunks = _.chunk(avatars, 4)
function Avatar({ i, j, handleAvatarClick, chosen, avatar }) {
  return (
     { handleAvatarClick((i * 4) + j) }}
      href="javascript:;" key={`${i}-${j}`}
    >
      {
        chosen === (i * 4) + j
          ?
          : null
      }

  )
}
class ModifyAvatar extends React.Component {
  state = { showEditor: false, temp: '', chosen: null, g2: chunks.slice(2) }
  componentWillMount() {
    const { user: { avatar } } = this.props
    const { g2 } = this.state
    if (`${avatar}`.length > 4) {
      const ng2 = g2.concat(`${imgBase}${avatar}?${Math.random()}`)
      this.setState({ g2: ng2, chosen: (ng2.length + 8) - 1 })
    } else {
      this.setState({ chosen: avatar - 1 })
    }
  }
  g1 = chunks.slice(0, 2)
  updateToLocal = (data) => {
    const { dispatch } = this.props
    dispatch({
      type: 'user-info/saveToLocal',
      payload: { ...data }
    })
  }
  pushToServer = (imgfile, local = false) => {
    const { user, history } = this.props
    modifyAvatar({ uid: user._id, imgStr: imgfile })
      .then(({ data }) => {
        if (+data.code === 0) {
          Toast.success('头像更新成功', 1)
          if (local) this.updateToLocal({ avatar: imgfile })
          else this.updateToLocal(data.data)
          delay(1000)
            .then(() => {
              history.go(-1)
            })
        } else {
          Toast.fail(`操作失败,请稍后重试:${data.resultcode}`, 1)
        }
      })
      .catch(err => {
        console.log(err);
        Toast.fail('操作失败,请稍后重试', 1)
      })
  }
  handleEditEnd = (base64) => {
    console.log('edit end');
    const { g2, temp } = this.state
    const ng2 = temp ? g2.slice(0, -1).concat(base64) : g2.concat(base64)
    this.setState({
      g2: ng2,
      showEditor: false,
      chosen: (ng2.length + 8) - 1,
      temp: base64
    })
  }
  handleAvatarClick = index => {
    this.setState({ chosen: index })
  }
  handleSaveClick = () => {
    console.log('save');
    const { temp, chosen, g2 } = this.state
    const { history } = this.props
    if (chosen === 9 && !temp) {
      return history.go(-1)
    }
    const index = (g2.length + 8) - 1
    if (index === chosen) {
      this.pushToServer(temp.replace('data:image/jpeg;base64,', ''))
    } else {
      this.pushToServer(chosen + 1, true)
    }
  }
  render() {
    const { showEditor, chosen, g2 } = this.state
    return (

        <WhiteSpace size="lg" />

          {
            this.g1.map((group, i) => (

                {
                  group.map((avatar, j) => (
                    <Avatar
                      i={i} j={j} handleAvatarClick={this.handleAvatarClick}
                      chosen={chosen} avatar={avatar} key={`${i}-${j}`}
                    />
                  ))
                }

            ))
          }

            {
              g2.map((avatar, i) => (
                <Avatar
                  i={2} j={i} handleAvatarClick={this.handleAvatarClick}
                  chosen={chosen} avatar={avatar} key={`2-${i}`}
                />
              ))
            }
             { this.setState({ showEditor: true }) }}>

        <WhiteSpace size="lg" />
        <WhiteSpace size="lg" />
        <WingBlank>
          保存
        </WingBlank>
        <QueueAnimate
          component="div"
          type="bottom"
        >
          {
            showEditor
              ? <AvatarEditor
                key="1"
                onEditEnd={this.handleEditEnd}
                onHide={() => { this.setState({ showEditor: false }) }}
              />
              : null
          }
        </QueueAnimate>

    )
  }
}

function mapStateToProps(state) {
  const user = state['user-info']
  return { user }
}

export default connect(mapStateToProps)(routeLoading(ModifyAvatar))

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


text:
Q: How to retrieve a the return value of a shell function execute with `` and $() I have the following function:
func() {
   echo any
   return 3;
}

when I execute this funtion in the following ways, and then I display the returned value of the function with echo $? I got 0 and not 3:
Linux# x=`func`
Linux# echo $?
0
Linux# x=`eval func`
Linux# echo $?
0
Linux# x=$(eval func)
Linux# echo $?
0

How I can got the returned value of func in the above cases?

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


There are few subjects on which opinions are as divided as nutrition. Nearly everyone agrees: an excellent diet with lots of fruits and vegetables is healthy and will prevent many diseases. Such a diet is chock full of essential nutrients and antioxidants. Then, how come condemnation of supplemental antioxidants gets so much press coverage worldwide?
Which Antioxidants Protect Against Alzheimer's Disease?
Are you walking into rooms but can't remember why? Staring into the refrigerator and wondering what you needed? Forgetting familiar phone numbers? Maybe an orange or a carrot would help.
Glutathione is essential to the functioning of each and every cell in the human body, but modern times have made it increasingly challenging for our stores to be maintained at optimal levels. Could a 'good bacteria' called Lactobacillus fermentum help support this increasingly prevalent deficiency?


text:
#include <aws/mturk-requester/model/DisassociateQualificationFromWorkerRequest.h>
#include <aws/core/utils/json/JsonSerializer.h>

#include <utility>

using namespace Aws::MTurk::Model;
using namespace Aws::Utils::Json;
using namespace Aws::Utils;

DisassociateQualificationFromWorkerRequest::DisassociateQualificationFromWorkerRequest() :
    m_workerIdHasBeenSet(false),
    m_qualificationTypeIdHasBeenSet(false),
    m_reasonHasBeenSet(false)
{
}

Aws::String DisassociateQualificationFromWorkerRequest::SerializePayload() const
{
  JsonValue payload;

  if(m_workerIdHasBeenSet)
  {
   payload.WithString("WorkerId", m_workerId);

  }

  if(m_qualificationTypeIdHasBeenSet)
  {
   payload.WithString("QualificationTypeId", m_qualificationTypeId);

  }

  if(m_reasonHasBeenSet)
  {
   payload.WithString("Reason", m_reason);

  }

  return payload.View().WriteReadable();
}

Aws::Http::HeaderValueCollection DisassociateQualificationFromWorkerRequest::GetRequestSpecificHeaders() const
{
  Aws::Http::HeaderValueCollection headers;
  headers.insert(Aws::Http::HeaderValuePair("X-Amz-Target", "MTurkRequesterServiceV20170117.DisassociateQualificationFromWorker"));
  return headers;

}


text:
Website: https://www.synacor.com/
About Us: https://www.synacor.com/about-us/
Ad Verification
Technology used by advertisers to ensure their ads run on approved sites only and not adjacent to unsavory or blocked content.
Provider or platform offering multi-sourced data analysis for operational/investment growth.
Web site operator that sells and displays ads.
Ad Targeting, Analytics/Measurement, Content Customisation
We believe this company facilitates or engages in third-party interest-based targeting.
This company does not provide an opt-out mechanism.
Synacor, Inc.
Privacy Policy Administrator
40 La Riviere Drive
E-mail: privacypolicy@synacor.com
Privacy contact URL: https://www.synacor.com/contact-us/
Privacy policy: https://www.synacor.com/privacy-policy/
No cookies found


text:
/*
 * To change this template, choose Tools | Templates
 * and open the template in the editor.
 */

package BESA.Log;

import javax.xml.bind.annotation.XmlElement;
import javax.xml.bind.annotation.XmlRootElement;

/**
 *
 * @author User
 */
@XmlRootElement(name = "config")
public class XMLLogConfig {

    /**
     * Represents the log tag.
     */
    @XmlElement
    protected LogConfig log;

    /**
     * Gets the tag log.
     *
     * @return Tag log.
     */
    public LogConfig getLog() {
        return log;
    }
}


2016 Crab Prices are in!!! – Talbot Watermen Association Inc.
Talbot Watermen Association, Inc. is proud to announce that crabs this year will be $25 per dozen! You can also pre-pay for your crabs from 10am – 12pm on August 14th at either of the two crab tents at CBMM. Crabs will be served beginning at 12pm. We are selling crabs by the dozen to reduce the waste we have experienced in past years.
Also, just announced, Bird Dog & The Road Kings will be our musical guests!
Next Next post: Buy your tickets online!!


Atteya and Hussain Abdo are orphaned children, supported through Islamic Relief's sponsorship scheme in the Palestinian Territories.
When their father died of cancer aged just 39, he left behind a wife and five children. The family had exhausted all of their savings to pay for medical care, and had no support.
Islamic Relief offered a lifeline. Like Asmabi, Hussain, 13, and his brother Atteya, 10, were enrolled on our One to One Orphan Sponsorship programme. Through the scheme, they received a regular allowance for their basic needs, and which enabled them to go to school.
Atteya's sponsor offered to pay for treatment for his hearing loss, but the Dier Al Ballah Rehabilitation Centre had run out of fuel. Fuel shortage is acute in the Palestinian Territories – particularly inside blockaded Gaza.
"The situation has affected the family badly," said Ibrahim Ahmed Abdo, of the suspension of international aid. "The Palestinian government [was] unable to pay the salaries of employees for six months." It meant the mother of Atteya and Hussain was left without the support of her late husband's pension.
Thousands of Palestinian children face hardship after losing the breadwinner of their family.


Draft concept plans for the two new play spaces at Birdwood & Paracombe are now available for community feedback. Please see the document library on the right of this page to download and view the draft plans.
These concepts were developed based on feedback received online & at on-site consultation sessions.
Please note that the equipment included in both draft concept plans is conceptual, used only to provide an example of equipment type, and may change following tender & procurement processes.
Please provide your feedback in the space below by Friday 21 December 2018.
Final concept plans will be available for viewing in February 2019.
This phase of the consultation has now closed.
A draft concept plan will be developed and distributed to stakeholders and those that have made submissions to the consultation. The plan will also be available on Council's website.
The community will have an opportunity to provide feedback on this draft.
The final concept plan will be made available for view in the document library and on Council's website.
Construction is estimated to begin by mid-2019.


TREMPEALEAU, WI - Trempealeau Mountain Golf Club in Trempealeau, WI, is offering clubhouse hours for purchasing 2019 season passes.
Golfers may stop by the clubhouse and buy their memberships from noon-5 p.m., on Thursday, March 28, and Friday, March 29. Memberships also will be available from 9 a.m.-1 p.m., on Saturday, March 30, and Sunday, March 31, according to general manager Ellari Aune.
As an extra incentive to buying season passes early, Aune offering 3 open play 18-hole rounds, 1 range token and 1 logo hat to those purchasing singles, couples, family and senior passes through April 15. She also is giving 1 open play 18-hole round, 1 range token and 1 logo hat to junior and young adult season pass holders through April 15.
For more information, call 608-534-7417.


text:
24/07/2020 by Andrew Brealey, Brealey + Newbury Accountants 0 Comments
Reverse charge VAT delayed until 2021
An overhaul of VAT in the construction industry has been pushed back to 2021 due to the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.
Reverse charge VAT, which would put an end to subcontractors receiving VAT payments in most situations, will now be introduced on 1 March 2021. This pushes the scheme back five months from the previous start date of 1 October 2020. It is the second time the new regime has been delayed, having initially been scheduled to come into force last October. The government said the decision to delay had been taken to help "businesses overcome the effects that the coronavirus pandemic has had on them".
What is the reverse charge?
The reverse charge sees the customer who gets supplies of construction services responsible for the VAT due on these supplies on their VAT return instead of the supplier.
It applies exclusively to transactions between VAT registered contractors and subcontractors who are registered for the Construction Industry Scheme (CIS). It applies to both standard and reduced-rate VAT supplies but not to zero-rated supplies.
There are numerous exemptions, including the manufacture of components for systems of heating, lighting, air conditioning, ventilation, power supply, drainage, sanitation, water supply or fire protection and the installation of seating, blinds and shutters, as well as the installation of security systems, including burglar alarms, closed circuit television and public address systems.
If any non-reverse charge supplies are supplied with supplies that are subject to the domestic reverse charge, then the whole supply is then subject to the domestic reverse charge.
Why introduce a reverse VAT charge?
In 2018, the government stated that the VAT reverse charge is "an anti-fraud measure which removes the opportunity for fraudsters to charge VAT and then go missing, before paying it over to the Exchequer".
Apparently, VAT fraud in construction sector labour supply chains has been a real problem, with criminals fraudulently taking over or creating shell companies to steal VAT while operating alongside actual construction services. This 'missing trader' fraud is thought to be costing the taxpayer tens of millions of pounds a year.
The reverse charge is forecast to save the taxpayer £90m of lost revenue during its first year of operation alone.
What does this mean in practice?
Approximately 150,000 affected businesses will have to change their systems for dealing with VAT. For many, there will be a negative impact on cash-flow because they will no longer receive VAT payments.
In recent months, various organisations have highlighted that most affected businesses did not know about the change and those that did often did not understand exactly what was required of them or how to go about implementing change.
Federation of Master Builders (FMB) chief executive Brian Berry called the delay a "victory for common sense". He said: "The coronavirus pandemic has had significant impacts on cashflow for small to medium-sized (SME) construction firms. While the industry called for a delay of one year, five months' breathing space will go some way to helping them recover."
Pro Steel Engineering director and co-founder Richard Selby said he was "extremely relieved" at the decision. He added: "We have enough challenges at the moment with ensuring staff and families are healthy and safe without having to introduce a whole new financial system to meet these new requirements. I only ask that it is reviewed again soon and at least postponed until October 2021 at the earliest or even better reconsidered completely."
The government has also taken the opportunity to amend the system and will now require firms that are end-users of goods and services to notify suppliers and subcontractors of their status. HMRC said the change will ensure subcontractors are clear on how to treat VAT payments and charges.
The change is expected to have a short-term impact on cashflow as subcontractors will no longer receive VAT payments from customers.


text:
Stay up-to-date with DIFC's responses to COVID19
We know that a supportive business environment is key to helping your company thrive. Learn more about what DIFC has to offer, from easy set-up processes to an enabling infrastructure and a variety of office spaces.
Starting a Business in DIFC
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Types of Spaces
World's first free-to-access accredited training platform for sustainable and responsible investing provided by DIFC
Financial Centres Of The World 2021: Focus On Dubai
20 Jan 2021, 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
The DIFC is more than just a world-class financial centre. Explore the district beyond the office, from a carefully curated collection of retailers, to a diverse range of art galleries and some of the city's best restaurants.
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Gate District
The Design House, a new retail and lifestyle concept opens in Gate Avenue at DIFC
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Stay up to date with the latest news, announcements and insights from across the Centre by visiting our Newsroom.
Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is one of the world's most advanced financial centres, and the leading financial hub for the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA), which comprises 72 countries with an approximate population of 3 billion and a nominal GDP of US$ 7.7 trillion.
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Moody's Investors Service…
Moody's Investors Service Establishes Dubai Office in DIFC
Press Release03 Apr 2007 04:21 pm
Moody's Investors Service today announced the official opening of Moody's Middle East Limited within the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. This office will play a key role in serving financial market participants in the Middle East. In connection with this opening, Moody's is pleased to announce the appointments of Philipp Lotter, Vice President & Senior Credit Officer, and Peter Carvalho, Vice President & Senior Analyst, who will be based in Moody's Dubai office and will serve as lead analysts for certain corporate issuers and financial institutions in the GCC region respectively.
"Middle Eastern capital market participants are increasingly accessing the global capital markets to address their financing requirements," stated Raymond W. McDaniel, Jr., Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Moody's Corporation. "Dubai and the DIFC provide Moody's with a good base from which to address the growing regional demand for in-depth, globally comparable credit analysis and ratings."
His Excellency Dr. Omar Bin Sulaiman, Governor of the DIFC, said: "Sustained high growth rates in most of the Middle Eastern economies have positioned the region as the destination of choice for global investors, in turn highlighting the crucial need for credible financial information. We welcome highly-respected international financial services institutions such as Moody's Investors Service. The presence of such global organizations will add significant value to the DIFC."
"Moody's has over 1,000 analysts and basing some of this resource in the DIFC further underscores our commitment to the region's capital markets," stated Frederic Drevon, Head of Moody's Europe, Middle East & Africa. "These markets are characterized by very strong growth trends across a wide spectrum of sectors, including project and corporate finance, banking, insurance and structured finance, both in conventional and Islamic forms."
Welcoming Moody's Middle East to the DIFC, Nasser Al Shaali, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai International Financial Centre Authority (DIFC Authority) said: "The companies located in the DIFC provide an extensive range of financial services to local and regional companies, thereby enabling them to extend their range beyond the shores of the Gulf and Middle East. The DIFC is pleased to serve as a base for Moody's Middle East Ltd."
Ebury becomes the first firm to offer regulated money services from DIFC
Mohammed bin Rashid Issues Decree Appointing Higher Board of Directors of DIFC
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text:
Partner-Network
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African Cotton
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For Retailers and Brands
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CmiA archive
The Bathrobe Challenge
The Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development invests up to 8 million euros in sustainable cotton production in Africa
To promote sustainable cotton cultivation and improve the living conditions of smallholder farmers in Africa, the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) is providing grant funds of up to 8 million euros over a period of 4 years. This money will be used to finance support measures for 1.2 million smallholder farmers in 16 African countries. These measures will be carried out by the Cotton Expert House Africa (CHA), a nonprofit organization founded by the Aid by Trade Foundation (AbTF) and the GFA Consulting Group (GFA).
left to right: Jan Sass, Cotton Expert House Africa | Tina Stridde, Aid by Trade Foundation | Federal Minister Müller
– Credit Florian Gaertner
"Fair fashion needs to be a priority; environmentally-friendly and fairly compensated cotton does not automatically mean expensive clothing. Initiatives like 'Cotton made in Africa' are leading the way here. They allow us to jointly establish better prospects for smallholder farmers and their families. Our clothing should be worth at least that much to us," stated Federal Minister Müller, announcing that the Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) will be providing financial support for sustainable cotton cultivation and the improvement of living conditions of smallholder farmers in Africa. The goal of this support is to increase the share of sustainable cotton produced in Africa, and to integrate more sustainable cotton into the textile value chains.
The BMZ has been funding state and private-sector initiatives to promote sustainable cotton production for many years, in part as a basis for developing the African textile industry. This support builds on a long-time partnership with the Aid by Trade Foundation and its sustainability standard, Cotton Made in Africa (CmiA), which has successfully been established on the market as part of the Competitive African Cotton Initiative (COMPACI). As the largest standard for sustainable cotton from Africa, Cotton made in Africa supports 780,000 smallholder farmers in 10 countries. "The Cotton made in Africa program provides a training system for smallholder farmers and creates an alliance of more than 30 companies and brands that demand certified CmiA cotton for their products," explains Tina Stridde, Managing Director of the Aid by Trade Foundation. "We are pleased to be building on COMPACI's success with the Cotton Expert House Africa as our implementation partner in Africa, and we continue to work on strengthening the capacities of hundreds of thousands of smallholder farmers."
As a social business, the Aid by Trade Foundation directs its income generated from the licensing fees paid by companies and brands back into the African project areas, financing further education measures for smallholder farmers as well as projects supporting village communities and nature conservation. In his announcement on the funding program, Minister Müller emphasized the importance of private-sector participation in the funding, with which a total financial volume of up to 20 million euros is to be realised.
The African cotton and textile industry makes an enormous contribution to economic, social and ecological development in the rural regions of Africa. In Africa, cotton is largely produced by smallholder farmers and serves as a cash crop – about 20 million people are supported directly or indirectly by cotton production.
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Cotton made in Africa (CmiA) was founded by the entrepreneur Prof. Dr. Michael Otto in 2005. Its parent organisation is the Hamburg-based Aid by Trade Foundation (AbTF). CmiA aims to improve the living conditions of smallholder farmers in sub-Saharan Africa while protecting the environment and increasing transparency in the textile supply chain. Instead of collecting donations, it follows the principle of helping people to help themselves through trade: CmiA-certified cotton is in demand in the global market, with a worldwide alliance of textile companies and brands paying a licensing fee to use the CmiA seal. CmiA then reinvests the licensing revenue towards meeting its objectives, as outlined above. Textiles certified by Cotton made in Africa are marked with a small label for easy identification by consumers.


Visit Champion of Decatur, Inc. and Take a Test Drive | Champion Of Decatur, Inc.
Let's face it. While it's always nice to look at vehicles on the internet, dreaming of what it would be like to sit in the driver's seat and how they would look in your garage, there's really nothing quite like the experience of taking one out for a test drive. Not only are you best able to take the measure of a car's capabilities and performance when you're on a test drive, but -- perhaps most important -- you're able to get a sound idea of whether you feel comfortable driving that vehicle or not. After all, nobody wants to get locked into a long-term financial agreement on an SUV they're not all that fond of driving.
But when you make the trip to our Decatur AL showroom from the Athens AL, Huntsville AL, and Madison AL areas, you get to examine our full inventory of new and used vehicles. Whether you're shopping for a new Jeep Wrangler or are more interested in taking possession of a pre-owned Ram 1500 pickup, we have the variety of vehicles that make car shopping a joy.
Plus, when you visit us for a test drive you get the added benefit of our professionals sales consultants and their comprehensive knowledge. If you're not sure which model is the best for you, our team has the trustworthy advice you can rely on. While you're kicking tires and examining interiors, they're happy to consider your particular needs and suggest the models that best meet them. Then they'll happily hand you the keys to take that model out on an informative test drive, helping to confirm your decision.
Contact us to schedule a convenient time to swing by our showroom and take one of our vehicles out for a test drive. We look forward to helping you soon!


ensure that noise, odour and vermin nuisances are mitigated and visual amenity is maintained.
additionally, we do not manufacture or sell equipment, we provide advice and options on the right equipment to suit your project without prejudice.
When you engage TTM's Waste Consultants, your project will not only comply with Council requisites, but will also have industry best practice waste management processes and equipment. We meet regularly with government assessing officers to discuss projects and policy interpretation, saving our clients valuable time and reducing RFI responses.
Engaging a waste consultant early will not only save you time, but also money in the concept design phase, right throughout until project construction. Early interaction will give your project team a better understanding of the spatial requirements for bin storage and servicing, and the various intricacies of waste management.


With the Eastern Conference playoff picture finalized, the Bulls will gear up for Game 1 against the Philadelphia 76ers Saturday at the United Center.
The rest of the schedule is as follows.
All games on Comcast SportsNet will be preceded by Bulls Pregame Live and followed by Bulls Postgame Live with Mark Schanowski and Kendall Gill.


Join us, as a Geotechnical Engineer at Hart Crowser in Seattle. You will be part of the team responsible for geotechnical engineering of the world's longest floating bridge, highest MSE wall in the Western Hemisphere, largest diameter soft-ground bored tunnel, and some of the tallest buildings in the United States. Founded in 1974, Hart Crowser has nearly 100 staff in 7 offices in Hawaii, Alaska, Washington and Oregon.
As a geotechnical engineer you will bring your expertise and unique solutions to highly visible and challenging projects. Through our mentorship program and collaborative environment, we will empower you to grow your career in the direction that you want. Our staff of engineers provide a wide range of geotechnical services, from site investigations and construction observations to state of the art designs. We provide innovative and creative solutions to clients in private industry and the public sector.
Our Technical Level Geotechnical Engineer will have an MS or PhD in Geotechnical Engineering, 5 to 20 years of increasingly responsible professional experience, strong technical capabilities, a PE license, and extensive experience in numerical modelling, leveraging advanced constitutive models, performance based design. The applicant should have an advanced understanding of theoretical soil mechanics, soil characterization, and liquefaction hazard assessment. The applicant must have very good communication skills, enjoy collaborating with others, and sharing their knowledge. This position is a technical position, longer term business development desire is not expected.
Performing advanced geotechnical and seismic analyses.
Providing geotechnical design and construction recommendations.
Interpreting data and producing technical reports.
Staying current in the industry by attending and participating in technical conferences and seminars.
Experience with the LRFD design method.
Extensive knowledge in geotechnical applied statistics.
Extensive understanding of the fundamentals of a wide-range of geotechnical systems.
As a condition of employment, successful candidates must be able to provide documentation of eligibility to work in the US. Hart Crowser has a strong commitment to provide an environment that fosters creative thinking and opportunities for professional development. As an employee-owned company, each individual contributes to the success of the firm.


KING'S CUSTOMIZED INJECTION MOLDING SOLUTION.
30 Years Experience, In House Development, Customized machinery.
KING'S Solution Corp. was founded in the Spring of 2016 by KING'S Machinery & Engineering Corp., which has been dedicated in injection molding solutions for over 30 years. We have the experience of making over thousands of sets of customized injection molding machines with automation and turn-key solutions. Our team specializes in self-developed automation construction, pneumatic & hydraulic equipment, servo control, AOI, and IPC programming.
We are committed to manufacturing smart machines as the front line of Industry 4.0.
With reliable, sustainable innovative system application, KING'S Solution Corp is the Best partner to help customers stand out as the leader in the market.
KING'S provides customers solution based approach aims to achieve JIT, by using a variety of techniques. The effort to achieve JIT exposes many quality problems that are hidden by buffer stocks. By forcing smooth flow of only value-adding steps, these problems become visible and must be dealt with explicitly.
KING'S smart machine built in Smart control program and sensing system with 40-years molding experience. Need no human frequent setting and inspection, can drive and monitor the whole plant machines communicate with each other to produce by controller command, avoid human errors, achieve "Smart Factory for Industry 4.0".
Through the borderless internet and through our customer service team, in recent years, we expanded and accomplished achievements to the new developing market.
Our customers are in the United States of America, Japan, India, Singapore, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, Colombia, Chile, Argentina, Russia, UAE, Australia and China. The production lines include power cord and connector, 3C products, glasses, shoe-material, PET preform, rubber and silicone processing industry.


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Schumer taps Peters again as Senate campaign chief in hopes of 2022 repeat
Michigan Sen. Gary Peters will once again lead his caucus' campaign arm, according to two people familiar with the matter and confirmed by the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee.
The second-term senator successfully defended Democrats' majority last cycle under difficult circumstances, with the party even picking up one more seat in the chamber. Still, Peters had initially turned down entreaties to do the job again, hoping to get a breather from the exhausting role.
He's the first Democrat since Chuck Schumer, now the majority leader, to run the DSCC two cycles in a row. The Michigander will also have two vice chairs assisting him: Sens. Tina Smith of Minnesota and Alex Padilla of California.
Peters' personal record includes winning close House races and a tight Senate election in 2020. Then, in the 2022 midterms, he helped Democrats buck historical trends as DSCC chair — leading the party to pick up a seat despite a Democratic president in office.
Schumer called Peters a "battle tested, proven winner whose hard work led Senate Democrats to defy the political odds and to one of our best midterm results in recent history."
"By adding Tina and Alex to our campaign leadership team, we'll further increase the DSCC's expertise and capacities. I know this is the dream team to strengthen and protect our majority," Schumer said.
The Michigan Democrat somehow faces even tougher odds in 2024. Democrats are trying to hold three red seats in Montana, Ohio and West Virginia, plus several other battleground spots in Wisconsin, Pennsylvania and Nevada. And the party has scant pick-up opportunities in GOP-held states this cycle.
Additionally, Democrats now must defend an open seat in a battleground state after Michigan Sen. Debbie Stabenow announced her retirement last week. Still, elections have trended better for Democrats in Michigan over the past couple cycles, and Peters can help referee a crowded primary in his home state.
Under Peters, the DSCC did not endorse in open primaries in 2022. California is also likely to see a competitive primary to succeed Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), who is expected to retire.
Peters will also have to navigate a unique situation in Arizona, where Independent Sen. Kyrsten Sinema is up for reelection. Sinema left the Democratic Party and could face a challenge from Rep. Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.). That would put the DSCC in a tough spot, as it would have to decide whether to treat Sinema as an incumbent and support her. Peters said in December that he was "really happy to say that's the job of the next DSCC chair."
In a statement for this story, Peters said that "Senate Democrats won big in 2022 by working hard and taking nothing for granted — and that's the same approach I will bring to our campaigns in 2024. Alongside Tina and Alex, I look forward to protecting and strengthening our Democratic majority."
Peters is the first senator to chair a campaign arm for two consecutive cycles since Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas) did in 2010 and 2012. Though Peters initially rebuffed Democrats' requests for him to stay after a difficult election cycle, adding two vice chairs will help ease Michigander's workload when it comes to recruiting and fundraising. Padilla already assisted Senate Democrats with Latino voters last cycle, while Smith is seen as an effective progressive messenger.
With the party facing an even tougher map in 2024 than in 2022, National Republican Senatorial Committee spokesperson Maggie Abboud said "congratulations to Gary Peters on securing the worst job in Washington. He has his work cut out for him!"
Author: By Burgess Everett
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Who has first pick in the NFL Draft 2020 and how is the order decided? – The Sun
Leave a Comment	/ Sports / By vitisportsandlife
THE NFL is gearing up for the annual Draft – but this year with a difference.
Originally slated to take place in a lavish Las Vegas ceremony, coronavirus has forced the league into taking drastic social distancing measures.
The NFL is pushing ahead with it's Draft despite the pandemicCredit: Reuters
As such, players and officials will have to conduct their business via Zoom in the first ever virtual draft – and Joe Burrow is the big favourite to go first.
Who has first pick in the NFL Draft 2020?
BURROW is a star quarterback in the making after a stunning 2019 with LSU.
He's 1/200 to go first in this year's Draft, so barring a miracle will be the fifth QB drafted first in the last six years.
Last year, Heisman Trophy winner Kyler Murray was taken first by the Arizona Cardinals and immediately placed as starter.
Kyler Murray was the No1 pick in 2019 and had a steady first season with the CardinalsCredit: AP:Associated Press
He made a promising start to his NFL career, but was hampered by a poor O-line and finished the season with 3,722 yards, 20 TD's and 12 INT's from 16 matches.
There is plenty of pressure on the No1 pick to perform, but it's notable that no team has ever gone from the first overall pick to a Super Bowl win in the same season.
In 2020, the Cincinnati Bengals have first overall pick.
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How is the order decided?
THE NFL is played out over a 17-game regular season, before playoffs decide which two teams face-off in the Super Bowl.
At the end of each season, teams are ranked on performance, from No1 to No32.
The first round of the NFL Draft flips these rankings on their head.
As such, the worst team from last season gets the first pick of the college stars.
The system is designed to prevent one team from dominating the league for years on end, with the Bengals this year hoping Burrow can solve their quarterback woes from 2019.
This year's Draft order is as follows:
© 2021 | Vitisportsandlife


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Worldwide icon-chevron-right Asia icon-chevron-right Hong Kong icon-chevron-right How Mid-Levels makes living a well-balanced life easier than ever
Heads up! We're working hard to be accurate – but these are unusual times, so please always check before heading out.
How Mid-Levels makes living a well-balanced life easier than ever
Wellness is the new luxury
By Craig Sauers Posted: Wednesday July 3 2019
'Work hard, play hard' takes on new meaning when your playground is the gym and whole foods and a balanced diet give you the fuel to attack the day. There are many factors to optimal wellness other than hitting the gym, though, from being able to let your hair down and enjoy a night out with friends to finding your daily zen in green space or a good café.
While Hongkongers know how to enjoy a life well-lived, there has been a steady shift toward a life well-balanced, too. And maybe no neighbourhood offers such a balance as Mid-Levels. Long some of the city's hottest real estate, Mid-Levels has become the heart of a burgeoning wellness movement. From unrivalled access to green space to vegan cafés, these are some of the ways this neighbourhood helps you live the good life.
RECOMMENDED: Look good with Hong Kong's best places to shop activewear and feel good at Hong Kong's best spas.
Eco-friendly goodness
Restaurants Cafés Mid-Levels
A coffee shop along the Mid-Levels escalator, boasting a wide range of smoothies and juices, Blend and Grind doesn't just help you re-energize with great cups of coffee – it helps you re-fuel and refresh while maintaining an eco-friendly lifestyle, too. Don't expect any additives or preservatives. The smoothies and juices here are made from fresh, natural produce. Better yet, they're served in compostable packaging made from plants, so you can feel good about your impact – or lack thereof – on the environment.
Destress high above the chaos
Restaurants Contemporary European The Peak
Housed in a Grade II historic building, The Peak Lookout hides high above the noise of the streets in Central. Instead of hearing car horns, you're serenaded to the sound of chirping birds at this restaurant. Those who need a daily dose of green can get their fix on the patio here, too, as it's surrounded by towering banyan trees and tropical vegetation. Setting aside, the food is pure comfort: Indian curries, Thai stir-fries, meat and fish cooked on the grill and more.
Next-level workouts
Property Mid-Levels
Treating the body right requires sticking to a regular fitness routine. Living in Mid-Levels makes it easy to get in a good workout without having to travel far to do it. Luxury apartment complex Queen's Garden has a well-equipped wellness centre that goes beyond free weights and treadmills. There's a swimming pool, a kinesis wall, a yoga and dance studio complete with trainer-led classes, a spacious spa, a golf simulator and multiple ball courts. Tenants even have access to a private physical therapist and qualified fitness instructor. Staying fit doesn't get much more convenient than that.
Green space for your daily zen
Attractions Central
The Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens is one of the oldest such facilities in the world. It's also the oldest park in Hong Kong, and Mid-Levels residents have easy access to this well-preserved green space. Drop in during the morning as the animals stir to life; the call of the tropical birds is enough to make you feel as if you're on a secluded island in the Andaman Sea.
One-stop organic shopping
The benefits of a natural diet are clearer than ever. It's not just great for the body. It's also great for the environment. Conveniently enough, folks who live in Mid-Levels don't have to go far to get their organic goods. One-stop organic shop Spicebox sells all-natural teas, spices, snacks and superfoods, as well as gluten-free products and a range of natural home care and personal goods. The latest branch of Feather & Bone, meanwhile, brings premium natural products closer to the doorstep than ever. The Mid-Levels outpost is spread across two buildings: on one side of the road is the shop and deli, selling all the good stuff you've come to expect from the brand, while the café lies on the other side, offering healthy meals all day.
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The "American Ninja Warrior Experience," scheduled to take place this weekend at the University of Phoenix Stadium, has been abruptly canceled.
"ATS Sports International LLC, the company responsible for the American Ninja Warrior Experience, is sorry to inform customers that the American Ninja Warrior Experience events in Phoenix have been cancelled," ATS Sports International said in a statement late Monday, distributed through the University of Phoenix Stadium's marketing department.
A specific reason for why the event was canceled was not provided. It was scheduled to stop in Glendale on Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 10-11.
"We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may cause you or your family," the statement said.
The University of Phoenix Stadium updated its website with the statement late Monday, but no formal announcements of the cancellation have been posted to the event's official Facebook page nor its website as of this writing.
Refunds would be issued wherever tickets were purchased, the statement said.
The show is slated to visit San Diego on March 3 and 4, according to its website . It is unclear if that event will go on as scheduled. Online registration for that event was closed, however.


A few years ago I was in Rome during the Synod on the New Evangelization and I had the opportunity to speak with many of the Synod Fathers and other leaders who were directly or indirectly involved with it. The Synod addressed many elements in the process of evangelization and as I reflected on what I was hearing, I saw four significant pillars emerge: Initial Proclamation, Catechesis, Liturgy & Sacraments, and Missionary Discipleship.
These pillars are inherently foundational, but could also be considered a natural Christian progression or path. A person first encounters the Lord through Initial Proclamation. They are then formed more deeply in the understanding of this encounter through Catechesis. This leads them further into meeting the Lord in the Sacraments and the Liturgy where they are spiritually nourished and strengthened. And they discover that their call to witness to and share their faith with others is in fact their deepest identity as Missionary Disciples.
The Church has done an excellent job of expressing, communicating, and preserving the second and third of these pillars: Catechesis and Liturgy & Sacraments. We have incredible tools and resources to support and nourish the second pillar such as the RCIA, numerous Sacramental Prep programs, Jeff Cavin's Great Adventure Bible timeline, Fr. Robert Barron's Catholicism Series, etc. As for the third pillar, the Liturgy & Sacraments are a centerpiece of the Catholic experience and we know how to deliver them well. Consider how smoothly and quickly the implementation of the new translation of the Mass went throughout the English speaking world.
The Church might have neglected these recently but the Holy Spirit has not forgotten the importance of these two pillars. You see them manifested most often in the new movements and associations. They have charisms to attract new or fallen away members to the faith and to empower them to evangelize others. You also see them manifested in our Evangelical brothers and sisters. In fact in many ways, they have preserved these gifts of clear evangelical outreach and passionate kerygmatic mission work in their local churches, their ministries, and their charitable endeavors.
Make No Assumptions – Since the message of the cross is of vital importance, we should not assume that people have been evangelized already, even those in our parishes.
Frequent Proclamation of the Kerygma – We should invite people to a personal encounter with Jesus Christ by proclaiming the Kerygma clearly and simply.
Form Catholics in Their Missionary Identity – Evangelization is not complete until those who are evangelized are evangelizing others.
Materials and Methods Matter – Simple, transferable evangelistic tools allow people to bring Christ to others in a clear and repeatable way.
Examining these four considerations, we see quite clearly that CCO has a special calling and has been gifted by the Holy Spirit specifically in relation to the first and last pillar – Initial Proclamation and Missionary Discipleship. The Holy Spirit has raised up CCO to be a catalyst for the whole Church in these areas. For the Church to be strong, all four pillars must be strong. But at this precise moment in our history two pillars – Initial Proclamation and Missionary Discipleship – need strengthening otherwise we risk a great collapse of the whole building.


Home » Big weekend coming up!
To celebrate all the work completed at the Montana State Firefighters Memorial, the park will be dedicated Saturday at 3 p.m. with a silent auction and street dance featuring Tanglewood following. Don't miss this shindig to support the memorial! Saturday is also the opening ceremony for Laurel's Exchange Club Healing Field. The celebration begins at 11 a.m. with an opening ceremony and continues through Sept. 11.