Europe doesn't suit us. Europe makes us even more stupid than we already are. Europe makes us think less of ourselves and more of other people.
All us Finns have some version of the European experience. You wake up around six in the morning in a bad temper. It's dark; it's raining sleet. Half-dazed, you step into the taxi you ordered yesterday. The taxi takes you to the airport, where you take off your shoes and your belt and check repeatedly that your passport is where it should be.
Then things begin to feel better. After security, you're already nearly in Europe. Bubbly and beer are delicious even this early in the morning. Things are more relaxed here in Europe, go Europe.
Everything gets better still, becomes more European, when you sit down in a restaurant, preferably by the Mediterranean. You eat a heap of oily scallops which you would never dream of ordering in Finland, but here, in Europe, they're the world's best food, because this is Europe. The wine is pleasantly warming, and the restaurateur, Fabio, clearly loves us, Fabio, a big personality speaking his bad English, touching you and laughing, Fabio, even though you're struck dumb and can't even say a thing.
Europe is free, freedom is Europe; prison is where I return from Europe.
When you come back to Finland after a trip, you get nervous. We are a country whose citizens love to denigrate themselves. We Finns, we are jealous, silent, negative, grey, slow, unflexible and joyless. We drag ourselves through life, queue on commuter roads to get back in the dark to our dreary homes to alcoholise ourselves.
They don't do things like that in Europe, in Europe they dance and rejoice in the streets. And since we have such a negative attitude to ourselves, our self-deprecation becomes, perversely, a kind of pride, particularly in relation to Europe.
The media are beside themselves with enthusiasm in our self-deprecation, because it sells: it's commercially viable to be horrified about how horrible it is in Finland.
Every year we have slightly different reasons to denigrate ourselves. Sometimes it's something as simple as the weather, sometimes it's the national character, from time to time it's our food culture and often all of the above, and a lot more.
This year we've been flagellating ourselves because we're the world's only nation with rules enforced by civil servants. Often those rules are of a kind that doesn't exist in Europe: small-minded, ridiculous, bureaucratic, pointless.
And rules, it's only us that have them. There are dozens of different offices in Finland, with hundreds of officials, who are all trying to do what their job descriptions say. To make up rules and boundaries and police them, to keep some kind of order. Cruel and uncaring, these official of the devil told an innocent grocery-store keeper that his foods should have an ingredients list. They forced their own, probably fascist, hygiene standards on a pure-minded street-café owner who only wanted the best for us.
Sometimes that invention of rules takes on comic dimensions: for the tiniest and most inseconsequential error a shopkeeper may have to pay tens of thousands of euros, and the media can then run the story of a merchant who is driven on to hard times by rules, who is always the good person crushed by bureaucracy, not a person who did not know what he was doing.
And then we compare this misery of ours to the Europe of our imagination. There are no bureucrats in Europe, no rules, no laws, just freedom, and everything works, although I did have to wait two hours for my food and I didn't get what I ordered, but it didn't matter, because I was in Europe.
Education is an important thing. If you educate yourself you don't live so deep in your own misconceptions that you fall in love with them.
Travel is important, but so is reading. You learn about the world through reading. Even the fact that everywhere, believe it or not, has rules, civil servants, bureaucracy, which sometimes approaches the ridiculous.
But we don't see these in Europe. we prefer to see the lie, a free Europe and a harried Finland, because we want to rejoice in something, even if it has to be our unusual misery. It makes us just that little bit more special and individual.


Out of all the days in the year, you what's the most special day right? It's the birthdays and anniversaries isn't it? Even more, birthdays are damn special. It reminds you of the time you have overcome. Moreover, when you think of it, you also feel blessed to be surrounded by lovely people. With birthday comes the honor of gifting that's an absolute joy. Now you can surprise your loved ones and send birthday Gifts online Philippines through our shop.
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Philippines, also called Republic of the Philippines,Philippines,Republika ng Pilipinas can be found on the map at Southeastern Asia, archipelago between the Philippine Sea and the South China Sea, east of Vietnam; it is the Philippine archipelago is made up of 7,107 islands; favorably located in relation to many of Southeast Asia"s main water bodies: the South China Sea, Philippine Sea, Sulu Sea, Celebes Sea, and Luzon Strait. Most Philippines fall into Tagalog 28.1%, Cebuano 13.1%, Ilocano 9%, Bisaya/Binisaya 7.6%, Hiligaynon Ilonggo 7.5%, Bikol 6%, Waray 3.4%, other 25.3% (2000 census) groups. Manila is the current capital and there are 80 provinces and 120 chartered cities in Philippines.
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How much caffeine does your Green Tea have? How does that compare to coffee and black tea?
Green tea naturally has approximately 15 to 50 mg of caffeine per cup. Coffee has 80-200 mg/cup. Black Tea has 40-90 mg/cup.
How much caffeine is in the Decaf Green Tea?
No more than 0.1% caffeine remains in Triple Leaf Decaf Green Tea.
What happens to the antioxidant content when you decaffeinate the Decaf Green Tea?
We use a natural carbon dioxide process to decaffeinate the green tea leaves. This process removes the caffeine, leaves no chemical residue, and maintains almost all of the beneficial antioxidants in the tea leaves. Click on naturally decaffeinated for more details on this process.
How do you brew green and herbal teas?
Green Teas: Steep a tea bag in a cup of boiling water for 3 minutes; for stronger flavor, steep longer. Normally, oversteeping of green teas can make them bitter, however, our green teas are very mild and have little bitterness, so you can steep them longer, according to your taste. We recommend steeping the Decaf Green Tea with Ginseng and the Ginkgo and Decaf Green Tea longer, up to 10 minutes, or longer, to get the full benefits of the herbs in these teas. These teas do not get bitter with longer steeping.
Herbal Teas: Steep a tea bag in a cup of boiling water for 5-10 minutes; for stronger flavor, and more herbal benefits, steep longer. A tea bag can be re-used for additional herbal benefits. The Ginger Tea and American Ginseng Teas are made from 100% pure root, and can be boiled for a few minutes to extract more flavor and benefits; be sure to re-use these tea bags a few times to get all their benefits.
Iced Teas: Steep two tea bags in a cup of boiling water for 3-10 minutes, depending on the tea (see above), remove tea bags, then add ice and enjoy. Try any of our green teas and our Cholesterid Tea iced, just the way you drink regular iced tea, as is, or with lemon and your favorite sweetener. Our Ginger Tea also makes a delicious iced tea. Any of our teas can be enjoyed hot or iced.
Can I mix more than one tea in a cup?
That depends on which teas you want to mix. Some of our teas like the Sugar Bal & Women's Tonic Tea with Dong Quai and the Cold & Flu Time Tea are special Chinese formulas which are better taken by themselves. The Male Vitality Tea can be used together with the American Ginseng Tea for additional benefits. We recommend using the Detox Tea along with the Herba-Lax Tea, or any of the diet teas. Drink the Detox 1 to 3 times a day or more, but drink the diet teas or Herba-Lax Tea usually once a day after dinner or before bedtime.
How do the diet teas work?
All three diet teas are traditional herbal beverages used in China for generations. These teas were popular with those concerned with cleansing and digestion. We recommend that, when dieting, you follow a balanced weight loss diet and the advice of your health care professional. Be sure to include plenty of fresh vegetables, fruits, juices and pure water. These teas are not recommended for children, elderly, or sick people, or pregnant women and nursing mothers.
What is the function of the Loquat Leaf and Malva Verticellata in the diet teas?
Peter Holmes in THE JADE REMEDIES states that loquat leaf is a gastric sedative and antiemetic, and a respiratory sedative, antitussive and expectorant. In traditional Chinese medicine terms, Holmes writes that it works on the respiratory and digestive systems, and the lung and stomach channels. According to THE ENCYCLOPEDIA OF HERBS by Demi Brown, loquat leaf is "a bitter, expectorant herb that controls coughing and vomiting; it is effective against bacterial and viral infections...internally for bronchitis, coughs with feverish colds, nausea, vomiting, hiccups, and persistent burping."
Brown says that Malva verticellata is used, among other things, for excess mucous and gastritis. She says that "large doses are laxative". Brown also says that Malva is "a soothing diuretic, used for urinary tract infections. It also promotes lactation." Holmes states that Malva verticellata is a urinary restorative, demulcent laxative, anti-inflammatory, draining diuretic. In traditional Chinese medicine terms, he states that it works on urinary, digestive and hormonal systems, and on the bladder, small intestine, large intestine channels.
Which diet tea should I take: Dieters' Green Herbal Tea, Super Slimming Herbal Tea, or Ultra Slim Herbal Tea?
All of our teas are made using the best quality herbs as our ingredients. Each diet tea has a different formula to suit different body types. They all have a cleansing, laxative effect. The Dieter's Green Herbal Tea is our basic formula and is our most popular diet tea. The Super Slimming Tea is our most potent formula and has herbs to help with digestion.Super Slimming Tea also contains licorice root, known in traditional Chinese medicine as "The Great Detoxifier". The Ultra Slim Tea has more herbs for digestion and bloating, and, in traditional Chinese medicine terms "move the Chi (energy) ". We recommend that you try each of our diet teas, and see which one you like best. Feel free to contact us for a free sample of each.
Which teas will aid in bowel movements?
Try Herba-Lax (herbal laxative) Tea, Dieter's Green Herbal Tea, Super Slimming Herbal Tea, or Ultra Slim Herbal Tea. Use these along with the Triple Leaf Detox Tea for additional support in cleansing.
Do you chlorine bleach your teabags?
No, our tea bags are oxygen bleached rather than chlorine bleached. Chlorine bleaching of paper, including tea bags and coffee filters, creates a dioxin chemical residue in the paper and waste water from the paper mill. Dioxin is a known potent carcinogen that we want to avoid.
Do you use recycled material and biodegradable inks on your packaging? Is your packaging recyclable?
Our boxes are made of recycled paperboard and printed with biodegradable inks. Our boxes, paper tea envelopes and the brochure inserted into the tea box are fully recyclable.


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FOLIO Library Services Platform to Benefit from Services Agreement Between EBSCO Information Services and ByWater Solutions
~ Agreement with Open Source Service Provider Designed to Offer Libraries Choice and Support for FOLIO Systems ~
IPSWICH, Mass. — February 1, 2018 — EBSCO Information Services (EBSCO) and ByWater Solutions have expanded their relationship to ensure libraries adopting the FOLIO Library Services Platform (LSP) will be able to rely on hosting and services support.
The agreement secures ByWater's commitment to provide FOLIO implementation and support services backed by EBSCO hosting technology and data services. ByWater Solutions has been recognized for its customer satisfaction in supporting library systems and is currently the largest service provider for the Koha Open Source Library System supporting more than 1,000 Koha libraries.
ByWater Solutions co-owner and Chief Executive Officer Brendan Gallagher says the ByWater team will work with EBSCO to provide support for its libraries using FOLIO as their library services platform or looking to add FOLIO microservices or apps to their current systems. "Open source services allow libraries to save money on the technology and focus on service and customer support. By extending our expertise, and leveraging EBSCO's services, we expect to help libraries implement FOLIO and migrate libraries to the FOLIO LSP and provide ongoing support."
EBSCO, which has supported FOLIO with funding, developers and project management as well as provided funding for Koha, will provide FOLIO hosting services and advanced software support as well as a compliment of data integration services. EBSCO Vice President of Services Product Management Ron Burns says these agreements give EBSCO the opportunity to create a high level of customer service standards. "As we move to the next phase, where beta sites are actively testing FOLIO, we want to ensure that service providers such as EBSCO and ByWater come together to create technical support structures, migration plans and implementation goals. As FOLIO becomes a reality, service providers are going to create the foundation needed to allow the adoption of open source systems and the expansion of FOLIO into multiple types and sizes of libraries."
ByWater and EBSCO will be working together and with the FOLIO community to support the first libraries going live with FOLIO in 2019.
Since being announced in June 2016, FOLIO has formed a community and librarians and developers have joined special interest groups that are actively creating an open source LSP that supports traditional resource management functionality that can be extended into emerging areas. FOLIO is being designed to be flexible to allow librarians to select the applications that best align with their workflow needs. The applications are modular and allow multiple vendors or libraries to contribute applications. Extensibility is an essential element allowing FOLIO to integrate with internal and external systems including university enterprise systems, institutional repositories, research management and discovery services. Development supports Linked Open Data to allow libraries to expand their reach and FOLIO provides scalability through multi-tenancy. The service will support all formats natively and is based on a central knowledgebase. More information is available at www.folio.org.
About EBSCO Information Services
EBSCO Information Services (EBSCO) is the leading discovery service provider for libraries worldwide with more than 11,000 discovery customers in over 100 countries. EBSCO Discovery Service™ (EDS) provides each institution with a comprehensive, single search box for its entire collection, offering unparalleled relevance ranking quality and extensive customization. EBSCO is also the preeminent provider of online research content for libraries, including hundreds of research databases, historical archives, point-of-care medical reference, and corporate learning tools serving millions of end users at tens of thousands of institutions. EBSCO is the leading provider of electronic journals & books for libraries, with subscription management for more than 360,000 serials, including more than 57,000 e-journals, as well as online access to more than 1,000,000 e-books. For more information, visit the EBSCO website at: www.ebsco.com. EBSCO Information Services is a division of EBSCO Industries Inc., a family owned company since 1944.
Vice President of Communications
kmcevoy@ebsco.com
About ByWater Solutions
ByWater Solutions is a full service, high quality open source support and implementation company dedicated to providing libraries with a lower cost, more advanced level of support for their ILS than a traditional proprietary solution can offer. ByWater Solutions has a proven track record in first rate Koha implementation and support with library systems of all sizes. Our highly ranked, comprehensive support is what sets our company apart from any other vendor in the industry. Partnering with ByWater Solutions for Koha or Folio support not only lowers the cost of implementing and maintaining an ILS, but more importantly empowers libraries by giving them the flexibility and freedom they deserve. For more information please visit: http://bywatersolutions.com/.
Nathan Curulla
Owner/CRO, ByWater Solutions
nate@bywatersolutions.com

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


The Department for Transport said it decided to axe the deal after the company's Irish backer pulled out.
Could Channel ports cope with no-deal Brexit?
But on Saturday, the Department for Transport (DfT) said that it had become clear that Seaborne "would not reach its contractual requirements", after Arklow Shipping backed out of the deal.


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Do You Know? Major Ian Thomas
Major Influence: A Tribute to Major W. Ian Thomas
By Dr. Franklin L. Kirksey
Walter Ian Thomas was born in Hampstead, London, England, to Albert J. and Jennie Thomas on September 13, 1915 and went to be with the Lord from Estes Park, Colorado, on August 1, 2007.
As a young man, Major Ian Thomas courageously served in an infantry battalion in the British Army and fought all during World War II. According to his wife, Joan, he fought in Germany, was evacuated at Dunkirk, then [he was] sent to North Africa, Greece, Italy, and his last year was in the Army of Occupation in Germany. In response to my question about the meaning of the D.S.O. and T.D. often following his name, Mrs. Thomas explained, "The D.S.O. stands for Distinguished Service Order which, after the 'Victoria Cross' is the next highest award for service given to Army officers. The T.D. stands for Territorial Decoration which is another Army award."
Major W. Ian Thomas has been and will continue to be a major influence in the world. He is frequently cited by many Christian leaders in sermons, articles and books.
His work that began over 60 years ago expresses itself through the Torchbearers of the Capernwray Missionary Fellowship, an international Christian missionary organization involved in evangelism and Bible study, which he founded, with world-wide headquarters in Carnforth, England and United States headquarters in Estes Park, Colorado. There are twenty-five centers located around the world like the Ravencrest Chalet in Estes Park.
Scripture tells us about believers: "and their works follow them" (Revelation 14:13b). Major Thomas' works are worthy of reward because they were wrought in God. His surrendered will gave focus to his works. Testimony to the effectiveness of his ministry will echo throughout eternity by many like Luis Palau, D. Stuart Briscoe and a great multitude who have been motivated by the mission undertaken by the Major. No doubt many will rise up and call him blessed because of his life of trust and obedience.
His words continue to carry weight and to wield influence in the lives of men and women all over the world. Many of the Major's words are recorded on audio with Capernwray Media Ministries (formerly know as Torchbearer Tapes) and are available at a reasonable price on the Internet. Thomas authored several books which include, The Mystery of Godliness; The Saving Life of Christ; If I Perish, I Perish; and The Indwelling Life of Christ: All of Him in All of Me, all of whichare available in many bookstores and on Amazon.com. His latest book, The Indwelling Life of Christ: All of Him in All of Me, published on January 16, 2006, will provide great encouragement to all who read and heed the message. His unshakable hold on the Word of God was the power behind his words. His watchword was "You can't—He never said you could—He can, He always said He would. So let Him." God gave him this message through Galatians 2:20, where he learned to say, "Lord Jesus, I can't—You never said I could—but You can, and always said You would. That is all I need to know."
His worship of the true and living God continues to inspire as "deep calls to deep" in the lives of those who encounter his witness. The Major practiced and promoted worship with the spiritual depth and reality upheld by the Keswick tradition. His worship was like that of Abel, who by faith, "offered to God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain," and as Abel, "he being dead still speaks" (Hebrews 11:4). He also understood the principle that Jesus shared with the woman at the well: "God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth" (John 4:24). This type of worship is the essence of revival that we desperately need today.
Major W. Ian Thomas was truly a giant in the service of our Lord Jesus Christ. He will no doubt hear our Lord say, "Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord" (Matthew 25:21).
I am forever grateful for what Christ has done in and through me by the Major's biblical teachings recorded on audio and in the pages of his books. He continued to the end of his earthly life to be generous with his time and encouragement to others in the Lord's work. I am deeply indebted to Major Ian Thomas for all of his uplifting telephone conversations with me and for writing the preface for my book, Sound Biblical Preaching: Giving the Bible a Voice.
We pray that our Lord will comfort his dear wife Joan and their family with His presence, strengthen them by His power, and guide them all in His purpose.
By Dr. Franklin L. Kirksey, pastor
First Baptist Church of Spanish Fort 30775 Jay Drive Spanish Fort, Alabama 36527
Author of Sound Biblical Preaching: Giving the Bible a Voice
http://www.webspawner.com/users/franklinlkirksey
Available on Amazon.com and WORDsearchbible.com
"Giving the Bible a Voice" on WNSI Sundays @ 10:30 AM http://www.wnsiradio.com
Click "Launch Player" to listen on Streaming Internet Radio
fkirksey@bellsouth.net (251) 626-6210 / ©August 17, 2007 All Rights Reserved


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Freedom for all
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A Letter from Alimujiang Yimiti's Wife Guli Nuer
China Aid Association
Alimujiang is a Christian of Uyghur ethnicity and has been a believer of Jesus for 14 years. Belief in Jesus has made great changes in Alimujiang's life and has made him really a good citizen who loves his country and his people. In September 2007, Kashi Bureau for Ethnic Religious Affairs of Xinjiang issued to Alimujiang a "Notice of Confirmation of Engaging in Illegal Religious Infiltration in Kashi" which accused him of using his job to engage in religious infiltration activities in the Kashi region since 2002. It also accused him of spreading Christianity among people of Uyghur ethnicity and converting people to Christianity, which is serious violation of the law.
On January 12, 2008, Alimujiang was placed under criminal detention on the charge of "endangering the security of the state," and was detained at Kashi Municipal Detention Center. On February 20, 2008, he was arrested on "suspicion of inciting secession and organizing people in stealing, spying, buying and illegally providing state secrets or intelligence to overseas organizations." He has been detained at Kashi Municipal Detention Center since then and has not been allowed to see his family. After repeated requests from his attorney, authorities allowed his attorney to meet with him for the first time on April 18, 2008 for 15 minutes in which they were not allowed to talk about his case. The court date was scheduled for May 27, 2008. Yet, authorities refused to let the attorney meet with him for various reasons until the afternoon of May 23. At 6 p.m. on May 23, they finally agreed to let the attorney meet with him. They met for an hour. On May 27, the day the court opened for the case, they did not have evidence to charge him with. The court was adjourned and the case was returned [to the Public Security Bureau] for additional investigation. There was no news about Alimujiang until September 2008.
Finally, in mid-September, the procuratorate said he had once again submitted the case to the court. The procuratorate also said that the court was always saying: "Let's wait. They are very busy and do not have time to study this case. The people handling this case are on business trips and study trips." Authorities also came up with other reasons to shift responsibility. When we witnessed that Kashi Procuratorate and Kashi Court shifted the matter back and forth between themselves and never gave us a reply, we went to the Supreme People's Procuratorate and Supreme People's Court of the Autonomous Region. However, they said to us: "If Kashi hasn't transferred the case to us according to the normal legal procedure, there is no way we can interfere. Therefore, there is nothing we can do."
At the end of October, someone in the court said: "Because there is still no evidence like before, therefore, the court won't open. People from several agencies will find a time to meet with each other and will come up with a decision." We waited for another period of time and there was still no news. Then we began to contact the procuratorate and the court every day and requested that they give us a reply. However, the two agencies "kicked the ball to and fro" with excuses, such as "busy," "no time," "we have to study," "people from upper levels are coming down for an inspection," etc. Gradually, none of the authorities in the agencies would come out to receive us, then the guards would kick us out. When the attorney called them, they either did not answer the call or the person answering the phone would say: "They are very busy and they don't have time. They are at a meeting. Please call later" and so on and so forth. The attorney was not able to reach them by the phone.
Since there was still no news as of December, we began to try to find people in Kashi National People's Congress and Committee of Political Science and Law, asking them to fight for justice for us. Yet, they would not let us see the people in charge or the leaders and they tried to refer us to the court. Unable to see the leaders, we had only to submit our application and other related materials to the Office of Letters and Calls. We also mailed our letters to the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, Committee of Political Science and Law, mayor of Kashi Municipality, etc.
After the Spring Festival of 2009, the court said: "The procuratorate, the court and several other work units had a meeting prior to the New Year on this case, but they didn't reach an agreement. Therefore, the case has been submitted to the prefecture Party committee." An inside source said that the case was not submitted to the prefecture Communist Party committee, but to Urumqi [the capital city level in Xinjiang Uyghur Antonymous Region where the case would be tried at the highest governmental level]. Anyway, there were different versions.
It has been almost one year and two months since Alimujiang was taken away. As for how we, his family members, feel, it is hard to describe in words. In these 14 months, especially since May 27, 2008, there has been no news about him at all, or communication with him either. Though only a wall separates us, yet we feel he is so far away from us. As all the efforts of the family members have produced no results, we have has a strong desire recently. That is, we hope the attorney can come and deal with and communicate with the court and other work units. At least, they should let us meet him and hopefully report that he is doing okay. I can't imagine how he feels when he knows that we have been going here and there all the time only to see our hopes are dashed again and again and he doesn't have any news about his family and the outside world.
Read the news story related to this letter.
China Aid Contacts
Rachel Ritchie, English Media Director
Cell: (432) 553-1080 | Office: 1+ (888) 889-7757 | Other: (432) 689-6985
Website: www.chinaaid.org
PO Box 8513, Midland, TX 79708
© 2023 China aid. All Rights Reserved.
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It will curate and aggregate news about Lagos – the city and the state as well as the people of the city. It will become the pre-eminent news site covering Lagos and its people, businesses and personalities, events and celebrations, celebrities and criminals.
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Psalm 145:4,5 "One generation will commend your works to another; they will tell of your mighty acts. They will speak of the glorious splendor of your majesty, and I will meditate on your wonderful works.
My mom does not like the spotlight, so I know this will make her uncomfortable. She and I are similar in our love and passion for God's word but we are very different in personality. I've always been a sanguine and she has always been a little more reserved.
The best thing my mom ever did for me was equip me for life by teaching me to fall in love with God and his word. Through her example and love of scriptures - I too fell in love with her Savior. She taught me how to read the word and apply it and how to always go to the scriptures first for answers in times of trouble. She taught me how to share my faith and not be ashamed. She taught me how to go against the flow in a public school and be secure in my faith.
Mom always had her colored pencils on the kitchen table where she worked hard preparing to lead her precept Bible studies. If we had a problem - mom had the solution with a verse attached and if mom said she was praying - we knew - something was going to happen - because mom's prayers were powerful!
One of my favorite memories growing up were after school snack time - not just for the snack - but the time mom spent listening to all my boring stories! Mom listened and listened and listened as my two older sisters and I told many many stories. We are a chatty bunch! But I always knew I could talk to my mom about ANYTHING!
Mom introduced me to one of my all time favorite authors - Elizabeth Elliot through the book "Through Gates of Splendor." It changed my view on life for forever. It gave me a passion to live for God and a hunger to live life to its fullest for God's glory and it planted the seed in my heart to go to Bible college.
Mom MADE me practice piano for 8 years even when I hated it lol! and now I'm so glad I have that skill!!! She taught us girls to never quit and to always do everything to the best of our abilities. Thanks mom!
Mom is so generous - and I know she would not be pleased if I gave details on her giving - but mom and dad were always supporting many ministries or sharing with others in need. She is a gift giver and loves to give in abundance. She taught me both in words and deed that everything she has came from God and belongs to God. And that we must be good stewards - she is a great deal finder!
Mom is a woman of conviction. I am thankful that she sees things as black and white and did not let us girls settle for lukewarmness in our lives. She pushed us to righteousness and to high standards. She had strict television and movie rules and I am so thankful now for how she protected my mind.
Mom protected my purity by not letting me stay out too late when I was dating my husband and she always allowed us to hang at the house where she could keep an eye on us! She and dad also led my husband and I in a marriage Bible study to prepare us for having a Biblical marriage.
Mom taught me how to submit to authority. Although she raised me to be a strong girl with strong convictions – she taught me how to submit my will to authority. It has been a great benefit in my life - to know how to submit to my teachers, coaches, pastors and now husband.
And finally - mom (and dad!) gave me a childhood filled with joy, love and peace. I always knew I was unconditionally loved by them and by my heavenly Father. I cannot thank my mother enough for leading me to my rock - Jesus Christ my Savior.
I can only pray that God helps me as I pass this on to the next generation and if you are a struggling mom - I pray you will find strength and encouragement here at The Better Mom. You are not alone - we are in this together!
***For those who do not have a good mom as a role model - it's our chance to be the mom to our children that my mom was to me. With God's help we can do this too - we must saturate ourselves in God's word and obey it. Join me on the journey at Women Living Well. This month we are embarking on a "Gentleness Challenge" - for women everywhere who struggle with their tempers!
Jan 13 Raising Kids to Be Best Friends for Life & Better Mom Monday's Link-up!
Mar 24 Worried Your Child Has Thoughts of Suicide? & Better Mom Monday's Link-up!


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HomeGOVERNMENTFrance's Great National Debate is "skewed", says chief organiser Chantal Jouanno
France's Great National Debate is "skewed", says chief organiser Chantal Jouanno
January 28, 2019 Pam Barker GOVERNMENT, SOCIETY 0
France's Great National Debate is "skewed", says chief organiser
France's Great National Debate has been distorted into nothing but a "communications' operation", according to the president of the Commission of National Public Debate (the CNDP).
Chantal Jouanno, the former sports minister and head of the CNDP, on Friday denounced the method chosen by the government in the Great National Debate with members of the Yellow Vest protest movement and citizens across the country.
Chantal JouannoAFP / Jacques Demarthon
In a move to listen the grievances of the protesters – who have been demonstrating every Saturday since 17 November – President Emmanuel Macron proposed two months of town hall style discussions, where issues ranging from taxes to public services can be raised by the protesters themselves.
There is also an internet component to the debate, which is to be headed by the CNDP.
"The platform was ready, but they redid everything," Jouanno told LCI television Friday morning.
"We didn't plan a mere communications' operation but a real debate, in which a digital platform would remain completely open for anyone to discuss ideas on any topic," she explains.
'The principle of debate'
Jouanno, who remains CNDP president despite resigning as the debate's chief coordinator after a scandal over her salary, denounced the grand debate in its current format. It is organised as a questionnaire on four themes, which she says limits participants in what they can talk about and what questions they can ask the government.
"The principle of a public debate is not to put questions to the French people; it is for the French people to ask you – the government – questions. They are the ones who need to express themselves and the important issues for them," she stresses.
As it stands, Jouanno says the debate so far seems more like a consultation between the government and citizens. And many Yellow Vests agree.
Plummeting popularity halted
Since the Great National Debate began, the popularity of Macron has already increased, according to the latest BVA poll released Friday.
Surveys conducted by the firm showed the president's popularity dropped by 15 points between June and November 2018, continuing the steady decline that followed the post-election highs of around 60 percent. In just the past month, his rating has gone up for four points.
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If you are unable to pay an invoice or a debt in time, you should always contact the party you owe the debt to. Remember that there are often ways to prevent a black mark on your credit rating by setting up an instalment plan or getting extra time to pay the debt from the party that wants to be paid.
If your company has an unpaid debt, the party owed money by your company can apply to the Swedish Enforcement Authority for a payment order. The Swedish Enforcement Authority then sends out the claim, a payment order, to you.
If the claim in the payment order is invalid, you have 10 days after having received it to dispute the claim. If you do not do this, the Swedish Enforcement Authority can make a decision that the claim is valid by issuing a ruling.
Once the debt is established as valid and registered with the Swedish Enforcement Authority for recovery, an investigation is carried out to see if you and/or your company has assets that can pay your debt.
If you or your company does not pay your/its debts in time, this can lead to a record of non-payment by a credit information agency. This information is used by anyone who requests a credit check on a potential customer and usually means that you will have limited or no credit options at all.
Records of non-payment/default that apply to a natural person, a private individual (a person) as opposed to a legal person, must be removed from the credit information register no later than three years after the registered event. For companies, the normal rule applied is five years.
Note that even if you pay the debt after the Swedish Enforcement Authority has issued its ruling, a record of non-payment/default/black mark will still be registered against you or your company.
If you are finding it difficult to pay your taxes and social security contributions, you should contact the Swedish Tax Agency as soon as possible. The Swedish Tax Agency has a special creditor function to help entrepreneurs with liquidity problems.


#ports – None of the nine state owned Irish ports are to be privatised but local authorities are to become shareholders in regional ports and private investment will be welcome too, according to the National Ports plan launched this afternoon.
Plans to radically overhaul Ireland's commercial ports and give Government a more hands-on role in the maritime ports sector were unveiled by Minister for Transport, Tourism & Sport Leo Varadkar.
The policy sees four major areas of reform and a warning that much more is expected of every port in terms of its commercial return to the state.
Up until recently a dividend has only been paid by Dublin Port but recently other Ports have begun to pay dividends too, Varadkar told reporters this afternoon.
The new National Ports Policy aims to harness the potential of every port in Ireland. Shareholders will be encouraged to take an activist approach to managing their ports to ensure the State gets best value from these crucial facilities, whether that shareholder is the Government or the local authority.
Previous policies have not recognised the huge diversity among the 19 ports that handle commercial freight. The core objective of the new National Ports Policy is to facilitate a competitive and effective market for maritime transport services.
Although ports will be key players in Ireland's future economic recovery the significance of the ports sector as part of national infrastructure is not well appreciated but this policy says Varadkar is 'a championing document for all ports'.
Ports are to be designated in different tiers. Dublin Port, Port of Cork and Shannon Foynes are Tier 1 and ports of national significance. There is also a second tier of nationally significant ports namely; Waterford and Rosslare. With 95% of everything coming into this country arriving by ship, these five ports are the life blood of trade and play a significant role in the well being of the State.
"Our commercial ports are vital to our economic recovery and to future economic growth. They are the gateways for most of our merchandise trade, and for significant numbers of tourists and passengers. This new ports policy encourages each port, large or small, to develop its full potential to ensure that each one can contribute to further growth in the ports sector," the Minister said.
These ports are charged with leading the response to national capacity requirements, something that is long overdue because port capacity has not been matching growth in traffic for either unitised and non–unitised cargo.
The policy follows the launch of a 30–year masterplan for Dublin Port Company a year ago and the launch of the Shannon Estuary master plan last month.
Already there has been evidence of recovery in port volumes, a key indicator of economic activity. Total exports in the Irish economy last year hit their highest level ever at 16 per cent above the pre-crisis high. The Port of Cork bucked a trend last August when it announced a 5% upwards trend in traffic.
All other ports are classed as having 'regional significance' and must develop in line with local requirements. In Dun Laoghaire for example where the harbour is in the middle of the town the port expected to focus on tourism, cruise liners and marine leisure activity.
The plan to move ports into the control of the local authorities will require legislation and this may take a year and a half to complete.
Ports will have to develop dividend policies for the second quarter of this year and they must develop a port performance management system by 2015.
Changes are to be made to the board appointment process and management too.
The ports policy has been shaped with the Department of the Marine's Oceanwealth initiative and it also takes into account a new foreshore regime being developed by the Department of the Environment.
o Ports of Regional Significance: The remaining 14 ports account for 8% of national trade, but many have national significance in terms of specialist services or products. These include the five State companies at Drogheda, Dún Laoghaire, Galway, New Ross and Wicklow. These Ports of Regional Significance will be placed within a local authority-led governance structure with local authorities taking shareholdings in the ports.
· The commercial mandate of ports will remain. They will be expected to turn a profit, pay a dividend and will not receive Exchequer grants.
The new policy will allow for appropriate private-sector investment in ports. A new performance oversight system, and a new approach to capacity planning, will be developed to make sure that all ports are fulfilling their potential.
Welcoming the publication of the National Ports Policy, the Director of the Irish Maritime Development Office Glenn Murphy said: 'The Policy provides clarity to our port companies in terms of their future direction, but importantly for the thousands of Irish and International companies that depend everyday on effective and efficient ports to connect their business with the global economy'.
Minister Varadkar added: 'Too many governments have taken a one-size-fits-all approach to our ports sector. We want to end this laissez-faire approach, and encourage shareholders to take a much more hands-on attitude to maritime ports. This new National Ports Policy represents an important change in approach towards the Government's management of these important assets and provides an overarching vision for the future development of the sector'.
· Ports of Regional Significance for development principally in regional freight, leisure, aquaculture facilities, urban regeneration or cultural and recreation amenities.
The Government expects the Ports of National Significance (Tier 1) to lead the response of the State commercial ports sector to any future national port capacity requirements. There is also a role in this regard for the two Ports of National Significance (Tier 2) to develop additional capacity to aid competitive conditions within the unitised sectors (Lift On/Lift Off and Roll On/Roll Off) in particular. These five ports collectively handle approximately 92% of all tonnage handled at Irish ports in any given year.
The importance of the five other State commercial port companies is recognised by their designation as Ports of Regional Significance. These ports: Galway, Drogheda, New Ross, Wicklow and Dún Laoghaire – retain important regional roles as regional freight distribution hubs, but also increasingly important roles in areas such as marine leisure and tourism.
· Changes to the Ministerial / board level relationship to ensure that Government policy is embedded within all levels of corporate and commercial development.
This more active approach toward the management of our key international maritime gateways represents a sea change in attitude and will allow Government to benchmark the performance of our ports and the return on our investment. The future development of the Ports of Regional Significance is best placed within the framework of their regional and local communities and it is therefore proposed to allow for their transfer to relevant local authority ownership.
The National Ports Policy commits to working with the ports sector and the relevant Departments (Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht and Environment, Community and Local Government) to ensure that port development and environmental protection are mutually respected.
The National Ports Policy document is available to download below.
I am delighted to launch today a new National Ports Policy which described the Government's vision for our commercial ports sector.
Our ports are important to our economic recovery and our future economic prosperity. However, their contribution to our economy is frequently overlooked.
The Competition Authority recently estimated that approximately 84% by volume and 62% by value of all goods moved into or out of the State comes through our ports. We rely on our ports to provide us with imported oil and coal, vehicles and many consumer goods.
Many of our major export sectors, for example pharmaceuticals, chemicals and agri-food, are heavily reliant on our commercial ports. Also, ports can be important for tourism both in terms of passenger ferries, car ferries and cruise ships.
As an island nation we depend on our ports to an even greater degree than many of our trading partners. Hence the need to get the policy right.
But ports are much more than trading gateways to the world. They often have deep-rooted links into their community, are steeped in history and are centres for leisure and amenity. They are also frequently located in or beside areas of great natural beauty and importance for wildlife.
There is also a great diversity among the 14 ports that handle commercial freight each year – in terms of the size and scale of their business, the sort of ships and goods handled and the type of financial and organisational resources available to ports and governance.
Policy to date has not recognised this diversity in the role and function of our ports.
I am determined that the importance of all our ports is recognised at the highest levels of Government policy, but am also aware that the current policy is no longer appropriate.
The core objective of National Ports Policy is to facilitate a competitive and effective market for maritime transport services. In my view there are a number of different aspects to achieving this objective.
Firstly, we must be clear about which Ports are of National Significance. As detailed in the new Policy, the Government recognises Dublin Port Company, the Port of Cork Company and Shannon Foynes Port Company as our Ports of National Significance (Tier 1).
Additionally the Government also recognises the Port of Waterford Company and Rosslare Europort to be Ports of National Significance (Tier 2). National Ports Policy must be focussed on those ports which fulfil a national function.
Secondly, in relation to those ports which serve a regional or local function, we must provide an appropriate governance framework that allows for their continued future development in a manner that best suits their individual circumstances. It is also recognised that while none of these ports account for more than 8% of national trade, they can have national significance in a niche service or product area.
This new category of ports includes the five smaller State port companies in Drogheda, Dún Laoghaire, Galway, New Ross and Wicklow. These Ports of Regional Significance will be placed within a local authority led governance structure with local authorities taking shareholdings in the ports. This will require legislation, further consultation and time.
As regards Government's role as shareholder, I am firmly of the view that Government must be a more active and demanding shareholder. By that I do not mean an 'interfering' shareholder, but a shareholder that clearly outlines its vision and demands of the sector as a whole, as well as its expectation for individual ports. This will include a re-emphasis on the ports' commercial remit with a requirement that to adhere to a dividend policy and invest and develop on a sound commercial basis.
While no ports are earmarked for privatisation, private sector investment and involvement will be encouraged.
Finally, our ports enjoy a unique location and are frequently sited in - or beside - designated special protection areas for birds and habitats. This has obvious consequences in terms of the complexities involved in ensuring the appropriate balance between economic development and environmental protection. These complexities can be best resolved through early and meaningful engagement between all stakeholders in understanding the differing roles and responsibilities in these important areas.
This new National Ports Policy seeks to address each of these aspects in turn and will provide the entire sector with an appropriate policy framework to allow all our ports to develop in a sustainable manner and ensure that the State is served by the type of port infrastructure and services it requires.


text:
Q: Bayesian Linear Regression as a Gaussian Process I am stuck in showing that Bayesian linear regression can be viewed as a Gaussian Process. Can anybody show me how to get from step (4) to step (5)?
$$ \tilde f_i= f(\mathbf{x}^{(i)}) := \mathbf{w}^T\mathbf{x}^{(i)}+b, \quad \mathbf{w}\sim\mathcal{N}(0,\sigma_w^2\mathbb{I}), \; b\sim\mathcal{N}(0,\sigma_b^2) $$
$\begin{align}
\text{cov}(\tilde f_i,\tilde f_j) &= \mathbb{E}[\tilde f_i \tilde f_j] - \mathbb{E}[\tilde f_i]\mathbb{E}[\tilde f_j] \\
&= \mathbb{E}[\tilde f_i \tilde f_j] - 0\\
&=\mathbb{E}\left[(\mathbf{w}^T\mathbf{x}^{(i)}+b)^T(\mathbf{w}^T\mathbf{x}^{(j)}+b)\right] \tag{4}\\
&= \sigma_w^2 {\mathbf{x}^{(i)}}^T\mathbf{x}^{(j)} + \sigma_b^2 \tag{5} \\
&= k(\mathbf{x}^{(i)},\mathbf{x}^{(j)}).
\end{align}$
These calculations come from here : https://www.inf.ed.ac.uk/teaching/courses/mlpr/2019/notes/w5b_gaussian_process_kernels.pdf

A: Well, to get from (4) to (5), it's essentially algebra :
$\begin{align}
\text{cov}(\tilde f_i,\tilde f_j) &=\mathbb{E}\left[(\mathbf{w}^T\mathbf{x}^{(i)}+b)^T(\mathbf{w}^T\mathbf{x}^{(j)}+b)\right] \\
&= \mathbb{E}\left[({\mathbf{x}^{(i)}}^T\mathbf{w}+b^T)(\mathbf{w}^T\mathbf{x}^{(j)}+b)\right] \\
&= \mathbb{E}\left[{\mathbf{x}^{(i)}}^T\mathbf{w}\mathbf{w}^T\mathbf{x}^{(j)}+b^Tb + {\mathbf{x}^{(i)}}^T\mathbf{w}b + b^T\mathbf{w}^T\mathbf{x}^{(j)}\right] \\
&= \mathbb{E}\left[{\mathbf{x}^{(i)}}^T\mathbf{w}\mathbf{w}^T\mathbf{x}^{(j)}+b^Tb\right] + \mathbb{E}\left[{\mathbf{x}^{(i)}}^T\mathbf{w}b\right] + \mathbb{E}\left[b^T\mathbf{w}^T\mathbf{x}^{(j)}\right] \\
&= \mathbb{E}\left[{\mathbf{x}^{(i)}}^T\mathbf{w}\mathbf{w}^T\mathbf{x}^{(j)}+b^2\right] + {\mathbf{x}^{(i)}}^T\mathbb{E}\left[\mathbf{w}b\right] + \mathbb{E}\left[b^T\mathbf{w}^T\right]\mathbf{x}^{(j)} \tag{1'} \\
&= \mathbb{E}\left[{\mathbf{x}^{(i)}}^T\mathbf{w}\mathbf{w}^T\mathbf{x}^{(j)}\right] + \mathbb{E}\left[b^2\right] + 0 + 0 \tag{2'}\\
&= {\mathbf{x}^{(i)}}^T\mathbb{E}\left[\mathbf{w}\mathbf{w}^T\right]\mathbf{x}^{(j)} + \sigma_b^2 \tag{3'}\\
&= {\mathbf{x}^{(i)}}^T \sigma_w^2 \, \mathbb{I}\mathbf{x}^{(j)} + \sigma_b^2 = \sigma_w^2 {\mathbf{x}^{(i)}}^T\mathbf{x}^{(j)} + \sigma_b^2
 \end{align} $
Where we used the independence of the predictor from the weights and bias in (1') and (3'), and the assumption that the weights and bias are mutually independent centered normal random variables in (2').

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


text:
Q: How to use Distributed Object Cache in WebSphere 9 clustered environment We have a WAS9 cluster with 2 servers. Our application relies on maintaining a list of objects. Application running on Server A creates an object and this object is not in scope of the Application instance on Server B. In order to replicate the object state we had attempted to enable Distributed Cache under Resources -> Cache Instances -> Object Cache Instance (scope is the cluster, provider is Default Dynamic Cache, cache replication enabled )
The state of the map is not shared between the servers. Application on server A places an object into the map and once reloaded and load balanced onto the server B, that object is not available in the map. The DistributedMap is behaving like a HashMap and does not get distributed at all.
Here is a simple code sample that shows how we attempt to use the Distributed Cache feature:
@RequestMapping("/test_object_map")
    @Async
    public String testObjectMap(@RequestParam(value="input", defaultValue="") String input) throws InterruptedException, NamingException, UnknownHostException {

        InitialContext ic = new InitialContext();
        DistributedObjectCache wasCashe = (DistributedObjectCache)ic.lookup(DIST_MAP_NAME);

        String testKey = "test_key";
        UseCase object = null;

        if(wasCashe.containsKey(testKey)) {
            object = (UseCase) wasCashe.get(testKey);

        } else {
            object = new UseCase();
            object.setSignature(" UC launched on " + InetAddress.getLocalHost().getHostName());
            wasCashe.put(testKey, object);

        }

        String status = "";

        if(object != null) {
            status = "host: " + InetAddress.getLocalHost().getHostName() + "; object state: " + object.getSignature() ;
        }

        return "[{\"message\": \"" + status + "\"}]";
    }

The behavior that we observer is that object is instantiated on "server_1" and when the request is balanced onto the "server_2" the object does not exist and a new instance of the object is created by "server_2". Instead we want to be able to share the state of the map between the two servers.
How can this be achieved?

A: In order to replicate content across WebSphere cluster members, a DynaCache cache instance has to be setup for replication, associated with a replication domain, and actually created in the JVM.  Defining a cache instance does not equate to creating the cache instance in the JVM.  The cache instance is created when ic.lookup() is invoked.
My guess is that server_2 has not created the cache instance when server_1 puts content into the cache instance and therefore content is not replicated.  I assume you have set the sharing policy to PUSH.
To force cache instance creation when the server starts, add custom property com.ibm.ws.cache.CacheConfig.createCacheAtServerStartup and set to true.  You can add this as a JVM custom property (affects all cache instances) or a custom property on the cache instance (affects only this cache instance).


Unlike oak, red cedar will not go black if left untreated. It will weather to an attractive silver grey colour.
It is a very durable wood, ideal for signs as it is low maintence. It is however a softer wood than oak, but this would only be a problem if likely to be damaged by vandalism.
Our Red Cedar is imported from Canada. The signs are made from laminated Western Red Cedar with a high quality vertical grain and are 35 - 45mm thick. Being a thicker timber they are perfect for hanging signs or double sided signs on posts.
Cedar has a high tannin content producing excellent weathering characteristics. This wood also has a very short grain resulting in minimal checking and warping. Extremely durable for many years of use.
It can be oiled for a rich finish or left untreated to weather to a beautiful silver grey colour.
The above sizes are the standard sizes and are the best value for money. However should you require a size that is not shown please ask for a quote.
Prices include 6 letters carved out or left raised there-after add £1.10 per letter. (after next 20 letters add 55p per letter).
Borders can be added at £5.95, simple pictures and images can also be included from £9.50. For raised letters please choose a bold font without fine lines.
Made in the UK. Our team at The Sign Maker looks forward to helping you with your Cedar Wood Sign.


text:
Our Favorite Video Production Companies in Washington, D.C. (2020)
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Washington, D.C., also known as the Nation's Capital, the Great White City. Whatever you call it, Washington, D.C., offers an abundance of incredible locations. Peerspace is the go-to resource to find filming locations and event venues, be it in the nation's capital or beyond. Whether you're a D.C. local or a visitor heading to the city for an on-location shoot, the city is full of talented creatives who specialize in video production, from creating marketing videos to docuseries. Check out our favorite video production companies in Washington D.C.
1. Pixeldust Studios
Are you in the market for a D.C.-based video production company with serious animation skills? Look no further than Pixeldust Studios, offering a robust list of production services, including full concept through to post-production work, to VR and motion graphics, as well as 3D and 2D animation. The dynamic team at Pixeldust has worked with a variety of clients, spanning from nonprofits to TV and film, as well as corporate entities.
Producing a myriad of multimedia from long-form television broadcast pieces, to animation and game design, and, of course, web-based video, Pixeldust is the real deal. Their impressive client list is far too long to list here, but notable clients are the likes of National Geographic Television, Travel Channel, Alaska Airlines, the British Museum, the United Nations, and the National Museum of the American Indian.
2. RaffertyWeiss Media
Award-winning RaffertyWeiss Media is a full-service video production company that serves the greater Washington, D.C., area. From scriptwriting through to post-production, the creative team has you covered and are happy to jump in at any stage in the production process. Beyond producing video campaigns for corporate clients and nonprofits, as well as television broadcast content, the RaffertyWeiss crew also offers web design, print design, and audio production services. Among their many clients are Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Amtrak, Girl Up, the BrightFocus Foundation, and the United Way.
3. Green Buzz Agency
Emmy-winning full-service production company, Green Buzz Agency has offices in Washington, D.C., and NYC. Green Buzz specializes in creating compelling short documentaries and effective corporate media, such as videos. Covering all stages of production from concept development through to in-house post-production, the agile team is also experienced in producing original series and branded entertainment. Their clients include Nickelodeon, Hilton, Ancestry.com, NBC, and the ACLU.
4. Mind & Media, Inc.
With over 20 years of experience in the industry, Mind & Media is among the crème de la crème of full-service video production companies in the Washington, D.C., area. Offering communication strategy development for their clients, the brilliant team at Mind & Media can help your business formulate a strong message and turn it into a compelling, effective video. Their client list includes the Department of Energy, the March of Dimes, US Army Corp of Engineers, and the National Center for PTSD.
5. Dudley Digital Works
Founded in 2004 by John Dudley, Dudley Digital Works seeks to synchronize the fields of storytelling, marketing, and communication. A full-service video production company, the team offers concept development, scripting, and storyboarding, as well as production services — which can entail aerial shoots — and video editing. Dudley Digital Works has collaborated with many esteemed brands and organizations, such as Hillsdale College, Future Science Group, Petco, and Reading is Fundamental.
6. Ventana Productions
A well-established full-service video production company with offices in D.C. and NYC, Ventana Productions has been leading the industry since 1994. The team at Ventana Productions comprises dynamic producers, directors, writers, cinematographers, editors, and motion graphics artists who have won several awards, including Emmys, Telly Awards, and the White House Press Photographer of the Year award. They also offer ample studio space for a variety of productions like web streaming. Their long list of clients range from the Food and Drug Administration to Best Buy.
7. LAI Video
One of the most versatile video production companies in Washington, D.C., LAI Video also has an office stationed in Chicago. From live-action shoots to animation and motion graphic design, this creative agency offers a myriad of services for clients in diverse industries spanning from nonprofits and healthcare to technology, education, and more. LAI Video also offers live event production services, such as on-site management and A/V technology. Their impressive client list includes the Federation of State Medical Boards, DC Public Schools, US Department of State, and the National Retail Federation.
8. Foundation Digital Media
Foundation Digital Media is an Emmy-winning full-service video production company headquartered in the DMV area. The team at Foundation Digital Media has been in the business for over two decades, providing a wide range of services with a focus on producing video content for corporate clients, small businesses, marketing campaigns, and events. They have served respected clients, such as Family Circle Magazine, Managed Care Advisors, the DC Chamber of Commerce, the Discovery Channel, and Warner Bros.
As you can see, Washington, D.C., video production companies run the gamut from specializing in corporate video to poignant documentaries. Next time you are planning a production in the Nation's Capital, be sure to check out one of these creative agencies. Happy shooting!
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The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) issued two final rules to better protect railroad employees working on or near railroad tracks. One rule amends the existing Roadway Worker Protection regulation. The second rule, Control of Alcohol and Drug Use, revises FRA's existing alcohol and drug testing regulations and expands the requirements to now cover maintenance of way (MOW) employees. The second rule fulfills a requirement of the Rail Safety Improvement Act of 2008.
The Roadway Worker Protection final rule amendments will: (1) resolve different interpretations that have emerged since the rule went into effect nearly 20 years ago; (2) implement FRA's Railroad Safety Advisory Committee's (RSAC) consensus recommendations; (3) codify certain FRA Technical Bulletins; (4) codify a FAST Act mandate by adopting new requirements governing redundant signal protections; (5) address the safe movement of roadway maintenance machinery over signalized non-controlled track (not under a dispatcher's control); and (6) amend certain qualification requirements for roadway workers.
The latest amendments require that job briefings include information for roadway worker groups on the accessibility of the roadway worker in charge; set standards for how "occupancy behind" train authorities (when the authority for a work crew does not begin until the train has passed the area) can be used; and require annual training for any individual serving as a roadway worker in charge.
In addition to the existing requirement to have a primary means of protection by establishing working limits and a requirement that all affected roadway workers be notified before working limits are released, FRA's rule changes will now require another level of redundant signal protection.
In response to both a congressional mandate and a National Transportation Safety Board recommendation, FRA is broadening the scope of its existing drug and alcohol testing regulation to cover MOW employees. Currently, a MOW employee is only drug and alcohol tested when he or she has died as a result of an accident or incident. MOW employees will now be fully subject to FRA's drug and alcohol testing that includes random testing, post-accident testing, reasonable suspicion testing, reasonable cause testing, pre-employment testing, return-to-duty testing and follow-up testing.
"Whether you are an engineer, conductor or someone working alongside the tracks, safety requires alertness. Any reduction in awareness caused by drugs or alcohol use can often be the difference between life and death," Feinberg added.
The Control of Alcohol and Drug Use rule, which also clarifies interpretations since the testing rule went into effect in 1986, includes other substantive changes. In response to another NTSB recommendation, the rule changes will now allow drug testing of railroad and MOW employees that are believed to have caused an incident at a railroad crossing.


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In his defense of Facebook's Free Basics Internet service, Andreessen suggested India was better off under colonial rule.
When a Twitter user likened Free Basics to "Internet colonialism," Andreessen copped to his characterization of Facebook's Internet service—and added that the Indian economy had, in fact, been booming under British colonial rule. "Anti-colonialism has been economically catastrophic for the Indian people for decades. Why stop now?" he wrote, as seen in a screenshot of the now-deleted tweet, captured by Re/code.
But Andreessen's take on the Free Basics controversy ignores the harm British colonialism did to India's economy. During a recent session held by Oxford's debate society, eminent Indian politician Shashi Tharoor pointed out that India's share of the global economy went from 23% to 4% during the 150-plus years it was occupied by the British. "We literally paid for our own oppression," he said.
Andreessen's tweets also highlighted why, on a cultural level, Indians have been so resistant to adopting Free Basics. The net neutrality argument peddled by Indian regulators is just one side of the story. Indians have a deep-seated distrust of Western forces that seek to "empower" its people—a sentiment that is steeped in historical precedent.
I'd suggest that there's fundamental context missing here which may explain why you haven't found a solution that's been acceptable to Indian regulators, and to many ordinary Indians. At a broad level, it might be useful to really, _really_ reckon with the history of western corporate powers enforcing their desires on a broad swath of the Indian population, especially India's poorest. There are things that India, Indians (and those of us in the diaspora) place a very high value on for historical reasons that should be obvious with some thought. A colonialist "trust us, it's for your own benefit" pitch is a hard sell with good reason.
Zuckerberg has spent months relentlessly defending Free Basics, but the company's approach has been flawed from the start. Facebook has marketed the product as an on-ramp to "the full Internet"; in reality, the company has complete control over which content is made accessible to its users. And regardless of how many times Zuckerberg asserts that Internet access should be a right, Facebook's ultimate goal with Free Basics is to grow its international user base.
Suffice it to say, Andreessen's nod to colonialism wouldn't have been sanctioned by Zuckerberg. Andreessen apologized for his comment early Wednesday morning, in a string of tweets singing the praises of India and its citizens.


The All-Big 12 Conference football teams and individual award winners were announced Tuesday.
The major individual awards were highlighted by Coach of the Year honors going to Mike Gundy of Oklahoma State, Defensive Player of the Year to Nebraska defensive back Prince Amukamara and Offensive Player of the Year to Oklahoma State wide receiver Justin Blackmon.
Three players from Texas universities made the All-Big 12 first team.
Texas A&M wide receiver Jeff Fuller was the only offensive first team member while Texas defensive lineman Sam Acho and Texas A&M linebacker Von Miller made the first team defense.
Baylor quarterback Robert Griffin joined teammates Kendall Wright (wide receiver) and Danny Watkins (offensive lineman) on the second team offense.
Texas A&M's Matt Allen and Texas Tech's Lonnie Edwards were two other offensive linemen named to the second team.
Defensive linemen Colby Whitlock of Texas Tech and Phil Taylor of Baylor were named to the second team defensive unit along with Texas linebacker Emmanuel Acho and his defensive back teammates Aaron Williams and Curtis Brown.
Texas A&M's Coryell Judie also made the second team defense.
Offensive Lineman of the Year: Nate Solder, Colorado, OT.
Defensive Lineman of the Year: Jeremy Beal, Oklahoma, DE.
Offensive Freshman of the Year: Taylor Martinez, Nebraska, QB.
Co-Defensive Freshman of the Year: Tony Jefferson, Oklahoma, DB. Shaun Lewis, Oklahoma State, LB.
Special Teams Player of the Year: Dan Bailey, Oklahoma State, P/K.
Newcomer of the Year: Lavonte David, Nebraska, LB.


text:
Model Barbie Ferreira is calling out the plus-size industry's lack of inclusivity
Model Barbie Ferreira hasn't been shy about speaking out on the struggles facing women who wear above a size 4 or 6. She's been outspoken about the importance of not being retouched (she models for Aerie, after all), as well as just how hard it is for a woman who's larger than sample size to take on a red carpet.
And now she's now taking on the modeling industry as a whole, and its lack of inclusion of diverse and truly plus-size women.
It all started on Monday, with Ferreira posting an Instagram of the stretch marks across her hips with the caption: "mi lil stripes are out here. soothing them with vitamin e oil n noticing how cute my body can be despite lil changes."
Barbie Ferreira Source: Instagram
After Teen Vogue wrote about the picture, calling it "empowering," Ferreira took to Instagram yet again in an effort to call out the plus-size and curve modeling industries for not nearly being inclusive enough for larger, curvier women.
"This industry is not cute, never has been," Ferreira, who's modeled for Target and Lane Bryant, wrote. "I don't want to sell you this idea that all these brands are so body positive when it's so few that actually represent what women look like — not just an idealized version of a thick girl (like they try to do to me). Girls are not treated like people in this industry!! At all!!"
And that goes for models who wear size 0 or 2, and models who wear an 8 or 10 or 12.
Barbie Ferreira Source: Mic /Instagram
"If you think my abuse is bad, ask a runway model who went from a 34- to a 35-inch hip," Ferreira wrote. "They will tell you they flat out get told to starve and that they're looking fat. Shit isn't as pretty as it looks but I'm here to infiltrate from the inside. I truly don't know how much we can do as curvy models when we're still thought of as mannequins — just ones who are cursed to only wear peplums and tunics all day to cover our 'flawed' bodies and show just our usually thin faces."
Barbie Ferreira Source: Mic/Instagram
Although Ferreira ends her post by calling it a "rant," there's lots of measured truth to what she's saying. Plus-size and curve models all do tend to have this idealized version of "curvy," with thin waists and an hourglass figure. Their faces are thin enough to still sport modelesque high cheekbones. Though they are otherized in the fashion industry, they still too often adhere to an unrealistic beauty standard.
Even though the plus-size modeling industry prides itself on breaking model norms, there's still plus-size model norms that these women have to conform to.
And Ferreira just isn't here for that.


Please bear with us over the coming months as we add our work the the gallery.
It always seems to take longer than we expect, especially while running a busy portraits studio!
Our thanks and gratitude to all of our supporters, friends and family who continue to rally, we only hope our artworks will uplift and inspire you in return.


text:
Synopsis – 2012 Official Jeevika Selection
1. All Rise for Your Honour
(English, Hindi / 1:18:00 / 2012 / New Delhi, Punjab, UP, MP / Sumit Khanna)
The Constitution of India defines and declares the nation state's common goal – to secure to the entire citizen's of India, justice – social, economic and political, liberty; equality and fraternity. However, serious problems beset the judicial system as a result of which it is largely dysfunctional, unaccountable and inaccessible, especially to the poor. The film is an attempt to decipher the judicial process in India from the standpoints of all the stakeholders: people who are the seekers of justice, lawyers who are the intermediaries of justice and the Judiciary that dispensed justice; in the process, understanding how far we are removed from the constitutional vision of justice.
2. Bicycle Journey – A Story Unbelievable
(English / 00:18:00 / India / Ashijit Ganguli)
Cycling across the World has been a passion turned full time profession of Mr. Ram Chandra Biswas. For almost 3 decades now he has been cycling across Countries and Continents spreading the message of peace and fraternity. A cyclist extraordinaire, he hails from Kolkata. Overcome by a strong sense of wanderlust has logged 627,200 kilometres which almost equals a return journey from the moon and visited 157 Countries. Mr Ram Chandra Biswas commenced his journey with one dollar in his pocket. A tour around the globe even by bicycle would require huge finances. But he has stock answer when he is asked about how he arranged money for airfare, food and accommodation for his World tour. "The Wold is full of good people. God is providing everything free" explains Biswas. Along his journey he performs magical tricks and does paintings to cover some of his expenses.
3. Breaking The Silence
(English/ 00:31:31/ Ishani K Dutta)
Life for transport sector workers is tough, to say the least. It takes an immense amount of courage for women to step into this dominantly male domain. Once men sense that they are threatened by the presence of women in their space, they resort to means that would make the women as uncomfortable as possible.
The film looks at sexual harassment at the workplace, focusing on the transport sector workers. The film aims to bring awareness on this topic, and inspire women to get the courage to speak out.
4. Dilli
(English, Bengali and Hindi/0:18:30/Delhi/ Rintu Thomas and Sushmit Ghosh)
Millions of people across India leave behind their homes and families, in the hope of finding a better life in Delhi. Completing 100 years as the capital of modern India, Delhi today stands at the crossroads of time. Dilli raises critical questions about urbanization and development through the personal stories of its people and explores the social and spatial landscape of a city that dreams of becoming a super mega polis. Shot in the heart of this bustling mega polis, Dilli finds its storytellers in the men, women and children who are the invisible hands that continue to build this city of dreams.
5. Dudro
(No dialogue/ 00:05:30/ Delhi/ Dhanya Pilo)
We meander through the chaotic landscape of a large cycle rickshaw yard in Nizamuddin (E), Delhi to experience the various narratives that are incubating in it.
The winter light juxtaposed through the complex stacking of the red & blue cycle rickshaws' highlights the individual frame of these vehicles calling out to the rickshaw wala to do a Jugalbandi. The rickshawalla reacts to the quiet, sleepy yard and its inhabitants using absurd as well as day-to-day movements.
6. I Was Born In Delhi
(Hindi and Bengali/ 1:33:00/ New Delhi and Orissa/ Bishnu Dev Halder)
Two sisters, Josna & Hasina run away from poverty, marriage and their impending kitchen centric life in the village to the city for a new life, only to be hounded by insecurity six years later.
Ironically, they now find marriage to be their only path to a secure and respectable future. But will the harsh social realities allow them to have a happy and secure future? The film follows the sisters for five years and documents their changing priorities over the period of times; the choices they make and the impact of the same on their lives.
7. Sacred Space
(Manipuri/00:52:00/ Manipur/ Dr. Kaushik Gupta Ray)
The film seeks to explore the lives of the Maibi female priestesses of the Meitei religin in context of tradition and modernity.
8. Shifting Undercurrents – Seaweed Collectors of Gulf of Mannar
(English/ 00:20:00/ Gulf of Mannar/ Rita Banerji)
This is a moving account of women divers/seaweed collectors struggling to regain a hold on their much-curtailed activities in the Gulf of Mannar National Marine Park. Each morning, they ride out into the Gulf of Mannar waters as a first light begins to brighten the skies overhead. Arriving, the women take a deep breath and dive into the cloudy waters to handpick seaweed. They have been pursuing their activity undisturbed until recent years.
Ever since the Park was declared as protected, all resource users have been halted. But despite the continued presence of large-scale industrial pollution, overfishing and even commercial seaweed cultivation, most of the enforcement activities have been centered around some 5000 women who free-dive with minimal equipment, to handpick a few abundant species of wild seaweed to be sold to buyers like Nestle ad Himalaya. Sadly, the women's efforts to comply with regulations have come to no avail, and they are still treated as "thieves". In an ironic turn of events, the large-scale cultivation of invasive seaweed is allowed (though it has recently began killing coral patches within the park)! The many sided discussions and continued struggles shed light on the SHIFTING UNDERCURRENTS of the women's efforts to gain respect for their profession of over 30 years at sea.
9. The Last Page / Oduvilathe Thaal
(English and Malayalam/ 00:54:53 / Kerala / Unnikrishnan Avala)
This documents the life in Death/Death in life situation of three primitive tribes of Ernad, Malaappuram and Kerala, India. The Last Page of a tribe that happened to desert their own identities.
The unpardonable tales of deception plotted by the civil society and bureaucracy. Shocking episodes of forced sterilization, genocide and gang rapes. This documentary reveals the pangs of tribal girls forced into flesh trade and later happened to be the carriers of ELISA. You just can't flee away from these frames.
10. The Rat Race
(English, Hindi, Marathi/ 00:52:00/India/ Miriam Chandy Menacherry)
The Rat Race winds its way through the grimy underbelly of Mumbai, through dimly lit alleys and crowded markets to tell the story of the city's rat killers. Using the vehicle of the rat the documentary explores issues of livelihood, sanitation and development to paint a moving account of India at the crossroads and provide the human face of development with all its contradictions. It is the rare documentary that got a theatre release in 3 Indian metros and won critical acclaim.
11. The World's Most Fashionable Prison
(English/ 1:06:57 / Philippines/ Mak CK)
Flamboyant, gay and witty, Puey is the stereotypical fashion designer on the surface. As the only son of a retired policeman, it seems ironic that he now enjoys an unlikely bond with criminals serving time. In autumn 2011, he will be their mentor as the inmates work in teams to compete in a month-long fashion competition inspired by U.S. reality series Project Runway. It all culminates in the most spectacular event of the year – a runway show with a catwalk, professional models, and a panel of fashion industry judges, right in the heart of the prison.
12. We Are Foot Soldiers
(Bengali/00:26:00/ 2011/ Kolkata/ Debolina Dutta & Oishik Sircar)
In 2005, children of sex workers in Kolkata's Sonagachhi red light district came together to form their own organization, Amra Padatik (Foot Soldiers), drawing inspiration from the work that their mothers have been doing to demand their right to sex work as work. The film journeys through the lives of AmraPadatik members whose entangled realities do not paint a picture of helplessness, but of political assertiveness and social consciousness.
13. Who Killed Chea Vichea
(English / Khmer/ 00:56:40/ January 2011/ Cambodia / Bradley Cox)
One sunny morning in 2004, a motorcycle pulled up to a corner newsstand in Phnom Penh. Chea Vichea, the president of Cambodia's garment workers union, looked up from his paper–and was executed on the spot. Under pressure from human rights groups and foreign aid donors, the police quickly arrested two local men. They were sentenced to twenty years in prison. Were they guilty, or was their conviction part of a larger plan? Banned in Cambodia, WHO KILLED CHEA VICHEA? is a front-row seat to a world of corruption that you will never forget.
Student Catgory
1. Breakin' Mumbai
(Hindi / 00:32:53 / Mumbai / Sandeep Kr. Singh, Aakriti Kohli, Sumit Singh, Shweta Ghosh and Gin Khan Siam)
Gani, a 21-year old, has done many things for a living: bag-making, embroidery work and working at a call centre. 18-year old Aman studies in school. He loves eating mangoes and chenna-murgi. He sketches and plays cricket.
The two have very little in common, but there is one thing that binds them- Breaking, a dance form that started back in the 70s in the Bronx, New York. Since then, it has grown popular across countries and has moulded itself to fit into specific cultures. This film looks at what it means to be a breaker in Mumbai, how breaking becomes a site of expression of subaltern youth cultures and what it means to win and lose battles. Through the personal lives of Gani, Aman and their friends, the film tries to understand the dynamics of breaking, and explores questions of space and the avenues for leisure in Mumbai.
2. City's Edge
(Hindi/ 00:18:33/ Mumbai/ Sandeep Kumar Singh, Shweta Radhakrishnan, Sharib Ali, Gin Khan Siam and Abhishekh Yadav)
The Deonar Dumping Ground is the largest dumping ground in Asia. Everyday, thousands of trucks deposit half of all the garbage that the city produces. And everyday most of it finds its way back- picked and processed by the many men, women and children who make a living off the waste of the city. The dump is a powerful symbol of most of the city's people who are constantly dumped, recycled, and dumped again, while perpetually remaining out of sight.The film explores this space through Mohammad Hussain aka Babu, a young ragpicker and Haroon, a local scrap dealer.
3. Cycle of Life
(English/ 00:11:31/ Jagadhri and Saharanpu / Vishal Sharma)
The film 'CYCLE OF LIFE' is based on the life of Street performer Imtiaz Khan (Pappu Bharti) a trick cyclist from Jagadhri. The film delves deeper into the problems of street performers across the country. From a super star of stunt cycle, Pappu Bharti is now slipping into anonymity and finding it hard to carry on with his profession.
This film reflects how street performers are facing hard times due to no support of the government and local administration. If local administration becomes a little more sensitive to the conditions of street performers it can turn the tide and may be it can help in restoring the lost glory of street performers.
4. Dimond Band
(Hindi, Gujarati/00:17:00/Ahmedabad/ Samridhi Dasot)
The film revolves around a wedding music band called Dimond Band exploring the profession, the personal lives and background of the members and their equation as a team.
5. Hide Under My Sole
(Hindi,Punjabi,English / 0:25:00 / Punjab / Shradha Jain)
Covering the craft pockets situated in the Malwa belt of Punjab, this film is an endeavour to celebrate the craft of Jutti making and applauds the artisans, which have put their heart and soul in it. More than the physical endurance, it highlights the emotional aspects of the craftsmen involved and thus speaks volume of the different people from varied castes and backgrounds. The viewer gets an insight on the details involved in craft of Jutti making. The process has been shown in a non-linear way, right from a tannery, where the raw hide is being prepared, up to the exquisitely hand-embroidered Juttis. This film is thus a tribute to all the artisans who truly are the hidden souls. (Soles)


A friend of mine recently told me that Domino's Pizza was offering insurance. At first, I thought he was he joking. How could Domino's Pizza be offering insurance to its customers? To their staff, sure, that makes sense, but to its customers? For pizza? No way.
Is good to hear that customer of Domino's Pizza also got insurance coverage. More customers will want to buy pizza and get covered.


text:
Range rover took prince george home hospital sells 80000 auction
Range Rover that Took Prince George Home from Hospital Sells for £80,000 in Auction
According to reports, the Range Rover used by Prince William to take home the newborn Prince George from St. Mary's hospital sold for £80,000 in a charity auction. Proceeds from the sale of the car, which is currently in the highest specification available, will go to Sunscreen IT and Stand Down. The former is a supplier of technology and computer training to the developing world, while the latter supports armed forces veterans and members, as well as their families, in the event of psychiatric injury. It is anticipated that the Range Rover will raise at least £100,000.
The Range Rover Vogue SE boasts an eight-speed automatic gearbox and a 4.4L diesel engine that cranks out 334bhp. The driver and passengers will enjoy this luxury car's standard features such as mood lighting, heated rear seats as well as a touchscreen that displays navigation information to the driver while simultaneously showing TV shows to the passengers.
Apart from these high-end features, the car also has a panoramic sunroof, electronic folding towbar, and five parking cameras. Plus, the winning bidder now owns a car that has a piece of British royalty history.
Stay tuned to us for the latest automotive news.
The Elite Cars LLC +971 4 321 2290 800-ELITECARS (354832277) Sales@TheEliteCars.com Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai UAE (United Arab Emirates)
Image Source: The Telegraph


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text:
Q: How to save an image in Intel RealSense(Visual C++) I'm working on Intel RealSense SDK (R2). I want to save the image from Camera_viewer. I have worked till saving the frame to specific buffers and retrieving from the same. I want to know how to save those frames/images to a specified location/folder.
Here's my code:
PXCImage *colorIm, *depthIm;
for (int i=0; i<MAX_FRAMES; i++) {

    // This function blocks until all streams are ready (depth and color)
    // if false streams will be unaligned
    if (psm->AcquireFrame(true)<PXC_STATUS_NO_ERROR) break;

    // retrieve all available image samples
    PXCCapture::Sample *sample = psm->QuerySample();

    // retrieve the image or frame by type from the sample
    colorIm = sample->color;
    depthIm = sample->depth;

    // render the frame
    if (!renderColor->RenderFrame(colorIm)) break;
    if (!renderDepth->RenderFrame(depthIm)) break;

    // release or unlock the current frame to fetch the next frame
    psm->ReleaseFrame();
}

I'm able to retrieve the frames/images successfully, but I want to save those files for further use. So I want to know how to save those files in a folder.
Thanks in advance

A: Same question was asked here and the answer that was posted solved the initial question. However there was a follow-up question on how to save the images to specific folder.
If you have that specific question, then answer would be the same SetFileName() only. According to this link, pxcCHAR *file is the full path of the file to playback or to be recorded. . That being said, you can create a custom folder and point your path to that custom folder followed by a valid file name to save your image.

A: To save the data I would create a Bitmap from the image data as ThorngardSO said and use the code from http://www.runicsoft.com/bmp.cpp to save it -
#include <windows.h>
#include <stdio.h>       // for memset

bool SaveBMP ( BYTE* Buffer, int width, int height, long paddedsize, LPCTSTR bmpfile )
{
    // declare bmp structures
    BITMAPFILEHEADER bmfh;
    BITMAPINFOHEADER info;

    // andinitialize them to zero
    memset ( &bmfh, 0, sizeof (BITMAPFILEHEADER ) );
    memset ( &info, 0, sizeof (BITMAPINFOHEADER ) );

    // fill the fileheader with data
    bmfh.bfType = 0x4d42;       // 0x4d42 = 'BM'
    bmfh.bfReserved1 = 0;
    bmfh.bfReserved2 = 0;
    bmfh.bfSize = sizeof(BITMAPFILEHEADER) + sizeof(BITMAPINFOHEADER) + paddedsize;
    bmfh.bfOffBits = 0x36;      // number of bytes to start of bitmap bits

    // fill the infoheader

    info.biSize = sizeof(BITMAPINFOHEADER);
    info.biWidth = width;
    info.biHeight = height;
    info.biPlanes = 1;          // we only have one bitplane
    info.biBitCount = 24;       // RGB mode is 24 bits
    info.biCompression = BI_RGB;
    info.biSizeImage = 0;       // can be 0 for 24 bit images
    info.biXPelsPerMeter = 0x0ec4;     // paint and PSP use this values
    info.biYPelsPerMeter = 0x0ec4;
    info.biClrUsed = 0;         // we are in RGB mode and have no palette
    info.biClrImportant = 0;    // all colors are important

    // now we open the file to write to
    HANDLE file = CreateFile ( bmpfile , GENERIC_WRITE, FILE_SHARE_READ,
         NULL, CREATE_ALWAYS, FILE_ATTRIBUTE_NORMAL, NULL );
    if ( file == NULL )
    {
        CloseHandle ( file );
        return false;
    }

    // write file header
    unsigned long bwritten;
    if ( WriteFile ( file, &bmfh, sizeof ( BITMAPFILEHEADER ), &bwritten, NULL ) == false )
    {
        CloseHandle ( file );
        return false;
    }
    // write infoheader
    if ( WriteFile ( file, &info, sizeof ( BITMAPINFOHEADER ), &bwritten, NULL ) == false )
    {
        CloseHandle ( file );
        return false;
    }
    // write image data
    if ( WriteFile ( file, Buffer, paddedsize, &bwritten, NULL ) == false )
    {
        CloseHandle ( file );
        return false;
    }

    // and close file
    CloseHandle ( file );

    return true;
}

This can then be subsequently loaded using more code from the same link -
/*******************************************************************
BYTE* LoadBMP ( int* width, int* height, long* size
        LPCTSTR bmpfile )

The function loads a 24 bit bitmap from bmpfile,
stores it's width and height in the supplied variables
and the whole size of the data (padded) in <size>
and returns a buffer of the image data

On error the return value is NULL.

  NOTE: make sure you [] delete the returned array at end of
        program!!!
*******************************************************************/

BYTE* LoadBMP ( int* width, int* height, long* size, LPCTSTR bmpfile )
{
    // declare bitmap structures
    BITMAPFILEHEADER bmpheader;
    BITMAPINFOHEADER bmpinfo;
    // value to be used in ReadFile funcs
    DWORD bytesread;
    // open file to read from
    HANDLE file = CreateFile ( bmpfile , GENERIC_READ, FILE_SHARE_READ,
         NULL, OPEN_EXISTING, FILE_FLAG_SEQUENTIAL_SCAN, NULL );
    if ( NULL == file )
        return NULL; // coudn't open file

    // read file header
    if ( ReadFile ( file, &bmpheader, sizeof ( BITMAPFILEHEADER ), &bytesread, NULL ) == false )
    {
        CloseHandle ( file );
        return NULL;
    }

    //read bitmap info

    if ( ReadFile ( file, &bmpinfo, sizeof ( BITMAPINFOHEADER ), &bytesread, NULL ) == false )
    {
        CloseHandle ( file );
        return NULL;
    }

    // check if file is actually a bmp
    if ( bmpheader.bfType != 'MB' )
    {
        CloseHandle ( file );
        return NULL;
    }

    // get image measurements
    *width   = bmpinfo.biWidth;
    *height  = abs ( bmpinfo.biHeight );

    // check if bmp is uncompressed
    if ( bmpinfo.biCompression != BI_RGB )
    {
        CloseHandle ( file );
        return NULL;
    }

    // check if we have 24 bit bmp
    if ( bmpinfo.biBitCount != 24 )
    {
        CloseHandle ( file );
        return NULL;
    }

    // create buffer to hold the data
    *size = bmpheader.bfSize - bmpheader.bfOffBits;
    BYTE* Buffer = new BYTE[ *size ];
    // move file pointer to start of bitmap data
    SetFilePointer ( file, bmpheader.bfOffBits, NULL, FILE_BEGIN );
    // read bmp data
    if ( ReadFile ( file, Buffer, *size, &bytesread, NULL ) == false )
    {
        delete [] Buffer;
        CloseHandle ( file );
        return NULL;
    }

    // everything successful here: close file and return buffer

    CloseHandle ( file );

    return Buffer;
}

You can then load those bitmap files at a later date using the code from Intel https://software.intel.com/sites/landingpage/realsense/camera-sdk/v1.1/documentation/html/manuals_image_and_audio_data.html -
// Image info
PXCImage::ImageInfo info={};
info.format=PXCImage::PIXEL_FORMAT_RGB32;
info.width=image_width;
info.height=image_height;

// Create the image instance
PXCImage image=session->CreateImage(&info);

// Write data
PXCImage::ImageData data;
image->AcquireAccess(PXCImage::ACCESS_WRITE,&data);
... // copy the imported image to data.planes[0]
image->ReleaseAccess(&data);

Using these three sets of code you should easily be able to save Bitmaps in any specified folder using WriteFile then, once loaded you can convert the bitmap back into ImageData.
Let me know how it goes.


Aromatic Scent: Floral, sweet-herbaceous, and rich; with a deeper aroma and less sweet than our other Lavenders.
Safety: Avoid high doses during pregnancy. It may make those with low blood pressure drowsy.
THE BEST LAVENDER ON THE MARKET!
I sell by the bottle plus use in my Lavender Water... best Lavender ever!
I love the scent of this French Lavender. It's a very unique smell that all of my customers love. Great product!
I have bought many lavendar oil and this by far exceeds all others. It is high quality and a great price. I will always buy this particular lavendar from this company. I also plan to buy other oils that i purchase else where from this company as i like their prices and selections!
Wonderful aroma, very calming in diffuser.
Half as much as Lavender EO I was buying & it actually smells every bit as pure, but stronger!
I love this Lavender a whole lot more than another Lavender that I have. I use it in a diffuser all the time love the smell of it. I use a few drops on the pillow case when I sleep, and use it in my bath to relax. I love that you have a choice of size, I have already reordered some more even ordered some to give to family members for Christmas.