The French Connection: Did Alstom Bribe like Siemens?
The French Connection Did Alstom Bribe like Siemens?
Like its German competitor Siemens, France's Alstom Group is alleged to have used a system of bribes to buy its way into contracts worldwide. But in France politicians and the media have shielded the company.
French President Nicolas Sarkozy almost single-handedly saved Alstom from bankruptcy. Pictured here is the company's new high-speed AGV train, the planned successor to the TGV.
The fax was sent in 1998, a time now long past. The corruption scandal that would consume German electronics and engineering giant Siemens was still in the distant future, and public trust in the big names of European industry was still intact.
The fax, from a bank in Liechtenstein, was sent to Oehri Treuhand, a Liechtenstein foundation, and Gerry Oehri, the head of the foundation. The bank wanted Oehri to explain a few things about one of his discreet companies.
The company, Crofthill Consulting, which Oehri managed, had an account with the bank, but its headquarters -- or, to be exact, its mailbox -- on the British Virgin Islands. And when a bank like this suddenly receives an incoming wire transfer for $4 million (€2.6 million), source unknown, it often becomes suspicious that money laundering is at play.
But no, Oehri responded pleasantly, Crofthill earned its money the hard way, as a consultant to a power plant in Indonesia. "Mr. Oehri," the bank noted, "assures us that this deal is legitimate, because it involves one of the largest companies in France."
The reference to the size of an industrial enterprise was still considered a calming factor in those days. Today though, in the wake of the Siemens scandal, it seems absurd. In fact, as is now known, the company mentioned in the fax was Alstom, and the French were apparently involved in deals very similar to activities at German competitor Siemens.
Siemens also apparently secured contracts with bogus agreements, letterbox companies and, especially, with large bribes. Using alleged consulting companies like Crofthill, Siemens apparently "removed millions from the company accounts and transferred them to so-called black funds," slush funds to be used as bribes to gain the support of decision-makers the world over. This, at least, is the conclusion Swiss investigators reach in a report on their investigation.
But while Siemens is being harassed by the US Securities and Exchange Commission, and the Munich-based company has been forced to shell out giant sums to conduct its own investigation and has fluctuated back and forth between self-doubt and self-destruction, the French are only too happy to quietly set aside their scandal.
A central figure in the Alstom file is Swiss banker Oscar Holenweger. He is believed to have distributed many millions to Alstom, with which the company, a maker of high-speed trains, subways and power plant turbines, secured contracts in Latin America and Southeast Asia.
But in Switzerland Holenweger first became known to authorities because investigators suspected that the businessman had something completely different up his sleeve: laundering money for a Columbian drug cartel.
In their zeal to pursue Holenweger, the Swiss even borrowed an undercover investigator from the state office of criminal investigation in the German state of Baden-Württemberg as a lure. But by the end of the operation, Valentin Roschacher, the Swiss Prosecutor General, had been dismissed, partly because the search for Columbian drug money yielded no results -- or, at least, almost no results.
When auditors from the accounting and consulting firm KPMG, hired by the Swiss Federal Banking Commission, visited Holenweger's secretary in January 2004 (she was on maternity leave at the time), the woman handed over 10 file folders Holenweger had given her for safekeeping: five black, two blue, one green, one red and one white folder. The colorful collection suddenly painted Holenweger in a new light: not as a banker to drug lords, but apparently as Alstom's middleman for deals that could only be obtained with bribes.
According to a document prepared by the Swiss investigators, "the Swiss investigative authorities strongly suspect that senior officials at the Alstom Group systematically embezzled money for years and horded it in so-called 'black funds'," and that it did so "with the help of the suspect, Holenweger." The investigators distinguish between two phases. One is the period from 1995 to 2000, when French companies could not be held criminally liable at home for paying bribes abroad, and when all they had to do was avoid being caught in those countries. The other is the ensuing period, which Swiss investigators believe continued until at least 2003, when Alstom was forced to conceal its questionable dealings more effectively, because French law had become more restrictive.
Holenweger was Alstom's man in both periods. On Oct. 22, 1998, for example, he met with Patrick M., an executive, at Alstom's Paris headquarters. Two months later, Holenweger sent M. a draft of a consultancy contract with a company called Compania de Asesores de Energia, supposedly founded in Panama by one of Holenweger's partners.
The company's role was allegedly to provide information that would help in the bidding process for a hydroelectric power plant in Brazil. But Swiss investigators are convinced that the company never provided any consulting services, and that its sole purpose was to forward the supposed consulting fee, after deduction of Holenweger's usual two-percent cut, to the possible recipients of bribes, who secured the contract for Alstom. Investigators suspect that between 1995 and 2003, "several hundred million (French) francs" were laundered in this fashion through letterbox companies in Panama, the Bahamas or Liechtenstein.
To conceal the connection to Alstom, company executives allegedly faxed their handwritten payment orders to Holenweger. Documents indicate that Holenweger then carefully transferred the secret messages to his own letterhead, which included his name and a P.O. box in Zurich, but not the address of his Tempus Bank. Then he apparently sent these letters to those financial institutions where the ominous consulting firms had stashed the Alstom funds -- apparently to be transferred to bribed decision-makers.
Part 1: Did Alstom Bribe like Siemens?


When DC Comics announced a new direction for Batgirl this past summer, the news was met with overwhelming positivity. The sleek costume redesign by co-writer and breakdown artist Cameron Stewart has taken the fan community by storm, and anticipation grows with every new detail about the new team's first issue. The wait is finally over next week, and this preview of Batgirl #35 shows that readers have good reason to be excited thanks to a strong stylistic shift that invigorates the series.
The first order of business by co-writers Stewart and Brenden Fletcher is to get Barbara out of her old surroundings by relocating her to Burnside, the "cool" part of Gotham. The art team brings a lot of personality to the new characters and setting, and the combination of Stewart's expressive breakdowns, Babs Tarr's smooth finished artwork, and Maris Wicks' bright color palette makes the new Batgirl stand out from the rest of DC's Bat-line.
The story is a drastic change from what Barbara has experienced thus far in the New 52, taking a grounded approach that makes the character feel like a real contemporary twenty-something. She needs friends to help her move, drinks too much at parties, hooks up with random guys, gets hangovers, and isn't financially stable, but unlike most people her age, Barbara will drop whatever she's doing to fight crime. This preview reveals how the creative team plans to balance Barbara's domestic drama with her superhero work, and if the entire issue has this kind of energy, DC has a real winner on its hands.


Surrounded by the towering palm trees swaying with the cool wind coming off the seamlessly laying Arabian Sea, Shin Shiva Ayurvedic Resort is situated at Chowara in Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala. Nestled amidst the enchanting and serene moods of nature of Kerala, the resort is well founded on the strict protocols of Ancient India's medicinal system. This resort apart from providing permanent cure to several ailments also serves a perfect gateway to enjoy the Kerala's natural and cultural vigour, freshness and vibrancy. And thus making the holiday rejuvenating as well as engrossing one.
Confirming the principles of Indian Ayurvedic System, Shin Shiva Ayurvedic Resort has maintained its accommodation facilities so as to maximize the healing effects of its Ayurvedic treatments. There are specially built cottages that carry an authentic aura about them. To give them their authenticity these cottages are provided with thatched roof and a close to nature location, so that rejuvenation of body and soul become all through the stay process, not only limited to treatment rooms. Further, the resort has rooms that are artistically well designed and that carry an aesthetic taste. These rooms are fully facilitated with every kind of facilities that guests coming from distant parts of the world may need. With all those amenities, guests are helped with 24-hours room service and round the clock active telecommunication facilities. The resort also owns open air Yoga Centre, fully equipped Treatment rooms, lush Gardens with constructed pavements, Herbal Nursery and Travel Help Desk.
The Ayurvedic Restaurant in this resort takes great care of the diets of guests. Here you get all varieties of cuisines and the food is made by natural ingredients. Guest either can choose to go as per the diet prescribed by the Ayurvedic doctor or he can choose from the menu as per the guidance provided by the expert staff. The staffs attend the guests individually and advise them as per the treatment that the guest is undergoing. The food at resort mainly consists of vegetarian and is made by chefs from the completely pure natural ingredients.
There are varied packages available at Shin Shiva Ayurvedic Resort that are aimed at uprooting all the causes effecting the ailment and thus providing the deep and long lasting treatment. Some of the prominent packages are Body Immunization, Beauty Care Programme, Panchakarma Programme, Body Purification Therapy, Slimming Programme, De Addictions, Rejuvenation Therapy and Anti Ageing Treatment.
Shin Siva basically provides treatments for a variety of diseases including skin diseases, brain diseases, mental disorders, spleen problems, gastric complaints, uro-genital diseases, infertility, immune deficiency and a lot more.
Even patients who are claimed terminally ill by modern medicinal system and who are still going through debilitating treatments are greeted here with permanent treatments. Such type of treatments include Abyangam, Kadi vasti, Siro Dhara, Nasyam, Ela Kizhi, Dhanya Kizhi, Siro vasthi, Udwarthanam and Tharpanam. Besides these disease specific treatments, the resort also offers packages that are therapeutic and are provided for rejuvenation, longevity, body care etc. Apart from this, resort also conducts yoga and meditation sessions that are organized under the strict guidance of Yoga experts.
To make the guests' stay a memorable one, resort also offers various sightseeing tours for which travel requirements are also fulfilled the resort's travel desk.


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Bârsău ist der Name mehrerer Orte in Rumänien:

 Bârsău (Satu Mare), Gemeinde im Kreis Satu Mare
 Bârsău (Hunedoara), Dorf im Kreis Hunedoara
 Bârsău de Jos, Dorf im Kreis Satu Mare
 Bârsău de Sus, Dorf im Kreis Satu Mare
 Bârsău Mare, Dorf im Kreis Sălaj

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


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Clout & Associates
Insolvency Services
Risk Services
Why Clout?
Liquidation Guidance
Bankrupting Someone
Voluntary Administration and Deeds of Company Arrangement
Home > Voluntary Administration and Deeds of Company Arrangement
Who would be interested in these types of mechanism?
This is a formal procedure for insolvent companies under the Corporations Act whose directors want to save the company or the business or both.
This procedure is also for directors who are keen to avoid breaching the insolvent trading provisions of the Corporations Act.
What is meant by being insolvent?
Nearly every business at some time or another will experience some form of cashflow problem, and be unable to pay its debts as and when they fall due or in other words it will be insolvent. The first signs of insolvency may be :-
Creditors constantly harassing for payments
Suppliers placing you on COD terms
Creditors issuing you with court proceedings
Ongoing losses
Bouncing cheques
Exceeding your overdraft limit
Falling stock levels
Visits from the sheriff
Being unable to pay any debt due to the Australian Taxation Office
Being served with a Form 509H, Creditors Demand
Commencement of winding up proceedings against the company
Not being able to stay up to date with payments of superannuation
Being issued with a Section 222AOE or 222AOB Notices to Directors by the Australian Taxation Office making them personally liable.
What Voluntary Administration can do for you?
Before embarking upon a detailed discussion of how Voluntary Administration and Deeds of Company Arrangement works you should know how it can help you.
It will prevent exposure of the directors personal assets. This occurs as the appointment of a Voluntary Administrator immediately stops the directors incurring any further credit in the name of the company thereby removing the personal liability exposure for breaching the Insolvent Trading provisions of the Corporations Act. The insolvent trading provisions puts on them a strong obligation to make sure a company does not continue to incur credit if the company finds itself in an insolvent position. These provisions are found at Section 588G of the Corporations Act. If they are found to breach the provisions there is the risk of the directors exposing their personal assets. The Australian Securities and Investments Commission has also shown it is determined to make sure that directors breaching these provisions receive criminal prosecution.
There is an immediate statutory moratorium where nobody but a creditor holding a charge over all or substantially all of the assets can take any action against the company.
Where credibility and trust have gone the VA process puts a third party (the Voluntary Administrator) in control of the operations, which provides a chance of restoring some credibility for the company.
Where the company no longer has any credit, under a VA the Voluntary Administrator is personally liable for all debts incurred which more often than not frees up supplies.
The moratorium period whilst short gives an opportunity for directors of the company to consider their options and where appropriate put up a deal for the consideration of creditors as to sorting out the company's position.
Generally unless there is a hidden agenda any deal put up with a good likelihood of success and is better than what would be the likely outcome on liquidation for creditors it is more than likely to be accepted. When the creditors vote on the proposal it is decided on a majority in number representing a majority in value of creditors attending and voting at the meeting. This means that if the vote is successful it also binds those creditors who may not like the proposal or did not attend.
What exactly is Voluntary Administration?
Voluntary Administration is designed to enable an independent party, "the Administrator", the opportunity to assess the position of the company and the opportunity to continue to trade the business in an effort to maximise the best possible return to creditors. Voluntary Administration provides a framework for a company and its creditors to negotiate a compromise, whilst protecting the key stakeholders, the Directors/Shareholders & Creditors. A brief summary of the steps in the voluntary administration process are:
The appointment of a Voluntary Administrator can occur in one of three ways(a) By a meeting of directors resolving the company is insolvent or likely to become insolvent and that an administrator is to be appointed and signing an instrument of appointment.
(b) By a secured creditor holding all or substantially all the assets of the company under its security.
(c) By a Liquidator or Provisional Liquidator
The Administrator then enters into possession of the business and assets and assesses the viability of the business.
The Administrator implements controls over the trading
There must be a first meeting of creditors held within 5 business days of the appointment to decide on whether the creditors wish to appoint a committee of their number to assist the administrator and to consider the suitability of the appointment of that particular administrator and whether or not they wish to replace him or her.
The Administrator must investigate the affairs of the company and analyse the likely outcome for creditors if the company was wound up.
The Administrator then negotiates with directors on a proposal for a deal which is called a Deed of Company Arrangement if accepted by creditors. The administrator must also conduct a comparison of the proposal made to liquidation and provide his or her recommendation to creditors as to what would be the best course of action available for the company as it affects creditors.
A further meeting of creditors must be held within 28 days of the appointment ( unless the appointment occurs around Christmas time otherwise there is an extra week provided) of the Administrator to discuss a comprehensive report provided by the administrator and to allow creditors to make a decision as to the fate of the company.
On signing a Deed of Company Arrangement generally the company is handed back to the directors. You should see the next section of this brochure for a guide as to the various possibilities for a Deed of Company Arrangement.
What is a Deed of Company Arrangement?
A Deed of Company Arrangement ("DOCA") is a document usually signed by the Administrator and the Directors. This is the end result of the acceptance by creditors of the proposal put to them.
The DOCA is binding on the company and all unsecured creditors that were in existence prior to the appointment of the Administrator. It is administered by a "Deed Administrator" who is usually, but not necessarily, the person who previously acted as Administrator.
A DOCA can be tailored to meet the specific requirements of both the creditors and the business. Examples of what a DOCA proposal could entail include:-
An immediate one off payment to creditors in full and final settlement of their claims. This payment may come from a third party, the Directors or any other source and compared to the likely liquidation scenario normally need not be 100 cents in the dollar for it to be acceptable by creditors.
An immediate payment to creditors with the possibility of a further payment to be made from the proceeds of litigation, the sale of surplus assets or trading profits over time or a combination of any of these.
A series of payments to be made from the ongoing profits of the business over a specific period, conducted under the supervision of the Deed Administrator. Keeping in mind creditors don't have to be paid in full the main purpose of the DOCA is to enable the company to continue to exist and for creditors to receive a better return on their debts then what they would receive on a liquidation.
The business can be sold with the proceeds to go to payment of creditors.
It should be noted that any combination of these could be used in proposals where circumstances warrant it.
What you should do if you find yourself in Difficulties?
Collect what information you can about the financial position of your company. Organise to meet with a specialist in the field to discuss your options.
Do not delay taking such action as the longer you wait the less positive options you will have and the less likely it will be you can save your business.
Why Clout & Associates?
We are business recovery and insolvency specialists so one meeting will provide you with your choices as this is all we do.
With our office in Coffs Harbour we operate in your region and can be there for you when the problems arise. Go to the city firms and the personal nature of business in the regions is forgotten let alone your own logistical problems in getting there and the cost.
Our record in saving companies and businesses is second to none.
Our fees have been adjusted to cater for the size of businesses in the regions and the lower overhead structure we all operate under.
If you require it for whatever reason we are more than happy to work alongside your usual professional advisors.
Being in your area means you get answers and will not be fobbed off.
To discuss your options click here for our contact details.
Do A Pheonix At Your Peril
News wtih Clout – Feb 2019
Registered Liquidator Fellow of Institute of Public Accountants Associate – CPA Australia... Read more
Kingscliff Office
Office 2 Level 1, 92 Marine Parade Kingscliff NSW 2487
PO Box 1340 Kingscliff, NSW 2487
mjchubb@cloutassociates.com.au
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Suite 7, 26-28 Orlando Street Coffs Harbour NSW 2450
PO Box 4453 Coffs Harbour Jetty, NSW 2450
admin@cloutassociates.com.au
© Clout & Associates 2013 - 2019 All Rights Reserved :: Admin

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


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Spain's La Liga breaks YouTube records
From David Del Valle in Madrid
Spain's top football league La Liga is breaking records with its YouTube channel which has reached over 100 million plays since its launch two years ago.
La Liga channel, operated by Mediapro, owner of the football TV rights, currently has 560,000 subscribers and has distributed 250 million minutes of video since 2012.
Mediapro is intensifying its International strategy to extend the channel throughout all distribution means and social networks. The company recently signed a deal with Twitter to bring Spanish football to a world audience.
Video clips from La Liga are made available via Twitter using Twitter's Amplify tool that enables users to attach videos to tweets in real time with La Liga making highlights of every game for users around the world as they occur.
Through @LaLiga, La Liga will broadcast audio and video content, including goals, player interviews and players comments before, during and after each game. With the deal, La Liga becomes the first European league to be available both in video and audio on Twitter, along with the NBA, NFL and MLB.
La Liga has been ranked as the European national competition with highest number of international followers.
La Liga highlights on Twitter
World Cup breaks social media records… again
The Walking Dead 3 breaks Fox records
World Cup breaks streaming records
Walking Dead breaks viewing and piracy records


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Institute's main building, officially opened in 2017. Image by Samira Chami Neves / Sucom UFPR
The Institute of Exact Sciences is responsible for teaching, researching and promoting extension activities regarding the fields of Statistics, Graphic Expression, Physics, Computer Science, Mathematics and Chemistry at the Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Brazil.
In order to do so, it relies on eleven undergraduate courses, eight graduate courses, 48 research groups and 13 extension projects.
At the moment, about 2.600 students are enrolled in the Institute – 2.000 undergraduate and 600 graduate. Furthermore, the Institute provides the university's other schools and institutes with basic science classes, reaching nearly 40.000 students per year.
Therefore, it has a staff that excels on its job. Among the 249 teachers of its faculty, 230 work full-time. It is the institute with the biggest number of full-time professors at UFPR.
The Institute occupies an area of 28.000 square meters, with classrooms, laboratories, library, amphitheater and other equipment spread across ten buildings at Centro Politécnico campus. The campus also offers a shared infrastructure with university restaurant, canteen, copy store, bank and post office.
Pesquise no site
SETOR DE CIÊNCIAS EXATAS
R. Cel. Francisco Heráclito dos Santos, 100 - Jardim das Américas - Centro Politécnico
4º andar - Edifício das salas PAs - CAIXA POSTAL 19081
CURITIBA, PARANÁ, BRASIL - CEP 81531-980
© Copyright Setor de Ciências Exatas


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Exclusive: Songkick CEO Reveals Music Concert Crowdfunding Plans With The Tale Of Tycho
In what is likely to be a surprise to many despite the growing popularity of music crowdfunding, Songkick's CEO Ian Hogarth revealed that not only is Songkick developing a music concert fanfunding platform but has been experimenting with it since December. I spoke with Hogarth earlier this week and it turns out that he's been thinking about fanfunding at least as long as he's been building Songkick and his focus on getting the fans what they want is first and foremost.
Songkick launched in 2007 based on CEO and Cofounder Ian Hogarth's belief that if fans had easily available concert info they would attend more concerts. His premise was accurate and now Songkick serves up to 6 million fans monthly with info on over 100,000 upcoming shows at any point in time. Show dates of up to 1 million artists are represented on the site, gathered from ticketing agencies and services such as ArtistData. In addition, tens of thousands of artists are maintaining profiles on Songkick.
After posting about Songkick's crowdfunding plans at Crowdfunding For Musicians from a press release that I don't think Songkick expected to see in public, Hogarth contacted me to fill me in on the backstory of Songkick's developing plans. He revealed that back in the heyday of MySpace he saw that fans were regularly asking bands when they might be in their area. But he found out from industry insiders that fan requests weren't really taken that seriously by promoters or managers.
Hogarth recognized the missing piece was a financial commitment because even knowing your fans are out there doesn't immediately translate into tour financing and still represents a risk at any point in time. But he wasn't sure that pursuing such an idea would work as well as Songkick's focus on being the largest source of music concert announcements and has focused on that path ever since.
Tycho – A Walk (Live in London at Songkick Fanfunded Show)
As he also describes today in a blog post, Songkick finally decided to leverage their access to fan and concert data that reveals what fans want and where they want it by bringing Tycho to London for his first European gig:
"This all kicked off last December, when Gideon, our design director was bemoaning the fact that a band he loved – Tycho – an awesome electronic act from San Francisco had never come to Europe. We have hundreds of thousands of fans using Songkick in London, so we looked at our trackings data – turns out there were a good number of people like Gideon who lived in London and were tracking Tycho on Songkick. We contacted Tycho's manager and agent who said that they'd would love to come to Europe, but hadn't heard there was enough demand. On the flip side we spoke to a local promoter who saw it as too risky to try to bring Tycho over at this stage. It seemed like a perfect test."
"We chatted to Tycho and his team and it seemed like they'd need to sell a few hundred tickets to make it feasible to come to London, so we created a simple website, Detour to allow Tycho fans to pledge. What happened next was pretty insane! We emailed the fans on Songkick who were tracking Tycho, and over 100 of them pledged money for a ticket. Gideon was pretty thrilled to see how many other people shared his passion for Tycho. But 100 or so wasn't enough to get the show confirmed so the Songkickers took it into their own hands & started to contact friends and music fans who were either into Tycho or should be! Within a short while we hit our target and the gig was on!"
Since then, Songkick has been experimenting with bands and shows to see what works best. Their current version can be found at detourjam.com and they're going with the name Detour for the service. It's not a finished product but the idea is solid and straightforward.
Fans can get to see the band they want if they're willing to provide the initial financial commitment to bring the band to their town by pledging to buy presale tickets. Truly passionate fans will be able to have an effect that wasn't possible under previous touring systems.
Hogarth made an additional discovery during the Tycho show that has been supported by observations at additional shows they've since organized:
"To be honest at that point I didn't think things could get much cooler. To see fans rise up to help their favourite artist go and tour in a new country was overwhelming. The sense of community and excitement was really special. But then I went to the concert itself and realised the real power of this concept. Everyone at that show was there because they made the gig happen and the atmosphere reflected that. It was beyond intimate and the connection between the band and the fans that started online carried into the gig itself."
After Tycho's concert, Songkick committed a small team to developing the Detour service and now they're ready to start opening things up.
If you're a band that wants to try out Detour, please contact Ian Hogarth at:
ian(at)songkick(dot)com
If you're a fan that wants to start a Detour and bring a band to your town, let Songkick know at:
support(at)songkick(dot)com
Hypebot Senior Contributor Clyde Smith (Twitter/App.net) blogs about music crowdfunding at Crowdfunding For Musicians (@CrowdfundingM). To suggest topics for Hypebot, contact: clyde(at)fluxresearch(dot)com.
Tags: detour, music concert crowdfunding, Songkick
tychos site uses bands in town. nice plug!


The Schtick: "Titanic amounts of peat but with a light, delicate complexity and a beguiling finesse. Young, yet eminently mature, it defies us. It remains an enigma. We embrace that.
Nose: Lemon lime soda, vanilla, honey and buttercream. Faintly ashy smoke with a nuanced level of meaty, BBQ smoke.
Taste: Thick, rich and viscous. Vanilla buttercream is dominant, followed by big salinity and rich pepper. It's smoky and ashy, with faint bbq notes. If someone were to ask me what smoked butterscotch tastes like – I would be tempted to offer this dram as an example.
Finish: Medium in length, no heat. Peaty, ashy, burning telephone pole.
Overall: Really great, but oddly restrained for an Octomore expression. Very enjoyable, nonetheless.


The Government Accountability Office (GAO) is a U.S. legislative agency that monitors and audits government spending and operations. The GAO tracks how the legislative and executive branches of the government use taxpayer dollars and then provides results directly to Congress. The Comptroller General serves as head of the GAO.
The GAO serves as a congressional watchdog over government spending. It monitors the operating results, financial positions, and accounting systems used by the various governmental agencies and conducts routine audits on all branches of government.
The Government Accountability Office (GAO) is an independent and non-partisan government agency that reports to the U.S. Congress.
The GAO conducts audits of federal government agencies to ensure that funds are allocated properly and not misappropriated. For example, it conducts audits and reviews of the Pentagon, including U.S. military spending on personnel and weapons systems. The GAO reviews government programs and policies to determine if the established goals are properly aligned with their original purpose and are being satisfied. This office also investigates allegations of illegal activity within the government and issues legal determinations on proposed rules regarding other government agencies.
The GAO has broad authority to review the Federal Reserve's function and operations, and it conducts reviews of the emergency lending programs that were enacted following the 2008 financial markets' collapse. However, it does not have the authority to review individual meetings and monetary policy decisions made by the Fed.
Another set of legislative duties includes establishing standards, referred to as the Generally Accepted Government Auditing Standards (GAGAS), for government audits and providing reports, such as reports about the Federal Budget and Education.
The comptroller general, serving a 15-year term, is appointed by the president from a bipartisan list of congressional recommendations. The current comptroller general, Gene L. Dodaro, was appointed in 2010.
During World War I, government spending and debt rose sharply, which prompted demand for a formal system to review, monitor, and control government expenditures. As a result, the Budget and Accounting Act of 1921 established the General Accounting Office (GAO), which assumed budget, accounting, and auditing responsibilities from the U.S. Treasury Department. In addition, this act also required the president to prepare an annual budget for the federal government. In 2004, the name changed to the Government Accountability Office after the passing of the GAO Human Capital Reform Act.
Government programs and expenditures expanded sharply in the 1930s as a result of President Roosevelt's New Deal social policies, which were created in response to the Great Depression. The GAO's role, which originally focused on ensuring payments were made properly, grew in importance. By 1945, at the end of World War II, government spending had again soared, and the GAO began auditing government agencies to ensure they operated according to their purpose.
By the 1970s, the GAO's work had expanded to include reviews of agency work on consumer protection, the environment, and social welfare. Originally, agency personnel consisted of only accountants; however, it soon expanded to include scientists, health care professionals, and computer scientists.
Comptroller General is a high-ranking accounting position in the U.S. government who sets and oversees accounting policy.
The Government Accounting Standards Board is a private organization that creates generally accepted accounting principles for state and local governments.
The Cost Accounting Standards Board is a U.S. federal government body with a mandate of promoting consistency and uniformity in cost accounting activities involving government grants and contracts.
A Statutory Audit is a legally required review of the accuracy of a company's or government's financial records. The purpose is the same as for any other audit - to determine whether an organization is providing a fair and accurate representation of its financial position by examining information such as bank balances, bookkeeping records and financial transactions.
An office audit is an in-person examination of a taxpayer's records by the Internal Revenue Service to ensure compliance with tax laws.
A branch office is the location of a business, which is often one of many branches attached to a larger business entity.
What Is the Role of Agency Theory in Corporate Governance?


With an unobtrusive and friendly approach, my aim is to capture the most incredible day of your life by telling your story visually through the means of stylish, relaxed and beautiful photographs.
All of my packages include a complimentary pre wedding photoshoot of the Bride & Groom worth £200 at your wedding venue or a desired location of your choice.
This is a great way for us to get to know each other and have a chat about your plans for the big day. This shoot will also help you to feel more relaxed in front of the camera as we try to get some nice photos of you together, you may find that you can use some of these photographs to put on your wedding invites or thank you cards.
Half a day of coverage (6 hours) capturing the most pinnacle moments of your special day. This package includes around 300 - 400 high resolution images on USB, an online password protected gallery for your friends and family to view online and a complimentary pre wedding photoshoot & consultation.
From bridal prep until after your first dance, I'll be there to capture all of the details and magical events that happen throughout your day so that you can treasure those special memories forever in the style of beautiful imagery. This package includes around 600 - 700 high resolution images on USB, an online password protected gallery for your friends and family to view online and a complimentary pre wedding photoshoot & consultation.
Documenting every little detail of your wedding day from start to finish with two photographers. Both of which will be able to spend time with the bride and the groom to capture all of the special moments leading up to the ceremony and every angle afterwards. This package includes 700-800 (usually more!) high resolution images on USB and online password protected gallery for your friends and family to view privately and a complimentary pre wedding photoshoot & consultation. Your most treasured images will also be printed and displayed in the form of a beautifully made, bespoke photo book with a personalised leatherette cover so that you can relive your story on every page!
Only need my services for a few hours? Or would you like to create your very own package with timings to suit you. I am happy to discuss your plans and ideas!
Videography is also available upon request.


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Insurance losses hit $120 billion in 2022 due to hurricanes and flooding
Will Secure Act Increase Long-Term Care Insurance Sales?
Tag: insurance payouts
Coronavirus insurance payouts reach largest non-life levels, says Lloyd's CEO
May 18, 2020 May 15, 2020 Logan B.
As claims payments move beyond the $100 billion mark, COVID-19 is the industry's "single largest event". Lloyd's of London CEO John Neal has announced that coronavirus insurance payouts will pass the $100 billion mark. This has made the pandemic the "single largest event" the industry has faced in its history. COVID-19 has had a powerful impact on many industries and insurers have been feeling the pain. Lloyd's of London's estimates now state that the industry will have paid out $100 billion for the claims relating to this catastrophe. This coronavirus…
Insurance Industry News International Insurance News Latest Insurance News Articles
Insurance industry legal costs exploding as US juries increasingly side with plaintiffs
November 26, 2019 November 24, 2019 Nordstrom
Insurers from around the world are expected to face legal expenses topping $200 billion. United states jury payouts are sending global insurance industry legal costs skyward. Insurer execs face a rising fear from the size and frequency of awards jurors are requiring the firms to pay out to plaintiffs. Payouts insurance companies must pay to lawsuit plaintiffs are starting to pose a threat to the industry. The trend is being called "social inflation" as juries demand more frequent and generous payouts that insurers must cover for cases ranging from tainted…
Financial News Insurance Industry News Latest Insurance News Articles
ICBC releases strangest insurance fraud cases of 2014
February 6, 2015 February 2, 2015 Julie Campbell
The auto insurer had recommended that charges be laid against 100 people, last year, for a range of scams. The ICBC has now released a list of the oddest insurance fraud cases that its investigators were able to detect in 2014, which included everything from airbag evidence, failed impersonations, and even a conspiracy involving time travel. The Insurance Corporation of British Columbia has estimated that between 10 and 15 percent of its claims aren't truthful. The data from the ICBC has stated that it feels that between 10 and 15…
Auto Insurance Insurance Industry News Insurance News Articles International Insurance News Latest Insurance News Articles
Climate change is forming a broadening insurance industry struggle
May 21, 2014 May 19, 2014 G. Turner
The shift away from the traditional attitude of insurers is generating considerable controversy. While the insurance industry has traditionally been a strong supporter of the principles and behaviors of free enterprise – as it is quite the business giant – as some major carriers start to evolve their positions as a result of climate change, this has generated some disagreements to build among many of their backers in congress. Skepticism regarding the science behind the global warming claims remains among many in Congress. When it comes to the insurance industry,…
Financial News Insurance Industry News Insurance News Articles Latest Insurance News Articles Natural Disasters
Insurance news made in NY when judge blocks 9/11 claims against airlines
July 22, 2013 July 20, 2013 Julie Campbell
The ruling in New York is that the World Trade Center's owners cannot demand payouts from the attacks. A federal judge has just made insurance news headlines when he ruled that the owners of the World Trade Center are not permitted to make demands of billions of dollars of additional payments from insurers due to the attacks on September 11, 2001. The owners of the buildings will not be able to receive the money from the airlines and their insurers. The insurance news was made when Judge Alvin Hellerstein made…
Insurance Industry News Insurance News Articles Latest Insurance News Articles News for Agents News for Consumers Specialty Insurance
Insurance industry may not be liable for payouts relating to Boston Marathon Bombings
April 29, 2013 April 28, 2013 Logan B.
Insurance industry may be exempt from claims payouts The Boston Marathon Bombings continue to send ripples throughout the insurance industry as more details concerning the disaster come to light. Last week, President Obama declared that last week's bombings were, in fact, an "act of terror" perpetrated by a malicious party. The federal government has been pressured to avoid the term "terrorism," however, due to the implications that could have within the insurance industry. Classifying the disaster as terrorism could potentially exempt insurance companies from providing benefits to policyholders. Bombings may…
Business Insurance Financial News Insurance Industry News Insurance News Articles Latest Insurance News Articles News for Agents News for Consumers
Insurance industry faced with major losses in 2012
April 3, 2013 April 2, 2013 Logan B.
Swiss Re reports on insurance industry losses from 2012 The insurance industry faced massive losses due to natural disasters and man-made catastrophes in 2012, according to Swiss Re, one of the world's leading reinsurance firms. Over the past two years, the insurance industry has been stricken with several catastrophic events. Hurricanes, earthquakes, and an ongoing financial crisis in Europe have all served as major stumbling blocks for the global insurance industry. According to Swiss Re, many of the companies operating in the industry are still fighting to recover from such…
Business Insurance Financial News Insurance Industry News Insurance News Articles International Insurance News Latest Insurance News Articles Natural Disasters News for Agents News for Consumers


Industrial Compressor Supplies (Eaircompressorparts.com) is a large supplier of replacement Quincy air compressor parts. ICS is not associated with Quincy in anyway. If the part you are searching for on our website is not listed please call us at 877-426-3131 and we will price the item for you.


The Bricklin SV-1 was a gull-wing door sports car built in Saint John, New Brunswick, and also in Minto, New Brunswick, Canada from 1974 until early 1976 for the U.S. market. The car was the creation of Malcolm Bricklin, an American millionaire who had previously founded Subaru of America. Sales did not meet expectations, and only 2,854 cars were built before the company went into receivership, owing the government $23 million. It is believed approximately 1,500 Bricklin cars still exist.
The name stood for "safety vehicle one", an odd choice of focus in a sports car from the fuel-sensitive 1970s. The Bricklin was designed for safety with an integrated roll cage, 5 mph bumpers, and side beams. The body was fiberglass with bonded acrylic in five "safety" colors: white, red, green, orange and suntan. The cars had no cigarette lighter or ashtray. Malcolm Bricklin believed it was unsafe to smoke and drive.
Power came from an AMC 360 in³ (5899 cm³) V8 for 1974. Later cars used Ford's 351 in³ (5752 cm³) Windsor V8. The suspension was independent in front with A-arms and coil springs, while the rear used leaf springs on a live axle. A high performance V8 was chosen so that in case of an impending accident, the power of the V8 was enough for the owner to pull away from the potential accident.
772 model year 1974 cars were produced, 137 of which had four-speed manual transmissions. All 1975 and 1976 cars had automatic transmissions.
The Bricklin Story was a 30-minute 1974 film produced as a self-promotion piece. It aired nationally on CBC and was roundly panned by critics.


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Graham: Trump prepared to strike North Korea; 'There is a military option'
TOPICS:ICBMNorth Koreanuclear weaponspreemptive strike
Posted By: usafeaturesmedia August 2, 2017
(National Sentinel) War: One of the Senate's most reliable hawks said Monday that President Donald J. Trump has assured him he is ready to launch a military strike against North Korea — before Pyongyang is able to field a fully functional, nuclear-tipped ICBM.
Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., said on the "Today" show that not only is the president ready to strike but that it is "inevitable" if North Korea continues its provocations and weapons development.
What's more, Graham dispelled any notion that 'there are no good military options' for North Korea.
"They're wrong," he told Today host Matt Lauer. "There is a military option to destroy North Korea's program and North Korea itself. If there's going to be a war to stop him [Kim Jong Un], it will be over there. If thousands die, they're going to die over there, they're not going to die here and he's [Trump] told me that to my face."
Continuing, Graham admitted that kind of rhetoric may sound "provocative," but that it really isn't. "When you're the president of the United States, where does your allegiance lie? To the people of the United States. This man, Kim Jong Un, is threatening America with a nuclear tip missile. President Trump doesn't want a war, the Chinese can stop this, but to China, South Korea, and Japan, Donald Trump is not going to allow this missile."
That was a direct warning to all parties involved, by the way: Graham was saying in no uncertain terms that Trump will take action to stop North Korea's ICBM and nuclear weapons threat after Pyongyang has continued testing upgraded versions of nuclear-capable missiles that can now reach Los Angeles, Seattle, and Chicago.
"I'm saying it's inevitable unless North Korea changes because you're making our president pick between regional stability and homeland security," Graham noted further. "He's having to make a choice that no president wants to make. You can stop North Korea militarily or diplomatically, I prefer the diplomatic approach. But they will not be allowed to have a missile to hit America with a nuclear weapon on top and to allow them to do that is really abandoning homeland security."
As we have reported on numerous occasions since Trump took office, the military posture of the U.S. in the region, coupled with statements made by the president himself and his national security and foreign policy team — including calling North Korea a "clear and present danger" to the U.S. — it seems rather obvious at this point that war is coming to the Korean peninsula. Graham has all but confirmed it. Now, it's just a matter of when — and how Trump will clear any preemptive action with Congress.
By taking care of the North Korean threat, Trump will be showing the kind of resolve necessary to move forward in dealing with Iran and Russia in the Middle East, as well as China's aggressive South China Sea claims.
Everyone who is someone will be put on notice that this president means what he says when it comes to protecting American interests.
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Dream Cottages Self Catering Holidays | UK Sail - The UK Marine, Boating & Sailing Directory.
Dream Cottages offer idyllic self-catering holiday cottage style accommodation with around 300 total holiday properties in the Dorset, Devon and Cornwall areas. We have well over 100 properties in Weymouth and Portland alone, home of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic sailing events and preferred training ground for our Olympic champions. The sailing waters in Weymouth Bay and Portland Harbour are some of the best you can find and for this reason, the area boasts excellent facilities for sailors. If Weymouth and Portland aren't what you are looking for, we have properties available all along the beautiful Jurassic Coast. We offer large and small properties, allowing us to accommodate all types of vacation or short breaks; whether it is for a large group, a family getaway, or a romantic break for two.
We pride ourselves on our customer service and knowledge of the local areas, so we can ensure guests book the right property to suit their unique needs. All of our properties are handpicked and our portfolio is constantly growing, as does our number of happy customers and returning guests! Our properties are all independently Visit England inspected and have a minimum of a 3 Star Standard, though we now have more 4 and 5 star properties than ever before available!


Over the counter pest control products like roach motels and Raid are tempting solutions to an immediate pest control issue. Sometimes these products work, too. If you have a single roach or ant, you can spray the creature away from food or eating surfaces and get rid of the problem for the time being. However, these products generally offer little long-term help for most people with pest problems. For one, sprays like Raid are highly toxic and need to be used with the utmost care. If you are at all concerned about your health, the health of your children, and the safety of your pets, it is probably best to call a professional pest control service who uses just the right amount of just the right type of least invasive material to control the specific problems you are having.
Second, sprays like Raid will not get to the root cause of the problem and will certainly be ineffective at targeting massive infestations. Roaches and ants breed by the thousands. You cannot possibly hope to exterminate all the roach eggs with a can of Raid; doing so would be impossible for the sheer reason that the eggs will almost never be laid within eyesight or easy reach. There could also be more than one colony, or even more than one species or type of pest in your home. When you call a professional pest control, an assessment will reveal the root causes of the problem and whether you just have one pest or actually several.
Finally, over the counter products like Raid are not formulated to deal with every kind of pest. Their labels might promise targeting certain species of roach, lice, or tick, but ultimately, the best products on the market are developed and sold to pest control companies who are trained in how to use those products. Professional pest control services have access to the latest pesticides.


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Entries from September 2011
Pilgrim Talks: Will Crist reads Selling in a Social Media World
September 28th, 2011 · Comments
Will Crist reads from his new book: Selling in a Social Media World: How buyers have Changed their Buying Process . . . and What You Can Do About It!
Tags: DefaultTag
Pilgrim Talks: Jay Zeinfeld
Jay Zeinfeld, President and CEO
As CEO of the country's foremost lessee advisory and equipment lease due diligence firm, Mr. Zeinfeld and his firm have represented a variety of Fortune 2000 companies in the legal, hi-tech, engineering, healthcare services, distribution, and manufacturing industries, including notable firms such as Golden State Foods Corporation, URS Corporation, Kinko's, Seagate Technology, Ingram Micro, Sukut Construction, and Aurora Healthcare.
Mr. Zeinfeld's unique understanding of the complexities and financial ramifications of equipment lease transactions has resulted in his firm's clients saving tens of millions of dollars.
The Optimus Group's mission is to protect companies from awkward, unexpected financial surprises and to equip them to outperform market. He has personally reviewed more than 1,000 equipment leases and has a track record over the past twenty years of saving his clients an average of $150,000 for every $1 million in leased assets. Mr. Zeinfeld and his staff are committed to helping companies, willing to be helped, in this grossly misunder-stood field of finance.
Mr. Zeinfeld was born in La Jolla, California and currently resides in San Clemente, California with his wife and two children. He practices out of the Optimus Group's corporate headquarters in Mission Viejo, California.
For over 17 years, The Optimus Group has advised senior financial executives protecting them from unfavorable equipment leasing agreements and loan transactions. As an independent advisor with no conflicts of interest, their fiduciary responsibility is to advocate for their client companies and obtain the best possible economic and contractual outcome. The Optimus Group typically serves clients which have mid to large size equipment lease and loan portfolios.
To learn more about the Optimus Group, go to optimusgroup.com
Pilgrim Talks: Kelly O'Connell and Carlos Pena
September 7th, 2011 · Comments
Kelly O'Connell Metro Market Manager for Robert Half Technology
YOU'VE GOT (LESS) MAIL CIOs Surveyed Say Workplace Communication Will Favor Real-Time Tools
Email may soon become the new snail mail, a new Robert Half Technology survey suggests. More than half (54 percent) of chief information officers (CIOs) interviewed recently said real-time workplace communication tools will surpass traditional email in popularity within the next five years. The survey was developed by Robert Half Technology, a leading provider of information technology (IT) professionals on a project and full-time basis. It was conducted by an independent research firm and is based on telephone interviews with more than 1,400 CIOs from companies across the United States with 100 or more employees.
CIOs were asked, "In the next five years, do you think real-time workplace communication tools - for example, Instant Messaging, SharePoint, Yammer, etc. - will be more or less popular than email among employees?" Their responses:
Much more popular................ 13%
Somewhat more popular....... 41%
The same................................. 38%
Somewhat less popular........... 5%
Much less popular..................... 2%
Don't know/ no answer............. 1%
Robert Half Technology outlines three benefits a transition to real-time tools could have on the workplace:
Speed. Instant messaging (IM) allows employees to have conversations at the click of a button, without opening emails or waiting for responses. IM also enables employees in different locations to have real-time conversations, thus resolving issues more quickly.
Convenience. Many programs include a host of features like IM, microblogging, forums, and document collaboration and management. This eliminates the need to switch between separate programs to communicate. Not only does this have the potential to improve efficiency, but it can increase collaboration on projects and reduce the need for meetings.
The social aspect. Enterprise social networking sites, such as Yammer or Chatter, are useful for collaboration and sharing ideas and best practices within the company. This technology also has the potential to foster teamwork and camaraderie among employees.
"Although email remains an important communication tool, the increased use of real-time technologies affects the IT environment," said John Reed, executive director of Robert Half Technology. "Employers are looking for the right people to deploy these tools in new ways to increase efficiency. IT professionals should consider the importance of keeping current with real-time technologies in order to stay competitive in the job market."
About the Survey
The national survey was developed by Robert Half Technology, a leading provider of IT professionals on a project and full-time basis, and conducted by an independent research firm. The survey is based on more than 1,400 telephone interviews with CIOs from a random sample of U.S. companies with 100 or more employees. In order for the survey to be statistically representative, the sample was stratified by geographic region, industry and number of employees. The results were then weighted to reflect the proper proportions of the number of employees within each region.
About Robert Half Technology
With more than 100 locations worldwide, Robert Half Technology is a leading provider of technology professionals for initiatives ranging from web development and multiplatform systems to network security and technical support. Robert Half Technology offers online job search services at
www.rht.com. Follow Robert Half Technology on Twitter at twitter.com/RobertHalfTech.
Carlos Pena Publisher of CAYPEN Magazine
Jim Casparie CEO of The Venture Alliance
CAYPEN's founding vision was to provide an innovatively inclusive and democratically dynamic stage for entrepreneurs and innovators of all kinds-with absolutely no barriers to participation. In the CAYPEN community, everyone can take the stage and help shape its evolution, from novice entrepreneurs to veteran innovators, from dealmakers to incubators, from nonprofit leaders to creative transformers. As the next exciting evolution of our vision, CAYPEN is planting the SEED for entrepreneurial success by breaking down the barriers, optimizing opportunities, transcending the conventional wisdom, and eliminating the hit-or-miss approach of relying on chance.
The SEED for success is to:
Streamline The Process from Idea To Action To Funding Through Expert Relationships
Equalize The Playing Field Through Merit-Based, Investment Grade Standards
Evangelize Best-In-Class Companies & Social Enterprises Across Industries
Democratize Content-Driven Collaboration Through Powerful Interactive Platforms
The many barriers to innovation can be financial, technological, socioeconomic, political, or geographic. They are often institutional as well, from the "good old boys" network to the defeatist cult of "can't." But amazingly, entrepreneurs simply find ways to get it done and break down the barriers. Just as crucially, entrepreneurs consistently find ways to optimize opportunities and seize the moment. Few entrepreneurs have ever said they couldn't use a helping hand on the way, along with a bigger and better stage to proclaim their vision. The evolving CAYPEN vision is a helping hand connecting entrepreneurs with trusted expertise and resources, on an open stage designed for collaboration without barriers, where ANYONE can "make it on merit."
To learn more about CAYPEN Magazine, go to caypenmag.com.


It's just so pretty. I love how your changed it your way. Soft colors really matches your picture. Great job.
Such a fun page! I love the butterflies and just had to scraplift your page. Used mostly Paige's Pink Paislee papers with some other stuff thrown in from my stash.


Program #WARM001. Recorded in East Lansing, MI on October 30, 1998.
A country's Gross National Product is often presented as a measure of the economic well-being of its citizens. But how economists calculate GNP is not clearly understood by most people. Current methods of calculation measure only the cash-generating capacity of an economy, not its productive capacity. This equation not only misrepresents the economic well-being of the populace, but also ignores such salient factors as the environment, sustainability and the enormous contributions of women.
Development consultant Marilyn Waring was the youngest woman in 1975 to have been elected to serve in New Zealand's Parliament. She holds a Ph.D. in Political Economy and is the author of several books on the international economic system.


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7 September – 4.00 PM
by Francis Beaumont and John Fletcher (first published 1647)
It's peace time, and the soldiers of Venice are at a loose end. As relationships start to develop with the gentlewomen of the town, fate intervenes to ensure the course of true love certainly doesn't run smoothly.
This script-in-hand reading is performed at St Leonard's Church.
This summer, Read Not Dead celebrates the greatest outlaw hero in English history.
Robin Hood appears in six plays in the early modern period: Edward I by George Peele, two plays by Anthony Munday which include Maid Marian and a lecherous King John, Robert Greene's George A Greene, first performed at the Rose Playhouse in 1593 and Look About You, in which Henry II appears. Ben Jonson's unfinished, experimental and last play, The Sad Shepherd, or, A Tale of Robin Hood, set in Sherwood Forest, features Maid Marian, Friar Tuck and Will Scarlet.
Instinctive, adrenalin-filled and inventive, the Read Not Dead ground rules are simple. Actors rehearse the play on a Sunday morning and present it, script-in-hand, to an audience later that afternoon. The Read Not Dead series is dedicated to reviving plays from the early modern period.
#ReadNotDead
Find out more at St Leonard's website
FPG, Retrofile RF, Getty Images
Everything you need to know about our unique theatre spaces
Rarely Played: Look About You
Nancy Knowles Lecture Theatre
The accompanying talk for 'Look About You'.
Rarely Played: On The Road At Gray's Inn
The accompanying talk for the staged reading of 'The Sad Shepard, or, A Tale of Robin Hood' at Grays Inn.
Limited Availability Discover more
Rarely Played: The Downfall of Robert Earl of Huntington
The accompanying talk for the staged reading of 'The Downfall of Robert Earl of Huntington'.


Vishwa Green's Plan S is a business park in Nerul that is bound to leave all your clients and visitors mesmerized. The futuristic design and world-class infrastructure of this commercial property in Nerul would work wonders for your business. There are abundant networking opportunities, avenues to collaborate with other businesses, and F&B options here! No wonder then that Plan S is regarded as the go-to option for anyone looking for office spaces in Nerul. When you base your company out of this commercial property, you'd be effectively projecting your company as one that doesn't settle for anything but the best.
Plan S, the resplendent G+32 storey commercial property in Nerul, is the place to be for every business who wants to operate out of Navi Mumbai. Exclusive facilities, luxurious amenities, logistically ideal location - what else could you ask for from a commercial property in Nerul? The use of highly advanced technology in its construction, and it's undeniable architectural brilliance, also make this commercial property a highly lucrative option for anyone who is looking for office spaces in Nerul. There isn't a commercial space in Navi Mumbai that could rival Plan S on all these aspects. As far as office spaces in Nerul go, you'd struggle to find one that could out-do this business park! It is, simply put, the hottest commercial property in Navi Mumbai!
Plan S is built at a prime location from a logistical point of view, a crucial consideration before buying office spaces in Nerul. This commercial property in Nerul is easily accessible by multiple highways. The International airport, too, is hardly a half an hour's drive away. Some of Navi Mumbai's most popular malls and recreational parks are also located in close proximity of this commercial property. If you are looking for commercial office space in Nerul, you'd know how important this is!
Vishwa Green Realtors Pvt. Ltd is an established real estate company of Mumbai, well known for quality Living and Working Spaces, timely delivery and superior customer support services. The Company has grown as one of the leading and most dependable names in real estate and property development in Mumbai. Vishwa Green Realtors Pvt. Ltd is backed by decades of professional experience in delivering the best in residential & commercial projects ensuring Trust, Quality and Value for money offerings to its customers and successfully delivered the projects every time on time.


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Q: div over mpg video I am trying to position a transparent button over an embeded mpeg video?
I can position the buttons, but when the page loads, it seems the buttons are behind the
movie.
This works in Mac Safari and Firefox, but not in IE or PC Firefox.
I've tried z-index but I'm sure I'm not doing it right. The link is http://www.ba-doyn.com/junk/video/

A: Did you try giving the video embed a z-index lower than 100?

A: You need to add wmode="transparent" to your embed tag:

    <embed src="final_hsbvideo_12-8.mpg" width="480" height="375" wmode="transparent"></embed>

button1

button2

Demo: http://jsfiddle.net/yrecK/

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


Just in time for New Mexico's centennial, our newly revised and completely updated New Mexico Road and Recreation Atlas (7th edition, 2012) is available to help guide you on your next trip to the southwest.
Our maps of New Mexico are field checked for accuracy, and feature all of the important outdoor recreation categories and cultural interests.
Index of counties, cities, parks, mountains, lakes & rivers.
Our in-atlas recreation guide can also be accessed on your smartphone by syncing up with our scan able codes.


I see a lot of things by myself.
When I was in high school, I took Latin as a language instead of Spanish and French. During that class, I remember making a replica of the Parthenon out of dowel rods and wood. Of course my dad helped me, and our combined perfectionism and hours of sawing and gluing got me an A+. Ever since, I wanted to visit the monument. I later discovered there was a replica in the US after attending an athletic competition in the complex across the street. We could never visit it though because it would be closed by the time we finished.
I knew when I was in town during the road trip that I would have a chance before heading out of Nashville. So, I got there just as it was opening. That would later turn out to be smart, because as I was leaving, there were over two buses worth of people waiting to go inside.
As I arrived, there were morning workouts going on around the building. On the front steps was a personal trainer motivating a woman to continue with exercises on the stairs. On the side were some people having a yoga class. I decided to start with the outside of the building because it is a pretty massive structure. The columns are large, but the intricacy of the sculptures at the top are very impressive. The doors are massive and protected by their own iron fence.
You actually start the tour underneath the structure. When you walk in, there is a front desk where you buy tickets, and a small gift shop. You walk up a ramp where there are pictures of the history of the building's construction. It puts into perspective the scale it took to replicate it. Then, surprisingly, you enter a room with paintings. I didn't really look at the significance of the relationship to why the paintings were chosen to be displayed here, but they were beautiful. It was a nice surprise.
As you continued through, there comes a point where you go upstairs onto the same level as where you first started outside. And then you see it, because is it the main feature of the site: a giant gold statue of Athena. She is enormous and a spectacle. If you have Snapchat, I will admit I did a face swap with the face on the shield, and it was priceless. The shield she holds is painted on both sides.
After you continue through her room, you find a smaller room where the sculptures from the top of the building outside are featured. It explains how they created them, and it was pretty cool so see up close to understand their size.
And that's the whole building. Hopefully I didn't miss anything because I was on a time constraint, but I think the art and Athena were worth the $6 ticket. I highly recommend visiting, and it can take as little as an hour and up to 3 hours to really take it all in. If I had more time, I would have liked to bring a lunch and enjoy it outside on the grass next to the monument.
Nashville, TN was the last stop on my cross-country road trip in August 2016. I know there is a ton of fun stuff to do in Nashville, but this was one of my primary destinations. I parked in an underground garage across the street. It was pretty close, but I'm sure you could find less expensive parking nearby.
As I walked in the entrance, I really had no idea where to begin. It's sort of a giant lobby area, and there are two stores off of it with a walkway between them that leads to other areas of the building (which I'll get to at the end). Luckily there was an information desk who was able to point me in the right direction.
To buy tickets on site, you head to the back corner of the room. The line was short, however, I was not prepared to purchase a ticket (I probably should have done more research). When I stepped up to buy my ticket, I just said, "One please." She printed the ticket, I paid, and walked away. However, I had no idea where I was supposed to go at that point. There was a small line to an elevator, and I eventually figured out that was where I was supposed to be. Before we all get inside this large elevator, and I realize everybody around me has headphones on. When you buy a ticket, get the one with the self-guided audio tour, and you get something similar to what I experienced at Graceland.
As the elevator is almost full, a lady pops her head in and says, "You want to go to the third floor to begin the tour. It starts at the Taylor Swift Educational Center." We all kind of laugh under our breath because this is the Country Music Hall of Fame and Taylor Swift is still pretty young. We're all expecting things from the 1940s and Elvis era.
Then as the door opens, you can't miss it. The Taylor Swift Educational center is full of people. So I try to see what the big deal is. There are a few workers inside directing people and answering questions. While I'm waiting in line, the young girl in front of me turns in a paper and says, "I finished the scavenger hunt." The woman working there replies, "Which prize would you like?" and opens a giant cabinet filled with memorabilia. The girl grabs something and wanders off, and I'm next in line.
So I ask the woman, "Why the Taylor Swift Educational Center?" She explains that Taylor donated a ton of money to the Hall of Fame to create an interactive place with classrooms for field trips or tours to gather and learn more about country music. It's pretty incredible that such a young musical artist appreciates the genre that much to try to grow awareness about its history and gain new appreciation from kids who may not yet understand it.
As I'm going through the room, there's a display case with dresses she has worn on tour and one of the guitars she played on stage. There's a lot of stations set up for kids to do crafts and drawings. And then I find it, the scavenger hunt. I grab one from among the display of informational sheets. On both the front and back is a list of different things to find throughout the entire tour of the building. I'm glad I took one because this is what helped me look at and read every single display in the building. Some of them were actually tough to find. And yes, there is an accountability factor to some of it that proves you actually saw these things.
As you navigate through the displays you see everything you could imagine and want from a historical standpoint. There are typewriters that were used to write lyrics, sheets of lyrics, guitars played by certain famous artists, boots and outfits worn that were iconic, things seen in music videos, even a tour bus. There was quite the variety. As you go through the tour, it literally takes you from the beginnings of country music all the way to current artists. I wouldn't say it's dominated by Taylor Swift, but it starts with her Center and ends with her tour bus. If you put forward the amount of money she did to the Hall of Fame, you would deserve that too. The cool thing about the tour bus is it teaches you the process of making an album and the different jobs that go into it. You can also step inside a recording studio and actually record yourself singing. When I went, there was a girl inside one who was pretty good, and a bachelorette party shout-singing in another.
At the end of the three floor tour, I went to turn in my scavenger hunt, but the room was closed. On the door was a sign that said I could turn in the scavenger hunt to the information desk in the lobby. I felt a little odd as an adult turning this in, but the prize options were pretty awesome. In line with the entire experience, I opted for the Taylor Swift book that outlined her Red album and tour. There were DVDs featuring people I had never heard of, lanyards, and other random trinkets, but I ended up giving the book to a friend for her birthday because she is a huge T. Swift fan.
So, like I said in the beginning, I was in the giant lobby again. I did enjoy the stores. I bought a shirt to commemorate my visit. When I did, they gave me a coupon for the Hatch Print Shop and directed me down the walkway. If they hadn't told me about it, I would not have found it or known to go look at it. I recommend taking a look. It's one of the few places that still uses a working letterpress to create designs and art for posters, shirts, and more. I liked it so much, I now follow them on Instagram. I did buy a poster from the $5 pile that was for a 4th of July event a few years ago. They have a whole wall of cute sayings printed in various fonts and designs that are super cheap and chic. Think Newsies the movie, when they decide to print their own newspaper, but with color and cooler concepts.
By the time I finished going through the Hall of Fame, two stores, and Hatch Show Print, the building was closing. Hopefully that explains that you'll definitely get your monies worth in time, but also in entertainment. In summary: get the audio tour, do the scavenger hunt, and explore the stores in the building.
Memphis, TN was another stop on my cross-country road trip in August 2016. The primary reason for the stop: Graceland. I was never a diehard Elvis fan. My college roommate loved the King so much, she named her first dog after him. It wasn't until after the trip to his home that he gained a new, committed fan from me.
When I arrived in Memphis, I actually had a hotel on this part of the trip. Only one of two on my 17 day journey. I asked the front desk where I could get good, real Memphis barbecue. He and the guy standing next to me both said The Bar-B-Q Shop on Madison. It was less than 5 minutes from my hotel, and it was exactly what I was looking for. I got a sweet tea, half rack of ribs, coleslaw, collard greens, and toast. The only way it could have gotten more southern was with some homemade mac'n'cheese, but I could not have eaten that much. I didn't even finish the plate I had.
The next morning I was ready to head to the home of The King. You do have to pay for parking, but it is a secured lot. The surrounding area seems like it hasn't been updated in a while, which was odd considering how many people visit the attraction. It's a completely different landscape than what you see and feel on Elvis' property.
You walk through the parking lot and head to the main building where you buy tickets. There are a few options, but if you're going to be there, go for it. That's if you have enough time. My ticket included access to the airplanes, cars, and property. It was worth it in my opinion, especially if you plan to have enough time. I spent between 4-5 hours there that day just looking at everything and then had to get back to my road trip right after.
So, start with the property. You have to wait in line for the shuttle because his house is actually across the street. You get an iPad guided tour, featuring John Stamos as the narrator (think Full House). When you get to the house, they talk to you about the grounds and rules, and then in you go. It immediately starts once you enter the front door. There is a living room to the right and it has one of his pianos in the background. You really only have to listen to the iPad, but if you look at it, there are things you can press on to get more information about items in the room.
You continue through the entire house like this. The only restricted area is the upstairs. Nobody is allowed up there, and on occasion, Lisa Marie Presley will come stay in the house up there. You see rooms where he recorded music, areas built filled with film memorabilia, an entire hallway lined with hit record achievements, a racquetball court that was converted to display numerous performance costumes and awards, and room covered entirely of folded fabric. However the most surreal moment comes at the end of the grounds tour. You actually stand in front of his grave. His family is buried together, but to know that he is right there in front of you is pretty crazy. Fans from all over the world bring posters and flowers to place there. I personally had no idea that was part of the tour, so I was a little shocked. The impact he has had one the world as a musician, actor, and person hits you.
From there, you hop back on the shuttle and can wander a few gift shops. The next closest attraction are his cars. You'll see a gift shop, but you enter the doors on the left. The amount of vehicles is impressive since there are others at different museums as well. If he drove it in a movie, it's there. If he owned it for personal use around Graceland, it was there. Again, it's kind of surreal looking at these items and thinking at one point Elvis was sitting inside of it with his family. It's like you could feel his spirit in the room.
You'll wander through more shops on your way to the airplanes. The smaller of the two was what you would expect of a private jet (pictured below). It has enough room for 9 passengers, and was probably used for quick trips. The larger of the two is named the Lisa Marie. Inside you'll find a gold sink in the bathroom, a dining room, a meeting area complete with two phones and a stereo system for music, a bedroom, and a vanity. When you reach the bedroom, it's nothing impressive, but you again realize that Elvis himself slept 1 foot in front of where you're standing.
The thing that stuck with me the most was actually Elvis' motto: Taking Care of Business with a lightening symbol (TCB). You see the moniker in his house, on his airplanes, and even on his grave. That's how much it meant to him. That is what helped him manage the celebrity and business side of his life. He worked very hard for what he had, which is very respectable.
I would definitely recommend visiting Graceland. Is it a bucket list item? Maybe not, but it was very inspiring. While it could seem lavish to some, it also puts into perspective the expectations he may have been feeling throughout his career and life, while honoring his work.
Each year, due to my job, I know I have a two week period off in August. In the beginning of 2016 I made plans to do a solo, cross-country road trip. The plan was to stay with friends along the way to help make it more financially feasible. I started by leaving Charlotte, NC, where I was living at the time. Then I went home to see family in Mt. Pleasant, SC. The next stop was originally in Jacksonville, FL, but the person I was going to stay with moved. So I looked to the internet to find a solution.
Only from having seen pictures, I knew there were a few beaches on the southeast coast of the US that had trees growing out of the sand. After a Google search, I discovered Jekyll Island, GA. That was the starting point of my research.
The other thing that drew me to the area was the Georgia Sea Turtle Center in Brunswick, GA. I thought I was going to sign up for a night walk on the beach where you help usher newly hatched sea turtles to the their life in the Atlantic. Due to poor planning on my part, that didn't happen. So if you plan ahead enough, I still highly recommend you contact them and set one up.
Looking back at the process of setting things up, I also believe I was lucky to have acquired the best AirBnb I have stayed in so far (and it happened to be my first ever). If you are in this area of Georgia, search the site for "Sunset Cottage aka, Little House." You get the entire place, and to me the price is lower than it should be for what you get. It is literally a whole house, but what's special are the decorations. Gloria put great thought into how unique and eclectic the place feels. That's why out of over 200 ratings, she has 5 stars.
The only reason I could see people being weary of it is the outside location. The entire place surrounded by a high fence, and you don't realize you're blocks from a shipyard type area. There is a sketchy looking gas station across the street, but don't let that deter you. Remember, I was a single, young female on this trip, and I felt and was safe the entire time.
I checked in quickly without having to meet the host, unloaded my car, and then it immediately started pouring. By the time I had taken in the entire cottage indoor experience, the rain stopped, and the sun actually made a reappearance. I hopped back in my car and headed to Jekyll Island. Even the drive there was picture worthy, and only took about 10-15 minutes.
Know before you go, it actually costs money to get onto the island. It was only $5, which is completely worth it. Once you drive through the marsh land, you come to a resort-like shopping center. There is a nice hotel, which I'm glad I stopped in to ask for directions to the "beach with the trees on it." Without the help from concierge, I would have probably never found it myself.
So for those of you who decide you want to go on this adventure, once you hit the fancy shopping center, turn left. Continue down the road for a while. You'll see the beach on the passenger side, and it is beautiful. Once you start to hit an area filled with homes and trees, keep going until you see little dirt areas on the side of the road where you can pull off and park. Once you've done that, you have to walk through short paths of trees to reach the beach. Where I was, once you actually got to the beach, there were a bunch of rocks. Keep walking left down the beach. Trust me, it's all worth the search.
Then you see them. Giant trees sticking up out of the sand. Some fallen over, some just roots, and some completely upright reaching toward the sky. I don't know if it was because of the recent rainfall or if it was due to tides, but there were pools of water around each of the bases of the trees. These were filled with fish and crabs and insects that clearly thrive on these structures.
There were a bunch of people on the beach with me, but I can imagine on a sunnier or busier weekend it may be packed. Luckily, I was able to capture some images uninterrupted by people (see below). When you look at them, wonder. Think about how these trees are still here. Think about how few people have seen them. Think about the fact that you're on a beach with giant trees sticking up out of the sand.
I left the beach feeling closer to nature. I know that sounds kind of hippyish, but it's true. Most days I go through the same routine of home, work, errands, and home. This place was a great reminder that moments exist where you should stop, look, and take it all in. You don't need music. You don't need to talk. You can just stand there and be a part of it.
On the way back to my AirBnb, immediately after you drive through the exit of Jekyll Island, there is an observation tower on the right. Again, somehow I had perfect timing, and I managed to be there during sunset. There's a beautiful view of the marshes and the Sydney Lanier Bridge (runs over the Brunswick River).
I continued back to my AirBnb and ate leftover Pad Thai from Basil (got it in Mt. Pleasant before I headed to Georgia). I wish I could give you restaurant recommendations, but I didn't eat in the area. It looked like there were a few good ones in the shopping center on Jekyll Island. And I'm sure you could ask Gloria for a few when you book the reservation for the stay.
The next morning I woke up, packed up, and headed out. I did get Starbucks before heading to the next destination. So at least you know there is a Starbucks (if you're in need).
My overall experience was this was a location I would have never thought to come to. Who says, "I can't wait to go to Brunswick, GA!" Not many. It's usually Hilton Head or a major city in Florida. Put this on your list of places to see. It could easily become one of your favorite weekend getaways if you live in the southeast.
I grew up in Mt. Pleasant, SC, which is a suburb of Charleston. When you say Mt. Pleasant, most people don't know where that is unless you're from the Carolinas. But when you say Charleston, people recognize it because the city has received numerous acclaims such as Best City in the World by Travel and Leisure.
While I know a lot of people in the area, I still loved going by myself downtown and seeing the more renowned areas. No matter what city you're in, the key to acting like a tourist but not looking like one is confidence. Seem like you know where you are and what you're doing. It also helps to dress the part.
And while you may be thinking, but you're from there so you're not a tourist, keep in mind I'm Asian. So a lot of the times on these journeys, I fall into the stereotype of automatically looking like a tourist, even when I could be doing something as simple as taking a photograph.
Anyway, on this particular day, I parked in a garage off of East Bay Street and started at Waterfront Park. If you decide to go, and it's a hot day in any month besides December through February, consider bringing a swim suit or change of clothes. The first thing you'll see is a fountain with kids running through it. Don't be afraid to act like a kid. Just make sure your electronics are safe, which could be difficult if you go alone. But it can be done if you bring a bag and keep an eye on it while you're playing.
A few steps away, consider yourself lucky if you can find a swinging bench open on the pier. As you continue down, there is an attraction that was new to me, a ferry boat ride to Mt. Pleasant. I didn't take it, but it's good to know it's available.
Then you can't miss the iconic Pineapple Fountain. Many a prom and wedding pictures have been taken there. Some people go in the fountain. I personally wouldn't, but that's just me.
As I strolled through the park, I chose to walk under the trees. There are a lot of sitting areas to enjoy the shade, as well as a long stretch of grass to picnic or play frisbee on. The park is never empty, and that's the nice part. Even though I adventure alone, I'm never lonely. And if you ever feel like you are in downtown Chucktown, look for the girls selling Charleston Ice. They're all very nice, helpful, and give out free samples. I always go with mango.
You'll have to cut through some side streets to get back on East Bay Street. Even on those random alleys, each house is unique and upholds the southern charm that Charleston is known for. Whether it's a simple doorway, wrought iron gate, or a window planter box, they're usually primed for photography perfection.
As you continue down East Bay, you'll run alongside the iconic Rainbow Row. The houses are pastel colors, and sometimes in paintings, they're what's being depicted to represent Hurricane Hugo. While I appreciate the landmark, there are so many great things to see and do around Charleston.
You'll start to see the ocean, and the wall of the Battery. You'll come upon statues, cannons, and oak trees. That is when you've reached Battery park. Once when I took my friends from college there, a bird pooped on my shoulder. There's a gazebo in the center where my brother got his prom pictures taken his junior year. It's also the middle part of the Turkey Day Run during which is held on Thanksgiving. This day, I was looking for nothing in particular. Just wandering to wander.
By the time I was finished taking everything in, it was time to go home. These are only a sliver of things to do on the Charleston Peninsula, but they are a must. I suggest going on foot, but if you do get tired, try a bike taxi. Those guys are awesome, and you can catch a slight breeze to cool off from the humidity. I don't recommend the horse and carriage rides, even though they're also an iconic image of Charleston. It's a beautiful, friendly city with unlimited photo opportunities. You can find something down every street and cobblestone alley.


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jo, thank you. Kind of a silent, midnight post. After a long, long day. I'm always struck by all the memories that flood back to me with photographs. I always remember exactly what was going on around me when I took it. Such a sensory experience for me.
Very texture-y photo. Maybe that's not a word, but that's how I see it. I can almost feel it. Very nice.
Both haiku and photo are very expressive and complement each other beautifully.
Bo, texture-y's a great word. Yes, I love the texture and feel of things. I sometimes forget that until someone points it out to me.
G., thanks so much. My favorite part is the little prickly shadow of the pine needles. That shadow somehow seems to balance out all that starkness for me. I have no idea why.
I am always amazed at where pine trees can grow! There is one by the road leading to Yellowstone that often gets its picture taken, as it literally grew around a big boulder! Glad you pointed outr the shadows of the needles, as they emphasize the reach towards the sun.
oliverowl, me, too. Can't believe the places that pines can grow. It always astounds me how many of them there are along the roads and lakes and backwoods of Georgia and South Carolina. They are a symbol to me of childhood years.
I was telling Liz when we were walking from my uncles's house down to the lake and stepping over soft brown pine needles that cover the ground — when I was a young kid I used to make play houses with the pine needles.
Rows of brown needles would make the boundaries between the different rooms of the home. And I'd sweep the sand "floor" clear in each room with a pine bough. Sap often stuck to my hands. I love the smell of real pine after a rainstorm.
Also, when you see mulch there, it's often the deep red-brown of pine needle mulch. You just don't see that up here in Minnesota.
QM, We hope to make it to camp this week-end, but all depends on a captain for our boat. J is not up to it yet. He is doing much better, though I think he might be overdoing it a little. Yes, we miss camp & the peacefulness of the Susquehanna. I'm still hoping for an Outer Banks trip, if not this fall, then in the spring.
diddy, yes, I am sure you will make it back to the Outer Banks. It's a long trip though. And yes, best to take it easy this summer. Don't want to over-do! Hope you are both taking it easy. I'm enjoying your haiku about the birds and wildlife at your home. It's very peaceful there.
QM, I made similar houses under the pines, though not in that red dirt of the south, I played in rich black soil. Did you make little people out of the pine cones? I used the cones for people bodies, added acorns for the heads – scratched faces into the acorn and tried not to loosen the cap from the head.
Oh, you are really knocking the memories off the tree today, QM. Have given up on all housework (yeah!) and I am writing bits and pieces so I can remember everything. Thank you. I guess I needed a day traipsing on memory lane.
Bo, that's pretty creative with the pine cone bodies and acorn heads. Love the part about scratching in the faces and not knocking their caps off. A great childhood memory for you. I don't remember doing that. But I do remember Mom used to make all kinds of home decorations with pine cones around the Holidays. They were always just a step out the door away.