text:
Confidence, control and compensation: questions for the modern corporation
Chair: Mr Pierre Lortie and The Hon Paul A Volcker
Over the weekend of 5 - 7 September we met, at the invitation of the Canadian Ditchley Foundation, at the beautiful rural resort of the La Sapiniere in Val David outside Montreal. Our objective was to look in the round at Corporate Governance against the background of some very public corporate scandals at a time of exceptional loss of shareholder value. This had led to considerable activity by Governments and legislators in an attempt to restore confidence. We were fortunate to have around the table participants with wide experience of finance, corporate management, regulation and audit, and especially fortunate in having two co-chairmen of such eminence to guide our discussions.
We looked at the present situation from the points of view of corporate governance generally, compensation and audit. Before doing so, however, we had an exchange of views to try to establish if there really was a crisis, and, if so, how widespread it might be. It appeared from public opinion polls that large multinationals were not trusted and that businessmen were close to the bottom of the league table. Those who were inclined to think that we were in a crisis pointed out that politicians were as unpopular as businessmen. If neither economic nor political leaders could command the trust and respect of the public, then something fairly fundamental was wrong. A recurring theme was the level of executive remuneration. It had risen from 44 to 1 as a ratio of executive to worker pay a few years ago to 300 to 1 in 2002. This was the issue to which the public most frequently referred when asked for their views.
Others urged a more cautious judgement. Care needed to be taken to distinguish between acts which were clearly illegal and acts of excessive self interest which were nevertheless legal or which "pushed the envelope" at the margin of legality. It was the nature of bubbles to see both rule bending in their build-up and recrimination after they burst. Market cycles were often followed by regulatory cycles. As far as institutions were concerned, we were living through a period when public trust in all institutions had fallen sharply. A comment was made that the problem was less acute in Continental Europe where a lower proportion of wealth was held in the stockmarkets. Some of us pointed to a link between the corporate sector and political interests – although it was noted that, in perhaps the most notorious of the corporate scandals, Enron, the Chief Executive had not been helped by his political contacts. Nevertheless, in an area where public perceptions were as important as the reality, we thought that Governments wished to be seen to be responding to public disquiet by being active, hence the stream of regulation and guidance in most industrialised countries. Political concern extended to the top. At the bidding of the G7 the OECD was engaged in revising its 1999 principles of corporate governance. This had thrown up the perennial problem of principles versus rules. Across such a wide spectrum of cultures and countries, including both Developed and Developing, it was virtually impossible to find specific rules which fitted them all. Principles allowed local interpretation and implementation while maintaining common objectives. The comment was made that it was better to satisfy your conscience than your lawyer. At the end of this exchange, although there was not unanimity on the description of "crisis", there seemed to be wide agreement that there were serious problems which needed to be tackled. A balance had to be found which restored trust but which did not drive out entrepreneurial initiative. The cure should not be worse than the ailment. One participant concluded that, if what were clearly illegal acts went unpunished, it was hard to see public trust returning. The sound of a prison door closing needed to be heard.
In addressing corporate governance, we spent some time trying to ascertain whether there was a direct link between good corporate governance practice and shareholder value. No firm evidence was produced for this thesis, although there was some evidence which showed that good corporate governance could help to moderate some downsides. For example, studies showed that companies with well run audit committees had to restate their accounts much less frequently than those without them. A doubter voiced the view that where the CEO and directors' interests were aligned with those of the shareholders, corporate governance would occur naturally and where those interests were unaligned, a strong and determined CEO would probably prevail. Enron was cited as an example of a company with excellent corporate governance principles and an impressive list of non-executive directors.
Nonetheless a number of us held the view that over the long term those who invested in companies with good governance would receive better returns on their investment. This raised the issue of long-term versus short-termism and the nature of the investor. Some of us had had experience of major institutional investors whose interest in governance was minimal and whose overriding concern was with the numbers in the quarterly returns (which were themselves criticised as abetting the short-term culture). The view was expressed that institutional investors, who were more share-owners than holders, should also have governance practices on issues such as voting on corporate questions and that these practices should be made public.
Whatever the view from within the corporate and institutional worlds, there was a general recognition that from a political and public policy point of view, both corporate and government leadership needed to be seen to be tackling the problem. Corporate leaders would also do well to acknowledge the need for some corrective action in order to contain any tendencies to hysteria and over-reaction which could lead to damaging over-regulation.
We attempted a definition of corporate governance and some of us thought it referred to how a company could operate effectively and appropriately under the existing laws, regulations and guidance to the longer-term benefit of shareholders and stakeholders. We thought that it needed to take account of the unique cultures of both companies and countries and therefore a single set of rules could not apply - one size could not and would not fit all. The objective of governance was to protect shareholders from the opportunity costs associated with management ineffectiveness and ineptitude and the "agency costs" associated with illegality or other issues such as control of information not available to the full board, shareholders or the public, and as a means of mediating the problems of conflict of interest. One participant expressed the view that the cornerstone of good governance was the independent directors fulfilling their fiduciary duty. While this was not contested, several voices expressed caution that not too much should be expected from the non-executive directors. Marconi was an example of failure by non-executives to control a powerful chairman/CEO. Their role was obviously important and they should be called on to exercise both their judgement and, where necessary, resolve in facing management but they could not, on their own, deliver governance.
A number of recommendations were made, with the caveat that they were just that and should not become regulations given the diversity of the market place to which they might apply. Many of us thought that the roles of Chairman and Chief Executive Officer should be separated. This would provide a mechanism which would allow the board to operate independently of management. The Chairman should be able to set the agenda of board meetings and ensure that the board received all the necessary information it needed. This would help to prevent a CEO avoiding difficult issues and controlling the flow of information to the board. The Chairman should run the board and the CEO, the business. Some argued against such a separation, citing experience of a single strong CEO leading a corporation to success. Others thought that the tide was running in favour of separation, even in the USA where a generational change in corporate leadership was under way. Reference was made to practice in Germany where the division between supervision and management was at its clearest. The point of view was expressed strongly that, where a Board decided not to split the functions, then a public explanation should be given: comply or explain. And where there was no separation then there should be a strong representative or presiding independent director. In addition, it was suggested that non-executive directors should meet separately from executive members on at least two occasions annually. Great emphasis was also laid on disclosure and transparency. One of the best ways to ensure that governance was taken seriously would be for corporations to develop, from the existing body of principles and rules their own code of corporate governance and publish it as part of the regular process of proxy reporting to investors and regulators.
In terms of the structure of boards, a preference was expressed that at least 50% of directors should be independent of management. Once appointed, however, Directors should be properly inducted into their roles and continuing education should be required as part of the regular schedule of the board. We discussed what qualifications directors should possess but thought it unwise to be specific. This could best be judged by shareholders and stock-exchanges during the appointment process. We were not in favour of setting fixed terms for directors, which was more properly, we thought, a matter for shareholders. A good director could remain independent and valuable for more than 10 years contributing to organisational memory and continuity. On the other hand, mechanisms needed to be put in place for retiring ineffective directors without delay. Boards, however, needed to be refreshed on a regular basis and this, it was suggested, applied in particular to the Chairman of the Board and the Chairmen of the various committees of the Board. Retirement by 70 in Britain and Ireland was noted. Most of us were, however, opposed to age restrictions for directors as long as the appointment process was robust. Finally, in addition to the normal practice of the CEO being nominated by the full board, there was support for the view that new executive directors to the board should be nominated only by the independent directors.
We spent some time considering the vexed question of remuneration against the background of press and public criticism of "fat cat" pay and "rewards for failure". There were those who thought this was an issue which should be regulated with care, predominantly by Boards with the market as a final arbiter. Regulation could, as it appeared to have done in the USA, lead to unintended consequences. The question was, however, asked as to why executive pay had risen so dramatically. One senior participant maintained that he was unconvinced that CEOs were now ten times more effective than their predecessors. Transparency was seen as essential. Investors should be kept fully informed. But a corollary could be that once salaries were firmly in the public domain there might be a "race to the top" by other CEOs which would need to be controlled. Some of us recommended that any further regulation should be dependant on an evidence-based assessment of the need for it and an examination of the effects of current regulation to determine its success or failure. In an explanation of "reward for failure" it was claimed that many such cases arose where a CEO had been recruited to try to turn round a failing firm. Without some assurance about their own financial future such people would not take on these high-risk operations. These exceptions apart, the problem was acknowledged. Transparency about salaries and approval by shareholders seemed the best response.
In our discussion of compensation we came to the thorny problem of stock-based incentives, in particular stock-options. The latter were described as the root of all evil by one participant and by another as a perverse incentive that had done much to drive a wedge between the interests of CEOs and directors and their shareholders. Others argued, from the point of view of start-up firms or those operating in certain high-tech or communications sectors, that stock-options were a reasonable way of incentivising senior management. If they were expensed, they could make a serious impact on the bottom line. And commented another, if they were expensed when issued and then never taken up, the accountants had no clear answer as to how to remove them from the accounts. Notwithstanding this, there was support for the view, that while share-options might have a role to play in certain specific situations, in general they could lead to distorted behaviour. Some thought that mega-options were the most objectionable and that all share-options should indeed be expensed at the time they were granted. It was suggested that if the interests of the directors and other employees needed to be aligned with the shareholders then a straight grant of stock might raise fewer problems. This led to a discussion about investors and speculators. Investors were there for the long term and speculators strictly for the short. A former Chairman commented that in his view, the directors' responsibilities were to the company and its long-term future and not necessarily, in the first instance, to the shareholders. We were told of companies where stock had been allocated right down the line to all employees in proportion to their salaries. Some of us thought that an important test of alignment would be investment by executives in the company's stock. Nominating committees might, we thought, encourage new directors and senior executives to invest their own money - and to consider the implications of a refusal to do so. A word of warning was, however, expressed about heavy pension plan investments in the shares of the parent company. Greater diversity was desirable for such critical long-term instruments.
In our look at audit we considered its three fundamental dimensions - governance functions, in particular, the audit committee; accounting and auditing rules and practices; and the independence, role and culture of the auditing firm. Together with law firms, auditors were among the most important of the gatekeepers in the market. It was essential that investors should be able to rely on their judgement and integrity. Great importance was attached to the role of the audit committee which should be independent and staffed by the independent directors, led, we hoped by an independent Chairman of the Board who could strengthen the committee functions by ensuring that the Committee and the Board received the information they needed. Another important function of the committee was to create a direct channel of communications between the external auditors and the Board. The hope was strongly expressed that there would be convergence of accounting standards around the world to reflect the requirements of the globalisation of business and capital markets. Such convergence should, we thought, ideally take place on the basis of the profession's own efforts. We noted the role of the International Accounting Standards Board as the standard setter. Some expressed real concern that, under prompting by France, the EU might seek to exercise political pressure on the outcome. If this proved to be the case, warned a US participant, the SEC would be bound to weigh in on the other side. In achieving effective disclosure, the role of financial analysts was raised. They, unlike auditors, were not subject to regulation or professional discipline. If rules and generally accepted standards were important, so also, we thought, was enforcement. Reference was made to the lack of resources at the SEC to ensure compliance. We were advised that consistent accounting standards, implemented and enforced uniformly were the best means of protection.
We also looked at the role and responsibilities of the individual audit partner. Possibly the single biggest influence on the audit process was the quality and character of the person conducting the audit. Willingness to stand up to powerful management and say "no" was essential but difficult given that audit partners' jobs were sometimes thought to depend on their audit clients not moving their accounts. This independence should, we suggested, be fully supported by the audit committee and be recognised in the remuneration of the audit partners concerned.
Concern was expressed over the reduction of large auditing firms from 5 to 4, with the demise of Arthur Anderson which had high-lighted the problems caused by the drive to provide non-audit services. Although the big 4 had now divested themselves of their consultancy businesses, it still seemed to some of us to be reasonable and cost-effective for them to provide some non-audit services, like taxation advice. But if the 4 were to be further reduced to 3, and some thought the risk was real, choice and competition would effectively be ruled out, prompting government intervention. Even in present circumstances, according to one participant, there was effectively little or no choice, given the differing expertise of the big 4 and their relationships with possible competitors. We noted the practice in France where all corporate accounts were audited by two firms, usually one large and one small. This had helped to maintain diversity and choice.
The question of auditor's liability came up. Engagement letters which sought to limit this were regretted but thought essential given the otherwise open-ended nature of the liability. If, however, auditors wanted a cap on their liability then it was argued they should do a more thorough job. They had, after all, failed to identify discrepancies of billions of dollars in some of the highest profile cases. This led us to the practice of some companies trying to reduce their costs by doing an audit "on the cheap". If auditors were to be asked to do more, they should receive realistic fees for the work done. Audit committees should assure themselves that fees were set at proper levels.
In a look back at the ground we had covered we asked ourselves if the policy response to recent events had been adequate and likely to restore the legitimacy of the markets with the public. Unlike previous "crises", this one had not been precipitated by a failure of the Banks or other financial institutions. It had been triggered in the board-rooms which had, it was suggested, been exposed to problems caused by share-options. Incentive schemes needed to be established which had legitimacy with the public. The comment was made that markets and those who worked with them were motivated by carrots and sticks. At the moment the stick seemed to be the preferred instrument of influence. Capitalism was a messy business. It was not possible to take the risk out of it. Quotations from Lord Keynes and Edmund Burke were adduced in favour of constructive imprecision to allow for this "messyness". The major audit firms had, it was claimed, caused some of the problems by franchising their names around the world without ensuring uniformity of quality in their service. With the accent on the split roles of Chairman and CEO, the independence of the audit committees etc, concern was expressed, by one participant, that boards were becoming less unitary with a corresponding diminution in their effectiveness. Nonetheless, in a final round on two of the key issues - Independent Chairmen and CEOs and stock-options, a majority seemed to rally to the desirability of the former with the onus on those not so doing to explain why they were not splitting the roles. On the latter a view was strongly expressed by a number of us that it would be preferable not to use them, but if exceptionally they were, they should be carefully circumscribed and subject to a public explanation of why they were being issued. Overall, we were again cautioned against encouraging the impression that legislation had taken the risk out of markets. Investors needed to be reminded of their own responsibilities for assessing risk.
I am grateful to Canadian Ditchley for the admirable arrangements they made for our conference and for financing it so generously. My thanks go also to Pierre Lortie and Paul Volcker for chairing our discussions and contributing their own wide experience to them. I am grateful to the participants for sparing the time from their busy schedules to be with us, some from a considerable distance and to Francis Finlay for his contribution which assisted the travel of the group from Heathrow. The comment was made at the conference that in four or so years' time we might know better if the recent measures taken had proved effective or whether memories had, once again, proved short and the same problems were on their way back. It is a subject to which Ditchley will need to return.
Co-Chairmen:
Mr Pierre Lortie
President and Chief Operating Officer, Bombardier Transportation (2000-); President and Chief Operating Officer, Bombardier Capital (2000-); President, Bombardier Regional Aircraft Division (1993-00)
The Hon Paul A Volcker
Chairman, Board of Governors, Federal Reserve System (1979-1987); Chairman, James D Wolfensohn Inc (1987-1996); chair, International Accounting Standards Committee; Emeritus Professor, International Economic Policy, Princeton University
Mr Jim Baillie
Counsel, Torys LLP; non-executive Chair, Independent Electricity Market Operator (Ontario) and Corel Corporation; Director, Sun Life Financial Corporation; a Director the Canadian Ditchley Foundation
Mr David Brown
Chair of the Ontario Securities Commission (1998-)
Mr Derek Burney
President & CEO, Member of the Board of Directors Corel Corporation
Mr Terance Corcoran
Financial Editor, National Post (1998-); Formerly MD, Executive Editor and Editor the Financial Times Canada
Mr Raymond Garneau
Chairman, Industrial Alliance Insurance & Financial Services (2000-); President & CEO Industrial Alliance Life Insurance Co. (1988-2000); Member of Parliament Laval-des-Rapides (1984-88); National Assembly, Minister of Finance, President Treasury Board (1970)
Mr Jan Grude
Advisor to boards on corporate governance
Mr Bob Hamilton
Assistant Deputy Minister, Financial Sector Policy Branch (1996-); General Director, Financial Sector Policy Branch (1995)
Mr Claude Lamoureaux
President and CEO Ontario Teachers Pension Plan. Formerly: President & CEO Metropolitan Life Holdings, Vice President of group insurance and Vice President of pension and financial services Met Life, USA
Mr David Longworth
Deputy Governor, Bank of Canada (2003-); Adviser to Governor Bank of Canada; Chief of Research, Chief of Monetary and Financial Analysis, Bank of Canada; Deputy Chief, International Department, Bank of Canada
Dr Mike Maila
Bank of Montreal (1983-): Executive Vice-President and Head of Risk Management Group (2001-); a Director and Treasurer, Canadian Ditchley Foundation
Mr Roger Martin
Dean of Joseph Rotman School of Management, University of Toronto (1998). Chair, Ontario Task Force on Competitiveness, Productivity and Economic Press
Mr John McNeil
Director and Chairman of Executive Committee, Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, (1988-99); a Director, Canadian Ditchley Foundation
Mr Grant Reuber OC FRSC
President, Canadian Ditchley Foundation (1989-); Senior Adviser and Director, Sussex Circle (1999-); Economic Adviser to Prime Minister of Lithuania (1991-92); Bank of Montreal: President (1983-87), a Governor, The Ditchley Foundation; President, The Canadian Ditchley Foundation
Mr Willliam Robson
Director of Research, C D Howe Institute; Canadian Liaison Officer, British-North American Committee; author
Mr David Smith
President and CEO of the Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants (2001-); Chair and Senior Partner of Pricewaterhouse Coopers Global Board Member
Ms Barbara Stymiest
CEO, Toronto Stock Exchange Group; Board Member, TSX Group, World Federation of Exchanges,Business Development Bank of Canada, Public Policy Forum
The Hon Michael Wilson PC
President and CEO, Brinson Canada Co; Chairman, Michael Wilson International Inc (1994-); Member of Parliament (1978-93); former Minister of Industry Science and Technology, Minister of Finance and Minister of International Trade
M Philippe Lagayette OLH
Chairman, J P Morgan et Cie SA, Paris (1998-); Head of Staff, Economic and Finance Ministry (1981-84); Deputy Governor, Banque de France (1984-92); Chairman, Caisse des Depots et Consignations (1992-97)
Herr Wilhelm Bonse-Geuking
CEO, Deutsche BP AG, Group Vice President Europe
The Rt Hon Donald Johnston PC QC
Secretary General, Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (1996-); MP for St. Henri-Westmount (1978-1988); Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada (1984); Minister of State for Economic Development and Technology (1983)
Mr Tullio Cedraschi
President and CEO, CN Investment Division (1977-); Director, Toronto Stock Exchange, Helix Investments (Canada); Chairman McGill Investment Committee
Mr Ashish Bhatt
Deputy Director, The Ditchley Foundation (2001-); formerly: Special Assistant to The Rt Hon Paul Boateng MP (1996-2001)
Sir Nigel Broomfield KCMG
Director, The Ditchley Foundation (1999-); Non-executive Director, Smiths Group plc (1998-); formerly: HM Diplomatic Service (1969-97)
Mr Jeffrey Coorsh
Chairman and Executive Officer, PCG (Pragmatic Corporate Governance) (2001-); Board Member, Centurion Press Publishing; co- founder, Prospect Magazines; Independent Director and Chairman, Steering Committee of European Business Forum; formerly: Chemical Bank (now Chase) New York, London
Mr Roger Davis
Global Regulatory Leader, UK Head of Professional Affairs, PricewaterhouseCoopers (2000-); Deputy Chairman UK Turnbull Corporate Governance Committee (1999); UK Government Company Law Consultative Committee (1999-2001)
Mr Anthony Gilbert
Group Management Development Director, Vodafone Group Services
Mr Ian Hay Davison
Chairman, Regulatory Council, Dubai International Financial Centre
Mr David Lillycrop
Director and General Counsel, Smiths Group plc
Mr John Plender
Leader Writer, Financial Times
Mr Ken Rushton
Director Listing, Financial Services Authority
Mrs Barbara S Thomas
Executive Chairman, Private Equity Investor Plc; Deputy Chairman , Friend's Provident Plc; Director CapitalRadio Plc, UKAEA and The Energy Group of The Department of Trade and Industry; formerly, Commissioner US Securities and Exchange Commission; Executive Director, News International Plc and Samuel Montague Plc. A Governor the Ditchley Foundation
Ms Anne Willcocks
Director, Corporate Law and Governance, Department of Trade and Industry; Director Higgs Rview of Non-Executive Directors (2002-3)
Mr Thomas Donlan
Editor, Editorial Page, Barron's National Business and Financial Weekly (1992-); Washington Editor (1981-91); author
Mr Francis Finlay
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Clay Finlay Inc. (1982-); formerly: Head of International Investment Department, Morgan Guaranty, New York; Member, International Advisory Board of EURONEXT and Dubai International Financial Centre; a Director, American Ditchley Foundation
Mr Hoffer Kaback
President, Gloucester Capital Corporation; former Director, Sunshine Mining and Refining Corporation, Lewis Galoob Toys, Biotechnology General Corp
Mr Bevis Longstreth
Retired partner, Debevoise & Plimpton, New York; Commissioner, Securities and Exchange Commission (1981-1984); member, Panel on Audit Effectiveness, Public Oversight Board (1999-2001)
Professor Jeswald W Salacuse
Henry J Braker Professor of Commercial Law, The Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, Tufts University (1986-); Dean, The Fletcher School (1986-94)
Dr Richard F Syron
Executive Chairman, Thermo Electron Corporation (2002-); Chairman and CEO, Thermo Electron Corporation (1999-2002); Chairman and CEO, American Stock Exchange (1994-99); President and CEO, Federal Reserve Bank of Boston (1989-94)
Professor Mr Lynn E. Turner
Professor and Director, The Centre for Quality Financial Reporting, College of Business


text:
Fugitive felon admits to possessing a stolen handgun
September 3, 2020 September 3, 2020 Lori Mason
25-year-old Michael Powell was charged with convicted felon in possession of a handgun and theft of property after being recognized by a Memphis police officer as a fugitive with active warrants for domestic violence and vandalism.
On September 3rd, Memphis Police Officer R. Walker observed a male exiting a maroon Dodge Charger on 2810 South Perkins Road at the BP gas station. Officer Walker approached the male and asked his name. Michael Powell confirmed his identity and the officer's suspicion that he was the man described to have arrest warrants for domestic violence and vandalism.
Michael Powell (SCSO)
While being detained, Michael notified Officer Walker that he was a convicted felon and in possession of a handgun. The handgun was located under the driver's seat of the car. Officer Walker retrieved the stolen FNX .45 handgun containing fifteen live .45 rounds. The gun was stolen during a burglary on August 3rd at Shoot Point Blank located at 1740 Century Cove and is valued at approximately $1,199.
Michael Powell was arrested and charged with convicted felon in possession of a handgun and theft of property. He is still currently jailed and has a hearing scheduled on September 4th.
Crime & Arrests$1199, 1740 Century Cove, 2810 S. Perkins Road, 901, Bartlett, BP Gas Station, Collierville, Convicted Felon in Possession of Handgun, Cordova, Crime, FNX .45, Germantown, Memphis, Memphis Crime, Memphis Police, Michael Powell, Officer R. Walker, Scoop Memphis, SCSO, Shelby County, Shelby County Jail, Shelby County News, Shelby County Sheriff, Shoot Poin Blank, Theft of Property
Teen charged with possession when caught with 33.4 grams of marijuana and a rifle
Man trespasses and points gun at another, per report

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


These photos were shot many years ago while I was taking photography courses at Ohio State University. Growing up in Columbus, Ohio, the thought of attending OSU did not cross my mind as I thought it just too large an institution of higher learning for a south-end boy like me to attend. After serving four years in the U.S. Navy in order to receive the benefits of the G.I. Bill, which enabled me to attend college, I eventually decided to attend Ohio State because of its photography department. However, after taking several black & white courses, I made the decision to switch majors to accounting because the photography courses all seemed to be held in the afternoon and as a married man with two precious babies to support, I was working full-time from 3 until at least 11 p.m. and thought it the prudent thing to do.
One comment I have remembered my instructors always telling me was that I did not print my enlargements dark enough. I do not know if being color-blind has any bearing on my ability to see things in black & white as others do, but hopefully, these photographs do not look too terrible.
Growing up in Columbus, Ohio, the thought of attending Ohio State University did not cross my mind as I thought it just too large an institution of learning. After serving four years in the U.S. Navy in order to receive the benefits of the G.I. Bill, I eventually decided to attend Ohio State because of its photography department. However, after taking several black & white courses, I decided to switch majors to accounting because the photography courses all seemed to be held in the afternoon and as a married man with two precious babies to support, I was working full-time from 3 until at least 11 p.m. and thought it the prudent thing to do.
One comment I have remembered my instructors always telling me was that I did not print my enlargements dark enough. I do not know if being color-blind has any bearing on my ability to see things in black & white, but hopefully, these photographs do not look too terrible. In a weird, ironic twist of fate, the fourth photograph was shot roughly ten years before I moved into and renovated an old farm-house. Losing the proverbial farm during a severe life-threatening mid-life crisis, I used to tell potential buyers the best thing about the house was the barn!


Alexis Hilliard created handmade photomontages, working with historical photographs of American Japanese being forced from their homes from west coast locations including Bellevue and the Greater Seattle Region. She combines highly detailed layers of imagery into thought-provoking compositions and visual interpretations, expanding on the complexities and current parallels of this unpleasant but all too familiar recent American history.
Hilliard is a collage artist originally from Portland, OR, currently based in New York. Made painstakingly by hand, her work is pieced together from thousands of cut-up photographs that reference both art historical and personal imagery. These coalesce to make complex, visually seductive compositions assembled from layer upon layer of partially shrouded fragments of information.
See Alexis' work at the Bellevue Arts Museum.


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redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


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text:
More 1962-63 Candid Camera photos & overview of staff who have passed away
May 28, 2015 /2 Comments/in MCHS Stories, Newsletter, Toronto /by Jaan Pill
1962-63 yearbook. Caption: "Now a Word From Our Sponsor!"
I can only guess what the photo on the right is about. Something to do with a sound system. Maybe at a dance? If anybody knows, we look forward to your comments.
"I Have a Little Surprise for You"
The "I have a little surprise for you" caption refers to Mr. Louis.
MR. HILL (in capital letters) the caption says.
Graeme Decarie has shared his recollection of Mr. Hill at a previous post:
Graeme Decarie has found his copy of the 1962-63 MCHS Highlander and shares additional recollections
We've spoken earlier about Mr. Hanna at another previous post:
Graeme Decarie mentions that Mr. Hanna was principal of a high school way up the Ottawa River
That's Jane Moore on the left, Mr. Hannah in the middle. Some time back, we asked: "Can you tell us who the third person is?" We are pleased to say we have the answer: "The girl," Sonia Herman Shron has informed us (see Comment below), "on the right in the photo with Jane Moore and Mr. Hannah is Sylvia Orlean. We were in 11A in 1962-63."
More information from Graeme Decarie: Staff deaths – and occasional meetings
I can catch you up a little on this.
Jack Leroy became principal of Baron Byng, then retired to become an Anglican priest (later a bishop) in a breakaway Anglican sect in Niagara Falls. He came to visit me one night when I lived in Pointe Claire. It was obvious to both him and me that he had little time left. I think I was the one who took him to the hospital where he died after a short term. This was a good, twenty years ago.
Alan Talbot became schools director for Montreal, then retired. I think he died a little before Jack Leroy.
Jim McGowan died at least 15 years ago of a heart attack. just after he returned for the summer to his farm near Cowansville. He had spent the greater part of his teaching career in Japan.
Mr. Hopper retired to become a church organist in PEI. I saw him there about 1970.
I bumped into Vic Alleslev on a street near Concordia. It was very quick, only a minute or so – and this was at least 20 years ago.. He was looking quite unchanged from MCHS days. His daughter Liz (class of 63?) was with him. She was quite stunning – the classic Nordic beauty.
I hear from George Allan from time to time. He became a community college teacher in Sarnia. My last contact with him was a month or so ago. And he seemed fine.
I saw Mrs. Jelinek in a shopping centre, I think, probably about ten years ago. She hadn't changed a bit.
I spent a day or two with Bob Saul about 20 years ago. He was retiring to Kingston, on a road close to Royal Military College.
Marg Carr I bumped into at the Montreal airport. She was on her way home to BC.
I am occasionally in touch with Bob Hill. He has been unwell for some years, now.
Graeme Decarie
I much appreciate the update, Graeme. I will update the relevant page at the MCHS 2015 website:
Students & Staff Who Have Passed Away
I am also just delighted that such photos were taken, and that they were published in the yearbooks. In a sense, the photos provide an opportunity for us to gaze into the past.
It's quite an experience, for me, to look closely at each of the photos and to think of all of the events, in people's lives, that were happening in the years leading up to each photo, and that have happened in the years leading up to the present moment.
https://preservedstories.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Preserved-Stories-logo-horizontal-1.png 0 0 Jaan Pill https://preservedstories.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Preserved-Stories-logo-horizontal-1.png Jaan Pill2015-05-28 20:06:152015-06-19 17:55:32More 1962-63 Candid Camera photos & overview of staff who have passed away
Sonia Herman Shron says:
The girl on the right in the photo with Jane Moore and Mr. Hannah is Sylvia Orlean. We were in 11A in 1962-63.
Jaan Pill says:
Wonderful to be able to complete the caption, which I've now done, with your help. I'm very much hoping that you and other Alumni from 11A (1962-63) will be able to make it to MCHS 2015 in Toronto on October 17, 2015.
For your interest, here's a Publicity Video about the Reunion that we've posted online just today:
Additional MCHS 1962-63 yearbook photos. Limbo Contest. Beatniks. Women's roles in Special Operations during the Second World War


Do you know who you are…really? Have you pondered the question - Who am I? Behind the labels of your name or occupation, your gender, societal roles or ancestry, what is the true essence of "you"? Perhaps you can answer this question to your satisfaction, maybe not. But if you are curious to know, then tell me – just how far down the rabbit hole are you willing to go in search of an answer? Trust me, it goes deep.
Although a correct definition as far as it goes, rather than giving clarity and insight - this elaborate mouthful of words simply mystifies further if you're not familiar with his material. So let's approach this question from another perspective.
Perhaps you've heard somewhere that "you are a spiritual being having a physical experience." In essence – you are a multi-dimensional, BioSpiritual Being – a soul/consciousness who perceives experiences through multiple bodies.
I've discussed the topic of multi-dimensional reality in Holistic Health and Biospirituality, as well as in the two Metaphysics of Biospirituality articles in some detail. However, while explaining the concept of multiple bodies, these articles focus more on the mechanics of healing and communication pathways between the bodies.
This excellent website includes a series of articles exploring the premise that there are five bodies or relative aspects of self - the mental body, the physical body and the soul body (sometimes referred to as a spiritual body)- which is essentially congruent with my understanding. What's intriguing about this model however is that it recognizes two additional bodies at this stage of our social and consciousness evolution - a legal body and even a digital body.
The subject of multiple bodies and multi-dimensional being-ness is extensive and potentially can expand thresholds of perception. The premise of this model of the five bodies of biospiritual existence is very useful and worth spending some time with. It can serve as a functional tool for understanding and operating within today's "reality" of shifting perceptions.
Traveling a little further down the rabbit hole we learn that the core essence of who you truly are has been defined as the "Sovereign Integral" by James, the anonymous creator of the Wingmakers website. The details would take much more space than this article allows to explain something as vast as the Sovereign Integral - mainly because this concept exists within a larger context.
However, briefly, "the individualized human being, free of the HMS, [Human Mind System] is called the Sovereign Integral…This is the true identity of each and every human being. In this model of the Sovereign Integral, we are Gods of our local multiverse, and collectively, we are First Source in the multiverse." - The Sovereign Integral from James' Interview with Project Camelot.
To explore the realm of the Sovereign Integral is a potentially life changing quest. Should you feel so inclined, begin by visiting Project Camelot's website where you can download a PDF of Project Camelot's interview with James.
Consider doing this – instead of seeking answers to existential questions outside yourself, find them within. Spiritual wisdom through the ages has taught that all the answers we seek we already know. However, social conditioning trains us to doubt our own innate wisdom and seek external validation and knowledge.
Numerous methods have been used to access the wisdom that resides within us all. One method called spiritual autolysis is described by Jed Mckenna in his book – Spiritual Enlightenment, The Damnedest Thing. Essentially, the goal of this process is to write the Truth.
"There are three hundred and sixty degrees in a circle, " says Arthur.
"There aren't three hundred and sixty degrees in a circle? " he asks.
Well, you get the idea. The rabbit hole is deep indeed. It's no wonder many spiritual seekers spend years contemplating this one question alone. In McKenna's case, he says it took him an agonizing couple of years to burn away every layer of illusion until he arrived at his own answer.
Here's a clue – who you are cannot ever be fully known by the mind/brain because it only understands concepts, details. The heart knows Truth.
For the purposes of this article, let's climb out of the deepest depths of the rabbit hole and present a relative answer we can use in moving forward to the next question of why we are here. At your convenience, you can always go back and explore the various websites listed above or embark on the soul-burning journey of spiritual autolysis.
Are an infinitely powerful, wise and abundant being!
How do you relate this to your daily life? On a practical level - whatever that "inherent purpose for existing" happens to be, it is revealed when you truly know who you are.


The Ravell'd Sleave: First It Was Bad. Then It Was Good. Then It Was Frustrating.
Oh boy. I am so sorry. Insurance woes that are not of your own making are the worst. I hope that your "proof of insurance" works and all will be corrected.
I'm so very sorry for your troubles with your health insurance. We can definitely relate, having spent hours on the phone with ours in frustration after Rick's recent surgery, trying to get things in order with billing and deductibles and all sorts of other unpleasantness. It all boils down to Whatever Is Easiest For Them/Their System, and Screw The Patient.
But your Baltimore Trip sounds like it was so pleasant with friends and lots of love and admiration for Hamlet. Yay for that!
Geeze Louise! Medical insurance is such a PITA (and so friggin' expensive - at least for me). We had a rather large co-pay last week for Fletch's cataract surgery which no one had mentioned in all the billion of calls leading up to the surgery. At least our deductible for the year has been met already - lol. Hope your situation gets straightened out quickly.
Wow......I can feel your pain. It's not exactly the same thing but I was notified by Bank of America on Friday my debit card had been compromised. When I tried to call to find out was up I got the run around because not only was my card compromised but it had been blocked a few hours later meaning all the info I had to put in the automated voice system would not go through. Trying to get a HUMAN on the phone took forever. Then when my new card came yesterday and I tried putting it into all the sites I use autopay for it kept coming up that the new card was unauthorized so today I have to start all over again. I'm off to the bank right now.
I think there is a circle of hell reserved for hr people who screw up employees' insurance. I hope it's resolved soon, and thankful you at least had a great weekend.
I hope this frustration can be resolved smoothly AND quickly.
Ugh - that is frustrating. Sometimes I think insurance companies make things difficult in the hopes you'll just give up and they don't have to pay.
I will say - our Canadian healthcare isn't perfect, but I'd take it over the U.S. any day!
But at least you were able to have a lovely visit and Hamlet got good and spoiled!
Oof. I feel your frustration. I am glad at least you had someone who could 'expedite' things but why, why is it ALWAYS OUR FAULT??
The delay on the crown is expected but sheesh, just the frosting on an annoying day.
If I remember correctly in Japan, if others are going to make you miss something (appointments, work) due to their behaviors, they pay you for the missed work, appointment etc. Kind of cuts down on this $#@! Also, why didn't the clinic etc call a day or two ahead to confirm or notify you? I seem to get twenty calls/reminders to the point I'm tired of it by the time I'm supposed to go.
Anyrate, I hope it works out quickly.
Health care ---------the seventh level of HELL! Don't even get me started on the denial of benefits. ARGH!
Yeah, frustrating definitely frustrating. The only good thing that came out of the "day off" besides the expedited insurance fix is at least you didn't make YOUR way all the way to the DDS to have them tell you then the crown had not been delivered.
Here is to another good weekend.
PS: Hamlet is super cute in that photo.
what the heck? I would have lost my mind. Sorry that HR screwed up and the fact that you printed out what you elected should help you if normal people are resolving. But lately I have lost all faith in normal people.


text:
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We have successfully tendered and won a new contract to provide M&E and Fabric maintenance services across a multi-building portfolio in Central London. The resident team of 7 multi-skilled operatives are responsible for over 15 out buildings responding to PPM and reactive requests.
MJ Ferguson were selected for our experience in delivering M&E and Fabric services to key accounts within London.


Cooke Motors is a family run independent garage based in Plymouth, close to the city centre. As a family run business we are extremely proud of the professional yet friendly service we have provided since 1982. We can service any make or model of car or light commercial often over 50% cheaper than main dealers and cheaper than the national car servicing websites that have appeared.
Cost efficient services regardless of the make or model, because our qualified technicians are fully trained and have access to the latest diagnostics equipment.


text:
Tremors as an atypical presentation of cervical myelopathy
Melinda Hui Si Goh, Arun-Kumar Kaliya-Perumal, Jacob Yoong-Leong Oh
Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Division of Spine, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore
Date of Submission 12-Apr-2019
Date of Decision 20-May-2019
Date of Acceptance 22-May-2019
Dr. Jacob Yoong-Leong Oh
Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Division of Spine, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, 11 Jalan Tan Tock Seng
DOI: 10.4103/jmedsci.jmedsci_75_19
Tremors are common especially in the elderly population. However, tremors occurring secondary to cervical myelopathy are rarely reported. We report the case of a 91-year-old gentleman who was admitted to the neurology service with chief complaints of bilateral upper- and lower-limb tremors. This had progressed rapidly over 2 weeks to the extent that he was not able to feed himself and was unable to walk without support. An initial working diagnosis of Parkinson's disease was made but was later dismissed because of the atypical features. A magnetic resonance imaging of cervical spine was subsequently performed which revealed a large disc herniation at C3–C4 level, causing severe spinal canal stenosis and cord compression. Given this radiological presentation and the absence of other objective pathologies on further investigations, we correlated his symptoms to the underlying cervical cord compression. He underwent anterior cervical discectomy and fusion which led to complete resolution of tremors by 8 weeks postsurgery. His unsteadiness eventually resolved, and there was no recurrence of tremors throughout our follow-up period. This case highlights a rare atypical presentation of cervical myelopathy as peripheral limb tremors. The diagnostic dilemma, management strategies, and hypothesis to explain this phenomenon are discussed.
Keywords: Intervertebral disc displacement, neurologic manifestations, spine, spondylosis, tremor
Goh MH, Kaliya-Perumal AK, Oh JY. Tremors as an atypical presentation of cervical myelopathy. J Med Sci 2019;39:296-8
Goh MH, Kaliya-Perumal AK, Oh JY. Tremors as an atypical presentation of cervical myelopathy. J Med Sci [serial online] 2019 [cited 2020 Jan 20];39:296-8. Available from: http://www.jmedscindmc.com/text.asp?2019/39/6/296/260555
Literature regarding clinical manifestations of spinal cord compression is mostly focused on characteristic presentations such as unsteadiness, weakness, loss of fine motor skills, and certain pathognomonic signs.[1] Usually, patients with myelopathy present with one or more of the above-mentioned signs and symptoms; hence, making a diagnosis is relatively straightforward. However, myelopathy can rarely manifest in atypical forms masquerading as a different pathology.[2],[3],[4] One such manifestation is limb tremors, as seen in this reported case, which we postulated to have occurred as a result of cervical myelopathy. We intend to highlight this rare atypical presentation and the possible underlying pathophysiological processes.
A 91-year-old gentleman presented to the hospital with a 2-week history of tremors in all the four limbs, associated with unsteady gait and loss of hand dexterity. Premorbidly, he was home ambulant without walking aids and was independent in carrying out his activities. However, his symptoms progressed, eventually interfering with his physical functionality. He reported difficulty with fine motor skills such as using chopsticks and buttoning his shirt. He had a known history of hypertension, dyslipidemia, gastroesophageal reflux disease, and benign prostatic hyperplasia with chronic urinary retention. He had been a smoker for many years.
On examination, there was no cognitive impairment, and his higher functions were normal. He could neither walk nor perform tandem gait due to his unsteadiness. Both resting and action tremors were noted in all the four limbs, more evidently over his right limbs, which aggravated on stretching out his hands. Neurologically, there was hypertonia with associated hyperreflexia and clonus elicited over the right upper and lower limbs. There was no demonstrable cogwheeling or rigidity. Motor and sensory examinations of all the limbs were unremarkable. Babinski, Romberg's, and Hoffman's tests were negative. His anal sphincter tone remained intact, and there was no saddle anesthesia.
He was initially admitted to the department of neurology with suspicion for possible stroke or Parkinson's disease. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain revealed background small-vessel disease with chronic lacunar infarcts and chronic cerebral microbleed. There was no acute infarct or intracranial hemorrhage. Magnetic resonance angiography showed atherosclerotic luminal irregularities with absence of flow-limiting stenosis. MRI of the cervical spine revealed a large disc herniation at C3–C4 level, causing severe spinal canal stenosis and cord compression [Figure 1]. Both cervical MRI and computed tomography scan were performed, and the findings remained consistent of spinal stenosis, leading to cord compression characterized by faint T2 hyperintensity within the cord.
Figure 1: Sagittal and axial cut magnetic resonance images at the C3–C4 level showing large disc herniation causing severe spinal canal stenosis and cord compression
Based on clinicoradiological assessment, the possibility of a medical disorder was ruled out, and a definite diagnosis of cervical myelopathy due to canal stenosis caused by C3–C4 disc herniation was made. He was then referred to our spine team, with the working impression that his limb tremors could be a nonspecific manifestation of myelopathy due to cord compression. We performed a C3–C4 anterior cervical discectomy and fusion to manage his condition [Figure 2].
Figure 2: Intraoperative C-arm image showing C3–C4 anterior cervical discectomy and fusion
Postoperatively, rehabilitation protocols were initiated as tolerated. We noted that the intensity of his tremors reduced over the course of his rehabilitation. At his first outpatient review, 8 weeks postsurgery, he reported complete resolution of limb tremors. Regarding functional mobility, his unsteadiness eventually resolved, and he was back to his premorbid baseline status. One year after surgery, he continues to be under our follow-up, and X-rays revealed solid fusion of C3 and C4 [Figure 3].
Figure 3: One-year postoperative follow-up X-ray image showing the implants in situ and solid fusion
Tremors are common especially in the elderly population, with majority being essential tremors due to various disorders which may not affect physical activities and thus require no treatment.[5] However, pathological tremors as in Parkinson's disease can be disabling and need to be intervened. Parkinson's disease classically presents with resting tremors that improve with intentional movements, although many other variations may exist.[6] However, in our patient, after a thorough neurological review by the neurologist, it was deemed that the symptoms were not due to a cranioneurological cause. Radiological evaluation revealed a large disc herniation at C3–C4 level, causing severe spinal canal stenosis and cord compression. Given this radiological presentation and the absence of other objective pathologies on further investigations, we correlated the symptoms to the underlying cervical cord compression.
Even though the exact mechanism is unknown, various hypotheses can explain the relationship between movement disorders and cervical cord lesions.[7],[8] These include altered sensory input of the proprioceptive pathways, abnormal processing of both input and output signals by the spinal neurons, and augmented excitability of the motor neurons in the spine. It has also been postulated that disruptions of the somatosensory pathway or that of the motor cortex to the striatum may also produce abnormal movements with absence of sensory impairment. However, it is not clearly understood why movement disorders secondary to spinal cord pathologies are rarely observed. It could possibly be that these disorders are underreported in the literature.
Some authors have reported cases with movement disorders such as pseudoathetosis and myoclonus occurring secondary to cervical myelopathy.[4],[9],[10] However, their presentation differed from our case as our patient did not have arrhythmic and anarchic brief jerks suggestive of myoclonus or writhing movements suggestive of pseudoathetosis.[9],[10] Instead, resting and action tremors were noticed in addition to other signs of myelopathy. In this clinical scenario, the dilemma is whether the tremors would resolve following a decompression surgery addressing the cord compression. However, it was hard to predict the outcome because tremors are generally not described as a symptom of myelopathy. Given our patient's progressive deterioration and no clear evidence of other movement disorders, a decision was made to surgically relieve the cord compression. There was complete resolution of tremors after surgery which supports the hypothesis that cervical myelopathy can present with movement disorders such as tremors.
Tremors could be a rare atypical manifestation of myelopathy due to cord compression. A high index of suspicion is needed to diagnose this form of myelopathy by ruling out all the other possibilities. With clinicoradiological evidence of cord compression, it is essential to consider definite management in the form of decompression surgery to address this issue.
Declaration of patient consent
The authors certify that they have obtained appropriate patient consent forms. In the form, the patient has given his consent for his images and other clinical information to be reported in the journal. The patient understands that his name and initials will not be published, and due efforts will be made to conceal his identity, but anonymity cannot be guaranteed.
Luo CA, Kaliya-Perumal AK, Lu ML, Chen LH, Chen WJ, Niu CC. Staged surgery for tandem cervical and lumbar spinal stenosis: Which should be treated first? Eur Spine J 2019;28:61-8.
Oh JY, Kwek KJ, Tee SW, Tan M. Megacolon as an atypical presentation of cervical myelopathy. J Spine Surg 2017;3:108-11.
Salome M, Barkhof F, Visser L. Hirayama disease; an atypical clinical manifestation of a cervical myelopathy with typical MRI features. BMJ Case Rep 2017;2017. pii: bcr2016217780.
Christodoulides I, Giamouriadis A, Bashford J, Barkas K. Spinal myoclonus: A rare presentation of cervical myelopathy. BMJ Case Rep 2018;2018. pii: bcr-2018-225455.
Deuschl G, Petersen I, Lorenz D, Christensen K. Tremor in the elderly: Essential and aging-related tremor. Mov Disord 2015;30:1327-34.
Hallett M. Parkinson's disease tremor: Pathophysiology. Parkinsonism Relat Disord 2012;18 Suppl 1:S85-6.
Yulug B, Bakar M, Ozer HH, Yilmaz M, Unlü B. Paroxysmal kinesigenic dyskinesia and cervical disc prolapse with cord compression: More than a coincidence? J Neuropsychiatry Clin Neurosci 2008;20:237-9.
Fraix V, Delalande I, Parrache M, Derambure P, Cassim F. Action-induced clonus mimicking tremor. Mov Disord 2008;23:285-8.
Marrero-González P, Pascual-Sedano B, Martínez-Domeño A, Díaz-Polo LE, Granell E, Rodríguez R, et al. Isolated propriospinal myoclonus as a presentation of cervical myelopathy. Tremor Other Hyperkinet Mov (N Y) 2018;8:598.
Bray K, Chhetri SK, Varma A, Silverdale M. Reversible pseudoathetosis induced by cervical myelopathy. Mov Disord 2012;27:1370-1.
Goh MH
Kaliya-Perumal AK
Oh JY
Intervertebral disc displacement
spondylosis


Global proteomics compares the expression of many proteins (thousands) between samples in a non-targeted manner. These are 'hypothesis-generating' experiments.
Targeted proteomics measures the levels of a smaller number of specific proteins between samples in a targeted manner. These are 'hypothesis-testing' experiments.
These experiments are performed to study the changes that result from an intervention (e.g. expression of a gene, or addition of a drug or growth factor) in a model system, or the differences between types of sample (e.g. diseased vs. healthy).
These experiments allow an unbiased assessment of what proteins and pathways are implicated in a particular process. Protein from the sample of interest is digested into peptides using an enzyme such as trypsin. Protein levels are then compared, either by analysing each sample sequentially and comparing the signal from each peptide ('label-free' quantification) or by chemical labelling using isobaric tags such as iTRAQ (isobaric Tags for Relative and Absolute Quantitation) , where samples are pooled and analysed simultaneously. If there is a specific population of proteins that are of interest e.g. nuclear proteins, phosphoproteins, it is possible to enrich these and quantify a 'sub-proteome'.
These experiments generate a list of peptide identifications along with the relative quantity of each peptide in each sample. Sophisticated bioinformatics tools are then used to generate a relative protein ratio (based on the ratio of peptides from that protein) between samples and allow the identification of protein 'changes'.
This type of experiment is aimed at a specific protein of interest, either determining its quantity, post-translational modification status or both. Immunochemical methods for protein analysis e.g. western blotting or immunohistochemistry, are a type of targeted proteomics. In CADET, while we use antibody-based methods where appropriate, we can also use mass spectrometry (MS) to specifically detect proteins of interest. The advantage of using MS is that there is no requirement for antibodies and as such it is suitable for investigating post-translational modifications, protein isoforms and poorly characterised proteins. An additional advantage of using MS methods such as Selected Reaction Monitoring (see Methods for more detail), is that they can be multiplexed, where several peptides/proteins are measured simultaneously in a single sample. Examples of experiments would be the quantification of specific proteins in plasma samples from patients and normal individuals, the identification of post-translationally modified peptides in a protein, or the quantification of modified peptides either between samples or over a timecourse.


text:
Sagicor team donates to Secret Santa initiative – which gives gifts to underprivileged children
By Rodney Carter Last updated Jan 3, 2022
The Sagicor sales team, led by Agency Director, Sales, Brenton Hilaire (center), donated gifts to the Adult Education Division's Secret Santa initiative. Here, the team poses with the gifts.
The Sagicor sales team recently responded to the Adult Education division's call to "be the magic of the season," by donating to the division's secret Santa Claus initiative.
The 16-member team has contributed several giveaways to the giveaway campaign, now in its second year. The initiative started on November 15e and seeks to brighten up the Christmases of several underprivileged children in various communities across the island.
Sagicor agency director of sales Brenton Hilaire said the team was eager to participate. "Christmas is a time to give and spread joy and what better way than to boost the spirits of children. We hope these gifts go a long way in making Christmas a sparkling one for many little ones and look forward to spreading even more Christmas cheer as the season progresses. "
The Adult Education Division solicited the public's help by making donations to children between the ages of three and ten. The distribution of the gifts began on Wednesday, December 22.
About Sagicor:
Sagicor is a leading financial services provider in the Caribbean with nearly 180 years of history and has a growing presence as a provider of life insurance products in the United States. Sagicor has more than 4,500 employees and offers a wide range of products and services, including life insurance, health and general insurance, banking, pensions, annuities and real estate. Sagicor's head office is located at Clarendon House, 2 Church Street, Hamilton, HM 11, Bermuda, with its main office located at Cecil F De Caires Building, Wildey, St. Michael, Barbados. Additional information on Sagicor can be obtained by visiting sagicor.com
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Stop the sport-coupe train at the Veloster Turbo; the R-Spec model rides too harshly, and doesn't deliver much more in the way of responsiveness.
The 2017 Hyundai Veloster is a economy-car cake pop: it sounds like too much, but its hatchback sensibility really does taste better dipped in a layer of quirk.
Daring and adventurous, the 2017 Hyundai Veloster puts four doors in unconventional places on its hatchback-sleek body. Two in front, one in the back—and one door on the side—are an attempt to give tight-fitting compact coupes some of the ease of use of a liftback.
The Veloster and its rip-snorting twin, the Veloster Turbo, win on some fronts. The shape is still electric after four years on the road, and the space under the rear glass gives it utility that no sport coupe can match. It's still not blessed with adult-sized back seats, and its safety scores have lagged as it has aged.
At best it can feel like a no-compromises coupe for young singles and couples; at worst it's not really a master of any of those roles.
The Veloster is a mashup of a couple of body styles, and to our eyes, a successful one. It mixes smart hatchback packaging with coupe lines, and factors in an extra passenger-side door for easier rear-seat access. It's like nothing else on the road, and that unique look makes it difficult to compare it with vehicles similar in concept--say, a VW GTI. The cabin's Hyundai's usual: a good mix of materials and interesting shapes, with no huge, glaring flaws.
The Veloster's humble mechanicals, on loan from the Accent and Elantra, do higher work here. A 138-hp, 1.6-liter inline-4 connects with manual or automatic gearboxes to give base Velosters a perky economy-car feel. The Veloster Turbo blows out that engine with twin-scroll turbocharging to the tune of 201 hp, sent to the front wheels through either a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed paddle-shifted dual-clutch.
The Turbo is good for 0-60 mph times of about seven seconds or less—without that much of a dip in gas mileage. Fuel economy clocks in as high as 31 mpg, for dual-clutch, non-turbo Velosters.
Handling in base Velosters won't be confused with a Golf, or any hatchback with a more fluid ride. It's composed, but the far more interesting Turbo has the grip to match its grin-inducing power. Bigger wheels give the ride a brittle quality—and with the even stiffer Turbo R-Spec, there's little payoff.
We're not wild about the Veloster's electric power steering; it's low on feedback, and weighty when it doesn't need to be, but it doesn't disrupt the Veloster's generally flat, crisp cornering, which gets unsettled only if it's pitched over bad sections of pavement.
The Veloster plays off both walls, coupe and hatchback, in terms of interior space. Up front, it's quite spacious for two, even with the available sunroof or panoramic roof. But in back it's more playful than practical. Entry and exit are challenging through the small door, unless you have that space in mind for kids. It's at ease with the back seats flipped down and stuffed with weekend gear, with its cubbies, bins, and nooks crammed with smartphones and water bottles and the like.
The Veloster includes a generous list of standard features, all for a base price of well under $20,000. Upgrades on the Turbo model, which starts around $23,000, include leather seats, big wheels and tires, and more. Options include a huge panoramic sunroof, upgraded wheels, and a 115-volt outlet. As part of the Blue Link suite of services, the Hyundai Assurance Connected Care service is included for three years regardless of subscription level.
For 2017, Hyundai has added HD Radio, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto to the Veloster's standard touchscreen infotainment system.
Offbeat in the right ways, the Hyundai Veloster will have you counting doors while you admire its kicky looks.
Many vehicles have tried to bend the body rules, and many have failed. From Murano CrossCabriolet to various and sundry "coupe-like" crossover SUVs, the track record of stylists reinventing the body-style wheel is not so good.
The Veloster not only pulls off its odd door arrangement, it still comes off fresh in a segment that now has a very stylish Civic hatchback in its ranks.
The Veloster is more than a coupe, as it has two doors on the passenger side and a single, larger one (like a true coupe). On the passenger side, the rearmost door is short, so it preserves the curvaceous roofline but allows just a little more practicality. While we're not sure whether to call this a three-door or four-door hatchback, it piles on the personality.
Thankfully, Hyundai has gone easy on the trim and adornment; the roofline, profile, and innovative layout are enough themselves. But Hyundai has made the Turbo stand out from the other models, with LED lighting front and rear, a piano-black grille treatment, and some side skits.
The Veloster is maybe a little less of a trendsetter inside, yet it's decidedly sporty. Hyundai looked to motorcycles for some of the inspiration—there are hints of a saddle in the center-console design, while the air vents are meant to look like the ends of tailpipes—and in general the design keeps it simple. A big engine-start button sits at the bottom of the center stack's V—and just ahead of the shift knob—on all except the base and Turbo R-Spec models.
Turbos are flingy and zingy; base Hyundai Velosters are economy cars in another form.
The Veloster has humble roots. Its powertrains are on loan from the Accent, its underpinnings are last-generation Elantra. The offbeat little hatchback makes the most of that hash, living up to its sporty profile with perky performance.
Base Veloster hatchbacks get power from a 138-horsepower, 1.6-liter inline-4 also found in the Accent hatchback and sedan. It's thin on low-end torque, but winds happily through revs—and Hyundai fits it with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed dual-clutch here for maximum wringing-out.
The Veloster Turbo blows out that 4-cylinder with a twin-scroll turbocharger, and boosts output to 201 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque. This Veloster bristles with power with either the manual or a paddle-shifted, 7-speed dual-clutch. Veloster Turbos can hit 60 mph in about 7.0 seconds.
In Turbo models, you do get stronger brakes as well as stickier tires—which adds up to better dynamics, if the road surface is smooth enough. Brakes are excellent in the Veloster and Veloster Turbo, although we're not fans of the electric power steering here, which lacks proper weighting and feedback.
The base Veloster rides about as comfortably as any short-wheelbase car can, but adding the 18-inch wheels on Turbo models turns the ride brittle. Veloster R-Spec hatchbacks have an even stiffer suspension, different steering tuning, and a B&M sport shifter. More ride comfort is sacrificed; we're not sure it's worth it, compared to the regular Turbo.
That extra door does not mean what you think it means.
The Veloster is laid out like a hatchback, but sports an extra door that makes it easier for passengers to load into the back seat.
Not all passengers are seated equally in the Veloster. In front, even with the panoramic roof or the sunroof, there's good head and leg room, though the Veloster is compact-car narrow. The front seats are fine even for tall drivers; they adjust to suit a wide variety of body types. Turbo Velosters have heated leather front seats, and an eight-way-adjustable power driver seat.
The back seat is a tight fit for medium-sized passengers, and that extra door isn't a very big one, which means getting in and out of the Veloster is nearly as difficult as if it were a conventional hatchback. We tend to think of it as a more versatile two-door hatch, and in our six-month test drive in 2013, we left the rear seats folded and took full advantage of the very useful cargo area.
One versatility demerit is that the rear liftover height requires lifting items pretty high to get them into the otherwise useful hatch. Inside and throughout, there are plenty of bins, cubbies, and nooks for stowing away smaller items.
Crash tests haven't been kind to the Veloster.
The NHTSA awards the Hyundai five stars overall, and grades it at four stars for frontal impact protection and rollover resistance. The IIHS isn't as kind. It gives the Veloster a Marginal score in the tough small front-overlap test, and an Acceptable score for side-impact protection. It earns the top Good rating in the remaining three categories.
Hyundai fits more standard safety features into the Veloster than you'll find in other hatchbacks. A rearview camera system and a driver's blind-spot mirror are included on all models.
Hyundai's Blue Link telematics platform is also included. BlueLink includes a suite of safety services such as emergency crash notification and SOS services.
Parking sensors are available on the base version and standard on the Turbo; they're a big help, since the low-slung Veloster has huge blind spots to its rear three-quarters, a consequence of its wacky, innovative door arrangement.
Hyundai packs a lot of value into the Veloster's petite body.
With prices ranging from just under $20,000 to about $25,000 before options, the Hyundai Veloster carves an affordable niche for itself.
All Velosters come equipped with power features; an AM/FM/XM/CD audio system with Bluetooth audio streaming and USB port; a rearview camera; steering-wheel audio controls; cruise control; air conditioning; cloth seats; and 17-inch wheels. This year, the infotainment system adds HD Radio, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.
Hyundai's Blue Link telematics system is standard on all Velosters. Like GM's OnStar, BlueLink uses existing databases to provide directions and information for drivers via voice requests, and also includes safety services like automatic crash notification including emergency assistance, and roadside assistance. Turn-by-turn navigation is available on higher subscription levels. As part of the BlueLink suite of services, the Hyundai Assurance Connected Care service is included for three years regardless of the level of subscription.
Turbo models get 18-inch wheels; heated sport seats; keyless ignition; a 450-watt audio system; and leather. Opt into the Turbo R-Spec, and some features are deleted, such as keyless ignition and heated leather seats.
Major options include automatic climate control; parking sensors; navigation system; and a panoramic sunroof.
The Veloster turns in very good gas mileage, as you'd expect.
The Veloster may give up some utility for its funky hatchback shape, but fuel economy remains lofty. It's on par with some economy cars, though Turbo models aren't as efficient as the naturally aspirated models.
Without turbocharging, the Veloster's 4-cylinder can be coupled with either a manual or a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission. The former earns EPA ratings of 27 mpg city, 34 highway, 30 combined. With the dual-clutch automatic, the numbers rise to 28/35/31 mpg.
We spent six months with a base Veloster back in 2013, and saw total fuel economy of about 30 mpg.
Veloster Turbo models are rated by the EPA at 25/33/28 mpg with the manual transmission. That increases to 26/32/29 mpg with the 7-speed dual-clutch automatic.


text:
News / Utah / Sub-sections: More sections »EducationKSL InvestigatesYour Life - Your HealthStaying SafeHomeless in UtahInto the Voting Booth
Not-so-secret Cecret Lake: Alta wildflowers drawing crowds, straining city resources
By Katie McKellar | Posted - July 30, 2017 at 9:16 p.m.
(Jeffrey D. Allred, Deseret News)
5PM: Not-so-secret Cecret Lake: Alta wildflowers drawing crowds, straining city resources
Sean Moody, KSL TV
ALTA — Drawing in hikers with its vibrant wildflower fields and popular trails, Little Cottonwood Canyon is getting a lot of love this year — almost too much.
While the canyon accommodates only 60 parking spots near the trailheads, more than 1,800 visitors came through the small town of Alta and up the canyon Saturday, city officials said.
"From July through September we'll see almost 100,000 cars on this road," Alta Mayor Tom Pollard said.
The city operates a free shuttle service up and down the canyon, but with so many visitors it's been difficult to keep up with demand.
"Realistically we can't necessarily do that within the budget we have here," Pollard said.
The mayor welcomes visitors to his town and its canyon, but he and forest service workers are urging crowds of hikers to respect the wildlife and be prepared for crowds.
"This is your public land, we really want people to come out here and enjoy it. It's all yours — go play," said Beckee Hotze, district ranger of the U.S. Forest Service. "But we also want to make sure people 20 years, 30 years, 40 years from now can also enjoy it."
Ski lifts at Alta in Little Cottonwood Canyon on Sunday, July 30, 2017. While the canyon accommodates only 60 parking spots near the trailheads, more than 1,800 visitors came through the small town of Alta and up the canyon Saturday, city officials said. The city operates a free shuttle service up and down the canyon, but with so many visitors it's been difficult to keep up with demand. (Photo: Jeffrey D. Allred, Deseret News)
Pollard asks residents to obey the canyon rules and not park their cars on the shoulders of the road.
"If there was an incident up here and we had to get some vehicles up, usually emergency vehicles are a little bigger than a small car, and so we need to get them through traffic areas we need to keep lanes clear," Pollard said.
Hotze also urged hikers to stay on the trails and to not pick wildflowers.
"It will help ensure we do have that experience for our kids and our grandkids in the future," she said.
While pictures with the wildflowers are popular, Hotze said straying from the trail can damage the fields.
"It's a great picture for that one year, but then it takes years and years for it to recover," she said.
UtahOutdoors
Katie McKellar
Gov. Cox, Utah lawmakers form a working group on diversity and inclusion for K-12 education
Utah man in jail after police say he tried to rape woman, assaulted Ogden officers


text:
House to vote on measure revoking Trump's emergency order
Democrats are moving quickly to try to roll back President Donald Trump's declaration of a national emergency to siphon billions of dollars from the military to fund construction of a fence along the U.S.-Mexic
House to vote on measure revoking Trump's emergency order Democrats are moving quickly to try to roll back President Donald Trump's declaration of a national emergency to siphon billions of dollars from the military to fund construction of a fence along the U.S.-Mexic Check out this story on yorkdispatch.com: https://www.yorkdispatch.com/story/news/2019/02/26/house-vote-measure-revoking-trumps-emergency-order/39114633/
Andrew Taylor, Associated Press Published 8:24 a.m. ET Feb. 26, 2019 | Updated 10:34 a.m. ET Feb. 26, 2019
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi of Calif., left, stands with House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer of Md., and others, listens to a speaker about a resolution to block President Donald Trump's emergency border security declaration on Capitol Hill, Monday, Feb. 25, 2019 in Washington. House Democrats have introduced a resolution to block the national emergency declaration that President Donald Trump issued last week to fund his long-sought wall along the U.S-Mexico border, setting up a fight that could result in Trump's first-ever veto. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon) (Photo: Alex Brandon / AP)
WASHINGTON – Democrats are moving quickly to try to roll back President Donald Trump's declaration of a national emergency to siphon billions of dollars from the military to fund construction of a fence along the U.S.-Mexico border.
Tuesday's vote in the Democratic-controlled House comes on legislation to revoke Trump's executive order from earlier this month and would send it to the Republican-held Senate, where it would take only a handful of GOP defections to pass it.
Trump is likely to prevail in the end since he could use his first-ever veto to kill the measure if it passes Congress, but the White House is seeking to minimize defections among the president's GOP allies to avoid embarrassment.
The vote could be challenging for GOP lawmakers who view themselves as conservative protectors of the Constitution and the powers of the federal purse that are reserved for Congress. But GOP vote counters are confident that the tally won't get near the two-thirds that would overturn a Trump veto.
Democratic leaders said Monday that the vote is not about the merits of Trump's wall but how Trump is trampling on the Constitution by grabbing money that he can't obtain through normal means.
"The beauty of the Constitution, the heart and soul of the Constitution, is the separation of power – co-equal branches of government to be a balance of power," said House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif. "The Constitution spells out the responsibilities, giving the Congress of the United States, among other powers, the power of the purse. The president's power grab usurped that constitutional responsibility and fundamentally violates the balance of power envisioned by our founders."
More: Trump vows veto as Dems try to block border emergency
More: 16 states sue Trump over emergency wall declaration
More: Toomey displeased with Trump's border emergency, breaks with Smucker, Perry
Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., said GOP defections will be kept well below the threshold required to sustain a veto. Describing the argument GOP leaders are using to tamp down Republican opposition, he said, "There's an emergency along the border."
"If Republicans vote their beliefs, we'll get a lot. If they vote their party, we won't get a lot," said Majority Leader Steny Hoyer, D-Md.
Trump took to Twitter on Monday to urge Senate Republicans to stick with him.
"I hope our great Republican Senators don't get led down the path of weak and ineffective Border Security," Trump wrote. "Without strong Borders, we don't have a Country – and the voters are on board with us. Be strong and smart, don't fall into the Democrats 'trap' of Open Borders and Crime!"
Vice President Mike Pence is expected to discuss the issue with GOP senators during their weekly private lunch. A Justice Department official is also expected to attend.
On Monday, GOP Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., said he would vote to block the order, joining Maine's Susan Collins and Alaska's Lisa Murkowski as Republicans supporting the resolution. Congress must defend its power of the purse and warned that a future Democratic president might abuse the power to advance "radical policies," Tillis said.
Senate voting on Trump's emergency order could drag under a rarely used procedure, which an aide said is possibly a first for the chamber. The law allows for up to 15 days of committee review– in this case, at the Armed Services panel – with a full Senate vote three days later. Senators, though, said the process could be expedited.
At issue is Trump's longstanding vow to build a wall along the 1,900-mile southwest border, perhaps his top campaign promise. He has long since dropped any pretense that money for the wall would come from Mexico, which he once claimed would be the source of funding.
Earlier this month Congress approved a huge spending bill providing nearly $1.4 billion to build 55 miles (89 kilometers) of border barriers in Texas' Rio Grande Valley, ending a dispute that had led to a record 35-day partial shutdown of the government. Trump had demanded $5.7 billion to construct more than 200 miles (322 kilometers).
Also Monday, national security experts and former GOP lawmakers issued public declarations against Trump's edict, saying that the situation along the southern border is not a genuine emergency and that Trump is abusing his powers.
"We are aware of no emergency that remotely justifies such a step," wrote 58 former senior national security officials, including Republican Chuck Hagel, a former Nebraska senator and defense secretary. "Under no plausible assessment of the evidence is there a national emergency today that entitles the President to tap into funds appropriated for other purposes to build a wall at the southern border."
In addition, 28 Republican former House members and senators, many of them from the party's shrinking moderate wing, wrote an open letter declaring their opposition to Trump's emergency declaration.
"How much are you willing to undermine both the Constitution and the Congress in order to advance a policy outcome that by all other legitimate means is not achievable?" wrote the former GOP lawmakers, among them former Sen. Richard Lugar, R-Ind., once the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.
"It was a lawless act, a gross abuse of power, and an attempt to distract from the fact that he broke his core promise – to have Mexico pay for the wall," said top Senate Democrat Chuck Schumer of New York.
Trump's declaration of a national emergency gives him access to about $3.6 billion in funding for military construction projects to divert to border fencing. Lawmakers in both parties are recoiling at the politically toxic prospect of losing cherished projects at back-home military bases. The Defense Department has not identified which projects may face the ax.
But the administration is more likely to tap $600 million from a federal asset forfeiture fund first. In addition, it is considering shifting more than $2 billion from Defense Department accounts into a Pentagon counter-drug fund to be tapped for wall construction.
Trump's edict is also being challenged in the federal courts, where a host of Democratic-led states such as California are among those that have sued to overturn the order. The House may also join in.
Read or Share this story: https://www.yorkdispatch.com/story/news/2019/02/26/house-vote-measure-revoking-trumps-emergency-order/39114633/
The storm forecast has changed. See how much snow York County can expect
Murder charge dropped against man linked to Regal shooting
Scott Wagner's Penn Waste sold to company with Canada, Texas ties
Police: Drunken Manchester Twp. mom dropped baby on floor
Do you know them? Police seek suspects in theft of $3K worth of video games from Shrewsbury Walmart


Most Wednesdays from September to May a community meal is served from 5:30-6:30 pm. Join in, grab a bite to eat, and lighten your burdens alongside other Christ-followers.
After filling your stomach nourish your soul with our Living Water Wednesday service at 6:30 pm. Our Wednesday worship is a short 30 minutes, perfect for a mid-week pick me up! The service features liturgy led by the people there, so you have a option to participate, from the front, if you like. You'll also hear a short homily, delivered in person, from either Pastor Bryan or Pastor Ryan, alongside a mix of traditional hymns and modern worship songs. Communion is offered the last Wednesday of the month.
But that's not all…Wednesday evening programming from Labor Day through Memorial Day is chock full of activity, for all ages!
Choristers Children's Choir is from 5:30-6 pm and is designed for kids aged 8-14. Children joyfully sing once a month during our Sunday morning service to the delight of all.
Oasis Middle School group meets from 7:15-8:15 pm, right after worship. During this time youth participate in confirmation classes, and have a fun service or social activity, often in the local community, every third week.
Flood High Schoolers get together at 8 pm for an hour, exploring the Word of God, with youth enjoying fun and games in an enriching environment.
Our Lighthouse adult discussion group gathers at 7:15 pm, right after worship. The group spends an hour chatting up a range of current topics through the lens of scripture.
A staffed nursery for infants through preschool age children is available from 5:00-8 pm.


Much as I love all the preparation, baking and decorating that goes into Christmas, I admit I'm always glad to have put it behind us each year so I can relax a bit and make plans for the new year. 2015 is shaping up to be even more exciting than 2014, so I hope you all stick around for the ride!
Of course the animals are oblivious to all the holiday craziness, and I envy them that. They just enjoy each day as much as the last - although everyone did get new toys, extra treats and, of course, lots of holiday love!


b. 14/10/1965 in Los Angeles, California, U.S.A. Vocalist who launched her solo career after featuring on the Jeff Lorber single "Facts Of Love". Formerly married to super-producer Terry Lewis, now married to guitarist Bobby Gonzales. Family commitments kept her out of the limelight from 1995 to 2006 when she began work on a new album; but the project has since been shelved.
Cick here for THE KARYN WHITE (US) STORE AT SOULMUSIC.COM for CDs, MP3s, DVDs, Bio, etc.
Cick here for THE KARYN WHITE (UK) STORE AT SOULMUSIC.COM for CDs, MP3s, DVDs, Bio, etc.


text:
/*numPass=3, numTotal=9
Verdict:WRONG_ANSWER, Visibility:1, Input:"abcdef", ExpOutput:"bdfhjl", Output:"acegik"
Verdict:ACCEPTED, Visibility:1, Input:"wxyz", ExpOutput:"tvxz", Output:"tvxz"
Verdict:ACCEPTED, Visibility:1, Input:"zyxw", ExpOutput:"zxvt", Output:"zxvt"
Verdict:ACCEPTED, Visibility:1, Input:"t", ExpOutput:"n", Output:"n"
Verdict:WRONG_ANSWER, Visibility:1, Input:"lly", ExpOutput:"xxx", Output:"wwx"
Verdict:WRONG_ANSWER, Visibility:0, Input:"qwerty", ExpOutput:"htjjnx", Output:"htijnx"
Verdict:WRONG_ANSWER, Visibility:0, Input:"manuallyaddedtestcases", ExpOutput:"zbbpbxxxbhhjhnjlnfbljl", Output:"yabpawwxaggignilnealil"
Verdict:WRONG_ANSWER, Visibility:0, Input:"yllyl", ExpOutput:"xxxxx", Output:"xwwxw"
Verdict:WRONG_ANSWER, Visibility:0, Input:"visibility", ExpOutput:"rrlrdrxrnx", Output:"rqlqcqwqnx"
*/
#include <stdio.h>

int main() {
    int i;
	char str[100];     // creatindg a string of 100 elements.
	char b;
	scanf("%s",str);
	//printf("%s",str);
	for(i=0;str[i]!=0;i++)
	{

        if (str[i]>'m')     // m lies in middle of alphabetical order.
        {
            b=str[i]+str[i]-'a'-25;
        }
        else
        {
            b=str[i]+str[i]-'a';
        }
        printf("%c",b);
    }
	return 0;
}


The INFJ Personality Show - Episode #079: INFJs Need More Sleep?
Episode #079: INFJs Need More Sleep?
Do you need more sleep than other personality types because you're an INFJ? What difference could sleeping longer make in your life? How do you make time for more sleep? Tune in to to this episode to find out!
Want to learn how to make money as an INFJ writer? Sign up for the free INFJ Writer course.


Our 1 Bedroom Junior Suite is extendible to 2 Bedrooms option with overlooking the city center of Prishtina, comfortable and elegant living room area with sofa, armchair, coffee table and work desk . LCD High Definition TV with interactive system, Intelligent Clima control system, high-speed internet and Wi-Fi, safe and Mini Bar with a wide selection soft drinks, alcoholic beverages and snack. Luxurious marble bathroom with deep-soaking baths, plush terry robes and luxury amenities.


We know. Reading an insurance policy isn't exactly like curling up with a good book. It's a fairly complex document that tries to explain all the things you're covered for, and what's excluded when a loss occurs.
Although insurance companies now provide more simplified policy information, you still need to review the document carefully to make sure you understand your insurance policy. Here's how.
The policy declarations page – often called the "dec(k) page" – is basically the first page of the policy package. This page states who is insured and the time period the policy provides coverage. It also gives the general information such as a description of what's insured, the coverages and primary coverage limits.
This section gives you the definitions of words and phrases you'll see in the policy. For example: "motor vehicle" and "deductible" are two terms often found in an auto policy. Such defined words may appear in bold print throughout the policy. You can also browse Nationwide's insurance glossary for any unclear terms you're looking for.
This section describes the specific insurance provided. It lists what property is covered and for what damages. For example, a boat owner's policy may cover direct physical loss or damage to the boat and motor, portable equipment and other specified property. It can also provide liability coverage.
These describe the coverage limits or how coverage may be eliminated depending on how a loss occurs. Insurers may allow policyholders to buy back coverage for some exclusions for additional premium (see endorsements below). For example, earthquake coverage may be excluded for people who live in an area where earthquakes are unlikely to happen. However, if a customer would feel more comfortable with the coverage, they could buy it back.
This section explains how much the insurer pays for particular losses or types of property. So while something is covered, it may only be covered up to a specific dollar amount or for a limited percentage of the entire loss.
This section tells you what the insurer's responsibilities are, and what your responsibilities are as the customer. This includes how to cancel a policy, transfer of rights or duties, and payment plans.
This area gives guidance on what to do when a loss occurs. It includes notifying your insurer as soon as practical, notifying the police if appropriate and protecting your property from further damage.
This area defines optional coverages available for additional premium. An insurance endorsement may change your policy so that it better fits your needs. Amendatory endorsements may also be added by the insurance company (at no extra cost) to clarify policy terms and language.


The expansive, yet easy to use Planmeca ProMax S3 panoramic system features exclusive Selectively Compliant Robotic Arm (SCARA) Technology to deliver up to 30 different imaging programs and several modalities, including panoramic x-rays and optional cephalometric or cone beam 3D, in one convenient unit. This unit utilizes a Dimax3 x-ray sensor.
The robust Planmeca ProMax S3 panoramic system with DIMAX3 sensor features the following panoramic programs: standard, pediatric, lateral double TMJ, PA double TMJ, and PA rotational sinus. Optional advanced programs include: horizontal segmenting, orthogonal, interproximal angulation, bitewings, lateral-PA double TMJ, PA multi-angle TMJ, lateral multi-angle TMJ, non-rotational sinus, and more.
With its advanced, exclusive robotic SCARA (Selectively Compliant Articulated Robot Arm) Technology, the triple-joint model standard with Planmeca ProMax S3 delivers flexible, precise, and complex movements required for rotational maxillofacial dental radiography.
Planmeca ProMax S3 system delivers advanced panoramic technology, including an adjustable focal trough for anatomically correct images, enhanced imaging geometry that eliminates redundant shadows and ghost images, Automatic Cervical Vertebrae (ACV) to minimize the shadow of the cervical vertebrae, and optional Automatic Exposure Control (AEC) to automatically correct exposure values.
Add the power of cone beam 3D to Planmeca ProMax S3 with a versatile selection of volume sizes including large (8 x 11 cm or 8 x 14 cm) with vertical stitching, medium (8 x 8 cm), and small (4 x 5 cm).
Images captured with Planmeca ProMax S3 panoramic system can be easily integrated into almost any imaging software.