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Where EAST meets the Northwest
WORKERS WATCHING. Laborers cheer at a fan festival at the Asian Town cricket
stadium in Doha, Qatar, on November 25, 2022. Far from the luxury hotels and
sprawling new stadiums emblematic of Doha during the World Cup, scores of
soccer-mad South Asian workers poured into a converted cricket stadium in the
city’s desert outskirts to enjoy the tournament they helped create. (AP
From The Asian Reporter, V32, #12 (December 5, 2022), page 12.
On outskirts of Doha, laborers watch World Cup they built
By Isabel Debre
The Associated Press
DOHA, Qatar — Far from Doha’s luxury hotels and sprawling new World Cup
stadiums, scores of South Asian workers poured into a cricket ground in the
city’s sandy outskirts to enjoy the tournament they helped create.
Unlike the official FIFA fan zone near Doha’s pristine corniche, this one has
no $14 beer or foreign tourists. There are few food options beyond deep-fried
Indian snacks, scant soccer jerseys in the crowd, and even fewer women.
Instead, the grassy pitch in Asian Town, a neighborhood of labor camps, is
packed with migrant workers from some of the world’s poorest countries. They
power Qatar, one of the world’s richest, and helped accomplish its
multi-billion-dollar stadium-building effort.
Their treatment has been the controversial backstory of the 2022 World Cup,
ever since Qatar won the bid to host the soccer championship. They can face low
wages, inhospitable housing, and long hours, often in the scorching heat.
But the evening that the Netherlands played Ecuador, the bleachers of the
cricket stadium heaved with workers revelling on their one day off of the week.
The lucky ones scored a small number of World Cup match tickets that went on
sale for just 40 riyals ($10) — a special cheaper ticket category for Qatar
residents. But for those who can’t afford to go to gleaming stadiums, the giant
screens in Asian Town have become a key glimpse into the tournament that has
reshaped the tiny emirate.
"Who can afford to go? I keep 400 riyals ($109) a month in my pocket," said
Anmol Singh, an electrician, who sends the rest of his $600 salary to his
parents and grandparents in Bihar, eastern India. "I work to give it all to
Even if meager by western standards, the salaries of migrant workers in Qatar
and across the oil-rich sheikhdoms of the Persian Gulf often exceed what they
could make back home and serve as lifelines for their families in India, Nepal,
Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.
Workers in the fan zone who spoke to an Associated Press journalist last
month said they coveted their jobs in the country, which has strict laws on
speech. The yearslong boycott of Qatar by four Arab nations also stoked
nationalism among the migrant workforce that makes up some 85% of the country’s
Kaplana Pahadi, a 21-year-old cleaner from Nepal, strolled through the
crowded cricket stadium with three co-workers she called "my family."
Decked out in a maroon Qatar jersey, scarf, and cap, she said she moved to
the energy-rich emirate over four years ago to pay medical fees for her mother,
who developed heart problems after her father’s death. "She’s always sick," she
said. "I want to help her."
At halftime of the match, the floodlit stadium became a riot of music and
dance. A celebrity Indian emcee whipped up the crowds as Hindi pop blared.
Some men hoisted themselves up on the shoulders of their friends. Others
jumped up and down with excitement. Most wore jeans and t-shirts, or cream
shalwar kameez — a knee-length shirt with a pair of loose-fitting trousers
common in South Asia.
Hundreds took out their phones to film the reverie, smiles spreading as women
in LED-lit white dresses traipsed onstage.
It was a stark respite from the daily grind.
"These are people from companies doing hard work," said Imtiaz Malik, a
28-year-old IT worker from Pakistan, gesturing to the crowds of men. "But any
kind of work is good."
He said he misses his family back in Lahore, Pakistan, and wishes he could
hear their voices more often. Despite the difficulties, he said, Qatar has
become his home, too.
"This country is becoming better," he said.
The glaring spotlight of the World Cup has compelled Qatar to overhaul its
labor system. The country scrapped the kafala system that tied workers’ visas to
their jobs and set a minimum wage of 1,000 riyals ($275) a month, among other
changes. Still, rights groups argue more needs to be done. Workers can face
delayed wages and rack up debt paying exorbitant recruitment fees to land their
Imran Khan, 28, said many young men in his hometown of Kolkata, India, dream
of working in Qatar. He left his parents and brothers behind to search for work
in hospitality during the World Cup. But he has yet to find a job.
The competition is fierce and work is harder to come by now that the
tournament is underway, he said. In the meantime, he spends his days watching
matches on the big screens at the cricket stadium next to the mall.
The fan zone allows Khan and legions of other migrant workers to enjoy the
World Cup atmosphere just a short walk from their dormitories. It also means
they’re not taking the bus into downtown Doha, which is now filled with foreign
fans watching games and celebrating.
"I can’t explain the excitement," Khan said. "It’s unreal."
Read the current issue of The Asian Reporter in its entirety!
Go to <www.asianreporter.com/completepaper.htm>!
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[Bookplate for Oeuvre des Bons Livres de Montreal]
Printed in black ink on cream paper, an intricate border evocative of a tabernacle and constructed of geometric repeating patterns.
[Bookplate for Thomas B. Greening]
Printed in black ink on cream paper. In the centre of the image, a heraldic shield is depicted. The shield is decorated by two thick intersecting lines with reversed scalloped edges, forming a cross shape. The lines are incised with a pattern of thin, close-set vertical lines and contrast against a solid background. Below the shield, a banner with chevron-ed edges contains the phrase ‘A TOUTE FORCE.’ Above the shield, the head and neck of a horse is shown in profile, facing left, with its mouth open and mane flowing.
[Bookplate for Max Hermann]
Printed in black ink on cream paper. The image shows an older man sitting, facing left. The man has long hair and wears a pillbox hat and a robe. He sits in a carved wooden chair, hunched over a large book that rests on a lectern and turns the pages with his left hand. His head is shown in profile, framed by a circular sun with lines radiating out in all directions.
[Bookplate for Claude Lamont Wheeler]
Printed in black ink on greenish gray paper, the bookplate consists of a two line border surrounding the name of the owner. In the lower left corner appears the word 'No.' followed by a dotted line for the addition of a hand-written number. The number '33' has been written in ink.
[Bookplate for G. L’Heureux]
Printed in black ink on orange-yellow paper with an adhesive backing. The image depicts a stylized scene of a laborer in a field. The figure stands with his face in profile and in shadow with the shoulders and torso turned toward the viewer. He wears a plaid shirt and a rounded black hat with a flat brim. In his left hand the figure holds the handle of a long scythe, which rests on his left shoulder with the blade extending behind. In his right hand he carries a bushel of wheat. The foreground contains stylized stalks of wheat while the background depicts rolling hills and rounded clouds. In the middle ground there are more fields with a house positioned to the right of the figure.
[Bookplate for Antony F. C. Tétrault]
Printed in black ink on white paper, the bookplate shows an open book in front of a lit, winged torch. Below the book appear the words 'EX LIBRIS' below which sits a black dividing line approximately 1.2 CM long. Below the line appears the word 'DATE:' below which appears a dotted line for the addition of a hand-written date. Below the dotted line appears the name of the owner, 'Antony F. C. Tétrault.'.
[Bookplate for Claude Lamont Wheeler by C. Collmen]
Printed in black on white or cream paper. In the upper left corner of the bookplate appear the words 'NULLA DIES SINE / LINEA' followed by four upward pointing arrows or crosses. To the right in the upper center of the bookplate appears a framed portrait of a horned figure (the devil?). The center of the bookplate shows the caricatured figure of a man sitting at a roll top desk. His tall wooden chair leaves his feet dangling above the ground. The man holds a lit cigar in his left hand and quill pen in his right hand. The desk, the wastepaper basket to the right of it, and the floor around it are littered with sheets of paper. Several books, as well as an owl and a human skull sit on the top of the desk. To the left, an over-sized pair of scissors leans against the man's chair. To the right of the desk appears the name of the illustrator, C. Collmen(?). Below the illustration appears a white bordered box with the words 'Ex Libris,' below which appears the name of the owner.
[Bookplate for Montreal Catholic School Commission]
The bookplate is surrounded by a stylized block border with a design within it. At the top, the school board crest is printed above the words 'Commission des Ecoles Catholiques de Montreal'. The body of the bookplate is comprised of a printed form with space for a student's name, reason for the award, grade, school, date and year to be filled in by hand.
[Bookplate for H. Curtis]
The owner's name is written in black ink, surrounded by an elaborate border in blank ink, on a thin, green faded paper.
[Bookplate for Les Religieuses de Sœurs des Saints Noms de Jésus et Marie]
The pre-formatted plate for awards is printed in black ink and multiple fonts, and filled in with a single hand. Above the text sits a cross entwined in daffodils with the motto of the religious order on scrolls above and below the cross, all encircled with a border. The text and insignia are enclosed in a thick, detailed decorative border.
[Bookplate for A. W. Robertson]
This bookplate consists of a pictorial image of men in a rowboat in the foreground with the image of a large sailboat in the background. Between the two primary images is the shape of a whale, the ocean, and three small rowboats. It is designed to replicate the style of stained glass, and is therefore divided into sections which are executed in varying colours such as blue, green, yellow, brown, and purple. Each section is delineated in black ink and is bordered in black ink. The bookplate is on white paper.
[Bookplate for A. W. Robertson]
This bookplate is executed in dark ink on white paper. It depicts a ship with a compass-rose in the lower left corner.
This bookplate is printed in black ink on cream paper, and consists of a decorative border with ivy leaves and trefoils attached to a thicker border, with a thin, multi-part border just inside. In the upper left is an ornate monogram and in the lower part are two dotted lines, the second of which is labeled.
[Bookplate for Harold Hampson]
This bookplate's design features a collared greyhound's head, erased, above a mural coronet. Below a banner waves containing the originator's Latin motto.
[Bookplate for London Public Library and Art Museum]
This bookplate’s design features a depiction of the façade of the London, Canada, Mechanics’ Institute framed by two large maple trees. A banner above, labels the print as an ex-libris and a separate compartment below the building displays several books and the originating institution’s name.
[Bookplate for F. H. Herrington by L. C. D.]
This bookplate's design features a learned Christian monk interrupted from his work, pausing, he looks outside of the frame at some unknown distraction. His desk is situated outside under a tree and the sun sets or rises behind him on the horizon. The brown tint to the monk's habit may indicate an affiliation with the Franciscan order or may merely be a design decision on the part of the artist.
[Bookplate for Ditton Park]
This heraldic bookplate consists of an escutcheon, argent (silver), divided per pale. The left armorial is charged with three fusils, gules (red). The right armorial has a chief, azure (blue), the charged with three mullets. The lower half is charged with a crowned heart, possibly a preperesentation of a Claddagh.
[Bookplate for Mary Katharine Black and F. Black]
This is a commercial, pictorial bookplate displaying, in vivid colours, an antiquated ship sailing over the horizon. The names of the originators have been hand written onto a banner above the ship.
[Bookplate for Frederick Starr]
Woodblock bookplate in four blocks: black, blue, orange and red. Image of a Japanese figure resembling a nesting doll.
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The Nosferatu Adventures
page 183, chapter 183
Our heroine was trying to get the dog poop off her shoe without toppling over, when she spotted the beautiful dark haired man. He had been sitting a few feet away at a table, getting his palm read.
"That's bull!" he screamed pointing at the woman, standing up he flipped the table over grabbing up his jacket and book moving from her. Storming past our heroine, he didn't bother to look at her as he slammed his shoulder into her.
"Hey!" she turned about to follow him to demand an apology but stepped in the dog poop again. "Damn it!" she let out a huff as she found herself once again cleaning the mess off her shoe.
"You're really unlucky aren't you?" the voice seemed to slither around her on the hint of humour. She nodded as she swore again. "Here, let me help." he reached his arm out for her to take hold, to balance herself. "I'm not going to bite. Or steal your purse promise." The most gorgeous chocolate brown puppy dog eyes smiled at her from under a mess of dark hair. Our heroine found herself stunned for a long few seconds, unable to think straight. "I'm Reuben by the way." he nodded meekly at her.
"Uh...Nos...Nosferatu." she managed to stammer out her name on a near hush. "Thanks." It was her turn to smile, as she reached up to wipe a piece of candy floss from the corner of his beard. "Hit the snack bar I see." she dropped it to the ground, as Reuben cast his eyes down slightly embarrassed.
"You here with anyone?" he asked clearing his throat, pulling his hair back into a really clumsy ponytail. She shook her head at him, as a chunk of his hair, which was bleached out, fell out of the ponytail and into his eyes. Nodding again, Reuben pulled a pair of glasses out of the messenger's bag he had slung over his shoulder and pointed towards a small tent. "I was just on my way to the beer tent. You've got id right?" he said placing the glasses then on his face, the one arm being held on with what appeared to be a band-aid with fairies and pink stars on it.
"You really are blind without those aren't you?" she said gesturing towards the wired rimmed frames. "Hon, I haven't been carded since you were in diapers."
"I was being a gentleman." he blushed licking his lips. "Alright, I'm still going. Wanna come with me?" he undid the ponytail trying to fix it, only to have the one piece fall into his eyes again.
"What the hell. I've always been a sucker for a man with brown eyes." she found herself oddly unable to keep from wanting to fix his hair for him as they entered the beer tent. The scent of stale beer hit her nose in an assault that was quickly followed by hot dogs. Looking around the tented area, she noticed a small vendor near the back of it by the beer stall. A very tall muscular male with a curtain of dark curls and an armful of tattoos was standing by the entrance.
Reuben nodded at him, moving quickly towards the larger male, his hand firmly gripped onto our heroine's elbow. She had a difficult time keeping up with him, watching every step now for any indication of more dog crap.
"Rolf!" he slapped the other male on the shoulder. "Been awhile. You still working at Flippie's Pie Hut?" he asked digging into the messenger's bag again for his wallet.
"Na man." he shook his head, the mass of curls falling into his face forcing him to flick it out of the way. "I quit working there last spring. Pulling the night shift most nights now at the hospital." he made a duck bill with his lips as he tilted his head to the side, his hands at his belt. "Pays thirty-five an hour." the smile lit up his eyes, causing small laugh lines to crinkle around them, softening up his fierce appearance. "I'm a male nurse." he gestured his shoulder towards our heroine. "You going to introduce your friend there?"
"No, thought that I would just let her listen to us jabber on for awhile like the rude asses we are. This is Nos." he ran his fingers over the edges of his beard as he turned eyeing the place. "Anything good in here?"
"If you mean what are your chances of scoring? I'd say none all I've seen are old drunk guys and a few under aged teens. But if you're talking about the beer, it all tastes the same." Rolf shrugged flicking his hair again out of his face.
"I'm in the mood for a dog." Reuben replied heading then towards the back of the tent. Rolf said nothing as he gestured for our heroine to pick a table among the pockets of people. They ended up sitting at a picnic table near the far end of the tent, closest to the vendors. Reuben returned, his hot dog already half devoured as chopped onions and mustard covered the edge of his hand, a tray of beers and two more hot dogs in his other one. "They've got fries. Hang on. I couldn't carry it all." he announced as he put the tray on the table and went back for a large basket of fries.
"You're wasting your time you know that right?" Rolf said dropping his voice, leaning across the table to close the gap between them.
"What?" our heroine asked checking the time on a large digital clock over the beer stall.
"Reuben's a flaming hoop." Rolf sniffed as he adjusted himself on the wooden bench having spotted a large blob of gum stuck to the seat a few inches away. Looking at her from the corner of his eye, he saw the disappointment creep into her as her shoulders drooped.
"I had no idea." the female's voice seemed strained as she reached into her purse pulling out the flyer, double checking the time on it. She felt stupid and naive suddenly, thinking Reuben coming to her rescue was anything more then that.
"No idea about what?" Reuben asked as he plunked down beside her. He was so close our heroine could feel the heat of his skin through the material of the green sweater he was wearing as his shoulder brushed her's.
"That you are a sausage hound." Rolf stated flatly as he scratched his jaw. Reuben looked away from them both, his long lashes brushing against his cheek.
"I'm open to all possibilities." he replied opening his messenger's bag again, pulling out a large stack of comics. "Check those out, just came in." He turned a half inch towards our heroine his knee slamming into her's. "I run a comic book store." Patting her knee he jumped up once more from his seat. "Forgot the ketchup."
Our heroine sighed as she sat there, the thin cord of her earphones dangling around her neck, the third track having just ended and the intro for track four catching her attention.
Tune in again for another installment of the Nosferatu Adventures starring your heroine...me (straight up story. This would be where you go back two parts and look again at the playlist)
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Dr. McFadden, world renowned archeologist and professor of archeology at Harvard University, has been reported missing.
Dr. McFadden is in fact the serpent man SsRuahh, who has adopted this form to research and locate the Nameless City of legend. However, his investigations into the mysterious and occult have attracted the attention of several government agencies; Majestic-12 NRO Delta agents, who have been overtly tailing him for weeks, hoping to scare him into changing his line of work, and Delta Green A-cell, who have been discretely monitoring his progress and assessing his potential use within the agency.
Dr. McFadden is sure that the government agents following him are on to his secret identity and has decided that the time has come to move on. He has fled to Oman, to locate the Nameless City. His plan is to resurrect the hibernating Reptile Men high priests, the foundation of his reptilian army.
Intelligence reports that Dr. McFadden purchased a one way ticket for Oman via Expedia.com. He left Logan International, to Muscat, Oman. Also purchased are a rental car from Muscat to Salalah and a guided day tour to Ubar from Salalah via LOST CITY TOURS.
Tracking the Doctor
Landing in Muscat, the agents can ask the car rental desk clerk in the airport for information regarding Dr McFadden. Successful fast talk rolls will reveal that the doctor rented a small sedan to be dropped off at the car rental office in Salalah.
Salalah is about 8 hours drive south west from Muscat. Flights from Muscat to Salalah take about 2 hours and are available via Oman Airlines, leaving every 5 hours.
The car rental clerk at the Salalah airport will report with a successful fast talk roll that Dr. McFadden dropped off the car and was picked up by a LOST CITY TOURS 4 wheel drive bus along with 3 other men.
The tour guide used is difficult to locate in this crowded desert town; the streets are small, crowded with crazy taxi cabs, merchants and winding, unnamed roads. Once located (a successful Party LUCK roll), the tour company will report, if shown a photo of the Doctor, that the tour bus was stolen by the doctor and 3 unknown men during the tour of the Lost City. While the group was taking the foot tour of Ubar, Dr. McFadden and 3 other men snuck back to the bus
and drove north into the open desert.
Directions to Ubar are easy enough as it is one of the primary tourist destinations in this city. Approximately 3 hours drive to the north to the village of Shisr, the location of the Ubar dig site is on the northern side of the town.
Any agents speaking Arabic at less than 20% suffer a -10% to fast talk rolls 20% to 59% suffer no penalty, with 60% or better, they have an additional +10% to fast talk when dealing with the locals here.
Timeline of Events
10DEC09 – 1820 hrs Dr. McFadden flies out of Logan International Airport
11DEC09 – 1220 hrs Dr. McFadden lands at Muscat international Airport and rents car for Salalah
11DEC09 – 2100 hrs Dr. McFadden checks in rental car at Salalah Airport and hails cab
12DEC09 – 2100 hrs A-cell contacts the Agents
12DEC09 – 0800 hrs Dr. McFadden boards tourist day trip by Landcruiser to Ubar
12DEC09 – 0500 hrs Agents leave for Ubar
12DEC09 – 1200 hrs Dr McFadden and Desert tour trip arrives in Ubar
12DEC09 – 1300 hrs Dr. McFadden and 3 other men steal bus and head north into the desert
12DEC09 – 2000 hrs Agents arrive in Salalah
The Majestic Option
If the party seems to be getting bored, moving to slow, or going in completely the wrong direction, the keeper may choose to add an extra problem to the mix, NRO Delta goons. Having followed the same clues as the agents, Majestic has sent 2d4 NRO Delta agents to tail the PCs. They can come in at any time, and at any level of aggression that the keeper sees fit. Possibilities include tailing the group quietly (spot hidden to notice) to storming in complete with black helicopter and heavy machine guns.
Searching the Desert
When the Agents land in Salalah, it is 1900hrs, Dr. McFadden and the 3 other men have been in the open desert since 1pm. A three hour drive to Ubar from Salalah in a Landcruiser puts the agents in Ubar at 2300hrs. Tracking the stolen bus in the sand, in the dark, will be impossible. Renting a single engine airplane (with pilot) at Salalah airport is the best option. After three hours of flying, the agents are able to spot the stolen bus with a party LUCK roll each subsequent 30 minutes of searching. Abandoned and stuck in the sand, the bus sits 100 miles north of Ubar and about 20 miles south of the Saudi border. Spot Hidden rolls will find the men walking through the sand somewhere near the Saudi Arabian border. The 3 Arabic men with the doctor will open fire on the agents and the airplane on sight, the Doctor will flee into the desert night and hide.
Providing the agents survive the plane crash (they were flying very low) and the subsequent gunfight, the Doctor will come out of hiding and frantically plead with them to spare his life. Once the agents identify themselves as being there to save him, he will repeatedly thank them for saving him from those terrorists.
He will explain that they had planned to hold him for ransom and were taking him to their camp and waiting compatriots.
The airplane is destroyed, and the agents and Doctor McFadden are at least 120 miles from the nearest village. Everywhere is sand and darkness. Camping near the plane wreckage is the safest bet, this is when the doctor will try to get the agents to drink his Dominate Serum and convince them to join him in the search for the nameless city.
Any agent who is not dominated by the serum, during daylight hours, may make a spot hidden role to notice that the doctor's shadow is not right. Confronted by this the doctor will attempt cloud memory, or if the doctor takes 1 point of damage for whatever reason, the Dr. McFadden likeness will be dropped and SsRuahh will reveal his true form (0/1d6 san). Dr. McFadden clutches a courier bag constantly. He will not discuss the contents, and will not let the bag out of his sight. The bag contains the alchemical equipment and artifacts needed to perform the ceremony to raise the hibernating reptile men.
FINDING THE NAMELESS CITY
Provided the doctor's true identity has not been revealed, the group will spend the entire day hiking through the desert, searching for help (and being steered in the wrong direction) or, if dominated by SsRuah, searching for the Nameless City. Either way, at nearly 2100hrs the group will come across the ruins of an ancient village. The doctor will be ecstatic, exclaiming that he has found it at last, the Nameless City of legend!
The doctor will begin frantically scouring the ruins searching for the entrance to the temple cavern.
RAISING THE DEAD
Once Dr. McFadden / SsRuahh locates the temple entrance, he will disappear into the cave. Following him down into the steeply winding, descending cave, flashlights or torches reveal intricate murals on the walls. The paintings depict the rise and fall of some kind of degenerate race of crocodile men.
Deeper still the group will come to the hall of the high priests. The walls are lined with 23 polished wooden coffins with glass lids. Inside each is the hibernating / mummified body of a reptile man high priest. Lose 1/1d6 san after seeing the murals and realizing the truth. SsRuahh will remove the glass covers on each of the coffins and begin chanting and mixing chemicals in his makeshift lab on the cavern floor, beginning the process of waking the reptile men. If they haven't noticed the shadow yet, they will now. In the flickering light of the small fire in front of Dr. McFadden, his shadow looms across the cavern wall like a dinosaur hovering above its prey.
If SsRuahh completes the process, He will abandon his disguise, if he hasn't already. The Reptile Men will begin to stir within the coffins and SsRuahh will stand triumphantly in front of them and command them to feast upon the agents and build their strength for the war to come. In the chaos that follows, there is a Spot Hidden -20% chance that the agents will notice 3 of the reptile men are not revived and appear to be missing an amulet that the other 20 seem to have.
All 20 of the revived reptile men will attack the agents and attempt to devour them. They will follow the agents out into the desert and will not stop until killed or satisfied.
STATS for "The Lizard Who Would Be King"
Imran Davi – Hired Gun
STR 11 DEX 10 INT 9 CON 12 APP 10 POW 9 SIZ 11 SAN 45 EDU 7 HP 12 MP 9
AK-47 45% dmg 2d6+1 Knife 63% 1d4 Grapple 68% English 22%
Farooq Gandapur – Local Muscle
STR 8 DEX 13 INT 11 CON 9 APP 11 POW 9 SIZ 11 SAN 45 EDU 9 HP 10 MP 9
AK-47 58% dmg 2d6+1 Knife 67% 1d4 Grapple 48% English 19%
Mahmood Rajput – Neighborhood Goon
STR 9 DEX 11 INT 12 CON 12 APP 12 POW 10 SIZ 9 SAN 50 EDU 8 HP 11 MP 10
AK-47 49% dmg 2d6+1 Knife 53% 1d4 Grapple 62% English 21%
Dr. McFadden / SsRuahh – Professor / Ancient Serpent / Would be King of the Reptile Men
STR 11 / 17 DEX 10 / 16 INT 18 / 22 CON 11 / 17 APP 12 / na POW 17 / 25 SIZ 11 /
14 EDU 21 / 30 HP 11 / 16 MP 17 / 25 DB 0 / +1d4
Domination Serum, Mesmerize, Mindblast, Power Drain, Bring Haboob, Cloud Memory, Dominate, Enchant Knife, Flesh Ward, Parting Sands, Consume Likeness, Contact Serpent Man, Contact Yig, Fang of Yig*, Find Serpent Folk*, Hibernate*, Quicken* and any other spells or skills the keeper feels appropriate.
Rifle 38% Bite 73% dmg 1d8 plus 17 POT poison
Armor 1 point scales
San Loss 0/1d6
20 Revived Reptile Men (average)
STR 14 DEX 11 INT 11 CON 11 APP 11 POW 11 SIZ 14 HP 13 MP 11 DB +1d4
Armor 2 point hide - Bite 50% dmg 1d6 + DB - San Loss 0/1d6
*NEW SPELLS from "WHERE A GOD SHALL TREAD" by Scott D. Aniolowski from "AT YOUR DOOR"
Fang Of Yig
This spell launches an appeal to mighty Yig which must be backed by the caster's sacrifice of 15 MP, and 1 POW. In return, if Yig favors the caster. the god accepts him or her as a fang for 1010 centuries, bestowing then 1d3+ 1 new points of POW as a sign of regard. To be accepted. the caster must be a serpent person or must have found merit In Yig's eyes. Once accepted by Yig, the supplicant becomes totally at the god's command. Sometimes Yig voices his wishes in dreams, which must be obeyed without question: at other times the god commandeers the target's body and does with it as he sees fit and for as long as he desires. The personality of the caster is simply along for a terrifying ride.
How the caster survives for 1d10 centuries to collect the additional POW is not a matter of interest to Yig. The Jealous Yig has POW 28; he never raises fangs above POW 27.
Find Serpent Folk
This spell tells the caster the direction and distance of the nearest serpent person. The maximum range of the spell is five miles. Each casting costs 3 magic points and 1 SAN. Repeat the spell as desired. Serpent mages know this spell, but no human does, nor has it ever been written down in any human language.
This spell slows the metabolism of any being which has a heart, and then sustains the target over great lengths of time. The target falls to the floor in deep slumber and dreams endlessly. For a single magic point, the sleep lasts for a year; for 2 MP, ten years; for 3 MP, 100 years, and so on. The target retains
a modicum of perception if clear danger presents itself, awakening if a luck roll succeeds, though the
spell is thereby broken. Hibernate can be cast only on willing targets.
This spell allows the target to be 2 movement points faster and two DEX ranks quicker for one hour, at a cost of 6 magic points and 1 SAN point. The procedure involves three hand gestures and a mental visualization, requiring about five seconds total. Quicken may be recast without limit.
| 0.933287 | 2,859 |
Reduce emissions and save energy with an unconventional flare gas recovery system
An unconventional flare gas recovery system (FGRS) can be designed without a gas compressor to collect the boiloff gas from the ethane tank to the boilers at the utility area. This innovative recovery system will provide significant capital and operating cost savings by eliminating the installation and operation of a gas compressor as part of the conventional FGRS. The FGRS scheme includes the use of a gas ejector with high-pressure motive gas to boost low-pressure ethane flare gas to the intermediate pressure, which is required to return the gas to the boilers at the utility area.
The case study included here explains how the unconventional FGRS was applied at Saudi Aramco’s Yanbu NGL fractionation plant to continuously recover approximately 1.1 MMsft3d of valuable C2+, which is equivalent to 1,961 MMBtu/d in fuel energy savings. The proposed FGRS scheme will also minimize greenhouse gas emissions and provide positive environmental benefits.
Project introduction. Flare systems are essential parts of any oil and gas processing plant. These systems, which essentially consist of flare headers and laterals, liquid knockout drums and flare stacks, serve as one of the last layers of protection for the plant to safely relieve pressure from plant equipment during an overpressure condition. As part of safety requirements, flare headers are normally provided with continuous purging to prevent vacuums within the system, keep air out of the system and prevent possible explosions.
The major component of any conventional FGRS is the gas compressor. It is required to compress the low-pressure flare boiloff gas to a pressure that can return the gas to the process. The recovery gas compressors have recurring maintenance, operating spare and reliability issues, similar to any other rotating equipment in a process plant. It would, therefore, be an attractive and economic venture if the use of a gas compressor can be eliminated from the FGRS without jeopardizing the performance and safety of the system. To this end, a scheme was evaluated using a gas ejector that can provide additional operating flexibility and reliability to the system.
At the Yanbu NGL fractionation plant, the purge gas used is ethane. To ensure no air ingress into the flare headers, a minimum flowrate of purge gas must be continuously maintained for each flare system at the plant. One 100% ethane tank flare system is in use. The system has a flare header of 12 in.–16-in. diameter; therefore, the maximum continuous load of ethane boiloff to flare system is 1.1 MMsft3d. The total flared gas is available to be continuously collected and routed back to the boiler utility area.
The study revealed that it is feasible to recover the continuous flared gas by connecting new piping from the flare system upstream of the flare knockout drum to the boiler utility area, to allow continuous boiloff and utilize it as fuel for the boilers. FIG. 1 shows a schematic of the ethane tank flare system arrangement at the Yanbu NGL processing facility.
FIG. 1. Schematic of ethane tank flare system at the Yanbu NGL processing plant. |
The unconventional FGRS scheme was established and carefully evaluated through hydraulic and process simulations, using both in-house programs and proprietary software,a as described in the following section.
Ejector-based FGRS. The scheme was developed by utilizing a suitable ejector to collect the 1.15 MMsft3d of continuous flare gas at 0.48 psig, using 0.95 MMsft3d of available high-pressure gas as motive gas. The process scheme was modeled, simulated and confirmed possible, using proprietary software.a To this end, a recovery system utilizing high-pressure gas at 380 psig as motive gas—in an ejector to transport the gas from the flare site to the boiler utility area—was established. FIG. 2 shows the calculated flowrates and pressures for the feeds and outlet streams of the ejector. FIG. 3 shows the flow scheme for the ejector-based FGRS.
FIG. 2. Calculated flowrates and pressures for the Yanbu FGRS ejector. |
FIG. 3. Flow scheme of ejector-based FGRS at the Yanbu facility. |
This flare gas recovery approach is possible based on the fact that there is enough room in the boiler utility area to accommodate the flared gas volume. Flare gas recovery at the plant requires only the means to transport the gas from the ethane tank flare system site to the boiler utility area at the gas plant (a total distance of approximately 1.7 km) within the limited differential pressure. Appropriate pipe sizes within the available differential pressures were determined by careful analysis of the hydraulic simulation results. The results show that 2.05 MMsft3d of mixed high-pressure fuel gas and ethane at 17.5 psig will arrive at 8 psig at the utility area, using 6-in. piping.
In the proposed recovery system, the pressure control valve already exists between the flare gas offtake points and the flare knockout drum. This design maintains a slight positive pressure in the flare header and prevents both an undesirable opening condition for the control valve and the release of ethane to the flare system. Whenever the amount of gas released into the flare system exceeds the capacity of the recovery system (1.1 MMsft3d), a pressure control valve on the flare recovery line will act to maintain the flow at 1.1 MMsft3d. The proposed recovery scheme is illustrated by the flow scheme shown in FIG. 3.
Simulation results. The ethane recovery system is designed to take ethane from the ethane storage tanks and compress it for firing at 1.5 psig–2 psig and for delivery at approximately 3.7 psig to the two boiler skids.
The ethane recovery system was simulated, using proprietary softwarea to perform the hydraulic analysis and predict the process conditions (FIG. 4). Actual pipe lengths for the existing and new pipes are taken from an isometric drawing, to account for the pressure losses from the ethane tank to the boilers at the utility unit. The design flow used to size the recovery system is 0.4 MMsft3d–1.1 MMsft3d, with an ethane composition of 98%.
FIG. 4. Ethane recovery system simulation. |
The results of the hydraulic analysis indicated that new and existing pipes are of adequate size to avoid backpressure on the ethane tank under normal operation, and they are able to deliver the mixed gas stream at a pressure of 3.7 psig to the boiler skids. A sensitivity analysis, including summer and winter conditions, was also run to calculate the system pressure drop. The calculated pressure drop for the 8-in. ethane line from the tank vapor line to the ejector skid inlet is 0.1 psig. The simulation results also validate the pressure drop calculation performed by a third party.
Takeaway. The established FGRS scheme has multiple economic benefits. First, it will recover approximately 1.1 MMsft3d of valuable C2+, which is equivalent to 1,961 MMBtu/d in fuel energy savings.
Second, the system will operate without any energy consumption or rotating equipment (all installations are static equipment—i.e., no moving parts). The system will utilize energy that would otherwise have been wasted or flared since plant startup.
Third, the flare gas recovery system will improve the reliability and life span of the flare tip, thereby reducing the recurring cost of flare tip replacements. The proposed system will minimize greenhouse gas emissions and provide a positive environmental impact.
Finally, operation of the established FGRS at the Yanbu NGL fractionation plant will provide an operating experience base within Saudi Aramco for other facilities to adopt. GP
ABDULAZIZ H. AL-TIJANI is an Engineering Specialist at Saudi Aramco’s Process and Control Systems Department in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia. He holds a BS degree in chemical engineering from King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM) and a MS degree in oil and gas surface facilities from KFUPM (in partnership with IFP). Mr. Al-Tijani supports company operations and project design, mainly in flare and relief systems and flare gas recovery applications. He supports Saudi Aramco and joint-venture oil and gas operational facilities, pipelines, process simulations and various phases of projects.
IRFAN ASHIQ is a Senior Operations Engineer for Saudi Aramco at the Yanbu NGL fractionation plant. He has more than 22 yr of professional experience in process design, operation and commissioning for upstream oil and gas, heavy oil and petrochemicals. Prior to joining Saudi Aramco, he was the Lead Process Engineer at SNC Lavalin in Canada and a Senior Process Engineer at Propak Systems Ltd. in Canada. He holds an MS degree in chemical engineering from the University of Calgary in Canada and a professional certification from the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta (APEGA).
| 0.939008 | 1,875 |
Class Notes: 3/26/2023
Celebration of the Lord's Table
Today we observe the Lord's Table that celebrates our eternal spiritual freedom. Spiritual freedom is the predicate for personal and national freedom because truth is the predicate for all freedom because without truth there is no freedom. Heb 2:14-15; John 8:31-33; Luke 12:4-5;
Gal 4:3-5 So when we were children, we were held in bondage under the spiritual forces who rule the cosmic system.
But when the fullness of the time came, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the Law, so that He might redeem those who were under the Law, so that we might receive the adoption as sons.
John 3:16-17;"God had such unfailing integrity love for those who were enslaved to the spiritual rulers of the cosmic system, that He gave His uniquely born Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have everlasting life. Because God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world but that the world may be saved through Him.
Rom 8:3-4; God achieved what the Law could not do because of the inability of sinful flesh God did this by sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and He was judged as our substitute so that the righteousness required by the law could be fulfilled in those who do not walk in accord with the flesh but walk in accord with the Spirit.
Gal 5:1;It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery.
1Peter 2:16; Be free but do not use your freedom as a cloak for evil, but rather use it to function as God's slaves.
When we observe the Lord's table we recall and commemorate our Lord Jesus Christ who is the personification of truth and therefore the source of all freedom, He is the greatest victor of all time and eternity in the invisible spiritual war that rages to this day.
During this ritual we remember our Lord Jesus Christ, the bright morning star Rev 22:16; who ultimately brings Lucifer, the star of the dawn to justice for his attempted coup against God. Isa 14:12; Matt 24:6-9; Rev 20:10;
The Eternal Word who was and is God (John 1:1,14;) invaded satan's world by becoming a member of the human race in the person of Our Lord Jesus Christ in order to recover what was lost when the first man, Adam, fell in the Garden of Eden and to destroy the works of the devil. Luke 19:10; 1John 3:8b;
His ingress into the human race that is enslaved in devil's world occurred at His physical birth (Gal 4:4; Heb 10:5;), egress from the devil's world occurs at physical death when the soul and spirit are transferred into heaven. Luke 23:46;
Jesus' objective was to fulfill the Father's plan to provide a way of salvation for the entire human race and simultaneously create an entirely new spiritual species by means of the spiritual victory that He won on the cross with His judgment and substitutionary forensic spiritual death, followed by His physical death and the burial of His lifeless physical body in the tomb for 3 days and nights.
Our celebration of the Lord's Table recalls our Lord's judgment for the sins of the entire human race and His substitutionary spiritual death that was God's answer to satan's accusation that God's righteous standards were unjust but in order to maintain his immutable perfection God has to judge and condemn all unrighteousness.
The Lord's Table celebrates God's solution to the problem of how to justify sinners without compromising His own perfection. He did on the basis of the imputations made possible by Jesus' work on the cross. God's strategic victory over satan in the angelic conflict was won through Jesus' work on the cross. Rom 4:5; 2Cor 5:19,21; Rom 8:1-3;
The cross is also where Jesus, the personification of God's Word of truth defeated satan who is the god of the cosmos along with his propaganda, disinformation, lies, and deceit that he deploys as the false narratives of the public lie to enslave, control and destroy the entire human race through the functions of arrogance and hatred in his cosmic systems. John 15:18-25;
This means that with this ritual we are celebrating how God broke us out of satan's slave market of sin freeing us from the power of sin and death that are the power of satan's tyranny that is maintained by our genetically formed old sin nature. Rom 6:23; 1Cor 15:22; 1Cor 15:54-57;
Jesus Christ, the pattern for humility and obedience from His dauntless unswerving relentless devotion to absolute truth (Heb 12:2) became the channel for the fulfillment of God the Father's plan by willingly submitting to and complying with God's grace policy even through death. Rom 5:19; Rom 5:8;
He set his face like flint, determined to fulfill His personal sense of destiny with the result that He glorified God through His deployment of the power of God's Word under the filling ministry of God the Holy Spirit that provided the potential for every single person who is ever born to be saved. Luke 22:42; Isa 50:7; Rom 5:15b; Titus 2:11; John 14:6; John 11:25-26;
In sending Jesus Christ to receive the imputation and judgment for all personal sins and die as a substitute for the sins of the entire human race, God unilaterally demonstrated His unfailing love not just for those who believe in Him but for everyone, believer and unbeliever. Rom 5:8; 1John 2:2;
We respond to His unfailing love by complying with his mandates that adjust us to His perfect justice and make us compatible with the absolute truth of God's eternal Word of truth. John 6:40; 1John 5:2-5; Heb 11:6; Acts 16:31; 1John 4:19;
Our celebration of the Lord's Table is therefore the reciprocation of our personal love for God and our Lord Jesus Christ, the savior of all mankind. We therefore focus on Him as we partake of the elements of the Lord's Table that remind us of what He did for us. Luke 22:19-20;
Paul goes on to tell us about the how and the why of Jesus' mission in. 2Cor 5:21; Jesus became sin in our place so that we can become the righteousness of God when we believe in Him.
He came to do God the Father's will Heb 10:5-7; He demonstrated obedience to the Father's unique plan for His unique life by maintaining impeccability while under maximum pressure from satan and his cosmic system and went on to endure the suffering and death of the cross Phil 2:8; because of His personal sense of destiny Heb 12:2;
He is presently seated in glory, honor and majesty at the right hand of God the Father because the Father has exalted Him above every created being and God will require that every created being bow down and acknowledge Him as Lord of all to the glory of God the Father. Phil 2:9-11;
He completely and perfectly fulfilled the directive will of the Father by submitting to God the Father thereby unilaterally providing a way of salvation for every human being who ever lives on the earth as the "lamb slain from the foundation of the world" Rev 13:8; KJV John 1:29;
While we were God's enemies Rom 5:10a; God demonstrated his unfailing love for us by giving his uniquely born Son "monogenes" who invaded the devil's cosmic system through the miracle of the virgin birth. Matt 1:21-23; Luke 2:7; John 3:16;
On the cross Jesus allowed himself to be humbled under God's perfect justice when He accepted God's judgment for the personal sins of all of those who were enslaved in satan's cosmic system and imprisoned in his spiritual death camp.
Jesus became the substitute for their death sentence so that by simply believing in Him God was free to impute His eternal life and His righteousness to them forever. Luke 22:41-42; 1John 2:2; 2Cor 5:21;
God the Father forsook Him while he was being judged for the sins of mankind so that those who believe in Him would never ever be forsaken. Mark 15:34; Heb 13:5c;
God 's perfect holiness was satisfied with Jesus' substitutionary spiritual death on the cross with the result that God is free to extend grace, mercy and forgiveness to the entire human race and to rescue them from their fallen state of deception and depravity without compromising his perfect righteousness and justice because Jesus willingly laid down his life as their substitute. John 15:13; 1John 3:16;
This is why Jesus Christ is the only way to a relationship with God John 14:6, salvation Acts 4:12 and eternal life John 3:16;
This is also why the believer's salvation and eternal life are irrevocable. Rom 11:29; Believers are protected by God. 1Pet 1:3-5; John 10:26-29;
Anyone can appropriate God's Grace gift of salvation simply by believing God's Word of truth that reveals that Jesus Christ is the Son of God who died for our sins, was buried and resurrected on the third day 1Cor 15:3-4;
This is what Paul and Silas told the Philippian Jailer to do when he asked, "what must I do to be saved?" Their answer in Acts 16:31; is that Anyone, anywhere, anytime, can be saved in a moment of time by simply believing in Jesus Christ.
Jesus left his friends, the members of The Royal Family of God, this one and only ritual in the church age The Lord's table that our Lord commanded us to observe in remembrance of Him.
The mandate is found in 1Cor 11:24; in the second person plural present active imperative of the Greek word " poieo" translated "do" where Paul references Jesus' instruction to His disciples in the upper room. Luke 22:19-20;
An expanded translation of 1Cor 11:24 taking into consideration the tense mood and voice of the Greek word "poieo" would be " Keep on doing this in remembrance of me"
This is the mandate that establishes the Lord's Table as the only ritual that God's Word specifies for Church Age believers.
The ritual of the Lord's Table is a test of our ability to concentrate on our Lord Jesus Christ by the recall of God's Word regarding His unique role in God's plan as we partake of the elements that represent what He did for us on the cross.
We have these instructions for partaking of the Lord's Table from the Apostle Paul starting in verse 26 of 1Cor 11.
1Cor 11:26 For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup; you proclaim the Lord's death until He comes.
27 Therefore whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner, shall be guilty of the body and the blood of the Lord.
28 But a man must examine himself, and in so doing he is to eat of the bread and drink of the cup.
29 For he who eats and drinks, eats and drinks judgment to himself if he does not judge the body rightly.
30 For this reason many among you are weak and sick, and a number sleep.
31 But if we judged ourselves rightly, we would not be judged.
We understand from this that we are to examine ourselves the imperative mood is a command to start doing something and stop doing another privately in our thinking.
We do this In the privacy of our priesthood, and when we find we are outside of the word, we apply rebound, first problem solving device, and simply acknowledge any sin we can recall as described in 1 John 1:9;
If/when (third class condition) we acknowledge any known sin he is faithful and righteous to forgive our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. This is the believer's experiential forgiveness during their post salvation life in time.
Having examined ourselves, and acknowledged any known sin that we can recall to God alone with the result that we have been forgiven for every sin that we have ever committed to that point in our lives and been purified from all unrighteousness, we are then commanded to partake of the bread and the cup.
The bread represents the physical body in which Jesus bore the sins and received the judgment for every sin of every person who ever lives in a sin infused mortal body past present and future.
1Cor 11:23 For I received from the Lord that which I also delivered to you, that the Lord Jesus in the night in which He was betrayed took bread;
1Cor 11:24 and when He had given thanks, He broke it and said, This is My body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of Me.
Eat the bread
The cup represents Jesus' substitutionary spiritual death on the cross that paid the penalty for every sin ever committed with the result that Jesus purchased our freedom, redeemed us from the slave market of sin, spiritual death, and eternal condemnation in the lake of fire that is freely available to everyone who will simply believe in Jesus for a single moment.
1Cor 11:25 In the same way, He took the cup also after supper saying This cup is the new covenant in my Blood do this as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me.
Drink the cup
© Copyright 2025, Michael Lemmon Bible Ministries. World Rights Reserved.
| 0.960865 | 2,870 |
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an inspection will reveal problems, usually minor, which should be
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If the home is vacant, it is important that all utilities, such as electricity, gas, and water, are turned on. Otherwise the inspector cannot check some of the systems in the home.
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A written report will be provided within 12 hours of the inspection, and is usually e-mailed to designated parties. The report used is the latest TREC Standard Form 7-6.
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Understanding How A Diary-Free Lifestyle Can Affect Your Teeth
Are you experiencing more cavities and decay lately after switching over to a dairy-free diet? Experts have concluded that going dairy-free can have a negative impact on your teeth. In fact, it can ultimately lead to tooth loss and the need for dental implants. For many people, choosing to go to dairy-free can have some major health benefits for their bodies. Some choose this route to help relieve allergies, while others may choose a dairy-free lifestyle to help them lose weight or clear up health issues they have experienced.
Dealing with Glaucoma: What You Should Know
When you go to the eye doctor for a checkup and potentially to update the prescription for your corrective lenses, the last thing you want or expect is to be told you have glaucoma. However, a glaucoma diagnosis, while unpleasant to hear, is not the end of the world. There are treatments available and ways to manage your glaucoma so that it does not progress further and cause any additional vision loss.
Non-Surgical And Surgical Treatment Options For Sleep Apnea
According to the National Sleep Apnea Foundation, more than 18 million adults in America have sleep apnea. Due to the seriousness of the sleep disorder, it is imperative that you seek treatment if you have been diagnosed with it. There are non-surgical and surgical treatments options available.
One of the most commonly used means of treating the symptoms of sleep apnea is the use of continuous positive airway pressure, or CPAP, therapy.
Do You Have A Plan For Your Atheist Funeral?
Funerals are often associated with one's religious beliefs. However, if you are planning your funeral, and consider yourself an atheist, your loved ones may not know what your wishes would be during an event. While there are common rituals followed with major world religions, as an atheist, you can help your loved ones focus on the grieving process by clarifying what you would like to occur during your funeral.
Celebrating Your Life
Preparing Your Child For Their First Trip To The Dentist
If you are the parent of a toddler who has not been to a dentist yet, you will want to prepare them for their first teeth cleaning visit so it goes by without anxiety or fear. Here are a few tips you can use to prepare your child for their first dentists exam.
Have Them Watch
The best way to prepare your child for their first teeth cleaning appointment is to have them watch you as you get one done yourself.
Stair Lift Safety
A difficult part of aging and/or losing mobility is having to give up the family home because you are unable to access all parts of your house. Older people and people with disabilities are sometimes faced with having to make this decision since they can't go up and down stairs. One solution that many people choose instead of relocating is to install a stairlift so that they can safely access all parts of their family home.
Preparing For Your Total Ankle Joint Replacement
Your foot and ankle doctor has recommended an artificial joint replacement to resolve your ankle instability. This is a common procedure, but it is major surgery. It's worth your time to understand what will be done and what you can expect after the surgery.
Replacing Bone with Plastic and Metal
Your ankle is made up of the lower leg bone, called the tibia, fitting into a convex space in your first ankle bone, called the talus.
2 Eye Issues Addressed
Problems with your eyes can result in issues that are both extraordinarily painful and inconvenient. Fortunately, if you have had the bad luck of encountering these problems, ophthalmologists have the training needed to help you find a suitable solution or treatment for your eye issues. Below are answers to two questions you might have about common eye issues.
What Should You Do For Chemical Injuries?
One of the most painful issues that your eyes can encounter is a chemical burn.
How You Can Make Money And Help Advance Medications Through The Clinical Research Process
There are several stages in between the ideation stage and the final product stage for medications. Many of these stages involve clinical trials to prove that the medicines are not harmful and are, in fact, helpful. Even over-the-counter medicines require clinical trials before the FDA can approve them. If you are interested in how you can make a lot of money and help progress these medicines into the mainstream market to help others, you can sign up for one of these three clinical trial stages.
Wraparound Sunglasses and Their Benefits
If you wear prescription glasses or contact lenses, you may find that bright sunlight can be hard on your field of vision. You may find that wearing sunglasses can be hard when you have problems seeing where you are going while wearing them instead of your prescription lenses. Wraparound style prescription sunglasses can help you enjoy a sunny day without worrying about your vision being compromised.
What the Sun Can Do to Your Eyes
| 0.95999 | 1,028 |
The Academic Affairs Division of Genesee Community College supports the mission of the college by providing educational experiences that promote intellectual and social growth, professional success, and global citizenship. Further, we are committed to educational excellence and innovation through continual assessment of our work as facilitators of student learning.
Provost, Vice President for Academic Affairs
Dr. Kathleen Landy joined GCC in 2024 and is honored to serve as Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs. Kathleen came to GCC from Cornell University, where she served as the Associate Director for Assessment & Evaluation at Cornell’s Center for Teaching Innovation. Kathleen’s previous positions in higher education—at both Mercy University and Queensborough Community College of the City University of New York—have allowed her to build upon her extensive K–12 teaching experience and develop skill sets to support and lead the design and delivery of faculty development programs; online learning and academic technology; and assessment, accreditation, and institutional effectiveness efforts.
Throughout her career, Kathleen has remained a committed teacher, having taught classes in multiple modalities for Mercy University, Fordham University’s Graduate School of Education, Cornell University, and Fairleigh Dickenson University.
Kathleen holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from SUNY Geneseo, as well as a Master of Science in Teaching and an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership, Administration, and Policy from Fordham University. In addition to serving as the co-chair of the SUNY Council on Assessment (SCoA), she is a peer evaluator for the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, a Core Committee member for the Professional and Organizational Development (POD) Network, and a former board member and past president of the Assessment Network of New York.
Dean of Math, Science and Career Education
Math, Science and Career Education
Dr. Rafael Alicea-Maldonado (Dr. RAM) was appointed Dean of MSCE on August 2011. He joined GCC in 2000 as a Chemistry faculty member. Dr. RAM received the SUNY at Buffalo, Department of Chemistry, Mattern-Tyler Excellence in Teaching Award in 1996. In addition, he received the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching in 2005 and the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Faculty Service in 2011.
Dr. RAM holds a B.S. in Chemistry from the University of Puerto Rico-Rio Piedras Campus and a Ph.D. in Chemistry from SUNY at Buffalo. Dr. RAM enjoys traveling and has visited over 20 countries.
Dr. RAM oversees the following programs: Business and Commerce, Computers and Technology, Health Care, Health and Physical Education, Office Technology and Support, Science and Technology, Economic Crime Investigation, Paralegal Studies, and Liberal Arts and Science: Math & Science. In addition, he shares responsibility for Individualized Studies with Dean Tomczak.
Dean of Human Communication and Behavior
Human Communications and Behavior
Mr. Tomczak joined the faculty at Genesee Community College as an instructor of psychology in the fall semester of 1987, and was promoted to the rank of Professor effective fall 2007. He was appointed Director of Social Sciences in 2013 and Dean of HCB in 2019. Tim is a three-time SUNY Chancellor’s Award winner: Excellence in Teaching (1994); Excellence in Scholarship and Creative Activities (2007); and Excellence in Faculty Service (2018).
Tim holds a B.A. in Psychology from Mercyhurst University and an M.A. in General Experimental Psychology from the State University College of New York at Geneseo.
Dean Tomczak oversees the following academic programs: Creative Arts, Human Services, Criminal Justice, Liberal Arts (General Education Certificate, General Studies, and Humanities and Social Sciences), Teaching and Education, and Transitional Studies. In addition, he shares responsibility for the Individualized Studies program with Dr. RAM.
Dean of Distributed Learning
Office of Distributed Learning
Mr. Edward Levinstein joined Genesee Community College as a Program Specialist in the fall of 2002. He was promoted to Associate Dean of Accelerated College Enrollment Programs in 2007 and appointed as Dean of Distributed Learning in August, 2022. Throughout his twenty-year career in higher education, Ed has been active in the community through board, committee and volunteer work that includes the Business and Education Alliance of Genesee County, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County, Tonawanda Valley Federal Credit Union, and the New York Concurrent Enrollment Partnership. He currently serves as a member of the PTECH steering committee, Genesee Valley BOCES School Board and as Vice President of the Pembroke Central School Board.
Ed holds a B.A. in Communication Studies from the State University of New York at Oswego and an M.A. in Communication Studies from the State University of New York at Brockport.
Dean Levinstein oversees the Accelerated College Enrollment Programs, Online Learning, GCC Campus Centers, and the Upward Bound and Liberty Partnerships grant programs.
GCC Academic Affairs
One College Rd
Batavia NY 14020
P: 585-343-0055 x6529
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It is dưa leo truyệntime to look ahead to the new high school basketball player rankings for future classes. The evaluation period for college coaches will begin this weekend. In the months ahead, we will start to see and separate which prospects are ready to break out from the pack.
To be No. 1 in any class, a prospect must have the appropriate talent and character traits. One thing to keep in mind: An athlete's on- and off-court character can protect and enhance their giftedness.
From a basketball lens, the evaluation process is a combination of many factors, including dominating high school performances with efficiency, productivity with consistency; physical and mental markers for future college success; and projecting out as an NBA lottery pick in the future.
As with any rankings board, it will be ever changing as the seasons change. We will revisit each class in a few months.
Meet the No. 1 prospects in the 2024, 2025 and 2026 classes.
Wherever Johnson has played he has left his mark. He had an outstanding season, leading Lake Highlands to the Texas 6A state championship, scoring 29 points in the title game. Against some of the nation's top teams in the prestigious City of Palms tournament, Johnson averaged 23 points and eight rebounds over four games.
Johnson is one of the best, if not the best, long-range shot-makers in the class. His compact shot mechanics and shooting motion are repeatable, which leads to consistency. At 6-foot-6 with a 6-10 wingspan, the shooting guard owns strong positional size and shoots it with confidence both off the catch or from the rhythm dribble. He is a true scoring threat on every possession. Simply put, Johnson is wired to score both with the ball in his hands as driver or shot creator. He uses one or two dribbles to create vision and space while putting his defender off balance as he rises for his jumper.
This offseason, he said he is committed to keeping his scoring prowess while developing as a secondary ball handler and decision-maker without forfeiting what he does best, which is score with touch.
Johnson laid out his vision: "I will try and expand my game. I will be working on being a better playmaker, finisher and on-ball defender."
Landing a player of Johnson's impact can elevate a program's profile and win total. His recruiting is intense, as Baylor, Kentucky, Texas, Kansas, Auburn, Arkansas and LSU all are involved. He is heading down a path of being a one-and-done college player as well as being a top prospect for the NBA draft with continued development.
His path might be that of one-and-done, but Johnson will not skip any steps when it comes to improving and trying to win, which makes him even more attractive to college coaches.
Cameron Boozer stays on top in the class of 2025 and for good reason. At just 15, he is fresh off a state championship for Christopher Columbus High, where he averaged 21 points per game, grabbed 11 rebounds per game and had four assist per game. Boozer in March was named the Gatorade national player of the year, only the second sophomore to win it.
According to synergysports.com, he shot 69% around the rim and made 38% of his catch-and-shoot 3s this high school season. He scored 30% of his points from cuts and offensive rebound putbacks, while 25% came managing the ball in ball screens or isolation. His basketball IQ and well roundedness are staples of his game.
Boozer is looking for ways to improve.
"I need to take care of the ball more and be a better rim protector," he said. "On the help side, either take the charge or try and block the shot. Always stay hungry for more and find the smallest thing to work on."
A highly competitive prospect at 6-9 with a 7-1 wingspan, he has been impactful, and on most occasions, he is the best player in the game. Boozer has an advanced game, which includes reading the floor on both ends, scoring from behind the arc, midrange shooting and a low-post package. He is a smart cutter against zones, flashing from behind or the weak side, and battles for offensive rebounds. In ball screens, he is equally adept spacing out to shoot 3s or playing out of a short roll or dive for a finish at the rim.
It is not about playing a certain position, it is about having the ball skills, basketball IQ and physical ability to make a play that is warranted in a split second. Boozer's productivity level is most impressive, including on defense. Opponents will make him the focal point to try to stop as the main threat on each possession. How he responds will be the power forward's biggest challenge.
Recruiting is on the backburner, Boozer said, until this time next year. But he is building relationships with coaches and is consistently hearing from Duke, Michigan, Florida and Miami.
Dybantsa has been on the radar since eighth grade, when he grew from 5-10 to 6-4. This past season at St. Sebastian's, his team went 25-2, losing in the NEPSAC championship game to Milton Academy.
The No. 1 prospect in the class of 2026 has his priorities in order, and his work habits are strong.
"My parents have made academics a priority since I was young," said Dybantsa, who won his state's Gatorade player of the year honor as a freshman.
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When there was no organized spring or summer basketball because of COVID-19 in 2020 and 2021, Dybantsa and his dad, Anicet, still found a way to practice.
"I drove AJ to Middletown, Rhode Island, which was 65 minutes away from us," Anicet Dybantsa said. "We did it six days a week outdoors with his eighth-grade coach Joseph Saunders."
Dybantsa's physical measurables are impressive: He stands 6-7 with a 6-11 wingspan, which, combined with his offensive prowess, is unique. His strengths are that of a dynamic, multidimensional wing with next-level transition ability, advanced skill that demonstrates touch inside as well as facing up to the 3-point line.
His recruiting is nowhere close to the level it will be. The NCAA does not allow off-campus contact or phone conversations until June 15 of a prospect's sophomore year. Dybantsa, a small forward, can make unofficial visits and has been to Boston College.
"AJ has a tremendous work ethic and is resilient," said Todd Quarles, coach of Dybantsa's club team, Expressions. "That is why he improved and has gotten strong. He can both create his own shot and is a willing playmaker. Right now, he can play anywhere 1 through 4."
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The website plays an important role in the business world of the 21st century. You must have a proactive security strategy; otherwise, business, networks and other information will be risky. Web security is very important to prevent hackers and Internet thieves from accessing confidential information. Web security is becoming increasingly important due to the increasing number of website attacks and cyberattacks. Businesses should know that a spam filter and antivirus software are not enough to confront and protect the ever-evolving form of cybersecurity threats.
End-to-end website security is one of the best solutions that includes a complete set of tools to protect against website malware infections, service interruptions, and data breaches. Plus, it protects your network, server, and email system. Make sure you are knowledgeable about the prices of the pknic range and others as well. There are different website security systems available in Good Rice and various packages. The domain must be registered for the security and integrity of the site.
For website security, it doesn’t take a big budget to protect websites from security vulnerabilities that threaten the website. You need to take a proactive approach that includes taking security measures.
It’s simple, but making sure you keep all types of software up-to-date is vital to keeping your site secure. You need security updates for the operating system. The hosting company should take care of this. Make sure to keep your dependencies up to date. Use tools like a gym to automatically receive notifications when a vulnerability is announced.
Other site security can be done using SQL injection. When an attacker uses a web form field or interacts with a database or URL parameter to access it. It is easy to enter Transact-SQL in a query that can be used to switch tables, get information, and delete data.
When a hacker collects any type of data that a user submits to a website, they are using their own pills, known as interception. The data can take the form of contact information or confidential credit card information. Bad, cybercriminals sell or buy the data themselves. It is very important to protect the website with an SSL certificate to protect all confidential data.
Many hackers guess the password or use different software and dictionary tools to try a different password until they log in. Key records are another type used to access user accounts. Many websites may lack a strong password. This means that trying to log in is very easy. A strong and unique password is required. Change your password regularly and also require two-step authentication.
Explore sensitive data:
It is a major website security flaw that does not protect your confidential data. Credit card details, passwords, and other confidential information should never be transferred or stored unencrypted. The remote password must be hashed. Sensitive data such as session IDs and passwords should not be passed in URLs.
Websites are the backbone of a business. It has all the basic and sensitive information. Check spam and notifications. There are many programs available to protect your websites and keep your information safe.
Transforming Memories into Textual Masterpieces
The internet has revolutionized the way we communicate, share, and create. Among its myriad offerings, the ability to turn photographs into text-based images is a service that marries the visual with the verbal in a unique and personalized way. This service is not just about creating a picture; it’s about crafting a message that resonates on a deeper level.
The Simple Process of Creating Your Text Image
Creating a text-based image from your favorite photo is straightforward:
Visit a reputable photo-to-text website.
Upload the photo you wish to transform.
Customize the text, background, and other elements to your liking.
Make adjustments until you achieve the desired outcome.
Select your preferred format and complete your order.
The Emotional Impact of a Personalized Surprise
Surprises have a universal appeal, often eliciting joy and excitement. A custom text image can serve as a perfect surprise for loved ones on any day, not just special occasions. According to a study on gift-giving by the Journal of Consumer Research, personalized gifts can strengthen relationships and enhance the emotional connection between the giver and the recipient. By choosing a cherished photo and accompanying it with meaningful text, you can create a gift that is both unique and heartfelt.
Motivation Through Personalized Imagery
In the realm of motivation and inspiration, personalized text images can serve as powerful tokens of appreciation and encouragement. Recognizing someone’s efforts or achievements with a custom image can boost morale and foster a sense of belonging and purpose. A study by the Incentive Research Foundation highlights the effectiveness of non-monetary rewards, such as personalized gifts, in enhancing employee motivation and performance.
Expressing Love Through Customized Words
Expressing love and appreciation can be challenging for some, but a picture made of words can convey feelings in a way that transcends traditional gifts. The customization aspect allows you to tailor the message to reflect your emotions genuinely, making it a unique expression of love.
Enhancing Your Digital Space with Artistic Wallpapers
Custom text images can also serve as personalized wallpapers for phones, laptops, and other gadgets. A study by the University of Texas at Austin suggests that personalized environments, including digital spaces, can improve mood and cognitive function. By using a text image as a wallpaper, you can carry a piece of art that holds personal significance with you wherever you go.
Decorating Your Home with Textual Art
Beyond digital use, printed text images can adorn the walls of your home, adding a personal touch to your living space. The versatility of these images means they can be tailored to fit any decor style, making them a versatile choice for interior design.
In conclusion, the fusion of technology and creativity has given rise to a unique form of expression through text-based images. Whether as a gift, a source of inspiration, or a decorative element, these images offer a personalized touch that resonates on a deeper level. With the ease of creating these masterpieces online, the opportunity to transform words into visual art is just a few clicks away.
When it comes to choosing the technology for front-end development, a host of efficient options are available in the market. But amongst these, ReactJS Frontend development has come up as the most popular and performance-oriented option. Some of the most popular websites like Netflix, Paypal, Apple to name a few use React.JS due to the flexibility and vast amount of capabilities that it offers. Businesses exploring for such capabilities should consider working with a ReactJS App development Company or they can go for ReactJS developers who work as freelancers.
A Bit about ReactJS
Why ReactJS is Widely Used for Frontend Development?
Performance-centric and efficient: ReactJS is one of those frontend technologies which facilitate performance-based development. ReactJS provides server-side rendering and a virtual DOM program that facilitates fast, reliable, and robust performance. Also, the apps built in ReactJS are quite easier to maintain and update. DOM operations which are costly are avoided by ReactJS thereby making these operations efficient. One other factor that contributes to its efficiency is the JSX syntax that makes the process of writing components for websites much easier.
Outstanding Agility: ReactJS can make use of virtual DOM to make changes at the top layer without being worried about the crashing of the application. It is based on the concept of components that enables seamless functioning with other libraries and frameworks too.
Faster Development: ReactJS web apps can be developed at a faster rate due to various reasons.
Debugging process in ReactJS Development is very fast, thereby speeding up the process to build the app.
The component-based or Modular approach helps to focus on building individual components and then combining them to build the entire application.
ReactJS package is small and hence can be quickly downloaded and installed.
Code-splitting feature helps to load only the features which are required currently by the user thereby improving the loading time of web application.
Reusable components save the efforts of developing everything from scratch.
Captivating UI: This library accords the power of creating complicated yet attractive user interfaces to frontend web developers. Declarative components in ReactJS imparts a modern-day look and feel to the UI.
Customization: ReactJS uses JSX syntax which is an optional extension that allows writing of requisite components as per the specific requirements of the clients or end-users. These components accept HTML quoting and allow the ReactJS developers to render the subcomponents with ease.
High Stability: ReactJS uses a downward data flow making it a more stable framework. When any changes are made in the child structure, the parent structure is not affected. So when the developers want to make any modifications in an object, they can modify the state, make the changes and only then update it. This procedure makes the code and the apps stable.
Vibrant Community to Support: React.JS is blessed by the support of a powerful community of Facebook experts as well as other developers from all corners of the world. They often contribute to make it a better frontend technology. They deliver free-tutorials, blogs, articles, etc. to enrich it and provide crucial guidance to anyone facing technical issues while development.
SEO-friendly: SEO has become a crucial component in today’s era of online marketing. ReactJS supports this as it ensures faster rendering speeds and high responsiveness in the apps. This increases their chance of ranking higher in the search engines making it an SEO-friendly framework.
We hope this article has helped you gain important insights into why React.JS is a great library for frontend development. Owing to its enormous potential, React.JS has earned a significant place in the software world. Some Tech Leaders also claim that it has an extremely bright future. With this, we come to the end.
Are you looking for developing high-performing scalable ReactJS Apps for your business? Get in touch with Biz4Solutions, a well-established ReactJS app development services in Texas. We have provided our cutting-edge frontend development services to several clients using ReactJS. Contact Now!
A building digital twin or a digital replica of a building is a virtual model that collects real-world information about various building structures from wireless technologies like sensors, drones and many more. In construction projects, a digital twin is used to conducts design tests, gain valuable insights and record experiences without affecting the building structure. It can also be used to improve the building’s performance during its entire life cycle, while reducing ownership costs like construction, maintenance, renovations, etc.
LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is a globally recognized green building certification system, which verifies that a building was designed and built by implementing strategies aiming at higher performance across metrics like energy savings, reduced emissions, indoor environmental quality, etc. LEED certification applies for all building types, commercial as well as residential.
Depending upon the different types of building projects, there are several rating systems provided under the LEED certification system. Building owners who seed LEED certification can use digital twins to simulate several design options for maximizing the credits earned under the LEED scoring system. Below are the LEED certification rating systems:
Building Design and Construction – BD+C
Interior Design and Construction – ID+C
Operations and Maintenance – O+M
Neighborhood Development – ND
Each rating system has a unique set of prerequisites and the corresponding credits based upon the building occupancy classification. A digital twin allows the building owners to compare all these design options in multiple scenarios.
LEED certification required accumulation of at least 40 points, including the prerequisites of the rating system with their corresponding credits. There are 3 main certification level awarded based on the minimum score limit:
Silver – 50 points
Gold – 60 points
Platinum – 80 points
LEED Credits with a Digital Twin
The LEED certification rating system offers the following 2 options along with technical requirements:
Prescriptive Requirement: They have very specific instructions, but the designed flexibility offered is very limited. Using only this approach, the building LEED certification can become highly expensive.
Performance-Based Approach: Since this approach doesn’t require the use of prescriptive features, it offers high design flexibility. However, a building simulation is required as proof when opting for LEED credits based on performance.
The following points are some of the simulation proofs required for the performance-based approach:
Sustainable Sites – Proof of reduced pollution reduction.
Energy and Atmosphere – Proof for validating minimum energy performance and possible optimization beyond the minimum.
Indoor Environment Quality – Simulation results for air pollutant levels for ventilation intake, construction material emission, illuminance levels of natural light.
A digital twin can also be used for improving the performance areas where LEED certification does not mention simulation modeling. Energy efficiency is one such areas where building owners can score points that contributes towards a LEED certification.
BD+C – 18 points
ID+C – 25 points
O+M – 20 points
Homes – 29 points
As mentioned above, the minimum score for LEED certification is 40 points. Thus, building owners can earn points from the energy efficiency feature alone. The combination of energy efficiency and building performance can allow owner to achieve higher certification levels (Silver, Gold or Platinum).
Design Comparison with a Digital Twin
Comparing several design options for a LEED certificate can be a time-consuming task with the conventional methods. However, a digital twin allows comparing multiple design options in a much faster and efficient way. For eg. A digital twin can simulate several configurations for HVAC systems and building envelopes to determine the configuration offering the highest energy efficiency. This in turn allows building owners to maximize the credits earned for a LEED certificate.
In most cases, building featured that improve the overall performance achieve synergy. However, in some cases, these features are mutually exclusive of each other. At design level, digital twin allows MEP engineers to eliminate the ineffective features and thus combine the features that collectively maximize the building performance. This greatly increases the chances of earning more certification credits.
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Mumbai, being one of the largest and most populous states in India, presents a prime opportunity for entrepreneurs to venture into the pharmaceutical industry. With over 120.84 million residents and a burgeoning healthcare sector, the demand for pharma medicines has surged in recent times. Against this backdrop,Rednirus Cardiocare emerges as the top choice for those seeking to establish a PCD Pharma Franchise in Mumbai.
The current market dynamics in Mumbai highlight several compelling reasons for investing in a pharmaceutical franchise:
Lower Investment Requirements: Rednirus Cardiocare offers franchise opportunities with minimal investment requirements, making it accessible to a wide range of aspiring entrepreneurs.
Transportation Network: The state has a well-developed transportation network, including road, rail, and air connectivity. Efficient logistics are crucial for the timely delivery of medications, ensuring that patients receive their prescriptions without delay.
Favorable Business Environment: Mumbai boasts conducive business conditions, including robust infrastructure, efficient logistics networks, and a supportive regulatory framework, facilitating smooth business operations.
High Demand for Pharma Medicines: With a large and growing population, coupled with increasing healthcare needs, there is a consistent and substantial demand for pharmaceutical products across Mumbai. This presents a lucrative market opportunity for franchise partners of Rednirus Cardiocare.
Accessible Business Resources: Mumbai provides easy access to essential business resources such as skilled manpower, raw materials, distribution networks, and market insights, enabling franchisees to effectively establish and expand their pharmaceutical business.
In essence, partnering with Rednirus Cardiocare for a PCD Pharma Franchise in Mumbai offers entrepreneurs a gateway to tap into the thriving pharmaceutical market of the state, leveraging favorable business conditions, high demand for medicines, and accessible resources to drive growth and success in the pharmaceutical sector.
Rednirus Cardiocare" is a pharmaceutical company specializing in Cardiac Diabetic products and offering PCD (Propaganda Cum Distribution) franchise opportunities in Mumbai. With a focus on delivering high-quality medications, Rednirus Cardiocare has earned recognition for its commitment to excellence and adherence to stringent industry standards.
Specialization in Cardiac Diabetic Products: Rednirus Cardiocare focuses on developing and manufacturing a wide range of pharmaceuticals catering specifically to cardiac and diabetic conditions. This specialization ensures that their products are tailored to meet the unique needs of patients suffering from these ailments.
PCD Franchise Opportunities: The company offers PCD franchise opportunities, allowing individuals and businesses in Mumbai to partner with them and distribute their Cardiac Diabetic products in the region. This franchise model provides entrepreneurs with a platform to leverage the company's established brand reputation and product portfolio.
Commitment to Quality: Rednirus Cardiocare prioritizes quality and efficacy in all aspects of its operations. Their products are manufactured in state-of-the-art facilities that adhere to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) standards. Additionally, their medications are approved by regulatory authorities, ensuring compliance with industry regulations and standards.
Extensive Product Range: The company offers a diverse range of Cardiac Diabetic products, encompassing medications for various cardiovascular and diabetic conditions. This comprehensive product portfolio enables franchise partners to cater to a wide range of patient needs and preferences.
Marketing and Support: Rednirus Cardiocare provides comprehensive marketing support to its franchise partners, including promotional materials, advertising campaigns, and training programs. This assistance helps franchisees effectively promote and distribute the company's products in their respective territories.
Overall, Rednirus Cardiocare stands out as a reputable pharmaceutical company offering Cardiac Diabetic PCD franchise opportunities in Mumbai. With a focus on quality, innovation, and support, the company provides aspiring entrepreneurs with a compelling platform to venture into the pharmaceutical industry and contribute to improving healthcare outcomes for patients in the region.
Emerges as the foremost choice for individuals seeking to establish a PCD Pharma Franchise in Mumbai, offering an array of compelling advantages:
Transparent Arrangements: We prioritize integrity and clarity in all our business transactions, ensuring that our partners benefit from transparent and straightforward deals.
Export Opportunities: Chandigarh's strategic location also facilitates export opportunities to neighboring countries. Pharmaceutical franchises can explore international markets, expanding their reach and revenue potential.
Exclusive Market Rights: Our franchise associates are granted complete monopoly rights within their designated territories, granting them exclusive access to lucrative market opportunities.
Complimentary Promotional Resources: We equip our partners with a comprehensive suite of promotional resources and marketing assets at no extra charge, empowering them to effectively showcase our extensive range of pharmaceutical offerings.
Diverse Product Portfolio: With a broad spectrum of pharmaceutical products manufactured in cutting-edge laboratories using advanced technologies, we provide our partners with a diverse selection of high-quality medications to address various healthcare needs.
Monopoly Rights: Many pharmaceutical companies offer exclusive monopoly rights to their franchise partners, reducing competition and enabling businesses to capture a larger market share.
Competitive Pricing: We maintain competitive pricing for our products, ensuring accessibility to a wide customer base while upholding uncompromising standards of quality.
Prompt Product Dispatch: We prioritize timely and dependable product dispatch, ensuring that our partners receive their orders promptly to minimize downtime and optimize operational efficiency.
By collaborating with Rednirus Cardiocare for a PCD Pharma Franchise in Mumbai, entrepreneurs can embark on a journey towards success, leveraging our commitment to transparent dealings, exclusive market rights, complimentary promotional support, diverse product offerings, competitive pricing, and punctual product delivery to establish and expand their pharmaceutical ventures with confidence and efficacy.
The rising incidence of cardiac and diabetic diseases has significantly boosted the pharmaceutical industry, which is experiencing healthy growth at a consistent compound annual growth rate (CAGR). This growth creates a substantial opportunity for investing in a Cardiac Diabetic PCD Franchise in Mumbai. The demand for these specialized medicines is high among top doctors and consumers, driven by the increasing prevalence of heart and diabetic conditions. The business model is exceptionally profitable, offering numerous perks and benefits.
Low Investment Capital: The required investment is relatively low, minimizing the financial risk and making it accessible to many entrepreneurs.
Large Population Base: Mumbai's population of approximately 1.04 million provides a substantial market for establishing and growing a successful business.
Government Support and Business Guidance: Investors can benefit from government support and expert business guidance from our company, enhancing the profitability and sustainability of the business.
High Demand for Cardiac Diabetic Medicines: There is a persistent and increasing demand for cardiac diabetic medications throughout the city, ensuring higher profit margins and business growth. By leveraging these advantages, investing in a Cardiac Diabetic PCD Franchise in Mumbai offers a promising and profitable business opportunity.
Plot No. 201, 1st Floor , HSIIDC, Industrial Estate, Phase 1, Alipur, Barwala Panchkula (HR) 134118 India
Corporate Address :- Scf-245 2nd Floor Motor Market Post Office Manimajra, Chandigarh - 160101
Factory Address :- Plot No 250, HSIIDC, Industrial Estate Alipur Barwala, Haryana 134118
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Can I leave business cards in mailboxes? This seemingly simple question opens a Pandora’s Box of legal, ethical, and practical considerations. Leaving business cards in mailboxes, a seemingly low-cost marketing tactic, might land you in hot water with the law or damage your brand reputation. This guide explores the legality, effectiveness, ethics, and alternatives to this unconventional marketing strategy, helping you make an informed decision.
We’ll delve into the legal ramifications of distributing unsolicited materials, comparing mailbox distribution to other advertising methods. We’ll examine the potential reach and cost-effectiveness, analyzing response rates and comparing it to established marketing channels. Ethical concerns regarding property rights and community perception will also be addressed, along with exploring alternative, more effective, and ethically sound business card distribution methods. Ultimately, we aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of the risks and rewards associated with this often-overlooked marketing approach.
Legality of Leaving Business Cards in Mailboxes
Leaving unsolicited materials, including business cards, in mailboxes is a legally grey area, varying significantly depending on location and specific circumstances. While not explicitly illegal in all jurisdictions, it often falls into a regulatory space concerning trespassing, littering, and unsolicited advertising. Understanding these nuances is crucial for businesses to avoid potential legal repercussions.
Legal Ramifications of Distributing Unsolicited Materials via Mailboxes
The act of placing business cards in mailboxes could be construed as trespassing, depending on the mailbox’s location and ownership. Private property owners generally have the right to exclude others from their property, and a mailbox is often considered an extension of that property. Furthermore, many jurisdictions have ordinances against littering, and depending on the quantity of cards distributed, this could be a violation. Finally, some areas have regulations specifically targeting unsolicited advertising, which could encompass the distribution of business cards. The penalties for violating these regulations vary widely, ranging from fines to potential lawsuits.
Variations in Regulations Across Jurisdictions
Regulations regarding mailbox usage differ considerably between states, counties, and even municipalities. Some areas have strict ordinances prohibiting any unsolicited material in mailboxes, while others may have more lenient rules, focusing primarily on bulk mailings or overtly offensive content. For instance, a small town might have a local ordinance prohibiting any unaddressed materials in mailboxes, while a larger city might focus on regulations regarding bulk junk mail. Businesses must research the specific regulations of their target area before distributing business cards in this manner.
Legal Implications of Leaving Business Cards versus Other Forms of Advertising in Mailboxes
The legal implications of leaving business cards in mailboxes are generally similar to those of distributing other forms of unsolicited advertising, such as flyers or pamphlets. The key difference often lies in the perceived intrusiveness. A single business card might be viewed as less intrusive than a large flyer, but the cumulative effect of numerous cards distributed across multiple mailboxes could lead to more severe penalties. The volume and nature of the distributed material are crucial factors in determining the potential legal consequences.
Scenarios Leading to Legal Repercussions
Several scenarios could lead to legal repercussions for distributing business cards in mailboxes. For example, a business distributing thousands of cards in a residential neighborhood could face charges related to littering or unsolicited advertising. If a homeowner complains and provides evidence of the distribution, the business could be fined or even sued for trespassing. Similarly, distributing cards containing misleading or offensive information could lead to further legal complications, potentially involving consumer protection laws.
Hypothetical Legal Case: Business Card Distribution and Potential Outcomes, Can i leave business cards in mailboxes
Imagine a hypothetical case where “ABC Landscaping” distributes thousands of business cards in mailboxes across a suburban neighborhood. Several residents complain, citing littering and unsolicited advertising. The local municipality investigates and finds ABC Landscaping in violation of local ordinances. Potential outcomes include fines, a cease-and-desist order, and even a lawsuit from residents for trespassing or nuisance. The severity of the penalty would depend on factors such as the number of complaints, the local ordinances, and the evidence presented.
Effectiveness of Mailbox Business Card Distribution
Mailbox business card distribution, while seemingly a simple tactic, presents a complex picture of reach, effectiveness, and cost. Its success hinges on several factors, including target audience, geographic location, and the overall marketing strategy. Unlike digital marketing, its impact is less easily tracked, making a comprehensive assessment crucial before implementation.
The potential reach of mailbox distribution is geographically limited to the areas where cards are placed. Effectiveness depends heavily on the density of residential or commercial mailboxes in the target area and the receptiveness of the intended audience. While it lacks the broad reach of online advertising or social media campaigns, it offers a hyper-local approach, potentially reaching a highly concentrated segment of the population. This makes it ideal for businesses with a clearly defined, geographically limited target market.
Reach and Effectiveness Compared to Other Methods
Mailbox distribution’s reach is significantly smaller than digital marketing methods like social media or online advertising, which can potentially reach a global audience. However, compared to other direct marketing methods such as direct mail flyers or brochures, it offers a lower-cost entry point and potentially higher engagement due to the personal nature of a business card. The effectiveness also depends on the quality of the card itself – a well-designed card with a clear call to action will be more effective than a poorly designed one. Traditional methods like print advertising in newspapers or magazines, while having a wider potential reach, often result in lower engagement rates due to the passive nature of the medium.
Examples of Successful Mailbox Distribution Strategies
A local plumber focusing on residential clients might strategically distribute business cards in neighborhoods experiencing high rates of older home repairs. This targeted approach maximizes the likelihood of reaching potential customers actively seeking their services. A real estate agent could concentrate their efforts on neighborhoods with high property turnover, increasing the chance of contacting individuals looking to buy or sell. These strategies demonstrate how focusing on a specific, receptive audience significantly enhances the effectiveness of mailbox distribution. Quantifiable results, however, are difficult to obtain without sophisticated tracking methods, such as unique QR codes on each card linked to a specific campaign.
The cost-effectiveness of mailbox distribution is influenced by several factors. Printing costs are relatively low compared to other marketing channels, particularly digital advertising. Labor costs are also relatively low if the distribution is handled internally. However, potential fines for violating mailbox regulations must be factored in. Compared to direct mail campaigns, which require postage and often more elaborate design, mailbox distribution offers a significantly cheaper alternative, provided that legal regulations are adhered to. The return on investment (ROI) is challenging to accurately measure due to the difficulties in tracking responses, but a successful campaign can deliver a high ROI if the target audience is well-defined and the business cards are professionally designed and placed strategically.
Target Audience Receptive to Mailbox Distribution
The most receptive target audience for mailbox distribution is typically localized and comprised of individuals who frequently interact with their immediate surroundings. Homeowners, small business owners, and residents in densely populated areas are more likely to encounter and consider business cards left in their mailboxes. This contrasts with a broader, less geographically defined audience that might be reached through online advertising or social media. The key is to select a target audience whose daily routine and location increase their likelihood of encountering and engaging with the business card.
Comparative Analysis of Response Rates
Direct comparison of response rates for mailbox distribution versus other direct marketing strategies is difficult due to the lack of standardized tracking methods. However, anecdotal evidence suggests that response rates are generally lower than those of email marketing or targeted online advertising campaigns, which offer better tracking capabilities. Direct mail campaigns, while offering more trackable response rates through unique codes or URLs, often exhibit higher costs compared to mailbox distribution. The effectiveness of mailbox distribution hinges on the precise targeting of the desired customer base and the quality of the business card design and messaging.
Ethical Considerations of Mailbox Business Card Distribution
Leaving business cards in mailboxes, while potentially a cost-effective marketing strategy, raises significant ethical concerns. The practice treads a fine line between proactive marketing and unwanted intrusion, potentially damaging a business’s reputation and community standing. A thorough ethical analysis is crucial before employing this tactic.
Potential Ethical Concerns
The primary ethical concern revolves around implicit consent and respect for private property. Slipping a business card into a mailbox without the homeowner’s explicit permission constitutes an uninvited intrusion into their personal space. This action disregards the homeowner’s right to control what enters their property. Further ethical considerations include the potential for misinterpretation, especially if the business card is associated with a product or service that the recipient might find objectionable or irrelevant. The lack of targeted audience selection inherent in this method also raises ethical questions regarding resource waste and potential environmental impact.
Negative Impact on Community Relations
Negative community perception can significantly damage a business’s reputation. Residents may view unsolicited business cards as junk mail or even as a form of harassment. This perception can lead to complaints, negative word-of-mouth marketing, and a general distrust of the business. The perception of the business as inconsiderate or disrespectful can outweigh any potential benefits of increased brand awareness. This negative publicity can be particularly damaging for local businesses reliant on community goodwill.
Respecting Property Rights and Avoiding Trespassing
Mailboxes are considered private property. Leaving a business card in a mailbox, even if not technically illegal in some jurisdictions, constitutes a form of trespass. It is an unauthorized entry onto private property, however minor. Respecting property rights is paramount to maintaining positive community relations. Ignoring this aspect can lead to legal consequences, such as fines or lawsuits, and significant damage to the business’s reputation. The ethical principle of “do unto others as you would have them do unto you” is directly relevant here.
Comparison with Alternative Marketing Approaches
Ethical alternatives to mailbox distribution include targeted online advertising, direct mail campaigns (with permission), community event participation, and local newspaper advertising. These methods allow for more targeted outreach and respect individual preferences. Direct mail, while still requiring postage, allows for a more considered approach, ensuring the message reaches a receptive audience. Targeted online advertising allows for precise targeting based on demographics and interests. Community involvement builds relationships and fosters goodwill, enhancing a business’s reputation organically.
Hypothetical Scenario and Analysis
Imagine a new pizza restaurant distributing business cards in mailboxes in a quiet residential neighborhood. Some residents appreciate the information, while others find it intrusive. One resident, angered by the unsolicited card, posts a negative review online, leading to a wave of negative comments and impacting the restaurant’s opening. This scenario illustrates the potential for a small act to generate significant negative consequences. The restaurant could have avoided this by employing alternative, more ethical marketing strategies, such as sponsoring a local event or distributing flyers only to those who explicitly requested information. The negative outcome could have been mitigated or entirely avoided through thoughtful consideration of ethical implications.
Alternative Methods for Business Card Distribution
Distributing business cards effectively requires a multi-pronged approach. While leaving cards in mailboxes might seem convenient, its legality and effectiveness are questionable. Exploring alternative strategies is crucial for maximizing reach and return on investment. This section Artikels several effective alternatives, their associated costs and benefits, and how to integrate them into a comprehensive marketing plan.
A diverse strategy is key to reaching a wider audience and building brand awareness. The following table compares various methods, considering cost, effectiveness, and target audience suitability. Remember that effectiveness is highly dependent on factors like industry, target market, and execution.
Comparison of Business Card Distribution Methods
Method | Cost | Effectiveness | Target Audience |
Networking Events | Moderate (event fees, travel) | High (direct interaction) | Professionals, industry peers, potential clients |
Direct Mailing (with targeted lists) | High (printing, postage, list purchase) | Moderate (depends on list quality) | Specific demographics or customer segments |
Strategic Partnerships | Low to Moderate (collaboration agreements) | High (leveraging existing networks) | Customers of partner businesses |
Trade Shows and Conferences | High (booth fees, travel, materials) | High (large audience reach) | Industry professionals, potential clients |
Online Networking (LinkedIn, etc.) | Low (time investment) | Moderate (depends on engagement) | Professionals, potential clients |
In-Person Handouts (shops, community events) | Low (printing) | Moderate (depends on location and foot traffic) | Local community, potential clients |
Cost-Benefit Analysis of Distribution Strategies
Conducting a cost-benefit analysis involves comparing the expenses of each method against the potential return. This return isn’t always easily quantifiable (e.g., a new client from a networking event). However, you can estimate the value of potential leads or sales generated.
Cost-Benefit Analysis Formula: Net Benefit = Total Revenue – Total Costs
For example, consider a trade show costing $5,000. If the show generates 10 qualified leads, and each lead has a 10% chance of converting into a $10,000 sale, the potential revenue is $10,000 (10 leads * 0.1 conversion rate * $10,000). The net benefit would be $5,000 ($10,000 – $5,000). This is a simplified example; a more thorough analysis would involve more detailed forecasting.
Marketing Plan Incorporating Multiple Distribution Methods
A comprehensive marketing plan should leverage multiple methods for maximum reach. For instance, a local bakery could use in-person handouts at farmers’ markets, strategic partnerships with coffee shops (leaving cards on tables), and online networking via social media to reach diverse customer segments.
Examples of Successful Alternative Business Card Distribution Strategies
A tech startup might focus on online networking (LinkedIn, industry forums) and attending relevant conferences. A real estate agent could prioritize networking events and direct mailing to targeted neighborhoods. A consultant might rely heavily on strategic partnerships with complementary businesses. The key is tailoring the approach to the business and its target audience.
Tailoring Distribution Methods to Target Audience and Business Type
The ideal method depends on the target audience and business type. B2B businesses often benefit from networking events and strategic partnerships. B2C businesses might find success with direct mail, in-person handouts, or online marketing. Consider factors like the audience’s age, online behavior, and geographic location. For instance, an older demographic might be more receptive to direct mail, while a younger demographic might be more engaged with online networking.
Visual Representation of Mailbox Distribution Scenarios: Can I Leave Business Cards In Mailboxes
Visualizing the placement of business cards in mailboxes across different environments is crucial for understanding the potential effectiveness and impact of this distribution method. The visual impact, and thus the potential for positive or negative reactions, varies significantly depending on the density of mailboxes, the overall aesthetic of the area, and the design of the business card itself.
Mailbox Distribution in a High-Density Residential Area
Imagine a densely populated apartment complex or a row of closely packed townhouses. Business cards tucked into mailboxes here create a visually cluttered effect, especially if multiple businesses employ this strategy. The sheer number of cards could overwhelm residents, leading to a negative perception. A visually appealing, high-quality card might mitigate this somewhat, but the sheer volume could still lead to many cards being discarded without a second glance. The potential outcome is a low conversion rate due to the overwhelming nature of the visual presentation. Imagine a scene: dozens of slightly crumpled cards sticking out of nearly every mailbox, some falling to the ground, creating a litter problem. This would likely result in negative feedback from residents and building management.
Mailbox Distribution in a Business Park
In contrast, a business park presents a different visual landscape. Mailboxes are often more spaced out, and the overall environment is more professional. Placing business cards here might be more effective, provided the card design is sophisticated and aligns with the professional setting. A clean, minimalist design would integrate better than a flashy, cluttered one. The potential outcome here is higher than in a residential area, as the target audience is more likely to be receptive to networking opportunities. Imagine a well-maintained business park, with neatly placed mailboxes. A single, high-quality business card subtly placed within each mailbox might be viewed as a professional and considered gesture, potentially leading to more positive engagement.
Mailbox Distribution in a Rural Area
Rural areas present yet another visual contrast. Mailboxes are often widely dispersed and highly visible, sometimes at the end of long driveways. The visual impact of a business card in such a setting depends heavily on the surrounding environment. A business card that blends in with the natural aesthetic might be more successful than one that clashes. However, the sheer distance between mailboxes could make this method inefficient. The potential outcome here is unpredictable, with a lower likelihood of successful engagement due to the low density of targets and the risk of cards being damaged or lost by weather. Imagine a single, weather-resistant business card placed neatly in a mailbox situated at the end of a long country lane. Its visibility is high, but the low population density means that the overall effectiveness is likely to be low compared to a high-density area.
Visual Impact and Potential Reactions
The visual impact of a business card in a mailbox is heavily influenced by several factors: the card’s design (color scheme, font, imagery), its condition (clean and crisp versus crumpled or faded), and its placement (neat and unobtrusive versus haphazard and messy). A poorly designed or carelessly placed card can be perceived as unprofessional and even disrespectful, leading to negative reactions. Conversely, a well-designed and thoughtfully placed card can be seen as a professional gesture, potentially leading to positive engagement. A high-quality, minimalist card in a clean mailbox in a business park will likely elicit a more positive reaction than a cheap, brightly colored card crammed into a mailbox in a crowded residential area. The contrast between the sophistication of the card and the surrounding environment greatly influences the perception.
| 0.932572 | 3,790 |
I’ve been a road runner for almost 9 years now, and it has been a big part of my life. Through running, I’ve been able to have more energy, sleep better, and of course lose a lot of weight. These just scratch the surface of the many benefits that come from running. When I run, the entire world melts away and all I am concentrating on is breathing, moving my legs, and getting through that next step. It is the most peaceful way for me to relax I’ve found. Yes, it is very hard on your body, particularly your joints. I realize that I am very lucky to be able to run, though I’ve not been without my fair share of injury.
Early this year I started getting into a new type of running: trail running. The impetus behind this came from a group of friends of mine who decided to walk/run/crawl 100km through the mountains for a charity event, without sleep and without stopping longer than 10-20 minute breaks. Always up for a challenge and some physical pain, I didn’t hesitate to join. This started what would be many months of running on trails and participating in trail running events to train our bodies to make the 100km.
Before my first trail run, I was over confident. My friend and I planned to run about 12km over 600 meters or so of elevation. “Pfh,” I thought, “I run 12km on my daily runs easily, this will be nothing. Yeah sure, there’s some elevation, but nothing I can’t handle. I’ve been running on the road for years, after all!”
I don’t think those who know me would consider me the arrogant type, but I was never so humbled in any physical activity I’ve done following my first trail run. Just 2km in, that 12km started to look increasingly difficult. What I will never forget, as I tried to run up the first 300 meter summit without stopping, was that I was never so out of breath in my life. I just couldn’t catch my breath. My lungs and quads were burning. Believing that my body was up for this, I was both surprised and angry at myself.
Somehow I made it to the top, and as we ran along the ridge to the second peak, I started to realize what is so amazing about trail running. No cars. No crowds (for the most part). Softer ground that requires more technical skill and concentration to run through. Trees, wind, birds, and the sounds of the forest. Nature. I felt like this is what humans evolved for: running through the forest, chasing dinner or escaping becoming dinner. The feeling of being in nature, and running through it – no matter how fast or slow – is something that road running cannot compare to. At least for me.
We only made 10km that day, but I finished feeling ready for more. The next time I ran the same course, my body was more used to it, and I was able to run all the way to the top of the first 300 meter summit without stopping, and finishing over 15km in a much better time. Since then, I’ve been hooked. I get out to the mountains any chance I get, and have participated in a lot of trail races, from casual 5km runs up to the 100km charity event that my friends and I finished. Just last month I ran a 28km race, and while I was depleted due to no training for three months from a series of injuries, it was amazing.
I’ve talked to road runners who don’t trail run, and some have the same opinion that I did in the beginning: it’s easy because you are walking/climbing up sometimes and are not constantly running. Believe me, when you are walking, climbing, or slowly running up to the top of a 1,900 meter mountain, your body is working much harder than when you are simply running on a flat surface. Go try it for yourself and see.
Even though it’s hard, I also have found that trail running is a really accessible sport. While going up a mountain is challenging, I have family and friends who find it mentally more rewarding because, even if you are just walking up the mountain, you are still walking up a mountain and don’t have to feel bad like you let yourself down. This is opposed to road running, when if you take a break or start to walk it’s easy to get down on yourself. And when you are trail running, no matter your level, just about everyone can run down the mountain. This is where the real fun begins!
Finding trail running is something that has really enriched my life, and I’m thankful to my friends who got me into it and to my family and friends who continue to trail run with me, and put up with me when I get injured. So thanks, everyone, you know who you are!
Now go find a mountain!
| 0.97637 | 1,055 |
Candidates can apply through our website at https://www.arnoldporter.com/en/careers/professional-staff/current-opportunities/research-services/research-coordinator
The Research Services Department of Arnold & Porter has an opening for a Research Coordinator to join our energetic, creative, and global service team. This position may work 100% virtual/remote in a firm approved U.S. state working Pacific or Mountain Time hours.
Under the direction of the firmwide Research Services management team, the Research Coordinator performs on demand reference and document research services across a wide range of subject areas using a variety of print and electronic resources, including free and fee-based databases and web sites. In addition, the Research Coordinator supports the delivery of services to departments, including Conflicts, the Managing Attorney’s Office, and Marketing.
Essential responsibilities include but are not limited to:
- Performing on demand reference and document research services across a wide range of subject areas using a variety of print and electronic resources, including free and fee-based databases and web sites.
- Serving as primary researcher in support of due diligence service for the Conflicts Department.
- Working with the Research Workflow Supervisor to design and implement new research services to the firm’s professional departments, including the Managing Attorney’s Office, Practice Support Services, and Marketing.
- Actively participating in department and other internal firm meetings.
- Bachelor’s degree required; enrollment in a Master’s in Library Science or equivalent degree from an ALA accredited school is a plus.
- A minimum of one year of experience providing on demand reference in a law library. Experience working in any professional department within a large law firm is a plus.
- Demonstrated ability to make cost-effective use of a wide range of print and online resources, including Westlaw, Lexis Advance, Law 360, Wolters Kluwer, and Bloomberg BNA.
- Comfortable using Microsoft Office applications, especially Word, Outlook, and Excel.
- Familiarity with the Quest ticketing system is a plus.
- Strong client service orientation.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team, prioritizing multiple projects and assignments.
- Ability to analyze, cull, and summarize search results.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills.
The anticipated base salary for this position is $60,000 to $72,000. The actual base salary offered will depend on a variety of factors, including without limitation, the qualifications of the individual applicant for the position, years of relevant experience, level of education attained, certifications or other professional licenses held, and if applicable, the location in which the applicant lives and/or from which they will be performing the job.
Arnold & Porter is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer that does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy and childbirth (including breastfeeding and related medical conditions), age, marital or partnership status, familial status, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, transgender, physical or mental disability, medical condition, family leave status, citizenship status, immigration status, ancestry, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by local, state or federal laws, rules or regulations. Our Firm’s equal opportunity policy applies to all employment practices and terms and conditions, including, without limitation, recruitment, employment, assignment, training, compensation, benefits, promotions, disciplinary action and terminations. For purposes of the firm’s Anti-discrimination, Anti-harassment and Affirmative Action Policies, the term “race” includes, without limitation, traits historically associated with race, including, but not limited to, hair texture and protective hairstyles, such as braids, locks, and twists.
Arnold & Porter Kaye Scholer LLP endeavors to make www.arnoldporter.com accessible to any and all users. If you would like to contact us regarding the accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact Director of Support Staff Stephanie Denmark at +1 202.942.6068. This contact information is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.
Arnold & Porter Kaye Scholer LLP is an EO Employer – M/F/Veteran/Disability/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity.
Arnold & Porter Kaye Scholer LLP uses E-Verify, which is a web-based system, to confirm the eligibility of our employees to work in the United States. As an E-Verify employer, we verify the identity and employment eligibility of newly hired employees by electronically matching information provided by employees on the Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, against records available to the Social Security Administration (SSA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). We use E-Verify because we are a federal contractor containing the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) E-Verify clause. Please see the posters for details regarding E-Verify or contact Arnold & Porter Kaye Scholer LLP’s Human Resources Department for more information. E-Verify Participation Poster and Right-to-work Poster.
| 0.906197 | 1,089 |
The Son of God speaks to His bride: "Answer for Me the four questions I ask. If someone gives his friend a fruitful vine but keeps it close to his own house so that he might have the pleasure of seeing and smelling it, what should the giver say if the new owner of the vine were to ask if he could transplant it to another place where it could bear more plentiful fruit?"
She answers: "If the friend gave him it out of love and was sensible and desired the good for his friend, then he would certainly allow him to do whatever he wanted with the vine, saying: 'My friend, though it makes me happy to have the vine close by, still it does not yield me much fruit, and so I am happy if you can transfer it, if you like, to a more fertile spot.'"
The Lord asked a second time: "If parents were to give their maiden daughter to a young man, and she consented to the youth, but if the boy, when asked by the parents whether he wanted to have her or not, does not give an answer, is the girl betrothed then or not?"
She answered: "It seems to me that, since the boy did not express his own wishes, the girl is not betrothed."
The Lord spoke a third time: "A noble youth in the company of three maidens proposed to them that whichever of them could express herself in a way that excited his love the most would obtain that which the youth loved the most.
"The first girl answered: 'I love this young man so much that I would rather die than disgrace myself with another man.'
"The second girl said: 'And I would rather suffer any kind of pain than utter a single word against his wishes.'
"The third answered: 'I would prefer to suffer any kind of bitter pain or condemnation rather than see his least little scorn or condemnation.'"
Then the Lord said: "Tell Me, which of these three maidens loved the youth most and should receive his preferential love?"
She answered: "It seems to me that they all loved him equally, since they were all of one accord in his respect, and all of them equally deserve to have his love."
The Lord spoke a fourth time: "A man once consulted his friend and said: 'I have very fertile wheat. If it is sown in the ground, it yields a great crop. However, I am very hungry, so what do you think is more advisable: to eat it or to sow it in the ground?'
"His friend answers: 'Your hunger can be stilled at another time. Now it is more useful for you to sow it in the ground.'"
Then the Lord added: "My daughter, do you not think the same - should not the person experiencing hunger endure it and plant the grain so that it will be good for many people?"
The Lord said again: "These four examples apply to you. Your daughter is like a vine that you have vowed and given to Me. Now, however, since I know a more suitable place for her, I want to transplant her where I please, and you should not be upset by this, since you gave your consent to the transplantation."
The Lord said again: "You gave Me your daughter, but I did not show you which would be more acceptable to Me, her virginity or her matrimony, or whether your sacrifice pleased Me or not. Therefore, the things that were done in uncertainty can be changed and corrected now that they are known with certainty."
The Lord said again: "Virginity is good and most excellent, for it resembles the angelic state, provided it is maintained with wisdom and virtue.
"But if the one is missing from the other, that is, if there is virginity of the flesh but not of the mind, then that virginity has been deformed. A devout and humble housewife is more acceptable to Me than a proud and immodest virgin.
"A God-fearing housewife, who is in control of herself and lives according to the rule of her state, can win equal merit as a humble and modest virgin. Although it is a great thing to stand the test of fire without burning, it is an equally great thing to remain outside the fire of the religious state but to be willing to be in the fire and to burn with greater ardor outside the fire than one does who is in the fire.
"I offer you the example of three women - Susanna, Judith, and Thecla the virgin. The first was married, the second a widow, the third a virgin. They had different ways of life and made different choices, but they gained a similar reward by their meritorious deeds.
"When Susanna was falsely molested by the priests, she preferred, out of love for God, death to disgracing her state in life. Because she feared Me as being everywhere present, she deserved to be saved and to be glorified for the sake of her salvation.
"When Judith saw the dishonor done to Me and her people being lost, she was so troubled that she not only exposed herself to blame and condemnation for the sake of her love for God, but was also prepared to suffer punishment for My sake.
"Finally, Thecla, who was a virgin, preferred to suffer bitter torments than to utter a single word against Me.
"These three women, although their actions were not one and the same, nevertheless were equal in merit. Therefore, whether virgin or widow, everyone is equally capable of pleasing Me, provided that all their desire is directed toward Me and that their life is virtuous."
The Lord said again: "It is equally acceptable to Me whether your daughter remains a virgin or marries, provided that it is done according to My will. What would it profit her if she perhaps were cloistered in body but remained outside the walls in her mind? Or, which would be more glorious: to live for herself or for the benefit of others? I know and foresee all things, and I do nothing without a reason. Therefore, she shall not arrive at her destination by the first fruit, for that would be out of fear, nor the second fruit, for that would be out of lukewarmness.
"She will, however, arrive in the middle state, for that has just the right warmth of love and fruit of virtue. However, the man who is to receive her should possess three things - housing, clothing, and food enough to receive her."
The Son speaks: "You are wondering why this virgin did not come to be married in the way you hoped. I answer by way of a parable. A certain nobleman arranged to give his daughter in marriage to a poor man. This man, who was to have been betrothed to the maiden, broke the laws of the city and was dishonorably expelled by the citizens and did not get the maiden whom he desired. I have acted in the same manner with the ruler of this country. I promised to do great things for him, but instead he joined My enemies and therefore did not obtain the things I promised him.
"But you might ask: Could I not foresee the future? Of course, I foresaw it, in the same way as can be read in the case of Moses and his people. I have revealed and do reveal many things so that people can prepare themselves for good things and know what to do and wait patiently. Know, however, that one woe has passed and another shall come upon the ungrateful people of this kingdom in order that My blessing may afterward come upon the humble persons who entreat My mercy. Know, too, that it would be better for this virgin to follow the advice of the wise and of Me."
This virgin is believed to have been Lady Cecilia, St. Bridget's daughter.
| 0.986382 | 1,621 |
Coral sports betting Reviewed
The formal Eurobet bookie is now called Coral, but to be honest with you it still so popular across the gambles and it is yet so hugely preferred by both – high punters and new beginners. For this purpose, we would like to present you our overall and complete Coral review. Read it and meet all of its special features, conditions for betting and of course – the promotions and the offers. So, let`s begin with our detailed Coral review now!
Overview of Coral sportsbook
Coral or Eurobet as a company was established back in 1926 year. As a bookie Coral began operating in 1999 year. In 2005, though, the company was acquired by the large betting group Gala and Coral entered the industry. Since then it has been increasing its customer number and advancing its betting options in order to provide the best opportunities for the audience. Coral sports betting website receives its license from Gibraltar and today its main back offices are there, as well as in UK and Alderney. The website offers al the odd types of the market – decimal and US. Comparatively, the odds in Coral bookie are high with several bet limits for the regular players. Mostly, the high odds are in horse racing and in the biggest football leagues. Save for these two sports disciplines, the bookmaker offers betting on golf, cricket, rugby, tennis, boxing, ice hockey and basketball. As to the special options that Coral offers to the clients, they are numerous. Here you will be introduced with live betting, full betting coverage, availability of major and minor leagues and great customer support at multiple languages and 24/7. All inquires and requests are accepted via phone numbers and e-mails. Last, but not least, Coral offers you live streaming of the news, statistics, coral radio and live scores to follow.
Coral Bonus System and Types
The Coral bonus system is really intriguing since it gives lots of special offers and promotions that all the customers can benefit of. Let`s list all of these bonuses, so you can easily consider whether to give it a try as a new customer on the Coral sports platform.
- Coral sign up bonus – make a registration and have an account for a new customer to receive up to 20 GBP as free bets. Use the Coral sing up bonus to test the platform and see if its environment suits your needs. The only condition is to be a new player on Coral sports websites and to make an initial deposit of 5 GBP.
- Consolation Cash back (Football) – place a bet on the To Win and Both Teams to Score accumulator for 4 events and if one result lets you down, you will get a free bet up to 25 GBP as refund.
- Premium League Late Loser Insurance – maximum refund is 25 GBP in case the team suddenly wins at the 85th minute and your team fails to win.
- Money back of 25 GBP in case your horse doesn’t win for all the UK jump races.
- ACCA insurance of 25 GBP money back for the American Football League
Coral sports betting site goes mobile, too!
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Titles for Auger Aliassime, Monfils, Keys and Kessler. Full report, plus all the ATP beef that's fit to post -- including Tommy Paul's flesh act -- BELOW.
Felix Auger-Aliassime’s confident start to the 2025 season picked up pace Saturday, when he claimed the Adelaide International title. The fifth seed held his nerve for a 6-3, 3-6, 6-1 triumph against Sebastian Korda to clinch his sixth ATP Tour title, and first outdoors. Auger-Aliassime is now on a five-match win streak which began last week with his victory over World No. 4 Taylor Fritz at the United Cup.
French veteran Gael Monfils has become the oldest player to win an ATP Tour title after beating Zizou Bergs 6-3, 6-4 in Auckland. Monfils claimed his 13th tour title 20 years after his first and at the age of 38 years, 132 days. He took over from Roger Federer, who was 38 years, 74 days old when he won the final tour title of his career, the Swiss Indoor title at Basel in 2019.
McCartney Kessler claimed her second WTA title by defeating Elise Mertens 6-4, 3-6, 6-0 in the Hobart International final on Saturday.
Madison Keys won her ninth career WTA title on Saturday, taking out fellow American Jessica Pegula 6-3, 4-6, 6-1 at the Adelaide International.
Simone Bolelli and Andrea Vavassori served up some early-season revenge in dramatic fashion on Saturday at the Adelaide International. The Italian duo saved four match points late in the second set before securing a 4-6, 7-6(4), 11-9 championship-match triumph against Kevin Krawietz and Tim Puetz at the hard-court ATP 250. Bolleli and Vavassori held firm to triumph in their first meeting with Krawietz and Puetz since the German pair knocked them out of the 2024 Nitto ATP Finals with a decisive group-stage win.
Michael Venus and Nikola Mektic took home the crown in Auckland when the American duo of Christian Harrison and Rajeev Ram pulled out due to the latter's being injured.
Elsewhere around the net:
Tommy Paul got the length of his shorts right just in time for the Aussie Open
Borna Coric displays his streetwalker potential
David Vega Hernandez gives me what I want
Ass-tastic Jan-Lennard Struff
Corentin Moutet misspelled complaining
The good Zverev brother
Hady Habib makes history
Studly Karol Drzewiecki
All eyes on Albano Olivetti, far right
Try to guess if I'm hot for Patrick Rafter and his 22-year-old son, Joshua Rafter
French connection: Fabien Reboul and Sadio Doumbia
Ken and Neal Skupski with Big Joe Salisbury & Co.
Thiago Seyboth Wild gets 'stached
Pedro Martinez leaves us thirsty
Ooh la la: Arthur Fils
Matteo Berrettini excites another one
Luciano Darderi found his Tarzan
Here's the beef: Marcos Fraiberger and Fede Gomez
Carlos Alcaraz knows how to get me not to look at his bad haircut
Speaking of flesh acts: Jordan Thompson
Big Jack Draper
Marton Fucsovics means business
Cutie Casper Ruud
Sign me up for whatever's happening here
Leg day with Nico Jarry
Czech mate Jakub Mensik
Quentin Halys shows some skin
Hot for Tomas Machac and Angus Roberts
Don't box Adrian Arcon in
Thanasi Kokkinakis's hot body and bad tattoos
Luca "Daddy" Pouille
Cam Norrie grooming camp
Me trying to work out with the pros
When your dad is every bit as hot as you are
Alejandro Davidovich Fokina
Miles Bugby just how I want him
Marcos Giron can't not look like a sex worker
Fun with the Berrettini boys
I was hoping to see Marcus Willis's other snake
Newly shorn Lorenzo Musetti
Grigor Dimitrov already hit a sour note Down Under
Andrea Pellegrino doesn't ever get any less attractive
Omar Jasika is all smiles
Tallon Griekspoor looking for his granola bar
Daniel Pohl didn't mean to turn you on?
Robert Cardenas in stripes
Holger Rune and his legs
Sun's out, guns out: Hendrik Jebens
I like this Jarry-Altmaier matchup
Leggy Karen and friends
Matteo is already transitioning into broadcasting
Illya Marchenko sighting
This Djokovic-Murray thing is really happening
Iva Majoli has a good eye: Duje Ajdukovic and Borna Coric
(With wire services)
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NAFPS Archives > Archive No. 1
NO LONGER A MATTER OF CONCERN: Harry Snowboy
This man is actually Native but he claims to be a medicine man, specifically a "healer". I come from the same neck of the woods that he does and the teachings he gives are not of our tribe. He wrote a book called "A Voice in the Wilderness" about his experience being "chosen" by Creator. He lives in Ottawa with his family and says that he is not accepted in his home community because of the Christians who demonize traditional spirituality. This description about my tribe as militant Christians is sadly pretty accurate, so I believed him at first. But, after talking with some respectable people who know him from way back, he isn't accepted because he's a fake, attention-seeker. With this knowledge in hindsight, I remember him becoming immediately distant and aloof during our introduction when I mentioned where I was from. I know that he does ceremonies, specifically the Sun Dance and naming ceremonies in a questionable way. From what I know, the Sun Dance is not part of our practices. Also, his "naming ceremonies" were advertised through a Native organization in Ottawa as if it was a drive through. Like anyone could come and receive their spirit name from him over the span of one afternoon. From what I've been told, these sorts of ceremonies are not supposed to be done in a haphazard way like that.
The main reason I think he is a fraud is simply the fact that he proclaims to be a healer. I've been told that anyone who advertises themselves as a shaman/medicine man/healer/etc. is probably a fraud.
He has written a book. I don't see him advertising otherwise online.
"A Voice from the Wilderness is by no means a how-to in becoming a shaman, rather it’s a story of what one person went through in becoming one."
In-house Corporation name: Chiikayabano Inc.
Responsible Officer Name: Harry Snowboy, President & CEO ?
Initial registration start date: 2008-04-12
Registration status: Inactive
Registration Number: 782777-16861
•Employment and Training
•Justice and Law Enforcement
Subject Matter Details
Policies or Program
•Strategic Plan for Aboriginal Corrections as it relates to Continuum of Care model
• Written communication
• Oral communication
• Grass-roots communication
• Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada (AANDC)
• Correctional Service of Canada (CSC)
• Finance Canada (FIN)
• Health Canada (HC)
• Prime Minister's Office (PMO)
• Public Safety Canada (PS)
• Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)
• Treasury Board Of Canada Secretariat (TBS)
He's shown up at some seminars about traditional medicine integrated with western medicine.
The only thing questionable I found was this.
I received this account. What does everyone think? Should this be moved to Archives?
I am reading an old post from 2015 re:Harry Snowboy that is concerning me.
The information I am reading is inacurrate that Harry does not call himself a shaman for one.
I have worked with this person since 2005. My entire family has worked with Harry Snowboy and I do not trust just anyone with my children.
What I am in fact witnessing when I read this post is “Lateral Violence”. There is a magnitude of this happening in our communities as you must already be aware of. No longer is just the colonization happening from “settler individuals” however our own people oppressing each other. There’s a lot of jealousy and micro aggressions happening over social media.
Harry Snowboy has support from his community. I’ve personally fasted “vision quest” in his community of Quebec twice. I’ve been a Sundancer in his Family’s Sundance since it started in 2013. I’ve danced my 4 years and to this day I’ve been one of the female helpers. My Son has also danced with Harry’s Sundance.
I feel like when I first read this post: that the person is trying to dis-credit Harry from the get-go. What I’ve been taught is yes you check the background on the medicine people you approach you ask for their references who they’re teachers are, where did they learn these ceremonies. Harry will tell you honestly.
I work at the federal prison the only federal prison in Ontario with Elder Services and Corrections Service Canada. I am on the Elder’s Council to interview potential candidates. We as a council have to discern who is credible who is “walking their talk”, check their references so I understand the legitimacy and authenticity that we need to know as a community.
If you have any questions or concerns for me please contact me.
I’m asking if you can remove this post as it disheartens me to read. I know it’s a false accusation being made about an authentic person who is genuine.
If you need any more info please let me know.
Miigwech - Anushiik - Thank you,
Harry Snowboy is mentioned as "Harry Snowboy Sioux/Cree Bundle Keeper" in this thread:
[Traditional Elders' Statement on Social Media and Sacred Ceremonies]
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Li Tao, vice director of the management committee of the Jinan Innovation Zone, remembered when he brought the first group of prospective German clients to the site seven years ago.
“There was not even any level land,” Li said.
Before the company representatives arrived, they flattened out the land and paved it. However, their efforts were initially met with skepticism.
“The negotiations were tough. We could only convince them through our clearly positioned industrial plans and pledges of optimal policy support,” Li said.
Though starting from scratch, the zone was built according to international standards to accommodate major projects. Renowned planning companies were brought in to create an industrial map and design plants.
“We hoped to attract projects dedicated to practical industrial development that could stimulate local economic development instead of speculative real estate developers,” Li said.
BMTS Technology, a high-tech automotive components manufacturer based in Stuttgart, was the first to settle in the Jinan Innovation Zone in 2019 after rounds of tough negotiations. “It was big news at that time,” Li said.
Previously, Taicang was the top destination for German enterprises entering China thanks to its advantage in ports and geographical proximity to Shanghai. “We could only attract German enterprises by offering precise industrial planning, consistent efforts and good services,” Li said.
“Jinan boasts a comprehensive industrial system covering 41 industries and 31 manufacturing categories, which is rare even nationwide. It has the essentials for developing the real economy, with ample industrial facilities and talent,” Li added.
In 2011, Germany introduced Industrie 4.0, a concept that involves a comprehensive digital transformation of the manufacturing industry. “It aligns well with China’s ‘Made in China 2025’ national strategy for developing the manufacturing sector,” Li said.
The Jinan Innovation Zone stands out as an exceptional transportation hub, accessible through high-speed rail, freight rail and air, but also a river that provides a direct route to coastal ports.
European freight trains departing from Jinan have extended their reach to over 40 cities across 20 European and Asian countries. On December 28, 2023, Jinan celebrated the departure of its 1,000th China-Europe freight train. To accommodate the growing transportation demand, both the expressway and airport are undergoing expansion.
To better serve its companies, the Jinan Innovation Zone has continuously worked toward streamlining its services. A notable example occurred in 2018, when the zone established a “one-stop” process for business registration and industrial and commercial registration for foreign-funded enterprises. In 2020, the registration process was further simplified, allowing the establishment of foreign-funded enterprises to be completed solely through the industrial and commercial department.
The zone also provides customized, hands-on services for foreign investment projects. In 2019, it took nine months for BMTS Technology to go from signing to production, including establishing an Industrie 4.0-compliant factory. For Hengst, it only took three months.
What’s more, the local government has been actively working to build new housing, hotels and hospitals, aiming to offer enterprises within the zone first-class living accommodations and business services.
The Jinan Innovation Zone is also committed to elevating the standards of intellectual property creation, utilization, protection, management and services. It has been recognized as a national-level demonstration zone for building a robust intellectual property ecosystem. The zone’s overseas intellectual property service platform provides services to 65 countries and regions worldwide.
The Cooperation Zone has emerged as a paradigm for international manufacturing cooperation, housing four industrial parks. As of late 2023, the zone’s 1,300 enterprises generate 50,000 jobs. Renowned German industry leaders such as Bosch, Continental, VOSS and Hengst have all experienced remarkable success in their fields within the zone.
Between 2016 and 2023, fixed investment in the zone rose from 7.69 billion yuan (US$1.08b) to 21.3 billion yuan (US$2.98b), while the value of industrial output surged nearly five times from 4.1 billion yuan (US$574.1m) to 20 billion yuan (US$2.8b) in the past six years, according to data from the Jinan Innovation Zone management committee.
These successes boosted growth in the Jinan Innovation Zone and the city of Jinan. In 2022, the Jinan Innovation Zone’s total output value surpassed 160 billion yuan (US$22.4b), while its total import and export value accounted for over 50 percent of the city’s total and one-third of Jinan’s foreign investment.
By October 2023, 86 Fortune Global 500 companies had invested in Jinan. Between January and September 2023, 193 foreign companies settled in Jinan, a year-on-year increase of 14.2 percent. The city’s actual utilization of foreign investment reached US$2.2 billion, ranking second in Shandong in terms of total volume.
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Paxful is an ingenious peer-to-peer market that allows individuals to buy and sell Bitcoin utilizing greater than 300 payment approaches, such as mobile top up cards and store present cards. In addition, this platform likewise supports cash transactions.
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Paxful is a peer-to-peer cryptocurrency exchange which enables its users to deal bitcoins with no fees affixed, making it perfect for novices who do not trust intermediaries and giving competitive fiat to bitcoin conversion prices. Furthermore, this solution accepts multiple repayment techniques, both cash-based and digital.
The site includes an user-friendly individual experience, with an involved area that sustains each other. KYC/AML procedures ensure a safe trading atmosphere, while an extensive frequently asked question section and discussion forums assist users navigate the platform.
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Paxful Neoblaztaers Account
Paxful is an on the internet market where individuals can deal Bitcoins, Ethereum (ETH), and Tether (USDT) securely with an escrow-protected system. The web site utilizes 256-bit SSL from Comodo and PCI vulnerability requirements to guard customer funds; all settlements used the Paxful pocketbook connected to each individual account; any kind of disputes are then attended to by Paxful moderators.
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Paxful deals an escrow system developed to safeguard both purchasers and vendors alike, giving satisfaction to both. Individuals can even more safeguard their deals with PIN or password verification of pocketbook they send funds into.
Customers can acquire crypto on the system making use of different repayment approaches, including charge card, PayPal and Western Union. Charges on the platform vary based on each sort of settlement alternative utilized – as an example those allowing for chargebacks have greater currency exchange rate than refundable choices.
Paxful’s market is easy to use and purchasers can find a wide range of coins and currencies offered for purchase. Users need to make sure when choosing vendors to prevent being scammed; when acquiring cryptocurrency on Paxful it is important that customers inspect that the name they see suits their account name along with having positive feedback rankings; furthermore they need to never ever conduct deals outside the platform itself or get in touch with sellers outside. Any unusual behavior such as an uncommon vendor name or e-mail address must be reported instantly to Paxful.
Paxful is a peer-to-peer cryptocurrency exchange that allows purchasers to acquire digital coins such as Bitcoin and Ethereum utilizing practically any repayment method, while giving additional solutions, such as sending and getting cryptocurrency. The platform’s instinctive style makes finding wonderful offers uncomplicated; there are also verification functions in position to safeguard customers from scammers.
It stands apart amongst many P2P crypto exchanges by not charging customers any type of transactional fees when buying cryptos, though vendors may bill added transactional fees depending on settlement approach used (ie getting crypto using PayPal will usually set you back more).
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Paxful stand apart from its competitors with its substantial range of settlement approaches and payment cpus supported. Buyers can acquire Bitcoin utilizing over 350 payment choices such as present cards for Starbucks and Amazon, high road stores like H & M and mobile top up cards; cash settlements are sustained via 17 methods like Wesern Cash Union and MoneyGram.
Paxful may not be perfect, nevertheless; some buyers have actually reported problems with shady vendors or being scammed altogether. A lot of issues can typically be stayed clear of with correct research and good sense.
The application stands out among P2P cryptocurrency exchanges for having one of the greatest online reputation systems and is an excellent beginning point for novices to the room. Buyers and vendors can check out comments ratings on each seller, as well as confirm their identity prior to trading with them – assisting stay clear of rip-offs while saving time in searching for deals swiftly. Moreover, its search and sort functions enable Paxful users to locate bargains promptly.
Paxful is an on the internet platform that links buyers and sellers of Bitcoin. Supplying numerous settlement techniques, individuals can buy crypto from numerous vendors; selecting their preferred one based on rate, payment method and comments rankings can also help them choose their perfect seller. With its hassle-free mobile application that makes account administration and trade administration simple – and with cost-free signup that consists of recognition confirmation as part of shielding customer privacy – Paxful makes buying cryptocurrency easy!
Individuals will certainly initially need to create a wallet before accessing Paxful. They after that search for Bitcoin sellers with preferred payment methods. Paxful will present all readily available offers; customers ought to evaluate each deal’s conditions prior to selecting one seller; choosing trusted vendors with high comments scores can aid stop rip-offs while ensuring they obtain their order.
Once a customer has picked their vendor, they can finish their deal making use of an escrow solution to finish the deal. This solution will certainly hold funds till their vendor has actually supplied cryptocurrency; after that it will certainly release it back to them. While this procedure can be taxing, it is well worth it for those who seek the very best possible price on their acquisitions.
Paxful offers over 350 settlement approaches to its users for purchases, from standard approaches like cord transfers and credit cards to a lot more modern-day alternatives like PayPal and Apple Pay. Customers must keep in mind that these may differ based upon region. Additionally, there might be restrictions for customers wishing to purchase certain cryptocurrencies via Paxful; customers from OFAC outlawed countries can not use it.
Though Paxful does not charge fees when acquiring cryptocurrency, some sellers do. These additional expenses are separate from typical Bitcoin network transfer charges which should be covered by the sender straight, not Paxful. Moreover, regular exchange costs still apply when moving funds in between Paxful accounts.
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Residenza la Bussola
viale Italia, 60
33054 Lignano Sabbiadoro (UD) Italia
Fiscal code GLSTTR68E24C817O
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According to the above mentioned law, the processing of your personal data will be carried out by respecting strictly the principles of fairness, lawfulness, openness and protection of your privacy rights. Therefore, in compliance with article 13 of the Italian law n.196 of the 30th June 2003, we are hereby communicating you the following information:
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Paper stored data will be kept for the shortest time required by law and later destroyed.
Italian Act of Government n.196/2003, Art. 7 - Right to access personal data and other rights
Information note under art. 13 and 122 Italian Act of Government n. 196/2003 (Safety and privacy in the processing of personal data), of General Measure of the Italian Data Protection Authority of the 8th May 2014.
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| 0.945911 | 1,100 |
Not the way you might think; not in a family pleasing way - in a more 'what's the best move for us both together, with the least amount of hassle now for us, or in the future, to us?'
It's a long story, in leaps and bounds, but it comes to mind this week as we watch a Nation decide if we truly care about individuals, their rights, and our 'exceptionalism', or if we will continue to live in the 21st Century while emulating the 17th. Big days, important hours, exciting times we are living in. No reason not to be bold, and to love.
But, I digress, so let me regress - Susannah and I were set up on a blind date. Truly. Neither one of us really wanted anything to do with it, but we had a then-frustrating and now-blessed friend who wouldn't let go of it. I had had about 5 of the same, shitty, dramatic relationships with some fabulous Goth chicks, but was DONE... as in, done.
Not interested in a relationship, invested in a great group of friends, having a blast, living alone and being fine. Susannah was in her world in the same place through her own experiences. We were done with drama, done with bullshit.
I never wanted to be married - ok, this is going to jump around, I'm just thinking aloud here. As a kid, I had dreams of having a really cool van, all decked out and plush (born in '65, so this is the 70s talking), and maybe a dog or two, but I never saw a spouse, or a house, or any of that. Even when I was an 'adult' and dating, while I was always 'auditioning' my girlfriends for the role of long-term companion, it wasn't about marriage. Just never an important thought for me. Actually, a little sickening.
And, definitely not on my mind when I was in the 'over the relationship thing'... But, after a few accidental meet-ups, and an invite to see one of their shows (they were both in a band, Susannah and her friend) and the audience was safe, so I checked it out.
We finally gave in, and were set up on kind of a pre-date. Really, I was hosting 'game night' at my house, happened every couple of weeks, and our friend told Susannah a lot of folks were coming, but really only she was coming, so that was that. We joked, and played the game of LIFE, and she chose the blue car and two blue pegs - I chose the pink car and two pink pegs. That was good.
We joked about going to see Molly Hatchet on their reunion tour - this was the era of every shitty 70s power band trying to make a comeback, mostly then in ATX at the Back Room - can I get a holla?! We didn't make it, but we went to a movie.
I won't get personal, more than this... suffice to say, we liked each other and kept hanging out.
“We are all a little weird and life’s a little weird, and when we find someone whose weirdness is compatible with ours, we join up with them and fall in mutual weirdness and call it love.”
Theodor Seuss Geisel
American writer, poet, and cartoonist Dr. Seuss.
So, these two folks, both coming from being over it, are into it, and ready to do something about it. She buys a house, I start paying with her. We go to WFM where we go upstairs and raise our right hands and tell the Shift Manager that we consider ourselves bound by the 'Common Law of the State of Texas' and therefore as a union, get her my discount at WFM. The first step.
UT's gonna be a bit harder. Therefore, we go to the Courthouse, and file for a Certificate of Informal Marriage - no Bible, no Justice of the Peace. But, this is Texas - we did have to raise our right hands and affirm, to the best of our knowledge, that we weren't first cousins. God Bless Tejas!
Like I said, that was 20 plus years ago. I've been married 4 times longer than my all of my brother's marriages combined (and if you want to be shocked, I used the apostrophe correctly). For a guy who never planned on it, I'm coming up on half of my life within it. And, it's the single greatest series of events to ever have involved me.
We never had a ceremony; we've never taken vows. We don't have pictures or a dress or a scrapbook... we have each other. We did have a party for our 5th anniversary, for friends and family - kinda like they just paused a long time between the ceremony they missed and the reception we finally had.
I love being in love, loving Susannah and being loved by her. It's the best yoga I've ever experienced.
It sickens me that there are those who only imagine one way to love - one path to union - one 'right way to be'. These are troubling times, when the prejudices of our friends, our families and our neighbors will come to light. When those who believe in "Liberty and Justice For All" will be called forth to overcome those who believe that only means White, Straight, Christian folks.
You see, we are also the anathema - we don't intend to procreate, we aren't going to pro-generate, we're going to be, by choice, childless. Therefore, by the logic, our union is evil since it does not honor that 'god's' plan of man and woman procreating and furthering the species. We're screwing that plan, so to speak.
This brings me a level of happiness, as I support and tribe with those sinners who defy 'traditional marriage values'; and in the long run, I favor expanding into love rather than contracting into fear.
I urge you, don't just change your profile pic on FB - do something real. Engage in a direct, but not aggressive conversation with folks who oppose equality. Find out what they are fearing and speak with love towards it.
Give your love, show your compassion, model the behavior you'd like to see - but always stand up to and confront (respectfully and non-violently) intolerance, hatred and ignorance. We must be the ones to lift them from darkness to light.
For my love, for my life, for the love of my life - I give thanks and praise!
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How one of the top 25 Independent firms went under in an epic failure of management; an unfortunate example of what can go wrong when business seems to be going right.
Aug 1, 2007 12:00 PM, By John Churchill
Stanley Brooks was living the dream. With a $16,000 investment in 1990, Brooks built Brookstreet Securities of Irvine, Calif., into a $150 million revenue firm — placing it among the top 25 independent broker/dealers. By 2007, the firm had amassed $8 billion in client assets and 680 registered reps. Along the way, Brooks picked up some black marks — nine regulatory “disclosures” on his U4, eight of which were related to supervisory failures. But Brookstreet continued to prosper anyway: “We never had a bad year,” Brooks recalls.
Nonetheless, Brookstreet couldn’t dodge the bullet this time. In what will most surely go down as a colossal failure to supervise (among other potential regulatory violations) and a series of actions motivated by greed, Brookstreet Securities is dead. Its assets were blown on multiple margin calls, its reps were suddenly forced to jump to other firms and perhaps dozens of retail clients were decimated by a risky, complicated investing strategy. As few as five to 10 reps may have been involved, according to one lawyer who is himself representing 30 to 40 disgruntled Brookstreet clients.
Indeed, Brookstreet will probably be remembered as a b/d that was too aggressive, too greedy, too stupid and perhaps even grossly negligent in the way it ran some of its clients’ money. The thing is, when a complicated trade works, and a handful of brokers and their clients are quite literally printing money, some brokers just go for it. The mastermind behind the trades at Brookstreet, a man with a checkered past (see sidebar pg. 34), was living so large that even otherwise clean and prudent reps decided to play the odds, says one observer with knowledge of the case.
In the month since the firm collapsed, regulators have been crawling over Brookstreet headquarters, collecting books, records and trying to find out which rules (if any) Brookstreet reps broke. Along with some individual brokers, Brooks, his reputation and any remaining assets he may have will soon be under attack from the dozen or so law firms trolling for injured Brookstreet clients, several of whom have been described as modest, risk-averse retirees and pre-retirees. The question becomes, how many other broker/dealers are sitting on significantly devalued (or even worthless) securities? Can an individual rep even know what risk other reps may be taking that may potentially damage his firm? One thing is certain, it’s not too often that a broker/dealer goes belly up on bad trades.
DEATH BY CMO
Brookstreet’s sudden change of fortune started on June 14 when an unknown number of institutional and individual customer accounts got hit with margin calls from Brookstreet’s clearing firm, National Financial Services, a unit of Fidelity Investments. The calls were related to investments in collateralized mortgage obligations, many of them in high-risk varieties called “inverse floaters” and “interest only strips,” which had suddenly been priced down, an inherent risk carried by the instruments. The re-pricings resulted in significant devaluations for many of the investors, some of whom had borrowed as much as 90 percent of their total investment from NFS.
Cliff Popper, Brookstreet firm’s top producer, the man who built the CMO program and managed those heavily leveraged portfolios, resigned earlier in June when, according to Brooks, he asked Popper to help him liquidate some customers’ CMO positions. By June 22, Brooks had spent his firm’s entire net capital of $12 million to meet a margin balance. In fact, after reducing margin exposure by 80 percent, “That still left a $70 million margin balance against $85 million of value,” Brooks said in a letter to brokers. Of course, that $85 million was being revalued downward even as he was writing the note, he indicated in the letter. He also warned: “I have told many of you that you are always in danger of not being paid on your last check when working for any broker/dealer… I will try to get enough money from our account at NFS to complete our upcoming payrolls.” Brooks, whose company motto was “press on and never give up,” was forced to close the firm. In the end, he says he still owed NFS $2.5 million; regulators, lawyers and investors are now left to clean up the mess.
What happened? “It’s pretty typical for a regional b/d trafficking in this stuff that’s over its head to lose its shirt,” says a trader at one of Wall Street’s large mortgage trading shops. He’s referring to 1994, the last time the CMO market collapsed, when firms like Piper Jaffray and Alex. Brown lost millions in CMOs and CMO derivative investments. “People see Triple A-rated and think, ‘Oh, how bad can it be?’” he says. (Because CMOs are agency backed, their various tranches, which have completely different risk profiles, retain their triple A rating.) But investing in this area is tricky and complicated. “It’s all about the timing of cash flows, which are dependent on mortgage prepayments, and there’s a very complex system of inputs to determine what those are,” he says. In other words, most reps don’t understand how the investment works — let alone the risk involved — and therefore neither will their clients. The sale of these products to Brookstreet’s retail clients was wrong, he says. “Is an inverse floater CMO a retail product? If I were a compliance guy, no way,” he says.
Collateralized mortgage obligations, first introduced in 1983, are not considered inherently risky investments, but CMO derivatives are. There were between 45 and 75 brokers selling “regular” CMOs to some portion of Brookstreet’s 88,000 customers, according to Stan Brooks. That represents roughly 10 percent of the reps at Brookstreet, most of whom “were insurance and mutual fund guys,” in the words of one rep. But all 680 of them suddenly lost their jobs on June 22. Beyond plain vanilla CMOs, an unknown number of those 75 brokers — some say as many as 10, including some of the firm’s top producers — were also selling “inverse floaters” and “interest only strips,” especially volatile classes of CMOs, which were made even more risky because they were sold on up to 90 percent margin. And yet, the securities were being sold to retail clients as Triple-A-rated instruments offering guaranteed returns with no risk to principal, says New York attorney Stuart Meissner who is representing several Brookstreet clients.
According to Brooks, the CMO business, which was little more than three years old, accounted for 10 percent of monthly firm-wide revenues, which were averaging $14 million to $16 million per month. It was good business — and not just for the firm, he says. Clients in the program were seeing returns in the seven to eight percent range, with up to 14 to 16 percent for some, primarily those who’d stuck it out and reinvested in the program, Brooks says.
What’s A CMO?
A CMO is a security made up of pools of home mortgages backed by U.S. government-sponsored agencies like Freddie Mac and Ginnie Mae. Each pool generates two streams of income: one from the aggregate of the interest payments, the other from the aggregate of the principal payments made on the mortgages. These income streams are divided into “tranches,” which are the securities sold to investors.
In a “Compliance Alert” issued around the time Brookstreet was collapsing, FINRA warned members about improper CMO sales to retail customers. Citing “several examinations of broker/dealers,” the regulator said it found that the b/ds “had sold some of the most complex and riskiest classes of securities to their retail customers.” The alert also mentioned that investors had received misleading sales literature (or no disclosure at all) and unsuitable sales recommendations, and warned that adequate supervision of sales materials and sales practices was lacking.
One of the risks associated with CMO derivatives like inverse floaters and interest-only strips — both of which were sold to Brookstreet clients — is that their value fluctuates wildly with small moves in interest rates. They’re also illiquid. For these reasons, most independent b/ds don’t touch these securities.
But Brookstreet found out there’s another major risk with these types of investments: Pricing can be guesswork. Brooks blames the re-pricing of the bonds, an occurrence he says was monthly before June 14, when it became daily, for the collapse of his firm. “I still don’t know why the pricing model changed,” says Brooks who admits to not totally understanding the IDC pricing service NFS uses to price the CMOs. “Did the investment stop paying interest? Principal? No, it didn’t. There may be a lot of smart guys out there that may tell me I’m wrong about this one day, but to my understanding it’s the re-pricing that caused this,” he says.
But like any investment, of course, “pricing” risk, to use Brooks’ term, is always there, especially with derivatives amped with leverage. “With stuff like inverse floaters, guys only get them marked once a month and often by a pricing service, not by a real b/d,” says the same trader that called the CMO derivatives non-retail investments. “So it’s an extrapolated price. In a volatile market, the pricing service’s value may be very different from what you would realize if you needed to get out of a position right away,” he says.
NFS’ decision to re-price may have stemmed from general concern regarding mortgage-related investments. It was that same week in June that Bear Stearns suffered multi-billion dollar losses in two of its hedge funds: the aptly named “High Grade Structured Credit Strategies Enhanced Leverage Fund,” and the “High Grade Structured Credit Strategies Fund.” Both funds’ losses were magnified by 90 percent margin leverage. Brooks says the market pressure created by the Bear Stearns news made Brookstreet’s losing positions in an illiquid market that much harder to offload. Asked why the firm re-priced the securities, NFS spokesman Adam Banker would not say anything further than “we are not responsible” for what happened at Brookstreet, and that client margin lending obligations are clearly laid out in their contracts.
WHO WILL GET SPANKED?
Whether the brokers who sold retail clients risky CMOs violated suitability requirements or misrepresented the investments, or whether inappropriate amounts of leverage were used will come out as regulators and plaintiffs’ lawyers begin to present their cases. Sam Edwards, a Houston attorney with Shephard Smith & Edwards, says his firm is representing 30 to 40 former Brookstreet clients that allege all kinds of wrongdoing on the part of between five and 10 Brookstreet brokers. That list of brokers includes Popper, the mastermind of the strategy (see sidebar) and Barry Kornfeld, a principal in a group of Brookstreet reps in Coral Gables, Fla., called The CMO Bond Group. Neither Popper nor Kornfeld returned calls for comment.
Meissner, who has fielded many calls from former Brookstreet clients, says his clients’ complaints relate to “three or four brokers.” He says most of his clients are reporting losses between $200,000 and $400,000. “None of these people were rich,” he says. Meissner says all of his clients have told him virtually the same thing: their broker sold them the CMO investments as triple-A rated bonds with no risk to principal, and a guaranteed 10 percent return. “That’s the story, no matter where the client is from,” says Meissner, who says fluctuations in price were explained to clients as temporary.
One client, who lost his entire initial investment of $200,000 — all of his liquid assets, according to Meissner — was invested in a portfolio of 14 CMO bond positions, half of which were “inverse floaters” or “interest only strips,” and on 80 percent margin. “This client says he told his broker he wanted an investment that was safe and secure,” says Meissner, who adds that the Brookstreet rep assured him it was. One of the seven inverse floaters his client owned showed a current face value of $3,117,610.92, as of April 30. But, the estimated current market value was only $108,991.68, according to the client’s statement.
Brokers at wirehouse firms contacted repeatedly told Registered Rep. that they stayed away from such investments with clients because the “risk wasn’t worth it.” A top Smith Barney broker that used his Bloomberg station to look up the CUSIP number of the bond mentioned above had this to say upon reading its description: “That’s a bond with a lot of hair on it. You’re in an area here that 98 percent of your readers don’t dabble in, thank God.” He quoted Warren Buffett for emphasis: “Derivatives are what you get when you combine MBAs and ignorance,” and “You never know who’s swimming naked until the tide goes out.”
THE “GENIUS” BEHIND BROOKSTREET’S CMO BIZ
The man who built Brookstreet’s CMO business, managed the portfolios and basked in the glory of being Brookstreet’s top producer was Cliff Popper, a Boca Raton-based broker with a rather active U4. It shows 13 firms in the 15 years prior to joining Brookstreet in 2004. According to an old boss of Popper’s who spoke on the condition of anonymity, the 37-year old Popper had done very well for himself and clients by investing in CMOs and CMO derivatives like inverse floaters and interest-only strips. Besides driving a BMW Z8 and owning a skybox at Miami’s Dolphin Stadium, according to one source, Popper was also rumored to be producing $1 million a month in revenue while at Brookstreet. He was “clever,” says his old boss. Because interest rates were declining or stable for so many years, investors in CMO derivatives juiced with leverage made a lot of money, he says.
But Popper didn’t know when to walk away, says his former boss. It was Popper’s penchant for leverage that eventually made him unwelcome at his firm, as well as other firms Popper later joined, he says. When Popper was working for him, he says he asked him to reign in his leveraged positions in CMO derivatives and, when Popper resisted, he was asked to leave.
Despite working in the buttoned-up world of financial services, Popper’s private life appears to have been anything but. In fact, he is something of a ladies man — or was, on his MySpace page, anyway. The page, which he made private soon after it got the attention of regulators, attorneys and Registered Rep., included a “friends” page chock-full of bikini and thong-wearing women posing (mostly from behind), lying down, bent over or embracing other women. Scrolling down the page several half-naked cartoons danced around the page to a song laced with sexually-explicit lyrics. An SEC official who was asked if he’d seen the page laughed sheepishly, said yes, then said that the SEC is not interested in anything that doesn’t provide facts about Popper’s involvement in Brookstreet’s demise. But he did call the site an aspect of his “character.” Enough said
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HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF EAST TENNESSEE, Knoxville, Tenn., September 30, 1862.
Col. [L. M.] ALLEN, Cmdg. Sixty-fourth Regt. North Carolina Volunteers:
COL.: You will immediately proceed with a detachment with a detachment of 75 cavalry and 250 infantry to Sevier Country, Tennessee, to break up and capture a body of armed men said to be in that county near Bluff Mountain Such persons as you may take will be forwarded to these headquarters. Should resistance be offered, you will of course use any force requisite to accomplish your object. You will see that no injury is done to the persons or property of peaceable citizens. Forage or subsistence will be taken only in cases of necessity; reasonable compensation will be made. Citizens known to be of Union sentiment but engaging in no act of hostility will be molested. Those who are aiding or abetting the armed band referred to these headquarters. So soon as this object is accomplished you will return with the infantry, leaving the detachment of cavalry under the command of a suitable officer to carry out the instructions from the provost-marshal inclosed herewith. Three days rations will be carried and the general commanding expects you to use the utmost promptness and energy in carrying out the instructions conveyed therein.
Your obedient servant,
CHAS. S. STRINGFELLOW, Assistant Adjutant-Gen.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 16, pt. II, p. 893.
30, "Cust [sic] if ever he sleeps in my bed again." A Conversation Between a Confederate Officer and a East Tennessee Unionist Woman at Powell's River
Tennessee Female Tories.
The editor of the Henderson (N.C.) Times has recently made a visit through East Tennessee to Cumberland Gap. Upon his return, he fixed up the following story for the edification of his readers.
At Powell's river, I stopped and engaged more milk, at an old Lincolnite jade, keen as a brier, and mother of three (and I don't know how many more,) rather nice looking gals. She complained to me of having been rudely treated by a North Carolina officer, the morning previous. Arriving at camp, I informed the officer of the old lady's story, and he told me that knowing their political status, he had placed a guard around the house, to keep any of the family from going to the Gap, while our army was crossing the river, and in the meantime, the following conversation took place:
Officer.—(Entering the house,) Good morning ma'am. No answer. "Where is you
Old Woman.—None of your business, you rebel you.
Officer.—I know. He is in the Yankee army.
Old Woman.—Well he is. What are you going to do about it? He is in the 1st Tennessee Federal regiment at Cumberland Gap, and will take off your rebel head, if you go up there.
Officer.—Yes. But we have him and your General Morgan's whole command completely surrounded—hemmed in—with an army on both sides of the Gap, and in a few days they will be starved out, and have to surrender on our own terms.
Old Woman.—We know all that, and are easy. But Lincoln will send an army through Kentucky, which will wipe out your General Smith, just like a dog would lick out a plate, and then you and your army of barefooted, roasting ear stealers, will have to leave here in the dark again, and badly scared at that. Besides this—
Officer.—That's your opinion, but you are deluded. Where were you born?
Old Woman.—Born! Why I was born and raised in Tennessee. I am an Old Hickory Tennessean—dead out against Nullification, and its bastard offspring, Secession. But where are you from?
Officer.—I am from North Carolina, but a native of South Carolina.
Old Woman.—A South Carolinian—scion of nullification—double rebel, double devil.
Old Jackson made your little turnip patch of a State walk the chalk once, and Old Abe Lincoln will give you rebels hell before Spring.
Officer.—(Quitting the old lady, and turning to the eldest daughter, whom he recognized as a mother) Madam, where is your husband?
Young Woman.—That is none of your business.
Officer.—But it is my business. Where is he?
Young Woman.—Where I hope I'll never see him again. Where I hope you will soon be.
Officer.—Where is that?
Young Woman.—Why, a prisoner in the hands of the army at the Gap.
Officer.—What is that for?
Young Woman.—For being what you are, an infernal rebel.
Officer.—Oh, if that's all, I will send him back to you as soon as we take the Gap.
Young Woman.—No you need'nt. Cust if ever he sleeps in my bed again. I intend to get some Union man to father this child. Here, Bet, (calling a nurse,) take this little rebel and give him Union milk. Let us try and get the "secesh" out of him.
Officer.—(Turning to a Miss.) Did you find a beau among the Yankee officers?
Miss.—Yes, I did; a nice, sweet, gallant fellow. one who stepped like a prince. When you become his prisoner, give him my love, and tell him for my sake to put a trace chain around your infernal neck.
Officer.—When do you expect to see him again?
Miss.—Just after your General takes the next "big scare," which will be in ten days from this time.
Daylight having broken, and the army having crossed the river, the conversation I have given terminated.
Weekly Columbus [Ga] Enquirer, September 30, 1862.
As cited in: http://www.uttyl.edu/vbetts.
30, Skirmish at Cotton Port Ford, Tennessee River
No circumstantial reports filed.
LOUDON, October 5, 1863.
I respectfully state that the firing at Cotton Port took place on the morning of September 30, and not in the evening; that it was first reported to me by Col. Wolford in writing from the front, within two hours after it occurred, and that I immediately forwarded to you by telegraph the following dispatch:
Col. Wolford informs that the firing which he reported this morning, and which was supposed to be his advance engaged with the enemy, was below any of his command, and is supposed to have been at Cotton Port, 15 miles below Athens, on the Tennessee River. He will move forward toward Athens.
J. WHITE, Brig.-Gen.
OR, Ser. I, Vol. 30, pt. IV, p. 115.
Excerpt from the Report of Col. Eli Long, Fourth Ohio Cavalry, commanding Second Brigade, relative to the skirmish at Cotton Port, September 30, 1863.
HDQRS. SECOND BRIGADE, SECOND DIVISION CAVALRY, Camp near Maysville, Ala., October 20, 1863.
LIEUT.: In compliance with instructions received, I have the honor to submit the following report of the part taken by my brigade in the pursuit of the rebel cavalry under Gen. Wheeler, from the time this force crossed the Tennessee River near Washington, Tenn., until they recrossed it near Rogersville, Ala. At the time the enemy crossed the river on the morning of September 30, the larger portion of my brigade was separated into detachments which were stationed along the river at the various fords. The enemy crossed a portion of them above where one battalion of the First Ohio Cavalry, under Maj. Scott, was stationed, and a portion of them at this place, first having fired on Maj. Scott's battalion with canister and thrown him into some disorder. He, however, succeed in escaping from a large force of the enemy, by whom he was almost entirely surrounded, and who had sent in a flag of truce demanding his surrender, with the loss of some 15 men captured
* * * *
OR, Ser. I, Vol. Vol. 30, pt. II, p. 690.
1864, occupied Memphis.
The U.S. Army began its second experiment in social control and medical management as it was announced that a system of legalized prostitution would go into force, similar in scope and method as the system initiated earlier in Nashville in 1863.
According to the "Private Circular" which was "intended for the information of women only," all prostitutes were required by the Army to "be registered and take out weekly certificates [of good health]." A $2.50 fee for medical examinations was charged, while a certificate cost $10.00. The money collected was to go to treating any prostitute who may have contracted venereal diseases. By the end of the war the system, like the one in Nashville, was deemed a success but it was not continued by civilian authorities
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A very good thing
This week I went to an ASD/PDD parent’s group meetup. It was really fun! I felt connected to pretty much all the other parents immediately and hope to have some playdates soon. I wish they all lived closer to me, but it would be worth it to drive (as much as our car will allow) to go see them. It was so lively and fun, with no less than three conversations going on at any one time and we all shifted topics over and over again. It had a similar energy as when we get to spend time with my best friend and her husband. It was a bunch of adults, who all had a larger than life personality, who were starved for conversation. What is sort of amusing is that most of the group either was not from Kansas, or are self-described as not really fitting in to Kansas culture all that well because we aren’t, by nature, quiet and passive. Most of us seem to have an activism/advocate gene too.
I also got to go to a restaurant I have never been to before, but hope to return to. Old Chicago (at Kellogg and Rock) hosted and it was really yummy. They let us have a meeting room, so we could be as energetic as we wanted to be.
Even though it was a few days ago, I still find myself smiling when I think about it. A very good thing for us.
A very scary thing
Zane broke away from the group at the Corn Maze for a bit. As soon as we noticed (we were stopped, helping the littlest ones with something…don’t remember what, but we remembered a group of middle-school aged kids running past us, and speculated that he ran after them), I took off in a sprint down the corridor. At first it was just one straight shot, and the only offshoots were dead ends, but then I came to a 4 way intersection, and couldn’t see him down any of the paths. I had to choke back the panic and visions of police and news crews searching for the “lost autistic kid” in the large maze. In what can only be described as a miracle, despite the wind roaring through the corn and the rustling stalks, I heard his footsteps, running, and turned that direction and sprinted down the long path, looking for him at each intersection, just barely catching the sound of his footsteps running as I went, propelling me towards him. Suddenly, he ran across my path, another 20 yards in front of me and I shouted his name and “STOP” and he stopped. I could see the fear in his face as I got closer, and yelled to the group that I had found him. He met me, and we walked back to the group. As we went back, I was amazed at the distance we had covered. There is no way I should have been able to hear him like that. It was impossibly windy. Thank goodness for miracles and answered prayer.
A very sweet thing
My folks came up last night and we had a nice evening. They brought up some steaks and we put them on the grill for supper. Both of the kids were really excited to see them. Zane brought over a book and read to Grandma, and was eager to show them the pumpkins. At one point the stem broke off of his little pumpkin and he was asking for glue to put it together. Just a note…washable school glue does not hold on pumpkin stems.
Zora was content to just snuggle with Grandma for a while, and borrow her bracelets to wear. When she did finally climb down from Grandma’s lap, she kept bringing her books to read.
Later, Zane brought the pumpkin carving kit to Grandpa and described what he wanted to do. (carve pumpkin, but he described it in the steps). So, when we finally said yes, he ran to his room where he had taken the big pumpkin and lugged it out (dropping it over the gate in his doorway) and took it to the table. He wanted to use one of the templates, but chose the only “face” for us to carve into the pumpkin. He helped as much as he could, but the actual pumpkin carving was a challenge for even Zach, so it was really too hard for Zane to do the actual cutting part. He was very much present though and excited as the pumpkin took shape.
After Grandma and Grandpa left (with waves, “I Love Yous” and blowing kisses by both kids) we got the bowl of pulp and seeds and separated out the seeds. Zane helped with the seed separation, and Zora played with the pulp. Once the seeds were separated, I rinsed them off, then put them in a bowl with some brine and left them on the counter to soak a bit before roasting them. That was a bad idea. I sat down for a bit, and noticed it didn’t sound right in the kitchen. I went in to discover Zane stirring the bowl with the smallest pumpkin, and upon further inspection, discovered that he had added both cereal and milk to the bowl of raw pumpkin seeds in brine. Yeach! It took a while to pick out the soggy cereal pieces and rinse the milk out of them, and by that time, we put the kids to bed and decided to roast the seeds today instead.
We were so tired we didn’t even watch a movie. Just sat on the computers a bit and then called it a night.
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So, um. This race was in February. Yeah, I'm a little late on updating.
But! But! I promise it is a very good race report and totally worth the wait!
I have been planning to run some of the XC races in Wichita for the past two years, but never get around to it. Mostly, it's because the dates kind of sneak up on me, and I've usually already scheduled other things on Saturday mornings. But Pawnee Prairie Park is one of my favorite running locations in ICT, so I made a point of getting to this.
I was not, how you might say, exactly trained at this point in the year. In fact, I was out of shape. I'd probably run a total of 10 miles in the past two months. So I fully intended to go into the race and treat it like an $8 training run.
And that's exactly what I did. Wait! Wait! Don't leave! I promised you an exciting race report, and I will deliver.
I started in between packs: too slow to keep up with the front runners, but much faster than the next pack back. So I started towards the front, got dropped quickly, and didn't see anyone other than the occasional male as they passed me by . . .
After about a mile, as we were reaching the main turn-around, I heard heavy breathing and footfalls coming up behind me. We were about to get into a narrow section of the trail (moving from pavement to dirt track), so I slowed down and moved to the right so the guy behind me could pass before the path got too narrow. He didn't pass, didn't pass, didn't pass . . . He sure was breathing heavy! He sounded like he was breathing hard enough for two people! Finally, we were well and truly on the dirt, and at that point I wasn't going to let him go around, so I picked it up again and led through the trail section. I know those trails really well; I feel great running soft tracks in my Vibrams; so I figured he could go around me if he wanted to try it.
As we re-emerged from the trees, back onto the pavement, he finally started to pull up alongside me. As he did, I realized that I had actually been hearing three people breathing: the one guy and two women (one of them 5-6 months pregnant). And I didn't really want to be passed by other women--I'd only been passed by men up to that point!--so I picked it up a little bit and ran harder, pacing myself off of them. No one pushed the pace, at that point. I was still running comfortably.
As we got farther into the race, one of the women (the not-pregnant one, let's call her Jill, 'cause that's her name) started to push the pace a little bit. I stayed with her. Suddenly, this was not a training run. This was a race. And I wasn't going to drop off so easily. We set a sharper pace and started to leave the other man and woman behind us. As we came out of the park and onto Pawnee (unpaved, limited-access road), she really started to push. I was feeling okay, so I kept going with her. And then, a good three-quarters mile from the finish, as we were in all but a dead sprint, she gasped to me, "The finish is right ahead, right?" I replied, with some shock, "What? No!" And so she slowed down a little bit. And so I slowed down a little bit (although, in retrospect, that may have been the time when I should have pushed my advantage more).
I did push her over the next half mile or so, trying to break away and drop her, break her spirit, so to speak. But she was very tough and very resilient, and she hung with me the whole time! As we came back into the park, on to the XC course that the race organizers had bush-whacked through the prairie of Pawnee, there was a slight incline. Of course, you realize that slight inclines in Wichita are basically like mountains to anyone from a place with hills, and I was huffing and puffing! Meanwhile, Jill was pulling ahead slowly but surely. I fought to maintain contact, to stay with her, but I was really feeling the effort of the last 1.5 miles (not to mention the previous six months' complete lack of training). She was about 20 yards ahead of me as we came in to the last quarter mile, and turned (what I thought was) the last corner. Still within striking distance, I picked it up, and got to within a hand's reach of her. Then we turned another corner, and I realized there were still about 200 yards left to go. With the finish looking so distant, I gave it up and decided not to kill myself. I let her get away.
Still! I came in fifth out of all the women (34 total). My time was 27:41 (Jill finished in 27:34). Not a stellar 5k time, I will admit, but not bad for untrained, and on trails. I was happy with it.
What I learned from this 5k was a new racing mentality. I have never been able to summon the strength of will to do more than survive in the last 5k of a tri. I've pushed myself to the point beyond pain in an effort not to get passed (at the Easter Sun Run a couple years ago). But I had never before really considered the strategy of racing. Do I go now, or hold back? Should I try to drop her here, try to break her so I don't have to worry about her? Do I have the strength? Do I have the speed? Or is she better than me?
And when I finished, I felt like I was as strong and as fast as her. But she ran a smarter, better race that day. And I know that some of my readers are going to scoff, and think, "Um, hello? You ran a 27-minute 5k! You don't need to think about strategy and 'racing' when it takes you 9+ minutes to run a mile!" And maybe you're right. But I learned something, at this race, so watch out. I might be running 7 minute miles in a couple seasons, and then you better watch your back!
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Authors: Jean Ure
For Zahra, and for Tara
“I wouldn’t want you having boys up there,” said Mum.
?” I shot a sideways glance at Tash, out of the corner of my eye. Tash shot one back at me. We managed – just – to stifle our giggles. “Mum!” I said. “As if we would!”
“As if you would,” said Mum.
“I wouldn’t,” said Ali.
“I’m not worried about you,” said Mum. “I’m worried about those two.”
This time we couldn’t help it. I clapped a hand to my mouth to stifle the squeaks. Tash buried her face in one
of the sofa cushions. The fact is, me and Tash are into boys in a BIG WAY. It is just something that seems to come naturally to us. We look at a boy and we go all gooey, like
mushy peas and soft ice cream, and help, help! I’m going into meltdown! Only if the boy is worth it, of course; we are not indiscriminate! Even at twelve years old, when we were just getting started, we knew better than to go for geeks or cavemen. Mum’s problem was that she didn’t think we were old enough to get started at all.
“We sent you to the Gables expressly to avoid all that!”
Poor Mum. Poor Dad. Did they really think that shutting us up in a nunnery – well, an all-girls’ school, which amounts to the same thing – would keep us safely playing with our dolls till the age of sixteen?
if Dad had his way. Even older. He’s worse
than Mum! He once told us that he wished we could remain his little girls for ever. Pur-lease! Yuck yuck double yuck.
It is amazing how naïve parents can be. It never seems to occur to them that even at an all-girls’ school there are sometimes men teachers. Some of them quite young and fanciable! Or that girls have brothers. Likewise cousins,
of the male persuasion.
Not to mention a life outside of school.
“It’s all very well you smirking,” said Mum, “but we all know what would happen … The minute my back was turned you’d start having orgies.”
“Orgies!” A series of ecstatic squeaks came bursting out of me. Strange glugging sounds shook the sofa cushion.
“Don’t deny it,” said Mum. “I’ve heard of teenage parties getting out of control. You’d start by inviting a handful of friends and end up with hundreds of total strangers, wrecking the place.”
The sofa cushion erupted. I got as far as, “Mu-u-u-m—” and then collapsed.
“No, I’m sorry,” said Mum. “It really is quite out of the question.”
“I’d never have a moment’s peace, and nor would Auntie Jay. It’s not fair to ask it of her.”
“We didn’t ask it,” I said. “She
“Yes, but she didn’t realise what she’d be taking on. She doesn’t know what it’s like,” said Mum, “having you lot in the house.”
“But we wouldn’t
in the house! Not her bit of the house. We’d be upstairs, all hidden away … we’d be quiet as mice! She wouldn’t even know we were there.”
“Yes, and I shudder to think what you’d get up to,” said Mum. “You’re too young, I’d have nightmares. It’s no good, you’re not going to talk me round. I shall have to say no.”
“Mum, you can’t!” Tash suddenly sprang into action, clutching her cushion. “This is your big chance!”
Well! If Tash had decided to enter the fray, I obviously had to support her. Earnestly, I said, “Tash’s right, you can’t let motherhood ruin your career.”
Mum pretended to be amused by this – “It’s not going to ruin my career!” – but I could sense that she was wavering. Yippee! We had struck the right note!
“You’d be mad to miss an opportunity like this,” I said.
“Yes, and we’d be the ones that paid for it,” said Tash. “You’d go round telling people it was our fault.”
“Like, all because of us you had to let your big chance slip away from you.”
“Which is why you’d ended up as an unfulfilled woman – all mean and bitter and twisted.”
Mum said that she would be even more mean and bitter and twisted if she came back home to find we’d given Auntie Jay a nervous breakdown.
I stared at her, reproachfully. “It doesn’t say much for the way you’ve brought us up if that’s how you think we’d behave.”
“Good try,” said Mum. “But the answer is still no!”
She was doing her best to sound like she really meant it. Like that was definitely the last word. End of subject. Finish. But I’d heard Mum on the phone to Auntie Jay and I
how much this job meant to her. Dad is always the one in our family that gets to go away on interesting assignments. Partly this is because he’s a man, and men tend to take it for granted that it’s OK for them to go whizzing off across the globe at a moment’s notice but not OK for women, at
any rate that’s how it seems to me. But mainly, I have to say, it’s because of his work. Dad is not at all a caveman type; he doesn’t expect Mum to stay home washing his socks and ironing his shirts while he’s off gallivanting. He does, however, happen to be an archaeologist (hooray! I’ve remembered how to spell it) and he is very much dedicated to digging things up. Sometimes he digs in this country, but on the whole there is more stuff waiting to be dug up in other parts of the world. Like right now, for instance, he was out in Peru digging up graves. And Mum had been offered a commission to go and join him, to take pictures for a book. Really exciting! Mum is a brilliant photographer, she is wasted just doing pictures of bouncing babies and giant cucumbers for the local paper. We all thought that she deserved a break. We also thought that it would be pretty cool to spend eight whole weeks living on our own …
I might as well admit it, we weren’t just thinking of Mum! Well, me and Tash weren’t. I don’t know what Ali was thinking. Nobody ever knows what Ali is thinking. Stuff goes on inside her head that has absolutely no relationship whatsoever to the things that are going on around her. Like now. She’d been perched on the arm of a chair, chewing her fingernails (a disgusting habit which she ought to have grown out of years ago) when suddenly she stopped chewing and said, “I’m nearly at the end of
The Next Generation.”
It sort of made sense, if you happened to know that she is a massive fan of
It didn’t actually seem to have anything to do with what we’d been discussing, but that’s Ali for you.
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Authors: Olivia Snow
Keep It Sexy
Keep It Sexy
Copyright © 2015 by Olivia Snow.
All rights reserved.
First Print Edition: July 2015
Limitless Publishing, LLC
Kailua, HI 96734
Formatting: Limitless Publishing
No part of this book may be reproduced, scanned, or distributed in any printed or electronic form without permission. Please do not participate in or encourage piracy of copyrighted materials in violation of the author’s rights. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.
This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents either are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to locales, events, business establishments, or actual persons—living or dead—is entirely coincidental.
To the real Christian Rodriguez who was the inspiration for this Christian. I hope you’re well, wherever you are.
Table of Contents
Four years ago
Jade was helping me pack by folding my clothes, and then color-coding by season before arranging them in boxes. Her once perfect up-do was now falling apart, blonde strands stuck to the side of her face as she worked feverishly. She’d managed to fill one box, while the other two sat empty on my mattress. While Jade organized my clothes, I rummaged through my closet, hunting for decent clothes to take to college. With my hands on my hips, I stared down my clothing, wishing I had a better collection. Frustrated and a bit embarrassed by my lack of new and brand-name clothing, I huffed and pulled my short brown hair into a high ponytail.
“Couldn’t you have chosen somewhere local?” she asked.
“It’s time to break free from him, Jade,” I explained. “This is the best way to get out without Don trapping me with one of his guilt trips.” I yanked several shirts off the plastic hangers. Holding a red frilly blouse to my face, I inspected it then inhaled the fabric as I pushed it against my face. I winced before dropping it on the floor. “Is it me or do my clothes smell like cigars?” I asked, stepping over a pile of clothes before walking out of the closet. Jade glanced up, her hazel eyes sparkling with a knowing grin.
“I think all those times you spent in those casinos really fucked with your sense of smell.”
I scoffed. “Yeah, I’d say more than my sense of smell has gone to shit.” She chuckled, her face falling within seconds. “Don’t do this, Jade, please,” I begged her. She nodded, looking down as tears pooled inside her eyes. She sniffled.
“I’m really going to miss you.”
“Come here,” I said, pulling her in for a hug. Jade wrapped her arms around me, and rested her chin on my shoulder blade. “Hey,” I said, drawing back a little, “Lincoln will still be here. I’m sure he’ll keep you plenty busy. You know,
,” I teased. Jade didn’t know that I could hear the noises she and my older brother made at night. Jade squirmed out of my hold, fighting a laugh.
“You’re disgusting. He’s your brother,” she chided.
“Yeah, like that stopped you from coming over and having him screw your brains out last night.”
Jade breathed in sharply before her eyes ballooned and her face burned a bright pink.
“Hon, we live in Harden,” I reminded her. “Cheap houses equal paper thin walls.”
She groaned, covering her face with her hands, which only made me laugh. I stopped teasing her long enough to finish packing up my room. What should have been a forty-five minute packing session turned into a couple of hours. Jade and I couldn’t help but sneak into my brothers’ bedrooms and snoop through their stuff. After being grossed out by the disgusting amount of porn we found, and stiff socks, we left their rooms and sanitized our hands and wished we could sanitize our eyes before we buckled down and finished. A few hundred Diet Cokes, and three bags of skittles later, we were done. With only two boxes full of clothes, we trotted across the lawn, both with a box in hand, over to Jade’s house. Jade stayed behind, taping up the boxes when we reached her house, while I ran back to my place to grab my backpack and duffle bag.
With a bag in each hand, I stood at the threshold of my bedroom door. I scrutinized the empty room with flashbacks of my childhood. The only two pieces of furniture were my bed and a beat-up dresser that had been passed down from Lincoln to Donnie and finally to me. Vacant of all my clothes and the comforter set on my bed, the room still looked the same. One would never know I was no longer living here. That I left. Growing up, I never taped up pictures of friends on my walls—my only friend was Jade—or posters of bands I liked, no string lights of stars or butterflies hung above my door frames. There were no stuffed animals on my bed or even a crazy lava lamp on my dresser.
This room was meant for sleeping in and housing my clothing. The memories of my childhood were stored in Jade’s house, primarily her bedroom. Even with her father being who he was, John still made an effort to try to keep her life as normal as possible. He went out of his way to buy Jade those posters and string lights. My dad, on the other hand, trained me to be just like him from the moment I learned to read. The apple fell where Don dropped it.
I thought of my brothers, and how different I was from them. I wondered if the boys and Don remembered I was leaving today. Don and my brothers had left at the beginning of last week for business. As I became aware of what my father did for a living, I quickly learned to stay in the dark. Not asking questions was better than knowing fully what criminal activities he was participating in. The McAllister kids were taught a different trade. My brothers’ skills coincided with each other’s. Mine, on the other hand, was singular. I was told not to interfere with what they did. So I had no idea where they went or how long they would be there for.
Closing the wooden door behind me, I felt nothing. I wasn’t like many freshmen, afraid of leaving their childhood home for somewhere unknown and unfamiliar. I felt…impartial, really. I didn’t care where I was going as long as I wasn’t staying
. Closing shut the shabby front door of my house, I glanced around my childhood neighborhood. A few lawns were manicured, green grass with even a rosebush or two. But overall, this place lacked color and soul. Maybe that’s why I’d begged Don to buy me the brightest sport-bike in the dealership. My green motorcycle—or Frog, as I liked to call it—shined back at me as I hiked through my father’s chartreuse colored lawn with a heavy bag on each shoulder. I set the bags next to my bike before I walked back into Jade’s house. She finished taping up the boxes and even managed to glue on the labels. She was also shipping them off to the University of Wyoming for me. There was no way I could take them on my bike. Merely at the look of me, she began to tear up. And this time I joined her. We hugged each other until the front door opened and closed behind us.
“Come on, Jade, she isn’t leaving forever. She’ll be back.” John, her father, laid his heavy hand on my shoulder. I broke away from Jade to hug his enormous frame.
“Don’t let her get into too much trouble without me,” I told him. His chortle was low and rough and it pulled on my heartstrings.
“I promise,” he replied. I hugged Jade once again before walking outside. She and John followed behind. John bent down to pick up my bag and strapped it on my bike as I pulled my helmet, gloves, and jacket from my backpack.
“You strapped?” John asked, glancing at the bands on my bag.
“Yeah, on my ankle,” I replied. I lifted the pant leg of my jeans, revealing the small pistol secured to my ankle. When John nodded, satisfied, I glanced over to my house while I pulled the leather gloves over my hands.
“Did they say goodbye at least?” Jade asked, noticing my mental withdrawal.
Grunting, I shook my head, breaking my hair free of its elastic before slipping on my helmet. My brown hair barely peeked through the solid plastic of my helmet. I preferred having short hair; it stayed out of the way while I rode. John stepped back, softly smacking my head.
“You’re good to go,” he said.
I smiled with tears in my eyes, knowing they couldn’t see my expression. With two thumbs up, I jumped on my bike, quickly starting it before I drove away. I didn’t want to linger; it was best to treat this as a band aid and strip it off quickly. From my mirrors, I saw Jade wave before Big John pulled her to his side. Hot tears ran down my cheek and a piece of my heart chipped away. I was going to miss the hell out of her, but it was time for me to leave Harden behind and find something for myself. It was time to start living like the rest of the population, and make my money doing something legit and honest. Not something that would end up getting me into trouble, or worse…dead.
The University of Wyoming was about two and a half hours away, but I knew the way I drove I’d be there in half the time. I passed along countless roads and after an hour they blended into one solid path. The only thing keeping me focused was the highway signs. The closer I got to Wyoming, the hungrier I got. My stomach began to gurgle, and I swore I could hear it through the wind and sounds of engines. I told myself I would stop at the next rest area.
Within minutes, I exited the highway and entered a gas station with a bar and grill to its right and a liquor store to its left. Parking the Frog, I hopped off and scrambled to set my gear inside my backpack. This spot was clearly meant for truckers. If the semis parked to the side didn’t give it away, then the grungy, grumpy men sitting at the tables would. Instantly, I noticed toward the back of the dimly lit restaurant a table of bikers eating their lunch. Which was odd, because the only bike parked outside was mine, unless I had missed a dozen Harleys somehow.
An older woman approached me as I neared the front counter. She wore a shabby black polo shirt with the bar’s emblem to the side and a pair of faded jean shorts. The blonde was chubby with a short mullet and bright pink lipstick. The deep lines on her face made it clear she’d lived a hard life.
“Dining in, baby?” she asked, grabbing a plastic menu.
“Follow me.” Molly, from what I read on her nametag, sat me a few tables away from the bikers. From here, I could see the design of two skeletal hands gripping a long sword on the backs of their leather vests. Immediately, I remembered it from one of the biker gangs that were associated with Sinners Tribe, John’s crew. The Knights Of Vice, Dark Soul Catchers, Marksmen Mafia, and Sinners Tribe were part of the Four Corners. Four motorcycle gangs that resided in Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, and Arizona. They dealt with business in their own state, but also had a partnership. Last thing I heard, all four were trying to initiate a Nevada crew, but were having a hard time convincing them.
None of the bikers looked at me, but I knew they were watching. I set my backpack purposefully on the table so they could see the patch sewn onto it. Within seconds, Molly was summoned to their table. She returned to me and expressed how wonderful it was to have my business, and whatever I wanted was on the house. I ordered a steak, because if I wasn’t paying and they were, I was going to make sure I’d stay full for the rest of my trip. With a stomach full of steak and mashed potatoes, I stood, giving Molly a hefty tip before I stepped over to the table a few feet away from me.
“Thanks for the meal, gentlemen. I’ll be sure to let B.J. and Grifter know how welcoming you guys were.”
They smiled—or at least I think they did. I could never tell when they had such long, unkempt beards. The one with
printed on his cut-off lifted his beer while speaking.
I nodded curtly before leaving. I thanked Molly once again, then pushed the rusty door open to the outside. The bright afternoon sun blinded me for a moment just as the smell of petroleum consumed my nostrils. Blinking away the sunshine, I regained my vision and was surprised to find two guys eyeing my bike. Next to them, a navy blue Ford Mustang was parked with some horrible rap music spewing through the open windows. The car had Wyoming license plates, and I wondered if they were on their way to the university as well. With the crunching sound of gravel under my boots, they looked up at me.
“This yours?” the one with dark hair asked as he circled around my bike.
“Nah, dude, it’s probably her man’s,” the asshole with the caramel colored hair said.
I jerked my head to the Mustang. “That yours or did your daddy pay for it?”
They hooted, amused, and I felt the sting on my skin as my key dug into the inside of my fingers.
“Damn, you’re feisty for being so little. But come on now, be serious, sweetheart. This isn’t your bike. I bet you can’t even reach the handles.”
Now, I wasn’t in a biker gang. I loved my bike, but not as much as the guys in those crews did.
, with these two running their mouths and looking at my Frog like they were ready to drive it away, my blood bubbled and my veins pulsed when Caramel Head straddled my bike.
My hand instantly flew to my ankle, and within milliseconds I had my pistol in my hands. I’d never used it on anyone before, but I still knew how to shoot. I’d known how since I was strong enough to hold it on my own.
“Get. The. Fuck. Off. My. Ride,” I seethed steadily.
Both looked surprised for a second but then laughed. I was so tempted to shoot one in the leg, but decided hurting their car would satisfy me more. Aiming the gun at their front window, I shot at it, shattering the glass to a million pieces. Both flew toward the car, then looked back at me with horror and gaping mouths.
“Now, why did y’all have to go and piss off Don McAllister’s daughter?” A low drawl came from behind me. I didn’t lower my gun. The smell of cigarette smoke hit me before I felt an oily hand sink down on my shoulder.
“You go on now. We’ll take it from here.”
I bent quickly, strapping the pistol back on my ankle.
“Send Don the tab,” I said.
The president smiled, shaking his head. “No, it’s on the house. We hate assholes like them.”
I smirked before slipping my helmet on, then I pulled out of the parking lot, ignoring the horrible scene on my mirrors behind me. This was a prime example of why I needed to leave this life behind, even if it gave me the best rush possible.
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Helmets should be the top priority of any motorcycle rider before hitting the road. Not only wearing helmets but also how to make a motorcycle helmet fit better on your head should be the most important factors. Many people especially the adults don’t take the importance of wearing a helmet while cruising seriously. This is very crucial point that should be brought on table and be discussed.
The helmets are designed in such a way that it will protect your head, skull, jaw bones from impacts and pressure in any accident or a crash.
Especially for racing players there safety is always at risk. Thus, it should be according to your head s size and fits properly. They also used to prevent your neck and jaw line from injuries. The helmets are made up of materials which are resistant to pressure and impacts thus saving your head.
With modern techniques and technologies, helmets are getting better day by day. They are made in a way that makes sure that rider feels better in every way possible. They are installed with air vents so that the rider breaths in fresh air and don’t feel suffocated while putting on a helmet. The key to get the best use of a helmet for motorcycle rider is how to make a motorcycle helmet fit better on your head.
Market is full with different types, sizes, shapes of helmets which can be one hell of job for you to pick the one which perfectly and accurately fits your head.
Everybody have heads of different shapes and a size, so do helmets comes in. These helmets might look same from their exterior but they each have different internal fittings. Some have round oval head; some may have intermediate oval head or may be some have long oval head.
A helmet with loose fittings moves around easily thus makes you uncomfortable, irritable and may be a danger for you while riding a bike. A helmet with tight fittings may cause pressure on some points that will be so uneasy for you. This may also cause difficulty while putting it in or taking it off.
Your helmet will fit according to your head size if you know how to do it. To make sure that how to make a motorcycle helmet fit better on your head you must follow these steps before buying.
Firstly, many riders buy those helmets which don’t fits them because they take sizes for granted and choose them on their looks. I do know that you want to look elegant and stylish but with that you have to make sure that you select the right size for you.
After using the helmet for some time, you will get to know that your helmet loosely moves from side by side. It will be too late to realize this. What will you do then? The best thing to is to take your helmet according to your size that fits smoothly and snugly to your head and don’t move side by side.
For size measure your head. Take a measuring tape and measure in horizontal position almost one inch above your eye area. Measure it two or times for reassurance. After that,compare it with a fitment chart of the helmet you want to buy and then select the helmet that matches your or almost near to your head size.
If you find your measurements lies between two sizes then select the smaller one. Fitment charts are mostly given on the websites of the helmets. One thing more you can also take the help of sizing pads to make sure that helmet fits you better.
Secondly, the next technique for how to make a motorcycle helmet fit better is try to put the crown part of your head first in the helmet because it is much easier instead of trying to insert your all head at once. Sometimes, you thought that helmet is too small by looking at but it fits just right by putting it from the back of your head.
A helmet would be rightly fits to you if it will be snug but after starting wearing it your helmets will get a bit loose and will properly fits you.
Your helmet will fits you best if your answer to these questions is YES
- Is your helmet snuggly fits around your head?
- Are the cheeks pads in the helmets are closely touching your cheeks?
- Is the helmets upper padding closely touching top of your head?
Buckle side straps:
Thirdly, the one most important thing that helps you to know how to make a motorcycle helmet fit better is side straps. These side straps make sure that your helmet fits you properly.
Both sides of straps should make a shape of Y and they should tie rightly underneath you ear.These straps are very simple to readjust. All you have to do is just tighten the rubber strap to the point where you feel easy and comfortable.
You should adjust your straps when you have helmet on your head. The basic purpose of making helmet fits better is that you feel comfortable.
Here, there is also one advice for you guys with better techniques and innovations, helmets openings are getting smaller to reduce wind noise and for better safety. To get you head in first put some force and pull the chin straps apart.
Chin straps are also imperative in making your helmet fits you better. After putting the helmet, put your under the chin and make sure that no more than one finger can pass under your chin. Resize it accordingly and make sure that you feel comfortable. To avoid any damage to chin straps, pull chin straps instead of their covers.
Do the following checks
Fourthly and lastly, to make your helmet fits better put your helmet on your head and move it up and down, side by side to ensure that it doesn’t have much space to move or slide on your head. If it is loose than it will create problems while riding.
After putting your helmet and tightening their straps, move your helmet by rotating it from the back and front of your head.
If you have completed all of the above steps without coming off the helmet, you may have found the helmet that fits better.
For most of the riders in the world, the first and foremost purpose of using helmet is to get safety and protection. The helmet should save you from severe injuries if you met any accident or crash.
Getting your helmet that fits you rightly is the most important thing for you to consider. For that purpose, even before buying you have to try helmets at their outlets and do different things at least for half an hour. So, you will get to know that is it loose or is it fit?
One little advice before wrapping it up, if at any time you realize that your helmet is greeting old or have some fitting problems don’t think twice to replace it. Because no matter what safety should be your first priority.
These are some tips which I mention above are gather through some real experiences which definitely will help you to choose the right helmets that fits you better. By reading this whenever you put on your helmet you will instantly get to know that is it fits better?
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What are the questions you need to ask your wedding photographer? I mean it sounds so easy and you probably already have a couple in your head. But perhaps a better title for this blog is what questions should you ask your wedding photographer. And why are these important?
By this point, you’ve managed to navigate your way through hundreds of wedding photographer websites. You’ve found a style of wedding photography you love & you’ve found a shortlist of amazing wedding photographers. You have now arranged a meeting with them and not only do you want to make sure you click with them as people, you want to make sure that they will do a great job of photographing your wedding. So here are the questions I think you need to ask.
TWO QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER BEFORE YOU MEET
This may sound simple, but I have had couples ask these questions at meetings (and so have many other photographers) and then be disappointed that the photographer is either out of their price range or even worse, unavailable for their date.
It is always worth checking these before your meeting. It saves time and avoids any disappointment.
So now we have the ones you need to ask before the meeting out of the way, let’s get to the top 8 questions you need to ask your potential wedding photographer.
1. WHAT WILL HAPPEN IF YOU ARE ILL OR UNABLE TO ATTEND THE WEDDING?
Let’s get the worst-case scenario question out of the way straight away. You need to know what will happen in the worst-case scenario. Unfortunately, like all of us, things happen, the key is to know what backup your potential photographers have in place
What a good wedding photographer should say: You should be looking for them to say that they have a number of photographers that they can call upon should the worst happen. They are confident when they say this. The other thing they should say is that should the very worst happen and neither they nor any photographer can make the day, you will get 100% of your money back.
Sound the alarm: They say they will never miss your wedding or something similar. Of course, no photographer aims to miss a wedding, but they really should have some sort of backup plan in place.
I know this answer is not hugely reassuring, but it is honest. There could be an issue with one of your wedding vendors, but honestly, the chances are things will go perfectly.
There are hundreds of variables that could happen on your wedding day. You could be ill. Your wedding venue could burn down. You could see your wedding become the site of the first alien invasion on earth…. The likelihood is that they will not happen.
2. CAN I SEE A FULL WEDDING/SOME REVIEWS?
Personally, I think this is one of the most important questions to ask your wedding photographer. Portfolios are great. They are what introduced you to the photographer’s style and are the reason you are now meeting with them. However, a full wedding is something you really need to see. Why? Simply put, this will show you the quality of a photographer’s work across a whole wedding day. You want to see the story of the day through photography.
The thing you are looking for here is that several photos in the wedding you see will make you say things like “I love this photo”.
What a good wedding photographer should say: Of course, I will send XYZ’s wedding through. Their day was similar style to your plans. As for reviews, please check our Facebook and Google reviews online.
Sound the alarm if: You get any sort of stalling here. If they don’t want to show you something, there is more than likely a reason for it.
3. HOW DO YOU BACKUP YOUR PHOTOGRAPHS?
There is no point in choosing an amazing wedding photographer if they don’t have a great backup in place. Computers are something that do and will fail. You need to know that your photographer has chosen a method that keeps your images safe.
What a good wedding photographer should say: They will speak of things such as two cards in the cameras, offsite backups and cloud backups, etc. In fact, they will probably spout technical jargon that you don’t really understand. This should be reassuring, but remember, if you don’t understand what they are saying, stop and ask them.
Sound the alarm: They just replay with a blanket statement such as “I look after them”, “I keep them safe on my computer”, etc.
4. DO YOU HAVE BACKUP EQUIPMENT?
Like computers, cameras and technology will fail, usually when you least want it to. A wedding photographer should have a series of backups in place in case something breaks on a wedding day.
What a good wedding photographer should say: They will explain that they have backups of both camera bodies and lenses should the worst happen.
Sound the alarm: I’ve got my iPhone or it’s never failed on me yet.
5. CAN WE REQUEST SPECIFIC PHOTOS WE WOULD LIKE?
As a wedding photographer, you always get requests for certain images from a wedding day. This can be as simple as a request for a picture with a special someone or a detail that you really want to capture. Photographers value this input and will always try to accommodate it. Have some idea of what you want in terms of must-have photos.
Try not to come up with a massive list of shots though. Instead, work with your photographer, listen to their suggestions (they are the experts), and remember whilst the idea of 30 group shots sounds totally doable in 30 minutes, the reality is very different. You will get bored, it will take much longer than you think and you will wish you were enjoying your day with your family & friends.
What a good wedding photographer should say: They will listen to all your requests and guide you in the best way to incorporate them into your day. They may suggest against some of the shots or suggest that you have too many for the time you are planning to allow. This shows their experience and it really is worth taking their advice on this.
Sound the alarm: If they don’t do requests or refuse to entertain your ideas.
6. DO YOU HAVE INSURANCE?
This is something you hope you will never need to rely on but will give you peace of mind. Many venues will require your photographer have public liability insurance. As an example, National Trust Wedding venues will generally require your photographer to have public liability insurance up to two million pounds. Before you meet, just check with your wedding venue if they need to see the photographer’s insurance.
What a good wedding photographer should say: They will gladly supply you and your venue any copies of the insurance documents, should it be needed.
Sound the alarm: If they don’t have insurance.
7. WILL WE HAVE A CONTRACT?
A contract protects both you and the photographer. It will cover things such as what happens if the photographer is ill, as well as things such as style, number of photographs, etc. Make sure that when your photographer sends you their contract you read it fully. Doing this it will make sure you understand what you are getting for your money. As always, if you don’t understand the contract, ask the question.
What a good wedding photographer should say: They will give you a contract to sign, which they will then countersign and you will both have copies.
Sound the alarm: They do not offer a contract or say they have one, but will not provide you with a written copy.
THE QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELVES AFTER MEETING
8. DID YOU FEEL COMFORTABLE AROUND THE PHOTOGRAPHER?
Remember, you will spend more time with the photographer on your wedding day than anyone else (including your partner) make sure you are comfortable around them and are happy to have them as part of your day.
9. DID THEY SEEM KNOWLEDGEABLE? DID THEY HESITATE WHEN YOU ASKED THEM QUESTIONS?
Did they hesitate when you asked them questions? Did they have suggestions for your day? An experienced wedding photographer will put you at ease, answering any questions and adding inappropriate suggestions on how to improve the day.
10. DO YOU STILL LIKE THEIR PHOTOGRAPHS?
Once you have seen all of the photographer’s photographs, once again ask yourself, do I love their photographs? If the answer isn’t 100% yes, then it may be worth thinking again. On the flip of this, do not hesitate too long as good wedding photographers do tend to get booked up early.
11. DID THEY ADDRESS YOUR CONCERNS?
Did you leave the meeting feeling confident? If you did, you are on your way to finding your wedding photographer.
In reality, after the meeting, it is a simple case of trusting your instincts. If the first photographer you met was someone who you really liked, save yourself the time and book them.
Like when you knew it was the person you want to spend the rest of your life with, you will know when you have met the perfect photographer to capture your day.
LIKE THIS ARTICLE? THEN MAKE SURE YOU GET YOUR FREE WEDDING GUIDE
If you found the content in this article useful, don’t forget to download your free copy of my Wedding Guide. It’s full of practical tips to help you plan your perfect wedding day. Simply click the button below.
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I was thrilled to hear we would be taking the upgraded Toyota Fortuner – offering a decent 150kW and 500Nm of torque, thanks to the new 2.8-liter GD-6 engine first introduced in the Hilux – to the bush for a few days. As we were wild camping, we chatted to the guys from Conqueror Connection East Rand who were more than happy the let us try out their Conqueror Comfort Recce. The Fortuner have always been a favourite for me and having the chance to finally tow with it was exciting. Our destination laid north of the Soutpansberg which meant about five hours on the tar. Towing on the N1 is a breeze – the roads are well-maintained and fairly straight, apart from a couple of hills before Polokwane. The Fortuner, now equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensures safe connectivity and some lekker tunes – if only the trip DJ could be as reliable as the Fortuner!
The Fotuner’s first test came when we headed up the Soutpansberg, climbing a fair bit of winding roads with lots of trucks that were heading to Beitbridge. Again, she took it in her stride and the drive was effortless. Arriving at Makuya we checked in quickly and headed to the campsite, approximately 5km from the gate. The road to camp was a bit worse than what we expected with a lot of the sand washed away during the recent heavy rains, leaving a very rocky road ahead. I had to engage 4-High to ensure enough traction to tow the Comfort Recce. Without having an upgraded suspension it was here that we noticed the rear sagged a bit and, going through a couple of ditches, we ended up scraping the tow hitch through the rocks. Parking the trailer was made easy with the Fortuner’s rear-view camera and some assistance from my fellow campers. Within a couple of minutes, the camp was set up and we could get the fire started. The roads in Makuya are pretty rough and overgrown due to some heavy rains and everything seemed a little further than usual. With the rocky roads I opted to keep my tyres at 2.5 bar to try and prevent any sidewall punctures. In the process, I was prepared to lose grip on the factory fitted all-terrain tyres which are definitely more suitable for highway terrain. Yet, I was impressed as it was never an issue for us. Even when a road completely washed away and our fellow travellers in their Land Cruiser 70 made a new road the Fortuner happily followed in its tracks, not missing a beat. Driving on the riverbed, I was worried I might get stuck due to my refusal to deflate my tyres. We drove some seriously overgrown roads and the Fortuner in its Attitude Black paint job that almost look like a pearl black really wasn’t the greatest colour scheme for driving in overgrown bushveld and river forest. But a good polish when we got back restored it to good as new. The engine upgrade on the 2.8-litre GD-6 really makes a difference on and off the road – driving normal highway we managed the get our fuel consumption to just above 9 litres/100km, but towing did make a difference and the consumption increased by about 50% to 14.5 litres/100km. Traversing Magoebaskloof on our way back, we even saw 21 litres/100km at some point! I enjoyed towing with the Fortuner and never felt tired as the seats are really comfy. Coupled with the adaptive cruise control and other driver assistance tools, it really is a good drive (and this, unlike most of the fishing tales, is a fact!). Packed to the brim, we must have been close to the trailer’s GVM of 1 500kg, but only felt it tugging behind the Fortuner on a couple of occasions. However, if you are planning to tow or add a couple of aftermarket accessories like roof racks, rooftop tents and fridges I would recommend some kind of suspension upgrade. All in all, the Fortuner is a great towing vehicle and the sixspeed auto box really impressed. I never thought it was searching for a gear and there was always a little bit left in case I needed it. As expected, it impressed off-road, with our camping companions in their Land Cruisers commenting on the fact that it never struggled to follow in the master’s tracks.
New Flagship Grade
While a two-tier grade strategy (entry and mid) has been in place since introduction, changing market requirements have lead to the introduction of a new ‘range-topper’ in the form of the new 2.8-litre GD-6 VX. The VX suffix is employed on Toyota’s other SUV ranges (RAV4, Prado and Land Cruiser 200) and denotes the highest specification level on offer.
The design team focused on retaining the characteristic profile of the Fortuner while accentuating and refreshing the façade. At the front a larger, blacked-out grille with wave-like mesh pattern (gloss finish on VX) is accompanied by a silver-accented “skidplate” underrun for a tougher, more integrated look. Re-profiled Bi-LED headlamps provide a sleeker look and these are further enhanced by prominent chrome accent strips that bridge the grille and headlamp assemblies. On the VX-grade, the side profile is enhanced with a thin, chrome belt-line that extends towards the rear, effectively wrapping around the vehicle, and complementing the other chrome detailing.
One of the key change points, is the shift to a black interior, in line with market requests. The previously employed brown-leather interior has been replaced by sophisticated black ‘hide’ with silver contrast stitching. High-brightness treatment has also been applied to the accent areas of the interior, resulting in a more premium atmosphere both visually and tactility. A new instrument cluster design has been employed with metallic-blue dial faces, white needle pointers and a simple, elegant font – complementing the blue interior lighting. These are augmented by an expanded, centrallymounted Multi-Information Display.
Wheels & Tyres
The 2.4-litre GD-6 models retain their 17-inch alloy wheels shod with 265/65-R17 rubber, while the 2.8-litre GD-6 variants receive a stylish new 18-inch alloy wheel with turbine design and metallic surface treatment – employing 265/60-R18 tyres.
An all-new eight-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto allows users to mirror applications off their mobile phone – for seamless connectivity.
The towing capacity of the 2.4-litre GD-6 4×4 models has seen a significant increase of 800kg, now registering 3.3 tons and matching that of the 2.8-litre GD-6 4×4 model. Subsequently, 2.8-litre GD-6 4×4 models now also boast a towing capacity of 3 300kg (an increase of 300kg over the outgoing model)
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An actor with disabilities is born to a disability rights activist. It seems like a far-fetched Hollywood script, but, in reality, it’s 100% true. Meet the Gottsagen—Zack whose breakout role in Peanut Butter Falcon has put him on the map and his mother, Shelley, whose activism for disability rights predates her son. ABILITY Magazine was able to chat with Zack and Shelley in between events in an increasingly busy schedule.
Zack is the lead actor in Peanut Butter Falcon, along with Dakota Johnson and Shia LaBeoufa. The role was written specifically for him. In it, he plays Zak, a young man who lives in a nursing home because his family isn’t in the picture, and the state has determined he can’t live on his own. In his quest to meet his hero, an all-star wrestler, he escapes and takes off into the night. Zack is a man with Down syndrome. The film is authentic to things in his life experience, something we don’t see in media often enough. Throughout the conversation, we learned about Zack, but we also learned about his activist mom. Shelley said when doctors told her to leave Zack at an institution because he’d be a vegetable, she told them, “It’s a good thing I’m a vegetarian. I’ll take my vegetable to go.”
Shelly Rohe: Hi, Zack!
Zack Gottsagen: Hi.
Rohe: I saw the movie, Peanut Butter Falcon. It was great.
Zack Gottsagen: Thank you.
Rohe: I hear that you have been an actor for a long time. Can you tell me a little bit about that?
Zack Gottsagen: Yeah. For me, I was in school before I was in movies. I went to a Palm Beach High School. Dreyfoos School for Arts and, of course, Middle School of the Arts.
Shelley Gottsagen: We had to rely on the Office of Civil Rights because Dreyfoos refused to take any students with disabilities. So, we had to get the Office of Civil Rights to let them know that if they didn’t comply, that their school was being shut down.
Shelley Gottsagen: Zack was the first student with Down syndrome to be fully included in the Palm Beach County school district. We spent most of his childhood in court. (laughs)
Rohe: That’s so frustrating. Look at what it got you! Now they get to say that they’re proud that your son came through the system, but they won’t mention that they didn’t want him to come through the system.
Shelley Gottsagen: They won’t. They know better. He’s come out very strongly in local newspapers and said that this was despite the school system, not because of it.
Shelley Gottsagen: And he talks about how he was mistreated. They would not even answer any questions or try to take claim for his success. They know better. (laughs)
Rohe: That’s good.
Shelley Gottsagen: Yeah, they were pretty wicked. There were some good people along the way, but it was a system that had to be fought.
Rohe: And it’s still happening now, but back in the day, it was a national issue. Even with IDEA, they’re still trying to fight it.
Shelley Gottsagen: There’s lots of compliance issues. It’s awful. It’s still awful. I still struggle.
Rohe: Zack, how many movies have you done?
Zack Gottsagen: Eight movies.
Rohe: Eight? Wow! What was different about this one?
Zack Gottsagen: This one was kind of like more of a business.
Zack Gottsagen: Because it was a feature it was more like a business.
Rohe: I see. What were the other ones like?
Shelley Gottsagen: I don’t know if it’s OK if I help out a little?
Shelley Gottsagen: He did many movies with a group called Mountain Farms. It’s a group that believes in inclusion and high-quality movies. They do short independent films, and they gather a group of people, half of them without disabilities, half of them with varying types of disabilities. And they actually write the movie together and they perform it together. They are independent films. There was one movie that was a behind the scenes, and that movie won multiple awards. Zack was the keynote speaker at the 25th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act at the Smithsonian, and they showed that movie. He was able to talk about that whole process. They followed three of the actors with disabilities into their real lives, and Zack was one of the actors they followed. They came, and he lived in his own apartment. At the time, he was working, so they interviewed his employer and the things that were important in his life. They followed him, and that one was shown all over the world.
Zack Gottsagen: Yeah. I would say it’s kind of more learning.
Rohe: How long was your speech, Zack?
Zack Gottsagen: How long was it?
Shelley Gottsagen: Oh, he talked for about 15 minutes or so. And there were advocates from all over the world attending.
Zack Gottsagen: Yeah.
Rohe: What was the most fun thing you did at the Smithsonian?
Zack Gottsagen: Several fun things.
Shelley Gottsagen: They had a lunch counter where the well-known protests took place for the civil rights movement. They were celebrating all types of civil rights, but particularly the part that Zack was involved in was the civil rights of people with disabilities.
Rohe: And that was the 25th anniversary of the ADA?
Zack Gottsagen: Yes.
Shelley Gottsagen: He was the keynote speaker.
Zack Gottsagen: Yeah.
Rohe: So you were asked to be the keynote, which is really great. Have you done other talks around the country on different anniversaries like the ADA or December 3rd, which is the International Day of Disabilities?
Zack Gottsagen: Yes, I have.
Shelley Gottsagen: Zack is doing a lot of things at the Center for Independent Living. It was more local things, not really national.
Rohe: In Florida?
Shelley Gottsagen: Yeah. He was speaking in Palm Beach County. Zack does a lot of advocacy. He’s met with different legislators on different issues, issues around the enforcement of the ADA and also the lack thereof, of enforcement, is what the issues were.
Rohe: When you were in Washington DC, were you able to meet with legislators like Senator Harkin, who drafted the ADA?
Zack Gottsagen: Yes, I did.
Rohe: You did get to meet with him? I think he was just retiring right around that time, which is great if you met him.
Shelley Gottsagen: Yes. There was a big march. We were able to go to the march, and he was there.
Rohe: Senator Harkin wrote a column for ABILITY Magazine for 14 years.
Shelley Gottsagen: Oh, awesome!
Zack Gottsagen: Yeah, cool.
Rohe: Can you give a background of how you got involved in the Peanut Butter Falcon, how that came about?
Zack Gottsagen: Tyler and Mike, I met at camp, at Zeno’s camp.
Shelley Gottsagen: Through that group, Zeno Mountain Farms, Tyler, who is one of the writers in movie, was an actor in a movie that Zack was in called Bulletproof Jackson, and Mike did some camera work or editing. They got to know Zack over a period of three years and they formed a friendship. Zack told them that he wanted to be the star of a feature movie, and they told him, basically, Hollywood isn’t exactly looking for actors with disabilities. And so he told them, I guess that means you guys need to write and direct, and I’ll have to act in it.
Rohe: (laughs) How long did it take for all of this to come together?
Zack Gottsagen: I’ll say five years.
Rohe: That’s a good amount of time. Did you give them some ideas? Did you have any ideas about the film?
Zack Gottsagen: For the film, yeah.
Rohe: Can you tell me one thing you thought of?
Zack Gottsagen: I’ll say The Peanut Butter Falcon.
Shelley Gottsagen: He came up with the name of the film.
Rohe: Oh, did he? Nice!
Shelley Gottsagen: Some of the dialogue in the film was improv that Zack did, like Rule number one: party. That was not in the script. He did that. (laughter) Also, Zack did all his own stunts in the movie. …
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“Feature image courtesy of a Global Down Syndrome Foundation . Zack received Global’s Quincy Jones Exceptional Advocacy Award at their 2018 Be Beautiful Be Yourself Fashion Show, the largest fundraiser for Down syndrome in the world,” bebeautifulbeyourself.org/zack-gottsagen
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I have always tried to keep my blog upbeat. Sometimes I've been sad, or upset, but I'm pretty sure I've never let loose totally. Afraid that I might hurt someones feelings, offend someone in my family or whatever. Well, ya know what? right now I don't give a rats ass!
Only some people in my family know this, and one or two friends, but back in '02/'03 alot of crap went down seemingly all at once that threw me into a depression. Stress + Depression does not a happy person make. I was not easy to be around. The stress of a toddler wasn't helping much. I yelled. Alot. After one particularly bad night Chris and I came to the realization that I needed a counselor, help of some sort. I cried most of that night, and most of the next day. I went to work and weepingly told my boss I needed help and that I was making an appointment with a counselor for that day and leaving work to go. She did not have a problem with it, seeing as I was trying to gulp air in between sobs the whole time we talked.
I found a very nice counselor close to my work, that accepted my insurance that could get me in that day. I spent the next hour crying some more, but she helped me calm down some. She pointed out that I start worrying about something small, then chew on it, distort it and make it seem so much bigger than it was when the original problem popped up. Most of it was unchangeable, and therefore there was nothing I could do about it. I needed to stop worrying about it so much. About the yelling, well , I grew up with a lot of it.
Some people in my family know about this, and my BFF. Yes my parents were together my whole life, and I had a relatively happy childhood, but my dad yelled ALOT. I DID NOT want to continue this with my own family. However, at that point in my life, it seemed like that was the only volume I had - loud and bitchy. I did not and still don't want Nicole to grow up yelling at her kids.
I KNOW everyone yells once in a while. I'm not talking about occasionally getting upset, I'm talking about getting downright snippy at every little thing. The kiddo and/or hubby didn't do something that you asked or expected and WHAM, off ya go. Most of the time I hear myself doing this and still can't stop. If I do calm down somewhat , I still am snippy, which still isn't good. I feel like my apologies will start to fall on deaf ears after a while, and be meaningless.
What set this off you ask? You, faithful friends and followers know that I totalled our ONLY car a week ago Friday. Friday the 13th to be exact. This was also our spring break week. Nicole went to my moms.... me? I stayed home and cleaned. Fun fun and more freaking fun...
Nicole came home Thursday because she had an appointment with the eye doctor ( she doesn't need glasses! woohoo) but I digress...
I had started in the living room, then moved on to the kitchen, then to the den. It was starting to sparkle and I was quite pleased with my efforts. Then Nicole came home, and it was her suitcase here, her shoes there... books here, generalized miscellaneaous stuff everywhere else. Not home 24hrs and although not back to the mess I cleaned up, there was stuff around that SHOULD have been picked up and wasn't. Friday she helped me a little bit, but not much.
Saturday was the day we were supposed to tackle her room. Although positive I wouldn't get eaten by some unknown force living in her dungeon of a room, it was still pretty messed up and was going to need work. For one reason or another she wound up helping me MAYBE 30-45 mins and that was it. Then she was off to spend the night with her BFF Carson.
Today was Chris' 41st bday - he mowed the back lawn and I got in her room for maybe another 30 mins. After cleaning one room or another all week I wanted a little down time so I figured she could work on it a little bit when she came home.
When she did come home I told her - 30 mins of reading her book for school, 30 mins in her room. One hour. Sixty minutes. For the love of all that is good and Holy, you would have thought I took away every remaining free minute she had today minus dinnertime and chained her to slavery. ( can you imagine the big vein starting to throb in my temple? )
What she actually wound up doing was emptying her bag from her trip to Carsons and putting everything away and reading for maybe 20 mins. /sigh. Then I made Spaghetti for dinner. I used Ragu sauce which is good. She said it didn't look like the brand I normally used and judged it before ever even trying it. Then I dished up her plate. Some of the butter that was on the noodles mixed with the spaghetti sauce. Right away - " mommy ewwww, look what is coming out of the sauce..." Again, she had yet to even try it. Chris explained to her what it was, but watching during dinner, she didn't eat half of what I gave her. grrrrrrrrr
We sat down as a family and talked a little bit, I explained why I was so downright mad. Chris pointed out I had a right to get a bit upset but not actually mad. Ok, maybe he's right. I just don't want to start being so snippy again that I wind up back where I was 6 years ago. I can't do that! I like my job, have a roof over my head, food to eat, a loving husband, and a beautiful daughter. My mom is still alive and I have a wonderful relationship with her, I get along great with my MIL.. I have a ton of other little things to be thankful for too.
I needed to get that out. I'm not really sorry if this isn't the normal tone of my blog but I needed an outlet and this is as good as any:)) I'm not a crazy person, just a slightly stressed mom that doesn't want to yell anymore.
Any books that someone can suggest? Maybe you've experienced something similar? Any positive suggestions will be welcomed!
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This article on how I learnt computer programming as an accountant is a detailed account of my journey into the world of computer programming and technology. Before we delve into the ‘how I learnt to code’, I think it will be nice if I tell you ‘why I learnt programming first.’ So, let us start with the ‘why I learnt computer programming as a Certified Chartered Accountant’.
Why I learnt to code as an accountant
It all started in the year 2011 when I finished my Master’s program in International Accounting and Financial Management (MAcc) at the University of Glasgow in Scotland. I searched for job for a while without success, but it didn’t take long before I realised that my accounting skills, knowledge and qualifications would not take me to where I truly wanted to be. I immediately reckoned that the business world has gone beyond looking for people with accounting skill, they need business partners who come in with both accounting and IT skill set as accountants.
I have always wanted to be a hybrid accountant with the perfect blend of IT, Accounting, Law, and Business acumen. So, I enrolled for ISACA’s flagship certification – CISA knowing that this will nicely announce me in the world of techie world.
I learnt a lot in the course of studying hard for the CISA exams that I became very familiar with many technologies which in turn increased my appetite for learning more IT related topics.
My first programming language
The first programming language I learnt was python. This choice was made based on research and recommendations from people that have taken the path I eagerly long for – a very good choice in hindsight.
Steps I took to learn coding
This section of this article will give the exact steps that I took to become a programmer.
- Random YouTube search: through some random YouTube search with the keyword ‘basics of computer programming’, I found a video prepared by people from Microsoft (Susan and Harrison) titled ‘…zero to hero…. using python’. This video was about 10 hours long and I must say that it was time well invested. YouTube through its smart algorithm recommended numerous other videos that helped consolidate my skills.
- Udemy: I will try not to give free endorsement to Udemy but it has to be said that the quality of tutorials on udemy are high quality. The only downside is that I had to spend some money in buying access to the lessons (lifetime access). It is hard to believe that one would go wrong by investing in buying access to few tutorials here.
- Books: I love the ‘Head first series’, and ‘Think python’. These books took all that I learnt from thousands of video tutorials that I watched from various sources and made them flesh.
- AndelaGoogle scholarship: one of my Linkedin mentors Prof. Ndubisi Ekekwe pointed me to this opportunity. They have three tracks but I chose the Android track for the simple reason of picking up enough skills to enable me build apps that can solve my work related apps (just for the record, I did build really useful app that made my life as a finance professional a lot easier). Though I dropped out of the scholarship due to tight work schedule but the learning continued at my pace.
- Pluralsight lectures: Pluralsight provided the learning platform for the AndelaGoogle scholarship program. The videos on pluralsight are top notch. My only problem with pluralsight is that they make a lot of assumptions regarding what you ought to have known before taking the course.
- Udacity: my quest for really beginners’ tutorial on Android led me to the udacity’s free courses. Fantastic courses I must say. I closed the gap of basics here before going back to pluralsight for the rest of the course.
- Practice till infinity: one fundamental life lessons that programming teaches is that – doing is the best form of learning. Forget about dreaming of becoming a computer programmer if you are not willing to get your hands dirty with some codes.
- Building apps and programs: once I practiced enough on various assignments, I started building little apps and programs that solve real life problems.
Benefits of coding to accountants
- Valuable asset to any organization
- Indispensable in any team
- Confident at all time
- Problem solving skills
- Critical accounting and finance thinker
- Accountant for the future (this in my opinion is the most important benefits of learning computer programming as an accountant)
The future of accounting and finance
It is no longer news that AIML has come to stay and will continue to take accounting and finance jobs. However, those that take decisive actions like learning to code as accountants will never be displaced by computers. Going forward, all that the business world require is hybrid accountants with all the accolades of a finance warrior. Make that all important investment today into learning how to write computer code and you will never regret it
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We delve into a strategic SWOT analysis, identifying the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats facing your local economy. Our focus extends to enhancing the quality of life through initiatives aimed at expanding labor supply, increasing affordable housing options, and bolstering public safety measures. The Plan outlines innovative strategies for entrepreneurial ecosystem development and attracting new businesses while supporting existing ones. It presents current statistics on the labor force, population, and income levels, alongside emerging trends. This data-driven approach ensures a holistic understanding of our economic landscape, providing a foundation for informed decision-making and targeted development efforts. The Plan not only reflects the current economic status but also charts a path forward for sustainable growth and prosperity.
Subject Region: Municipality
Delivery Time: Next Business Day
File Type: Color PDF
Length: 40 to 50 pages
Table of Contents:
Economic History - A historical overview of the economic conditions, highlighting key developments and shifts that have shaped its current economic landscape.
SWOT Analysis - Every community has a unique set of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) in its quest to attract a skilled workforce and new industries. This analysis delves into these factors, providing insights into your community's potential for economic expansion and workforce development.
Quality of Life - This section summarizes the significant strides made and outlines strategic approaches and key focus areas to further improve the quality of life in your community.
Labor Supply - This analysis explores various strategies that can be implemented to engage more of the local population in the workforce, thereby bolstering the community's economic vitality and inclusivity.
Affordable Housing - Ensuring a sufficient supply of affordable housing is crucial for the sustained well-being and diversity of the community. This section outlines strategies, specific to your community, to increase affordable housing availability in your community.
Public Safety - Public safety is a multifaceted issue that requires a comprehensive and proactive approach. This section outlines key strategies to improve public safety in your community focusing on community engagement, law enforcement effectiveness, and technological advancements.
Entrepreneurial Ecosystem - An entrepreneurial ecosystem is vital for a community because it fosters innovation, creates jobs, and drives economic growth by supporting startups and small businesses in their journey from idea to execution. This section summarizes the significant strides made and lists additional programs and resources to develop.
Business Attraction - This section identifies the types of companies most likely to find your community an attractive destination for either relocating their operations or expanding their existing business footprint.
Workforce Development - A workforce development strategy is essential for a community because it ensures that the local labor market is equipped with the necessary skills and education to meet the demands of employers. This section covers strategies and programs that will enhance economic competitiveness and improve the quality of life for residents.
Broadband - The availability of high-speed internet is central to effective economic development. This section discusses capacity gaps in the digital infrastructure of the region.
Economic Equity - Economic equity is crucial for a community as it ensures fair access to opportunities, resources, and support for all individuals. The section offers actionable steps to foster a sense of belonging and participation among all community members, driving sustainable economic growth and enhancing the overall well-being of the community.
Economic Resilience - A community's economic prosperity is linked to its ability to prevent, withstand, and quickly recover from major disruptions to its economic base. In this section we list ways to build responsive capacity and better anticipate, withstand, and bounce back from any type of shock, disruption, or stress the community may experience.
Strategic Framework & Action Plan - A list of actionable steps for community leaders to improve quality of life and economic prosperity for your community.
Current Demographic & Labor Statistics:
- Economic Overview
- Total Jobs
- Median Household Income
- Labor Force
- Educational Attainment
- by age
- by gender
- by race
- by ethnicity
- Historic & Projected Trends
- Labor Force Participation
- Population Trends
- Retiring Soon
- Racial Diversity
- Violent Crime Rate
- Property Crime Rate
- Inbound & Outbound Migration
- Net Commuters by Zip
- Inbound and Outbound Migration by County
- Industry Characteristics
- Jobs by Industry vs National Average
- Top Growth Industries
- Industry Concentrations
- Gross Regional Product by Industry
- Average Earnings per Worker by Industry
- Business Characteristics
- Job Posting Volume by Employer
- Number of Companies by Employee Count
- Workforce Characteristics
- Number of Jobs per Occupation vs National Average
- Top Growing Occupations
- Top Earnings by Occupation
- Job Postings by Occupation
- Underemployment by Education Level
- Educational Pipeline
- Graduate Count per Area College
- Graduate Count Trends per Area College
- In-Demand Skills
- Specialized Skills Demanded vs National Average
Plan Analyst: Toby Teeter
Toby is the Associate Vice Chancellor of Economic Development and a lecturer at the University of Arkansas. Previously, he was the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce President/CEO, where he focused on fostering a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem and championing innovation culture, as well as attracting both talent and new industry to the region.
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Affidavit of Ownership Birth Certificate PDF 2014-2025 Form
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How can I fill out Google's intern host matching form to optimize my chances of receiving a match?
I was selected for a summer internship 2016.I tried to be very open while filling the preference form: I choose many products as my favorite products and I said I'm open about the team I want to join.I even was very open in the location and start date to get host matching interviews (I negotiated the start date in the interview until both me and my host were happy.) You could ask your recruiter to review your form (there are very cool and could help you a lot since they have a bigger experience).Do a search on the potential team.Before the interviews, try to find smart question that you are going to ask for the potential host (do a search on the team to find nice and deep questions to impress your host). Prepare well your resume.You are very likely not going to get algorithm/data structure questions like in the first round. It's going to be just some friendly chat if you are lucky. If your potential team is working on something like machine learning, expect that they are going to ask you questions about machine learning, courses related to machine learning you have and relevant experience (projects, internship). Of course you have to study that before the interview. Take as long time as you need if you feel rusty. It takes some time to get ready for the host matching (it's less than the technical interview) but it's worth it of course.
How do I fill out the form of DU CIC? I couldn't find the link to fill out the form.
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How should a petitioner fill in Part 5 Household Size of the form I-864 Affidavit of support if he would like to sponsor 2 principal immigrants at the same time? Each family has 4 members.
Each principal beneficiary (and their family) is petitioned with a separate I-130 petition, and each I-130 petition has a separate I-864 Affidavit of Support. Each family’s I-864 does not count the other family in the “family members” in Part 3 (note that it says “Do not include any relative listed on a separate visa petition.”).If the two I-864s are filed at the same time for the two families, then each family’s I-864’s household size (Part 5) would just count the number of people immigrating in that family, which is 4 (item 1), the petitioner (item 2), and the petitioner’s spouse (item 3), dependent children (item 4), and other tax dependents (item 5), if there are any. It would not count anyone from the other family.On the other hand, if one I-864 is filed for one family, and that family has already immigrated before the second I-864 is filed for the other family, then the first family’s members will need to be counted in Part 5 item 6 (people sponsored on Form I-864 who are now lawful permanent residents) for the second family’s I-864.
How can I get a lot of people to fill out my Google form survey for a research paper?
First of all, to get a lot of responses for your survey don't forget to follow main rules of creating a survey. Here are some of them:Create and design an invitation page, sett the information about why it is so important for you to get the answers there; also write the purpose of your survey.Make your survey short. Remember that people spend their time answering questions.Preset your goal, decide what information you want to get in the end. Prepare list of questions, which would be the most important for you.Give your respondents enough time to answer a survey.Don't forget to say "Thank you!", be polite.Besides, if you want to get more responses, you can use these tips:1.The first one is to purchase responses from survey panel. You can use MySurveyLab’s survey panel for it. In this case you will get reliable and useful results. You can read more about it here.2.If you don’t want to spent money for responses, you can use the second solution. The mentioned tool enables sharing the survey via different channels: email (invitations and e-mail embedded surveys, SMS, QR codes, as a link.You can share the link on different social media, like Twitter, Facebook, Facebook groups, different forums could be also useful, Pinterest, LinkedIn, VKontakte and so on… I think that if you use all these channels, you could get planned number of responses.Hope to be helpful! Good luck!
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We are back at Wilkerson-Sanders Memorial Stadium for Week 5 of our football tour, and this week is rivalry week! Today the Rockwall-Heath Hawks are taking on their cross town rivals the Rockwall Yellow Jackets in the I-30 Classic. Both teams are coming into the match up 3-1, with their only losses coming to very respectable football teams themselves. As we mentioned in Week 1 the Heath Hawks are known to have one of the best offenses in the state, but so do the Rockwall Yellow Jackets. Under center for the Yellow Jackets is three-star quarterback Braedyn Locke, who is committed to Mississippi State University.
Rockwall-Heath would start out with the ball, and get things going quick as usual. It would take less than three minutes of game time for Zach Evans to break off a huge touchdown run. The Yellow Jackets would get Zach Hernandez going early in the drive but it was Braedyn Locke’s deep pass to Caden Marshall that really got things going for Rockwall. Marshall would haul in a 41-yard pass to set Rockwall up inside the five-yard line. A few plays later, Hernandez would punch in a one-yard touchdown tying up the game.
Things would really get interesting quickly when Rockwall elected for an onside kick in the first quarter, and recovered it. This ballsy play gave the Yellow Jackets great field position, and they weren’t done with the tricks just yet. Caden Marshall would take a sweep, but end up throwing a touchdown pass to junior wideout Aiden Meeks. With five minutes to go in the first quarter the score now read 14-7, Rockwall High School.
The Hawks rushing attack would help them quickly respond and tie up the game. Zach Evans would break off another big play, and flip the field for Heath. Once they got in the red zone Brittan Snider gave Evans a breather and punched in a three-yard touchdown. With under two minutes in the first quarter Braedyn Locke would throw his first touchdown of the night. He connected on a 36-yard touchdown pass to Caden Marshall to give the lead right back to the Yellow Jackets. Josh Hoover wouldn’t let them lead for long though as he and Baylor commit Jordan Nabors would connect on a touchdown pass right before the end of the 1st quarter. Nabors would take a quick pass from Hoover 75-yards to the crib to tie the game right back up. At the end of the first quarter we were all tied up 21-21.
Both teams would turn the ball over after failed fourth down attempts on the opening drives of the 2nd quarter. That would really be some of the only defense we would see for the rest of the game. The next time Rockwall-Heath got the ball they would make quick work of the Yellow Jackets defense with a deep strike to Jay Fair. The connection from Hoover to Fair would go for 69-yards, and give the Hawks a 28-21 lead with seven minutes left in the half.
Zach Hernandez would show off his workhorse capabilities with multiple big runs on the Yellow Jackets next drive. Hernandez was able to get the ball to the three-yard line before Lake Bennett would punch in his first TD of the night. Rockwall-Heath would be able to march down the field right before half, and retake the lead. Thanks to a 18-yard touchdown run from Zach Evans the Hawks took a 35-28 lead right before halftime.
During the third quarter we would see Rockwall-Heath really start to pull away and build a lead. Zach Evans would rush in his third touchdown of the night and cap off the drive with a 10-yard TD. The Yellow Jackets wouldn’t be able to get anything going and come up with 0 points on their first two drives. Josh Hoover would make them regret that fact even more once he hit Lance Mason for a 10-yard touchdown. Suddenly the game was 49-28 with roughly five minutes left in the third quarter.
Rockwall would rally in those five minutes and put up a quick 14 points. Braedyn Locke would once again connect with Caden Marshall for a long touchdown score. The Yellow Jackets quickly got the ball back and were bringing out all the tricks to get back into the game. After yet another huge grab from Caden Marshall Rockwall was once again in the red zone. Zach Hernandez would fool pretty much the entire Hawk defense, and throw to a wide open Aiden Meeks bringing the score to 49-42 at the end of the 3rd quarter.
Josh Hoover completed a quick pass to Jordan Nabors who would then break off an extra 35-yards for the Hawks. However we would see Jarrett Stoner come up with a big pass break up to force Rockwall-Heath off the field. Once again Locke & Hernadez would help march down the field, and with just eight minutes left in the game, Rockwall would tie it up. After getting down to the one-yard line Braedyn Locke took it in himself for the one-yard touchdown run.
Thanks to the hard running of Brittan Snider and Zach Evans; Rockwall-Heath got to the one-yard line in under three minutes. On a night where Josh Hoover passed for four touchdowns through the air possibly his biggest one would be his one on the ground. Hoover would take the quarterback-option and leap into the end zone to take a 56-49 lead. The game was still far from over though. Once again Hernandez would bully his way down the field and into Hawks territory. Coach Brooks would pull out the trickery again as Lake Bennett would fake a quarterback draw to find a wide open Brennan Ray for a 21-yard touchdown. Rockwall would complete the 2pt conversion, and take a 57-56 lead with roughly two minutes left in the game.
In the most intense drives we have seen all year the Hawks pushed down the field. Hoover would take two big shots to Jay Fair with under a minute in the game, one of which nearly came down as a touchdown. It didn’t matter though because a few plays later the future Indiana Hoosier would find Lance Mason for a 21-yard touchdown strike. Mason would have to dive into the end zone with his arm fully extended, but the Hawks take the lead 64-57.
Braedyn Locke would get one final sling at it with under 10 seconds in the game. He launched it 51-yards, tipped, and caught by a diving Aiden Meeks. Tie game. We’re going into overtime 64-64.
Overtime would start off with the Yellow Jackets on offense. Lake Bennett would push his way into the end zone one more time making the score 71-64. Zach Evans would come back with back to back rushing touchdowns of his own which would then flip the score real fast. The Hawks also went for the dagger, and completed their 2 point attempt making the score now 79-71. Locke would unfortunately make his only mistake of the night in the 2nd OT of the game. Senior safety Layne Horak would jump in front of a pass intended for Brennan Ray, and make the game winning interception. Who would have thought a 79-71 2OT game would be determined by a defensive play?
Our Player of the Game would have to go to senior wide receiver Caden Marshall. Caden came down with 10 catches, 257 receiving yards, three total touchdowns and the 2 point conversion in the fourth quarter. Be sure to check out our second game of our Week 5 matchups as Paschal High School takes on Chisholm Trail High School.
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In 2022, the Pakistani government will begin accepting online registrations for the Ehsaas application. A monthly stipend of Rs 2000 will be provided by Nadra Ehsaas to 7 Million poor women under kafalat Program 2023. You can be eligible for PKR 12000 three months after confirming your eligibility by sending Your own CNIC in SMS on 8171 Ehsaas Program online Registration.
There is no need to worry if you are jobless. After biometric verification, you can take RS 12000. The National (identity) Date-base Registration Authority. Biometric verification is essential to ensuring that the distribution of funds is transparent and merit-based.
The project launched on March 27, 2019 (3 years ago) to cope with financial and health-related issues during the Covid-19 pandemic. A one-time cash transfer of 12,000 Pakistani Rupees is provided to eligible individuals across the country.
The govt of Pakistan has opened a portal 8171 Ehsaas Program Online Registration. So that every Poor person can avail the opportunity of this Ehsaas Scheme.
In developing countries like ours, poverty and inequality are the root causes and consequences of development problems. Therefore, it is necessary to launch an initiative to assist the poor based on Riyasat-i-Madina principles.
As a sehat sahulat card initiative, the Care program Registration improves the population’s health. Ahsaas Care is a Pakistan-made social protection project aimed at helping low-income families affected by COVID-19. There are no restrictions on treatment for patients without the prime minister’s sehat cards.
Imran Khan launched the Ehsaas Breeding program online registration in January 2023 to control stunning and improve the nutritional status of pregnant women and their under-two-year-olds. Nashonuma center was established in tehsil Jampur and Rajanpur over time. The Prime Minister expanded this initiative to nine districts across Pakistan.
The cash program is Pakistan’s most important social protection program. The main aim of this scheme is to help 12M families financially. The initiative aims to deliver 12000, which has now been increased to Rs 14000 among 1 million and 2 million low-income families. Ehsaas money of PKR 14000 will be provided on an installment basis under the Prime Minister’s Program, which is easy to understand. I’ll first tell you how to apply for Ehsaas cash and how to check your eligibility.
In an era where global poverty remains a persistent issue, governments around the world are constantly exploring new strategies to uplift their citizens. One of the most effective ways to combat poverty is by improving access to insurance, which can help families build resilience against financial shocks. However, selecting the right insurance solutions is not always straightforward, and governments need reliable tools to guide their decisions. This is where the Gartner Magic Quadrant becomes invaluable.
This program launched by the government of Pakistan to provide financial assistance to talented and deserving students from low-income families, enabling them to pursue higher education and achieve their full potential. The scholarship covers tuition fees, stipends, and other educational expenses.
The program addresses poverty and inequality by providing equal educational opportunities to all students regardless of their financial background.
A new program called “Koi bhoka na soya” was launched by the government of Pakistan on October 7, 2019. The main aims of this Government initiative are to reduce poverty and hunger. The PTI government came to power in 2018 after making many worthy promises to the public. Imran Khan announced a hunger relief package for the poorest members of society, especially daily wagers and laborers.
On October 7, 2019, the first langar khana was opened near Faizabad bus station, on the border between Islamabad and Rawalpindi. Mr. Imran Khan, the prime minister at the time, ate with the public, enjoying the food quality. On the first day, about 600-800 people ate the trials.
As part of its largest EHSAS relief package, the government has completed the online registration form for CNICs for 2022-2023. Rayat will provide a 40% subsidy on oil, ghee and pulses to the 130 million people in the country.
Registration for the program has been announced with the support of the National Bank of Pakistan and the EHSAS program. The chief minister of Punjab, CH Pervez Elahi, has allocated 100 B rupees to 8 Million families to help the poor buy ATA, Tail, Dal, and Ghee. There is an easy way to register Official website.
Ehsaas Program 8123 CNIC check online has started by the Government of Pakistan. Poverty has been a root cause In third-world countries for many years. In Pakistan, people are living in unbearable circumstances. Due to rapid Increases in population, Resources are depleting, and demands are hardly Fulfilled.
Therefore our Government has taken the initiative In which the poor and eligible People will get 40% subsidy on Gee, oil, Flour, and Pulses. The Government of our country has launched 8123 Portal.
Three bags of 10 kg flour will be distributed per family under this initiative of Ramzan relief package 2023. 53 billion rupees are allocated to this free Atta scheme.
The federal government of Pakistan has moved forward to help poor people. The EHSAAS program 7000 can now easily be accessed in place of the Ahsaas program 14000.
Up to 15 February 2023, you will receive RS 7000 in cash as part of this new scheme.
RS 13000 will be given to wage workers through the Ehsaas Mazdoor Program online registration. The government of Pakistan has also opened a website for Mazdoor Afrad program registration, through which disabled people can maintain their health, education, and daily expenses.
Ehsaas program 25000 check CNIC registration has been started if your house, relative or other belongings has been lost in Flood. You can avail of the facility ehsaas program CNIC check online 25000.
As part of its relief program, the federal government also launched the Bisp Ehsaas program 25000 and Benazir income support program (BISP) to help the devastated areas.
The program offers courses in various trades, such as IT, construction, beauty, and hospitality. Everyone from all walks of life is welcome to take these practical, hands-on courses. Stipends are paid to participants during their training; certificates are awarded after they complete the program.
Ehsaas interest free loan Poverty is a curse for every family. Everyone has a dream of their own business but needs more resources and opportunities to fulfill it. To help the poor segment of society initiate their own business, our government has started Ehsaas loan program registration.
Here is some information about the hospital network for the Ehsaas Sehat Card hospital List.
The Ehsaas Sehat Program is a healthcare initiative launched by the Government of Pakistan under the Ehsaas program. The program aims to provide free healthcare services to vulnerable families in the country.
Under this program, eligible households will receive a monthly stipend of Rs. 2,000 to Rs. 4,000, depending on their financial needs. The program targets households with a monthly income of less than Rs. 20,000 and aims to support around 7 million families across the country.
This program, also known as Musafir Khana, is a government initiative in Pakistan to provide free shelter, food, and basic facilities to homeless and needy individuals in different cities and towns of the country.
This Program is a government-funded initiative in Pakistan that provides cash transfers to impoverished families in exchange for sending their children to school to increase enrollment and attendance among underprivileged children, particularly girls.
This Program is a government initiative in Pakistan that aims to provide financial, healthcare, education, and employment support to the transgender community and promote their inclusion in society.
Under this Scheme, eligible applicants can receive free loans of up to PKR 50,000 to start or expand their businesses, pay for medical expenses, or meet other basic needs. The loans are available to individuals and households with a monthly income of up to PKR 25,000 and are distributed through partner banks and microfinance institutions.
This Program aims to improve the efficiency, transparency, and accessibility of social protection programs and services in Pakistan, reduce duplication and leakage of benefits, and ultimately help lift more people out of poverty.
Ehsaas program helpline number
The Ehsaas program has a helpline number which is 8171.
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Ainger Roofing in Barrie
From roofing maintenance to repair to full replacements, we are a full-service Barrie roofing company. We are proud to combine our comprehensive experience working on: sloped, shingle, and flat roofs to provide you with the best roofing in Barrie.
From addressing insufficient blown-in insulation to replacing eavestroughs, our roofing contractor experts & technicians are here for all your needs and are happy to provide emergency Barrie roofing services whenever you may need it.
Why Barrie Roofing Is So Important
A strong roofing system is one of the most critical components of keeping your home safe. And regular roof maintenance is the greatest way to ensure that your home is properly protected from the elements. After a careful inspection of the roof both indoors and outdoors, our expert technicians will work with you to formulate a maintenance plan that is tailored to your specific needs. This will ensure your roof is working at full capacity for years to come.
When a roof inspection shows trouble areas in need of repair, our technician will carefully explain the problem, the essence of the solution, and what the costs involved with the repair will be. Depending on the damage to the roof, the repair could be as small as the replacement of a few shingles, or it could require larger intervention. Our technicians are happy to explain every aspect of both the damage and the individually crafted solution.
When damage is more widespread, the question of whether or not to replace the entire roof rests heavily on the roof’s overall age. Replacing an aging roof can very well be the choice forward. With an old roof, a replacement can save money in the long term over short term repairs. We are happy to consult on this decision and discuss what the process of replacement is. Roofs that have been re-shingled, will require full removal down to the decking in order to conform to regulatory building to accommodate to regulatory building codes. We are knowledgeable in how to assess decking for damage and the potential need for replacement.
For Barrie roofing, Ainger Roofing is using state-of-the-art materials that have modernized the roofing industry and Ainger Roofing is at the forefront of those applications.
Attic Insulation in Barrie
Another important aspect of keeping your home running at its most efficient is attic insulation. Barrie temperatures require that your home is properly insulated. We are happy to examine the state of your current attic insulation in Barrie and advise on whether or not you need a replacement.
The fact is that attic insulation does not last forever. And while some advertisements state that insulation can last as long as 100 years, the truth is that there other factors which will determine how effective attic insulation is and for how long. One of the biggest of these factors is moisture, which commonly gets into insulation permanently damaging its effectiveness.
Additionally, by using a different kind of attic insulation Barrie homeowners can achieve better results. For instance, blown-in attic insulation provides numerous advantages over other kinds of attic insulation, including being a fast way to increase the efficiency of a home’s HVAC system, all while providing extremely long-lasting effectiveness by holding its loft over many years.
With energy costs rising, heat loss from your attic could be as much as 40 percent due to poor blown-in attic insulation
How to Know When It’s Time to Replace Your Siding in Barrie
When your siding is showing signs of wear and tear or if it has an outdated style, it’s time to replace it. Knowing which kind of siding to choose can be difficult, but our experts at Ainger Roofing are here to help. We can assist you with weighing different factors in order to choose the best siding in Barrie for your home.
In addition to keeping your roofing system functioning optimally, a big part of keeping your home safe and functioning efficiently is making certain you have proper siding. Barrie residents can make certain there home’s siding is doing its job by asking themselves these questions:
Is the siding cracked or rotting?
Is there mold or mildew in the siding?
Is paint inside the house peeling?
Does the paint look dull and faded more frequently than every 8-10 years?
Have energy costs increased?
If you’ve answered yes to these questions, then it could be time to replace your home’s siding in Barrie.
We are especially skilled with siding
Here is a quick run-down of the siding services we offer:
Vinyl siding provides a high degree of durability, as well as low maintenance and a wide selection of styles to choose from. This type of siding also helps you keep energy bills lower and can enhance the look of your home when you choose the right design and colour.
Metal siding typically costs less than vinyl and can last for over 30 years due to its durability. This kind of siding also offers good insulation, which helps lower energy costs.
Cape Cod Siding
Cape Cod wood siding is available in a wide range of colours and styles to suit any home. Whether you’re looking for a more traditional and timeless design or a contemporary style, you can find it with Cape Cod siding in Barrie.
Board and Batten Siding
Board and batten is a vertical-style vinyl siding option that requires little maintenance and has a long lifespan. This type of siding in Barrie provides homes with an upscale appearance.
Eavestrough Installation In Barrie
Eavestroughs play an important part in keeping rainwater away from your home, which helps reduce the risk of leaks and moisture damage. When you have eavestrough that are damaged or in bad condition due to age, you should look into getting new ones. At Ainger Group, we offer eavestrough installation in Barrie to help your home stay safe from water damage.
If your siding needs to be replaced, you could be finding yourself paying much higher energy costs than you should be. Replacing old, cracked or damaged siding will not only make your home look better, it will make it more efficient, saving you money.
Ainger Group, we offer installation and repair services for Barrie roof repair
Barrie Roof Repair
The shingles on your roof serve both functional and cosmetic purposes. Roof shingles can enhance your home’s appearance, but they also need to be able to protect your home from the elements. It’s essential to make sure you have shingles that are in good condition, so that your home maintains its curb appeal and stays safe from wind, rain, and other elements. At Ainger Group, we offer installation and repair services for roof shingles in Barrie.
Our installation services include Owens-Corning shingles, which provide a high amount of durability and aesthetic appeal. These roof shingles come in a wide range of designs and tones, so you can select the best style for your home. Owens-Corning roof shingles feature surfaces that can withstand rain and wind, along with fiberglass pads for added durability. Our roofing team can help you choose the right roof shingles to boost your home’s appearance and provide maximum protection from adverse weather.
When you have shingles that are loose or broken, you can count on Ainger Group for roof repairs. We have experience handling all types of repairs for roof shingles in Barrie. Whether you have damage from a storm or shingles that are experiencing wear and tear, we can provide you with prompt repairs to get your roof back in good condition.
Commercial Roofing in Barrie
We always use best industry practices when installing commercial roofing in Barrie. This way we maximize the life of the material used and the entire overall roofing system. Our commercial roofs are designed to protect one of your largest investments. Rather than facing costly repairs later, choose experts in commercial roofing for the best protection for your building and a long-lasting and strong roofing system.
Ainger Barrie Roofing
Ainger Roofing has been providing regular and emergency service to Barrie and the surrounding regions for over 30 years. We are certified and skilled roofing contractors.
Get Started with Your Free Estimate
Calls us at 705-444-5712
The best roofing solution available in Barrie. Our roofing experts would be happy to answer any questions and we provide a no-obligation free estimate for all our customers.
30 Dalton Street
| 0.948315 | 1,781 |
20+ Years Experience
Specialist Alcohol Help
At Alcohol Addiction Help, we provide the very best addiction treatment services for alcoholics in the UK. Our team prioritise the needs of our patients to ensure they receive the very best care.
We are proud to have been recently voted the Best-Rated Alcohol Addiction Rehab in the United Kingdom when up against all of the top-rated CQC rehabilitation companies.
Battling your addiction can be a lengthy process, this is why our team of Brighton and Hove addiction specialists work tirelessly to come up with a long term recovery plan that will be tailored made for you.
The first stage to overcoming your addiction is to admit to yourself that you have a problem and acknowledge that you need help.
Alcohol problems are a very serious issue. We offer our services to anyone and everyone, it doesn’t matter how big or small you may think your drinking problem is. Don’t be afraid to reach out, our team are here for you to help with any questions or queries you may have.
Our team have over two decades of experience in the addiction treatment sector, we are also led by a Senior Management Team.
We are committed to helping our clients receive the best possible help they can get, of course we still require that the client puts in effort to want to get help themselves.
Here at Alcohol Addiction Help in Brighton and Hove, we support individuals, families and communities up and down the UK with the side effects of both drugs and alcohol misuse.
We understand that many people may have a drug and alcohol addiction and require help to avoid mental health problems such as anxiety, depression and post traumatic stress disorder.
Contact us today for a free addiction assessment and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
It is very important to know that you can trust the company you choose to help you out with your addiction. Listed below are some of the Accreditations we have:
The average cost for alcohol rehab is £2000 per week.
This cost can vary from rehab to rehab and really depends on several factors.
We have listed some of the cost factors for drug and alcohol rehabilitation centres below:
There are a number of benefits of alcohol rehabilitation. We have listed some of the advantages below.
Recovery from Alcohol addiction requires a holistic healing process where you reconnect your, mind, body and spirit. We provide a safe environment to help our patients recover from addiction, this is one of the reviews our patients/ clients leave us.
Detoxification is where you remove all traces of alcohol and its toxins from your body. Stopping drinking suddenly will most likely cause alcohol withdrawal symptoms as your body adjusts to functioning without alcohol.
If you want an alcohol detox, please make sure to contact our team today. We can help with your drinking problem and other substance misuse.
With our experts in this industry, we are able to offer bespoke treatment programmes that can work with you to help you turn your life around. With over 25 years of experience, we are able to identify what treatments will have the best chance of working out for you.
We have a high success rate of helping our patients recover from alcohol addiction, our goal is to offer a luxury service to help our clients get their life back on track.
We have a well-crafted aftercare programme that we have constructed over time to help you spot the signs of potential relapse and identify potential triggers at an early stage.
There is a wide variety of treatment options for alcohol addiction in Brighton and Hove, listed below are some of the most common services we offer. Our goal is to help our clients with alcohol withdrawal as easily as possible and help them recover from alcohol abuse and drug abuse.
We can provide you with a personalised treatment plan to help stop your alcohol or drug problems.
Residential Rehab Centres are one of the most effective ways of treating alcohol addiction.
An alcohol rehab clinic is where a person experiencing an alcohol use disorder may go to receive treatment. Depending on how serious the addiction is, medical detoxification could be required.
There are a number of support groups available to alcoholics. These can be offered both in and out of rehab. If you think you have an alcohol abuse problem, you may want to think about going to a group session.
Alcohol Anonymous is a fellowship of people who come together to solve their drinking problem.
Attending an A.A. Meeting is completely free, there are no age or education requirements to participate.
Alcoholics Anonymous Membership is open to anyone who wants to stop drinking completely or stop being dependent on alcohol.
When you are receiving treatment, our addiction specialists offer free family support to ensure we carry out all treatment lengths. Family support can be carried out as part of an outpatient treatment programme. It is a great way to help fix relationships and improve confidence.
We have found that over the years many of our patients would prefer to be treated at home if this is a possibility. A detox is usually accompanied by some sort of medication, and then followed by therapy. The main goal of detoxification is to cleanse the body of the addictive substance while also managing the alcohol withdrawal symptoms.
There is a wide variety of medications used for alcohol dependence in Brighton and Hove, listed below are some of the most common medications:
Acamprosate is a medication used along with counselling to treat alcohol use disorder. Acamprosate is thought to stabilise chemical signalling in the brain that would otherwise be disrupted by alcohol withdrawals.
Disulfiram is a medication that is used to support the treatment of alcoholism. It causes unpleasant effects when even the smallest of alcohol is consumed. Some of the effects include flushing of the face, chest pain, blurred vision and anxiety.
Naltrexone is a synthetic drug which is similar to morphine, it blocks opiate receptors in the nervous system and is most commonly used in the treatment of heroin addiction.
Nalmefene is an opioid antagonist medication used to help manage opioid overdose and alcohol dependence. Nalmefene works by antagonising receptors in the brain responsible for producing the body’s feel-good chemical which is dopamine.
The basic premise of the 12-step model is that people can help one another achieve and maintain abstinence from the substances or behaviours to which they are addicted to.
A single treatment may work for one person, but may not work for someone else. By carrying out the right treatment for you, it is more likely you will recover.
There are a wide variety of behavioural therapies that we offer, listed below you can expect to find them and also some information about each one.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is a psycho social intervention that aims to reduce symptoms of various mental health conditions, the common ones being depression and anxiety disorders. These types of disorders can increase the likelihood of alcohol use.
This is one of the more popular addiction treatment options that we offer. Mental health issues have become less taboo so young teens both men and women don’t feel ashamed to talk about their mental health or alcohol problems.
Interventions are a very common way of combating alcohol addiction, when a group of family or friends come together with mutual concern for the patient.
Our main aim during interventions is meeting with an alcoholic and helping them recognise the problem and presenting them with an opportunity to make a change.
Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET) is a more short term technique that we offer, it is commonly used in the treatment of alcohol and substance abuse. MET treatment aims to help people feel more motivated to change their destructive and harmful behaviour.
Marital and Family Therapy (MFT) is a very popular form of psychotherapy that we can offer to our clients, the sessions address the behaviour of all family members and show how the behaviour can affect each individual.
MFT may also be referred to as couple counselling, marriage counselling or family counselling.
Alcohol addiction is a relapsing disorder associated with excessive alcohol consumption or the loss of control of the amount you intake.
There are a number of addiction treatment programmes and support groups available in Brighton and Hove to help people who are dependent on alcohol stop drinking.
If you want to stop drinking or you are worried about someone else’s drinking habits, please contact us today. We can offer more information on inpatient treatment and other alcohol support.
Addiction can be seen as a repeating cycle, with 3 key stages. We have listed the stages below:
Alcohol can affect brain function and cause harmful consequences. If you are worried about how much alcohol you drink, please contact us today, as you may have an alcohol use disorder.
There are many symptoms of Alcoholism, listed below are some of the most common ones you would expect to find in the UK:
and many more.
If you would like to find out more about treatment referrals please complete our contact form.
There are many risks to alcohol addiction in Brighton and Hove, below you can see a list of the most common ones we have come across:
Alcohol affects the part of your brain that controls inhibition, so you may feel relaxed, less anxious, and more confident after a drink.
The chemicals in alcohol can change your brain and can soon lead to more negative feelings. These feelings could consist of anger, depression, and anxiety completely regardless of your mood.
Alcohol addiction in a romantic relationship can have severe effects on both partners, their children and other family members. Alcohol destroys many romantic relationships, results in estranged marriages and can cause conflicts between families.
The link between both debt and alcohol addiction can be seen on a national scale. Alcohol addiction can promote poor spending habits that could impact your ability to save and pay bills.
Alcohol can lead to absence from School/Work, and this can happen for a variety of reasons such as being out late the night before or even having a hangover. It can often be the case that alcohol can leave the student too tired or unwell to give their best work.
Alcohol addiction massively increases the likeliness of major injuries such as motor vehicle crashes, falls, drowning and even burns.
Alcohol addiction can also be a gateway to other addictions in Brighton and Hove. It is common for people who are suffering from alcoholism will also abuse other drugs or feel tempted to.
There is a real correlation between alcoholism and suicidal thoughts, suicide attempts and death from suicide.
Heavy drinking can cause various health problems including:
There are a number of different types of alcoholics which can be seen below.
Research shows that roughly 31.5% of alcoholics actually fall into the category of young adults, this being the largest single group.
Roughly 21.1% of alcoholics fall into the young antisocial subtype. This specific ground tends to start drinking at the youngest age of around 15 and can develop alcohol dependence at the earliest age of 18.
Functional Subtype often referred to as Functional Alcoholics which makes up 19.5% of alcoholics, this is the group you would expect to have relationships and jobs.
The intermediate familial subtype accounts for around 18.8% of alcoholics. This subtype tends to start drinking around age 17 and develop alcohol dependency at around 32.
The Chronic Severe Subtype makes up around 9.2% of alcoholics. This group tends to start drinking at a young age of around 15 but usually develops alcohol dependency at an age of around 29.
The most effective treatment for alcohol dependence is residential treatment.
This is an intensive treatment process for stopping drinking. It is the most effective method because clients are sure to get the right support to help them stay sober.
In regards to medication, the most effective is Naltrexone, which is a drug that blocks the good feelings that alcohol causes, this can prevent heavy drinking and reduce the urge to drink.
Acamprosate may help you combat alcohol cravings once you stop drinking, unlike disulfiram, naltrexone and acamprosate don’t make you feel sick or ill after taking a drink.
Our addiction specialists in Brighton and Hove can prescribe medication in rehab if necessary.
The NIAAA defines heavy drinking as the following; for men consuming more than 4 alcoholic drinks on any day or more than 14 drinks per week. For women, consuming more than 3 drinks on any day or more than 7 drinks per week is classed as heavy drinking.
A study has shown that roughly 59% of people who finish and complete treatment leave in a much better place then when they went in.
However getting the data of the succession rate for alcohol rehab is a bit of a challenge, as there is no standardised way to measure treatment success.
Both Alcoholism and Problem drinking can have detrimental effects, the main difference between the two is problem drinkers aren’t physically dependent on alcohol whereas alcoholics are.
There are many things that you can say to an alcoholic in denial, listed below are some of the most common things we would suggest:
Denial is a quite common symptom of a struggling addict. If a friend or family member is struggling with drug and alcohol problems, please make sure to contact us for further information and support.
From a legal standpoint, you can’t force someone who is over the age of 18 into a rehab programme.
If your child is under 18, as their legal guardian you can make the decision for them.
As for adults over 18, the decision has to be theirs and theirs alone, as such there is no way to get them into drug rehab against their will.
You can get funding for alcohol rehab.
You can get free rehab services from the NHS, however these often have long wait times.
We understand that alcohol rehab can be a terrifying decision, we also know that private rehab can be very costly.
We would argue that alcoholism and drug addiction can cost you your life, when that is considered we would say that it is a small price to pay.
No matter what your financial situation, we are committed to helping you get the treatment that you need.
We offer a large range of alcohol addiction treatments to clients up and down the UK. We will work intensively with you during the recovery process to make sure you don’t fall back into old habits or ultimately relapse.
We are the best alcohol addiction treatment centre near you, with exceptional reviews from our patients up and down the UK. We offer top-of-the-range professional treatment programmes for our patients and have award winning services in Brighton and Hove.
We believe that you should choose our company because our addiction specialist team have over two decades of experience in the therapy treatment sector. Our mission statement is to break their drinking habits and help as many people as we possibly can overcome the terrible thing that is addiction.
Make sure you contact us today for alcohol addiction help and support with your mental health in South East.
Here are some towns we cover near Brighton and Hove.
Southwick, Saltdean, Shoreham-by-Sea, Peacehaven, PeacehavenWe absolutely love the service provided. Their approach is really friendly but professional. We went out to five different companies and found Alcohol Addiction Help to be value for money and their service was by far the best. Thank you for your really awesome work, we will definitely be returning!
Blake MurrayWe have used Alcohol Addiction Help for many years as they are certainly the best in the UK. The attention to detail and professional setup is what makes this company our go-to company for all our work. I highly recommend the team for the immense work - we highly recommend them!
Henry DennisFor more information on alcohol addiction help in Brighton and Hove, fill in the contact form below to receive a free confidential assessment.
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| 0.960795 | 3,253 |
Equipment Manufacturing: Al Adcock, B&C Technologies, Panama City, Fla.
Performing routine maintenance on the commercial laundry equipment that you rely on to produce clean goods and meet your customers’ tight deadlines may not sound exciting but it may well make the difference between meeting and missing a delivery date.
Regularly scheduled preventive maintenance can uncover potential safety problems, enhance quality, save money by prolonging laundry equipment life, and optimize productivity by keeping machines fully functional and addressing equipment needs before they result in unanticipated downtime.
If you are considering implementing a preventative maintenance program (and you should be if you don’t have one in place), here are some guidelines for getting your PM program off of the ground:
1. Schedule maintenance according to equipment usage. Although some machines prompt the operator to perform certain maintenance tasks, waiting until this happens can interfere with production. If tasks are scheduled in advance, they’re less likely to be postponed and then forgotten in the interest of meeting a production deadline.
The more you use a machine, the more abuse it takes, so plan machine maintenance frequencies accordingly.
If you run a small washer eight hours a day, a maintenance schedule of once every three months is probably adequate for that machine. But if you’re running three shifts on the same machine, you might need to perform maintenance tasks on it once every month or even more frequently if you don’t have a qualified maintenance crew.
2. Make employees accountable for maintenance. Once you’ve identified what preventive maintenance activities need to be performed and when they should be done, assign follow-through responsibility to a maintenance coordinator, machine operator or other appropriate personnel.
Have these designated employees sign off on maintenance activities on a sheet attached to each machine, through a software program, or through daily, weekly, and monthly cards submitted to supervisors.
Whatever method you decide on for tracking, consistently follow the preventive maintenance schedule that you’ve devised.
3. Ensure that the preventive maintenance tasks being performed are beneficial to the equipment. Use the operating manuals for the machines to determine the maintenance tasks that need to be performed. Each piece of equipment is different and will have different maintenance requirements. Trying to use a catch-all technique will likely cause more problems.
If you’re unsure which tasks are beneficial to each piece of equipment, thoroughly read the maintenance section in the machine’s installation and operation manual or ask your local distributor or representative.
4. Plan ahead to accommodate seasonality. Production need not suffer in order to perform preventive maintenance. Schedule tasks that require downtime during slower seasons.
Typically, good machine maintenance can take a few hours, but this investment can prevent up to 48 hours of unexpected “corrective” maintenance when something breaks.
5. Ask your equipment provider for a maintenance arrangement. Most machinery distributors offer preventive maintenance service visits for a flat rate or discounted parts and labor costs. If your provider doesn’t offer service agreements, propose a plan.
Not only do service contracts help ensure that maintenance is performed on your equipment, but they also help you budget for it. Because maintenance programs are especially important for frequently used equipment, consider service programs for these machines at least.
6. Buy spare parts before they are needed. Ask your equipment provider for a recommended spare parts list. You need not buy everything on the list, but when service technicians are in your plant, ask what they recommend that you keep in your stock.
The most needed parts usually can be purchased inexpensively, minimizing downtime when they are needed. Plus, having items in stock means you won’t pay for overnight shipping or rush charges for a needed part.
7. Let employees learn from equipment service personnel. When a technician is working on a machine, have appropriate personnel watch and ask questions.
After a few visits with a service tech, your operator may be able to troubleshoot, fix simple problems and know when to call for expert help. The technician can tell you which preventive maintenance procedures your operator may be competent to safely perform.
8. Document service visits. When you schedule a maintenance visit, make sure that the service tech will record the inspection. It is important to document not only the date of service, but also what parts of the machine have been checked and what service was performed.
Have the rep provide a copy of the inspection record. This checklist will function as a record of service performed and will help you identify items your employees should be inspecting regularly on their own.
9. Keep service manuals handy. Manuals are often misplaced, but it is critical for machine operators to have access to them. The manuals contain valuable information such as schematics, parts identification, operational instructions, safety guidelines and cleaning recommendations.
Most manuals have a maintenance section detailing what should be done and at what frequency. This type of information is especially important to operators who were not around for the machine’s original training session.
10. Ensure that management is committed to preventive maintenance. Failing to schedule preventive maintenance, overriding scheduled maintenance in order to meet production needs and asking employees to keep maintenance costs down can send the wrong message, and ultimately cost an organization more in terms of machine downtime and repair expenses.
If production needs don’t allow for scheduled maintenance tasks to be executed, consider having the equipment maintained during off hours. When considering budgetary needs, realize that failure to perform preventive maintenance may result in much higher costs if equipment breaks down, particularly during a busy production time.
Preventative maintenance plans are worth the investment of time and energy because they help to predict the future. You can’t always tell exactly when X, Y or Z will happen, but a good plan will ensure a proactive strategy for preventing problems, funding improvements, and enhancing your laundry assets.
Hotel/Motel/Resort Laundry: Kelly Reynolds, Sea Island Acquisitions, Sea Island, Ga.
In all my years of maintenance, I have never heard of an American standard for preventive maintenance downtime. It may exist for some companies but none that I know of.
About 20 years ago, I heard that most European companies performed downtime maintenance 18-25% of the time. Here in the United States, downtime is considered a bad word.
Since there are so many factors to consider when planning downtime service, it is best to let your equipment and processes determine your PM schedule.
The majority of laundries have certain times of the year when business is slower than usual. This is always the best time for downtime maintenance. The catch is in the statement “a well-maintained laundry operation.”
Well-maintained systems require little downtime. So you have to answer the question: How well is my system maintained? It has been my experience that the answer lies with how many people are employed per facility and how well are they trained.
Since I have very little experience with industry standards, I have focused on learning the best times to conduct preventive maintenance.
The majority of laundry systems that I am aware of use a boiler for much of their equipment. Since boilers require a yearly complete shutdown for inspection, major preventive maintenance on other equipment is best performed at this time.
I have heard of laundries with more than one boiler trying to keep running and perform yearly boiler maintenance at separate intervals. I would never recommend this because having the boilers down provides the opportunity to accomplish maintenance on other equipment while the boiler technicians concentrate on the boilers.
During the rest of the year, you can use unscheduled preventive maintenance as needed while individual pieces of equipment are undergoing some type of major repairs. It is worth the time to fix items at this time to avoid numerous downtimes.
Many times equipment will break at the most inconvenient time. Having already performed some preventative maintenance can prevent much of this.
One laundry I worked at would shut down every Sunday. During the year, the maintenance manager would keep a list of preventive maintenance items that could not be accomplished during the plant’s normal operations.
The director would get authorization a few times during the year to allow maintenance personnel to come in while the plant was not running. At this time they would perform as much preventive maintenance as time allowed.
Proper planning was needed to make these days as useful as possible. The manager would make a list of all parts and tools that could possibly be needed and ensure that they were on hand when the maintenance day arrived.
As a technician, I kept track of major repairs and parts that were replaced on the equipment. This allowed us to see which items failed most often and approximately how long between failures. This was a useful tool in our preventive maintenance scheduling.
Click here to read Part 1 with insights from experts in consulting, healthcare laundry, commercial laundry and chemicals.
Have a question or comment? E-mail our editor Matt Poe at [email protected].
| 0.951346 | 1,819 |
A cohort of Japanese and U.S. Catholic bishops have applauded this week’s meeting of nation states that have formally joined the UN Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons as “another historic step on the journey toward hope, toward the light, toward a world free of nuclear weapons.”
The second Meeting of State Parties to the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons began Nov. 27 at the UN headquarters in New York, where it will run through Dec. 1. The meeting is chaired by Juan Ramón de la Fuente Ramírez, Permanent Representative of Mexico.
The focus of the meeting, according to a news release from the Mexican government, is to assess the status of the treaty’s implementation and discuss the humanitarian impact of nuclear weapons. In addition to representatives from nation-states that have joined the treaty, present at the meeting will be atomic bomb and nuclear test survivors, representatives of international organizations, and other representatives from civil society and the scientific community.
“It is the duty of our dioceses to support this Treaty while working toward universal, verifiable nuclear disarmament,” the bishops said in a Nov. 27 joint statement. “We lend our voices in strong support of the Second Meeting of State Parties to the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons.”
The group of bishops, whose dioceses all have a connection to nuclear weapons and have all been longtime advocates of nuclear disarmament called the meeting historic despite its limitations, considering participants include only those nation-states who have signed the treaty.
“The international legal force of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons is limited to those states that have formally joined the Treaty, but its moral power does not recognize boundaries between nations nor lines on a map—the moral power of this Treaty is global and universal,” the bishops said.
The group of bishops consists of American Archbishops John Wester of Santa Fe and Paul Etienne of Seattle, both who lead an archdiocese with ties to the production and deployment of nuclear weapons. It also consists of Japanese Archbishop Peter Michiaki Nakamura of Nagasaki, Bishop Alexis Mitsuru Shirahama of Hiroshima, and Archbishop Emeritus Joseph Mitsuaki Takami of Nagasaki, who lead the Japanese dioceses the U.S. bombed on August 6 and 9, 1945, respectively.
The group came together during a “pilgrimage of peace” to Japan over the summer led by Wester and Etienne, who were accompanied by organizations and archdiocesan officials dedicated to nuclear disarmament advocacy. The trip coincided with the 78th anniversary of the atomic bombing of Nagasaki.
At the same time, the group announced a new initiative to promote the realization of a world without nuclear weapons. In essence, the initiative is a call for dioceses worldwide to advocate, dialogue, educate and pray for the abolition of nuclear weapons worldwide.
Back in May 2023, the group also called on leaders of the Group of Seven country leaders to take concrete steps towards the abolition of nuclear weapons. In their Nov. 23 statement on this week’s meeting, the bishops acknowledged that “message fell upon deaf ears, and we received no response.”
None of the G7 countries have signed the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons, which includes the United States, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and the United Kingdom.
Of those countries, the U.S. has far and away the most nuclear warheads with 5,244 as of 2022, according to data published in March by the Federation of American Scientists. That is second only to Russia, which has an arsenal of 5,899 nuclear warheads, the data shows.
Third on the list is China with 410 nuclear warheads, followed by G7 countries France and the United Kingdom with 290 and 225 nuclear warheads, respectively. After that there’s Pakistan with 170, and India with 164. No other country has an arsenal of more than 90 nuclear warheads, the data shows.
The Vatican was the first state to ratify the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons when it opened for signatures in July 2017. It went into effect in January 2021. So far, 69 states have signed and ratified the treaty, and 24 others have signed but not yet ratified.
In 2019, at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, Pope Francis called the possessing of nuclear weapons “immoral.” The pontiff also said at the hypocenter of the atomic bombing in Nagasaki that “we must never grow weary of working to support the principal international legal instruments of nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation, including the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons.”
In their Nov. 27 statement, the group of bishops called on world leaders to make marked progress towards nuclear disarmament by the 80th anniversary of the Hiroshima and Nagasaki bombings in August, 2025.
“We specifically call upon world leaders to demonstrate measurable progress toward nuclear disarmament by the 80th anniversary of the atomic bombings,” the bishops said. “We know the serious negative consequences for humanity are ever-increasing. August 2025 will be an appropriate time to hold world leaders accountable for progress made on long-delayed, promised nuclear disarmament.”
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§ THE DUKE OF RICHMOND rose to ask the Under Secretary of State for the War Department Whether any Reports were made by Lieutenant General Sir Robert Walpole, Lieutenant General Sir John Michel, and the Generals commanding Divisions, upon the working of the Control Department during the last Autumn Manœuvres; and, if so, to move an Address for their production. As had been stated at the time they were proposed, the Autumn Manœuvres were designed to serve as schools of instruction and to test the efficiency of every arm of the service. It therefore was important to know whether the Control Department—an important feature in Mr. Cardwell's re-organization of the Army—had proved efficient at at present constituted. What he desired to ascertain was the working of the Department, and whether it was likely to be efficient in time of war as proved by its efficiency in time of peace. The Field Marshal Commanding-in-Chief, in his interesting Report on the last Manœuvres, had spoken of the whole arrangements as more or less tentative, and had commended the zeal and attention of the officers of the Control Department. But without disparaging His Royal Highness's opportunities of seeing what occurred—he had himself said he frequently knew no more of what was going on than a casual spectator—it was obvious that the Generals commanding the various forces and their Brigadiers could give a more detailed account of the working of the 1221 Department than the Commander-in-Chief. The only subordinate officer, however, who in the published Report had been allowed to give his version of the proceedings was Mr. Maturin, a subordinate officer of the Control Department, who, alluding to reports that there had been inconvenient delays on the part of his Department in the supply of provisions and forage said, he had made inquiries which had shown that they were unfounded, and that he had much satisfaction in referring to the "favourable opinion expressed by the General Officers of Divisions, &c., as to the proceedings of this Department." Now, what might satisfy Mr. Controller Maturin might fail to satisfy their Lordships, and it would create a bad precedent to allow a public officer to refer to the opinions of other officers and to refuse the production of those opinions. He hoped, therefore, these Reports would be laid on the Table.
§ THE MARQUESS OF LANSDOWNEsaid, Sir Robert Walpole and Sir John Michel had reported to His Royal Highness on a great number of subjects, including the working of the Control Department. The Generals of Divisions had also reported to those two Generals, whose Reports, indeed, were founded on those of the General Officers. The object of the Manœuvres—the testing in time of peace the efficiency of our arrangements for war—rendered it necessary that everything should be freely reported upon by the General Officers in command of corps d'armée; but it would be impossible for this to be done with the requisite freedom if it were known to those by whom the Reports were prepared that they would be circulated as public documents. He believed the illustrious Duke the Commander-in-Chief would support him in this view. With regard to the published Report of Mr. Controller Maturin, had he (Mr. Maturin) specially referred to the General Officers' Reports as expressing approval or disapproval of the system of the Control Department, he could not have objected to their production; but this was not the case, for Mr. Maturin's reference was to the efficiency of the Control officers, whose exertions had been spoken of with commendation by His Royal Highness in his Report. Indeed, Mr. Maturin's Report had, in the first instance been appended to that of His 1222 Royal Highness and had been published as an integral part of the latter.
§ THE DUKE OF RICHMONDthen moved that an humble Address be presented to Her Majesty for Copies of the above Reports.
§ LORD CAIRNSremarked that according to this doctrine, Controller Maturin had more power than the Members of Parliament, for no Minister of the Crown could state the purport of a document in the possession of the Government without producing it.
§ EARL GRANVILLEcontended that as a Member of the Government he was at liberty to state that diplomatic Correspondence was in a certain direction without being bound to produce the whole of that Correspondence.
§ VISCOUNT HARDINGEapproved the principle of concentrating the great departments of supply; and remarked that many of the difficulties encountered by the Control Department, such as railways and horses, would not arise in time of war. He had heard various complaints showing that the Control Department had not always worked satisfactorily, and he could not see that any disadvantage would accrue to the public service if certain extracts from the Reports of General Michel and General Walpole, and from the Reports of Brigadiers if necessary, were laid before Parliament.
§ THE DUKE OF CAMBRIDGEhoped the Motion would not be pressed, for it was impossible to expect that officers would report frankly and unreservedly if their Reports were to be published; and, moreover, complaints really trifling would be supposed by the general public, lacking the knowledge necessary to to judge such points, to be important. He might have been in fault in publishing Mr. Controller Maturin's Report—and there was clearly no more reason for publishing this than the Reports of General Officers. The conduct of the officers of the Control Department was admirable, and no men could have shown more zeal; but there were, no doubt, shortcomings in the system, and many points would require amendment. It was important the shortcomings should be ascertained, in order that they might be remedied, and he believed the Control Department would by degrees be 1223 brought into such a position that it would not encounter so many detractors as it certainly did at present.
§ THE DUKE OF RICHMONDsaid, that after what had fallen from the illustrious Duke he did not think he should be justified in pressing for the production of the Papers; but he was satisfied, from the course of the discussion, that he was quite justified in drawing their Lordships' attention to the subject—particularly as he found it required a great deal of persuasion to induce the Control Department to believe there was any possibility of their having any shortcomings. He had heard that the Control Department had not been a complete success during the Manœuvres, and that statement seemed to be confirmed by the fact, that the Under Secretary for War had declined to produce the Reports upon the subjects—if these Reports had been of a favourable character there would have been no difficulty about producing them. He hoped that for the future any document referred to in a published Report would be produced.
LORD DE ROSsaid, that half the difficulties of the Control Department were attributable to the want of draught horses, and to the absurd and wasteful plan of converting cavalry horses into draught horses. This was like using blood horses in farming. It was unwise to attempt to save expense in such a way.
§ LORD WAVENEYsaid, that the impression produced on his mind was that great care and efficiency had been shown by the Control Department in connection with the Autumn Manœuvres, both in the preparations beforehand and in the actual practice in the field.
§ THE MARQUESS OF LANSDOWNEexplained that the objection he had taken was to the principle of the production of the Papers—an objection entirely borne out by what had fallen from the illustrious Duke.
§ Motion (by leave of the House) withdrawn).
| 0.986428 | 1,574 |
Xender Share APK Download Latest Version
- 1 Main FEATURES OF Xender Share APK
- 2 Key Features
- 3 Advantages
- 4 How to download Xender Share APK?
- 5 FAQs
- 6 Conclusion
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This application works on tremendous technology, which does not have a built-in thing to receive or send files to any device. It would be best to have a good internet connection with this app to simplify the process. People who cannot wait long when sending their files can switch to this app and activate it with WiFi. The transfer of the files will be easier and faster.
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All information about Xender Share APK is amazing. This app should be downloaded through a link, and enjoy the game with excellent features. Xender is one of the fast-gaining apps. The only reason behind the success and popularity of the application is its quality properties. This app lets you quickly share files between four devices without limiting file size. It is an excellent application for people who like to share files with others. It would be best to have WiFi and a hotspot connection to send and receive files.
1. Bug fix for SD card storage issue
2. Adaptation for Android 13
3. Added Playlist feature
4. Bug fix for other known issues
| 0.921953 | 1,090 |
Pondershort.com: The Ultimate Solution for Enhancing Your Online Presence
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| 0.903505 | 1,309 |
By including apple puree in your babies routine daily activities, you can also identify the nutrition diet that is best for their health. You are a parent, not a dietician.
apple puree nutrition
However, parents have complete power over their children.
Learn about healthy food for those who weigh less than a pound by starting here.
Children will absolutely adore the apple sauce that guarantees its lack of additives.
Applesauce, which is produced using apple fruit extract of the highest possible quality, is the ideal nourishment for young children.
Children will enjoy mashed potatoes since they are both delicious and healthy.
They are manufactured with the promise of purity and provide a great source of carbs, protein, and other nutrients.
The formulation does not contain any preservatives, sugar, or salt, and the texture is silky smooth.
In addition to this, the puree is simple for youngsters to digest.
It strengthens the immune system, increases one's level of energy, and also stimulates bone formation.
The list that is provided below is sure to be of assistance if you have spent a significant amount of time looking for various baby applesauce options.
There are also some that have flavor combinations that are very unique, such as apple and banana or apple and blueberry.
To view the available choices, scroll down.
The result of this recipe is an unadulterated and sugary apple sauce.
It does not contain any sugar, additives, or colorants, and it does not contain any preservatives either.
Your infant will benefit from it is safe, nutritious, and healthy.
This puree is appropriate for infants aged one to four years old and older.
In addition, the formulation has through a thorough sterilization process, is produced with cutting-edge machinery, and makes use of the most recent developments in technology to ensure its purity.
This recipe is completely natural and unadulterated, and it is prepared using only components of the greatest possible quality.
It is available in a delectable apple flavor as well as a blueberry flavor, and it does not contain any additional preservatives, colors, or flavors.
apple puree nutrition facts
The first one will really enjoy using it, as it is designed for use by infants between the ages of one and four years old.
It is not difficult for infants to digest and is a nutritious option for feeding them.
In addition to this, the consistency of the puree is exceptionally smooth.
This apple and oatmeal porridge is created with organic apples and flavorful oats for a delicious breakfast option.
This infant food has a flavor that is both sweet and savory, and every baby will adore it.
The meal, which is high in energy and comes in convenient packaging, can be eaten on the go.
Contributes to improved immunity, increased energy levels, and support for bone formation, among other benefits.
This is useful information.
Additionally, there are no additional preservatives, sugar, or salt.
The baby food that comes in this four-pack is going to be a good choice.
This recipe is for vegetarians and has tastes that will make your mouth wet.
Each and every product is devoid of both gluten and sugar.
All of the formulas are made from natural fruit that is unadulterated and 100% pure, and they can be given to children that are at least 6 months old.
Each packet contains applesauce that is extra-thick in consistency.
No matter how they are prepared, apples do not lose their beneficial nutritional properties.
Children can reap a variety of health benefits from eating apples, and additional advantages come from cooking the apples in water and mashing them.
If your kid is experiencing problems swallowing and has recently started solid foods but does not yet have any teeth, try cooking a red apple.
Apples that have been cooked are an excellent alternative to eat if you want to keep your digestive system in good health.
Children that have strong gastrointestinal tracts have a greater capacity to absorb the nutrients from the food they eat.
Additionally, it helps the digestive process move along at a quicker pace.
The lining of the digestive tract can be preserved and repaired by cooking a baby apple in water.
This method is recommended.
The release of fibrous pectin during the blanching process was the root cause of this mistake.
Toxins are expelled from the body with less effort when using this medication, which encourages the growth of bacteria that are good for the colon.
Cooking brings out the anti-inflammatory properties of the flavonoid quercetin, which is found in apples after they have been peeled.
In the days and weeks after they are weaned, infants frequently struggle with constipation.
The digestive system may have a tough time adjusting while moving to a new environment.
After eating foods that are high in fiber, you may experience an increase in the amount of water and insoluble fiber that is passed in your stool.
apple puree nutrition data
Boiling apples is a simple and quick way to prepare them.
Cinnamon, raisins, and ground cinnamon are the only components of this dish that call for additional ingredients.
Apple can be used in this recipe in the form of thin slices, either peeled or unpeeled.
To get things started, place a medium-sized saucepan over high heat, then add the ingredients and bring them all to a boil.
After putting everything in the saucepan, set the timer for thirty minutes and let it cook.
As soon as the apples have softened to the point where they resemble jelly, they are ready to be consumed.
Because apples have a variety of positive effects on one's health, a lot of mothers give their children apple casserole.
If they are prepared in the same manner, many different foods have the potential to be equally delectable and nourishing.
The traditional apple colada is made by combining handmade Fuji apple juice with pineapple and coconut milk.
Once your child has been accustomed to the flavor of apple colada, you may make a delightful cinnamon apple sauce by adding pears to the mixture.
Chutney made with apples and spinach, with a recipe.
When your child is ten months old, you can begin to give him pureed veggies such as spinach.
Making an apple smoothie is one way to include spinach in apple sauce.
Another way is to use frozen spinach.
Oats are a grain that is high in nutrients, thus it is beneficial for infants and young children to consume them.
The nutritional content of your oats can be significantly increased by adding some cooked applesauce to them.
The outer layer, or skin, of an apple, is very tender and flexible.
Semolina is produced from wheat germ, which is abundant in B vitamins that are beneficial to the growth and development of a newborn.
Semolina is derived from wheat germ.
At the age of six months, provided that your child has already been weaned, you can begin to feed them solid foods.
It is possible to improve the milkiness of milk or oat milk by adding powdered milk, breast milk, cow's milk, or cow's milk powder.
Apples, despite their apparent lack of complexity, contain a wealth of nutrients that are beneficial to the development of young children.
Flavonoids can be found in apples that have been picked while they are still green.
Apples have been shown to be effective in the treatment and prevention of gastrointestinal issues in youngsters.
It has been demonstrated that eating apples is beneficial to both one's immune system and bone health.
Because of their widespread use, asthma is now a condition that occurs less frequently.
If you feed apple chutney to the baby on a daily basis, he will have a healthy development from the inside out.
The vitamin C antioxidant is generally present in apple sauce that can be purchased in stores.
The product contains a preservative known as ascorbic acid, which also has positive effects on one's health.
It makes it easier for the body to absorb iron, it helps boost the immune system, and it accelerates the healing process.
The creation of collagen, which is the body's most prevalent protein, requires a significant amount of vitamin C.
| 0.96674 | 1,720 |
Well, nuts -- we'd hoped to have code/art files for the 5.0 version of AI War, plus the first official version of Light of the Spire, ready either today or Monday. But, as of today we discovered a couple of major bugs in the current betas, and so we need to take a little more testing time. We're still expecting to have the new official version ready next week, though.
The big bugs in question were twofold:
First, there was a bug with the random number generation, and actually that was a multi-part bug, too. One part goes all the way back to pre-1.0, as long as AI War has been around. But actually, that one was less severe than the release notes perhaps make out, because we found some other bugs that were much more recent (as in, the last two months or so) that were actually the main culprits. All of the above are fixed now, but, we really want to have some more time with this in player hands to make sure that we didn't introduce any new issues.
Secondly, there was a very recently introduced issue with forcefields and targeting for stuff that is unable to damage forcefields. That fix uncovered a nest of other minor issues with targeting forcefields in general, most of which were very longstanding, so we fixed them all and are now hoping that didn't lead to anything more crazy. Again, a big part of why we want more testing time with this one.
Another big change in this one, to game feel anyway, is to the AI retreat logic. It's been a longstanding rule that the AI was not allowed to retreat if fewer than half of its units had been on the current planet for less than 30 seconds. That was originally preventing the AI from running back and forth between planets willy-nilly, but in the year and a half since that rule was put in place, the AI has evolved substantially so that it already won't be so flighty. All that recent stuff with the stalking planets, for one example among several. At any rate, that retreat cap was actually preventing the AI from being as responsive as it otherwise could have been, and let it fall into a few gap-in-the-wall type exploits that it otherwise could handily avoid or mitigate.
The retreat embargo time limit is thus now 3 seconds instead of 30, which should really make an enormous difference in how the AI acts... all over the place. During waves, threat attacks, when you attack the AI, etc. Let us know how it seems.
Human Resistance Fighters got hit with the nerf bat and are more sane. So did defender mode as a whole, actually. If it weren't for the preceding paragraphs, the defender mode changes actually would have been our marquee announcement with this new version. As Keith put it, in the recent versions starting a defender mode was as good as sending a notice to your next of kin. Now it's a lot more balanced: still tough, but way more interesting. See the release notes for more details.
There's some other really key stuff in this one, too. Reclamation got a major buff, and some bugfixes. People should be a lot happier with that again (it reclaims stuff with full health of damage dealt, rather than half, now, for instance -- in light of the other recent nerfs, this makes sense and it allows us to avoid some complexity in the code that led to the bugs in the first place). Manufactories now have their input/output inflated. AI Eyes have a bugfix that will prevent them from being seeded so much as they were in the last version.
There's also don't-automatically-assist-expensive-stuff logic in for engineers that can be adjusted, but defaults to a value that really will help players avoid accidentally tanking their economy. Auto-FRD, etc, works on allied planets now. When playing with random AI types, it will now almost never give you two identical types. Numerous fixes with rebuilding of energy reactors. Et cetera.
Along with all the various changes, I'm also working on improving some of the art from Light of the Spire. In this post are a few examples, but more is coming. The first image is the shard, the second is the shard reactor, and the third is the Starship Dissassembler. All of the spire ships are going to be upgraded with glowy halos, which really make them look a ton better when shown on black backgrounds (as happens pretty much all the time in the game). And the color masks are way better, too, as you'll notice with the few examples in place so far.
Enjoy! Oh, and here's the release notes.
This is a standard update that you can download through the
in-game updater itself, if you already have 4.000 or later. When you
launch the game, you'll see the notice of the update having been found
if you're connected to the Internet at the time. If you don't have 4.000 or later, you can download that here.
| 0.980519 | 1,057 |
The release notes come in at around 48,500 words, which is why we've put together this summarized feature list to give an idea of just what and how much has been put into AVWW since launch:
* Over 160 new room maps.
* 15 new regular enemies
* 8 new minibosses
* 16 new "elite" enemies (plus the idea of elites at all)
* 5 classes of infestations (plus the idea of infestations at all)
* A new "craggy highlands" region/biome type.
* 8 new music tracks
* 5 new classes of player enchants
* 3 new player spells
* Substantial rebalancement of most player spells.
* The ability to give "wait here" orders to NPCs in rescue missions.
* Larger and more intricate continent designs.
* Rebalanced and streamlined strategic flow.
* No more Civilization Progress (CP) in favor of better mechanics.
* One central in-game currency rather than six.
* A new "Opal Guardian Store" in settlements.
* Loot drops from trash mobs, for use at the opal store.
* A better enchant-based system of upgrades in place of upgrade stones.
* New Feet enchant slot, splitting out items from the Legs slot.
* Streamlined character selection/creation process.
* Unique attributes for characters by time period.
* More enchant-like unique attributes for every individual character.
* Heavily revised and rebalanced existing missions to player feedback.
* New Freefall and Boss Delve mission types.
* More rewards from doing secret missions.
* No penalties/drawbacks from doin world map missions.
* More gradual ramp-up in difficulty of the harder mission types.
* New spell scroll that you can find and use to turn yourself into tiny t-rex.
* A "shopping list" system helping you to keep track of your self-set goals.
* Many improvements to the existing planning menu in general.
* Smaller, more fun lieutenant towers filled with infestations.
* Texture pack support.
* Smoother minimap exploration.
* More fun and threatening windstorm mechanics.
* Many new multiplayer admin commands (largely anti-griefing-related).
* Vastly more fun ocean exploration.
* Minor continent-wide bonuses from building settlement structures.
* Longer durations on continent-wide guardian power scroll uses.
* Filtering to the enchants inventory for vastly easier management of many enchants.
* Improved elemental strengths/weaknesses for enemies in general.
* Much better (completely randomized) elemental strengths/weaknesses for bosses).
* 7 new achievements
* And much more: http://arcengames.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=AVWW_-_Post-Launch_Series_1_Release_Notes
To further round-up what's been happening with the title over the past two months, Arcen CEO Chris Park offers an in-depth reflection on the massive amount of changes and additions between 1.0 and 1.1. A new trailer showcasing the update is available to view right now as well.
About A Valley Without Wind
A 2D sidescroller without a linear path. An action game with tactical combat and strategic planning. An adventure game that lets you free-roam a vast, procedurally-generated world. A Valley Without Wind defies genre stereotypes. Unlike other procedurally-generated games, you also get a logical progression in difficulty, plus helpful tips and checklists to guide your travels (should you need them).
Choose for yourself how to prepare to face the vastly stronger Overlord. Complete a variety of missions to earn arcane rewards, and/or roam the wilds to uncover secret missions and stashes of magical loot. Customize your characters with unique combinations of enchants and spells that change how you move, jump, and fight. Or rescue people and bring them back to your settlement, recruiting them to help you in return.
You choose how to play, and the world adapts around you.
The full version is available now on PC and Mac. A substantial demo is also available, granting full access to the game/multiplayer with only some tier restrictions. Even though AVWW has launched, it continues to grow with new content and improvements added nearly every weekday. Follow the game and its updates/discussions on Facebook, Google+, Reddit, and Twitter. To be a part of how AVWW evolves in any and/or all of its aspects join the ongoing discussion taking place within our forums.
Members of the media: Interviews, review keys, and press kit materials are available upon request.
About Arcen Games
Arcen Games entered the PC indie scene in 2009 with their cult classic AI War: Fleet Command, which was named the 40th best-reviewed PC game of the year by MetaCritic. Their second year was a busy one, seeing the release of The Zenith Remnant, the first full expansion for AI War; Tidalis, an innovative block-based puzzle with casual appeal and hardcore depth; and Children of Neinzul, a micro-expansion for AI War with all profits benefiting the Child's Play charity, of which Arcen is a platinum sponsor.
AI War's third and largest expansion Light of the Spire marked Arcen's first release of 2011, and now the company has shifted its focus and excitement to the development of A Valley Without Wind. Originally a one-man shop, Arcen Games has grown to have half a dozen part-time or fulltime contributors to its various titles. For all the latest news, media coverage, and some of our other musings, follow us on our developer and individual game pages on Facebook or on Twitter: @ArcenGames; as well as Arcen lead Chris Park's Games By Design blog.
| 0.91573 | 1,232 |
PUYALLUP — Luke Huard still loves the game that broke his heart.
He still dreams of throwing touchdown passes in the NFL, as his two older brothers have done. Still believes he can recapture that Huard magic that put Puyallup on the national map of quarterbacks.
But Luke Huard has seen his dreams shattered before. Of all the Huards, he knows best that what should be or could be is never certain.
Five years ago, some considered the last of the Huards as potentially the best. But between then and now, the youngest endured some of the worst fortunes.
While Damon and Brock still play backup roles in the NFL, waiting for opportunities to start again, Luke is all but starting over again back home in Puyallup. He is an assistant coach at Washington High School in suburban Tacoma, a team that takes a 2-6 record into tonight's final game with rival Franklin Pierce.
Luke, 23, loves coaching and long ago envisioned following in the footsteps of his father, Mike, who mentored all three sons at what became known as Quarterback High in Puyallup before he retired at the end of Luke's senior season in 1997. But, for Luke, that career was supposed to come later in life, after living out his dreams as a player.
"Sometimes, things just don't work out," Mike Huard said.
Sometimes, what seems to be the best decision at the time doesn't turn out that way.
While Damon and Brock enjoyed outstanding college careers at Washington, Luke, who broke all their records at Puyallup, chose a different path, one that basically took him to oblivion. His four-year adventure at North Carolina was wrought with coaching changes, injuries, health scares and disagreements about his conditioning, all of which added up to huge disappointments.
Mack Brown, the coach who recruited him, left North Carolina before Huard even got there, taking the job at Texas, but Huard honored his commitment. Then Ronald Curry, the No.1 recruit in the nation, made a surprising decision to go to UNC, too.
A change in offensive coordinators the next season brought an option offense — hardly Huard's forte — and rumors he intended to transfer strained relations, but Huard persevered and stuck out the season.
"I still felt that at some point, everything was going to work out, that things were going to go my way," he said.
Another coaching change brought John Bunting and a pro-style offense. Huard trained hard and started the spring game, but developed an irregular heartbeat that frightened him, hampered his workouts and caused him to butt heads with the team's new strength coach.
When Bunting said he couldn't come to training camp last fall because he needed to lose weight, Huard had had enough. He left the team, fell into a depression and, for a while, thought his playing days were over.
"I loved the game of football so much, it was hurting me," Huard said. "It was affecting all areas of my life. It was humiliating, and I didn't know if I could go through it again to try to get back in the game."
Watching the game on TV made helped change his mind.
"I knew I could compete with those guys who were playing and I knew I had to get an opportunity to show my skills," he said.
But life blind-sided Huard one more time. Two weeks into what was to be his revival campaign at Sam Houston, he was declared ineligible by the NCAA.
"I felt robbed," he said. "I was helpless and hopeless."
Huard was one class shy of earning his undergraduate degree at North Carolina, and while he tried to complete the complicated logic course over the summer at Sam Houston, he said he couldn't get the help he needed. The next option was to transfer his UNC credits to Sam Houston, but Sam Houston didn't offer many of the courses, which means he lost those credits. Huard needed to have 75 percent of the credits needed to graduate in order to be eligible after transferring. Huard had 73 percent.
Huard and former North Carolina teammate Bosley Allen, a talented receiver who had transferred with him, sat out the first two games of the season certain the NCAA would grant their eligibility. They were wrong.
Huard was furious and more frustrated than ever before.
"It was time to finally come home to be with my family and figure out what I want to do," he said.
The high-school season already had begun, but Huard wanted to be part of football in some way. A former teammate told him Gary Jeffers still had an opening on his staff at Washington. He went to watch the Patriots play against Highline, then met with Jeffers and signed on as an assistant. Huard, who also landed a job as an educational assistant at Washington, designs and calls the passing plays and enjoys working with kids.
"It's been very rewarding," he said.
When Paul Abel threw a game-winning touchdown pass to Jake Cassidy to upset Fife this season, Huard said it was as exciting as any TD toss he had ever made, and reacted accordingly.
"He came up and gave me a big ol' hug and said, 'Jake, you're my hero,' " Cassidy said. "That was pretty flattering to me."
On the sideline during games, Huard said he has had referees come by and tell him he needs to give football one more shot. He wrestles with the idea daily and said he will make a final decision this winter after working out and seeing how he feels.
His head tells him one thing, his heart another.
To have a legitimate shot at an NFL tryout, Huard believes he needs to play another season of college football and could petition the NCAA again, although he's not sure he could deal with another disappointing outcome. He is considering arena-league football or possibly playing in Europe. He will earn his degree in political science by taking a correspondence course at North Carolina this winter and knows that coaching will be his ultimate destination, whether it's in high school or college. Those who know him believe he'll make an outstanding coach.
Luke said his brothers continue to offer encouragement and insisted he has no jealousy toward them.
"I'm so proud of my brothers," he said. "I want them to do well. ... It's never entered my mind that I have to be better than my brothers. I've just always wanted to play to my ability and try to beat myself."
He's often asked if he second guesses his decision not to go to Washington.
"It's hard to think about how things would be right now if I'd gone to Washington," Luke said. "They've had some good quarterbacks, but given the opportunity, I could compete with anybody."
He says he tries not to look back and, in many ways, relishes his time at North Carolina and the friends he met there. Luke said his Christian faith has helped him through the tough times and he tries to remember what Brock has always told him: "Don't ask God why. Ask God what — what do you want me to do with my life?"
Luke Huard wants to keep football in his life, one way or another.
"This game has broken my heart," Luke said, "but (it has) definitely been more of a plus than a negative. To some people, it's just a game. But some of us grew up on it and it's our passion. It's what we do, what we live on Friday nights and Saturday afternoons. We take it to heart."
Sandy Ringer: [email protected].
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May 20th, 2014
I finally found some spare time to upload the schematic for the Arc Dimmer:
Everything should be straightforward so I’m just going to give you a few notes on the optional components. If you want to build a stand-alone dimmer which is controlled via buttons and/or potentiometers, place components R36-R39, C30-C31 and D30-D31. If you want to build an I2C bus-controlled dimmer, place components U30 and R30-R35 (with the exception of R32/R33). U40 and U41 are there just to provide different footprints on the PCB.
PDF version of the schematic can be found on the Projects page.
May 19th, 2014
My friend asked me if I could make him a push-button controlled LED dimmer, so I did! And went a bit haywire with the options list, as usual. Instead of making a single-purpose dimmer I decided to make it a bit more universal and bulletproof. Here are the basic specs:
- operating voltage: 12-24V DC
- load current: up to 10A (or more with a different output switch)
- protected against overvoltage, overcurrent and overtemperature
- two configurable control inputs
- optional I2C interface for bus control
- status and power LEDs
The PCBs arrived a few days ago and I assembled one unit for testing. A few parts are missing because they are on order and should arrive soon. Here are a few pics until I prepare the documentation:
March 27th, 2014
March 27th, 2014
I borrowed a DMMCheck Plus from my colleague today and decided to check the accuracy of my multimeters. First up is the UT71C multimeter from UNI-T. It’s a 40000 count TrueRMS meter with decent specifications. Let’s see if it passed with flying colours or failed miserably!
Here is the actual DMMCheck Plus with its specification sheet if anyone is interested:
And now let’s take a look at the results. Both the DMMCheck and UT71C were left alone for around 30 minutes to get to know each other and for their references to stabilize (room temperature was 21C/70F). UT71C is around 4 years old, with factory calibration.
AC/DC voltage measurement: passed!
AC/DC current measurement: passed!
Frequency and duty cycle measurement: passed!
Resistance measurement: passed!
And there you have it, not bad at all considering the price! I do have to mention that the current measurement was fluctuating a bit with the backlight on (it’s probably a good idea to replace the battery).
UPDATE: I stand corrected on the previously “failed” AC current measurement. According to the manual (which I haven’t fully read), AC current accuracy is lower than what’s indicated on the UNI-T’s web site and only valid within 10-100% of the range. I tried to measure 1mA on a 40mA range and that is lower than the 10% of the range to meet the specified accuracy. Big thanks to Wytnucls at EEVBlog Forums for pointing this out!
January 25th, 2014
Delivery of new PCBs was delayed because of the holidays but now I finally have a complete set so I can get to work on actual firmware.
Most of the parts are populated; all hand soldered because I was lazy to take out my hot air station. First attempt at TQFP soldering and all went well. Of course, nothing is complete without a bodge. I first soldered the 3.3V PIC instead of the 5V one so the power pad got lifted during desoldering. D’oh!
January 2nd, 2014
Santa made me very happy the other day when I saw an envelope in my mailbox. Since I ordered two different PCBs I wasn’t sure which one was in the envelope but it turned out it was the Driver PCB for my Starlight Controller project. Excuse the crappyness of my phone’s pictures but my digital camera is on holidays until further notice…
And a short rant time! While designing the PCB I used the terminal connectors’ datasheet as a guide for hole placement. Apprently, I was looking at the wrong datasheet because my connectors hang off the PCB by 1mm. Instead of 10mm hole-to-edge distance my connectors have 11mm distance. Normally this wouldn’t be a problem but since this PCB is supposed to go into a DIN-rail enclosure I could face some problems later…
January 2nd, 2014
A few years ago I made a simple stair lights controller for my parent’s house. Powered by a single PIC16F877 running at 20MHz it had 20 pwm channels and an RS485 interface that I never fully implemented (it simply wasn’t needed). Outputs were driven by BSP170 mosfets that turned out to be highly sensitive to ESD during soldering but pretty reliable when soldered to a PCB. As I was still learning how to program microcontrollers at that time I was fascinated by the things you could accomplish with a microcontroller so instead of having a simple one-by-one animation I decided that a wave-like effect would be better. Everything was placed on a single PCB with through-hole components and I was extremely proud of my work. This simple circuit ran flawlessly for the past 4 years until it met its archenemy – the water! As you already know, water doesn’t mix well with electronics and although nothing blew up (except the fuse in the power supply) there was severe oxidation all over the PCB and…well…now it’s time to make a new version. Bigger and better than before!
And so the Starlight project was born. Basic idea is something like this: provide a decent amount of PWM outputs for LED strips and avoid previous design flaws. And overcomplicate things, bwahahahaha!! Here are my initial specifications:
- 24 PWM channels (because 24 is multiple of 8)
- up to 1A of output current per channel
- up to 4 digital inputs (for proximity sensors)
- up to 2 analog inputs (for…something…a light sensor?)
- CAN interface for future expansion
- USB interface for configuration
- a few status LEDs (because everybody loves blinking lights!)
- optional configuration PCB for stand-alone configuration
I have already received one PCB for the PWM drivers and the controller PCB is on the way. Unfortunately, due to the holidays I didn’t have enough time to actually order parts so now I have to wait until everything arrives (a week or so). It’s very sad to look at the finished PCBs and not have the parts to solder…
December 4th, 2013
This is a follow-up to the protected analog input post showing you how to implement protected digital input with noise filtering and debouncing. It can be used for interfacing remote switches and pushbuttons to your device with overvoltage protection up to 30V.
Everything that was said for the analog input is still valid here. So much that the actual circuits are almost identical with the difference being mainly the final stage. Schmitt-trigger NAND gate was used to shape-up the input signal into a clean square wave output and the RC low-pass filter (R1/C1) is here to filter out noise and debounce switch contacts. Second schmitt-trigger gate was used to invert the inverted signal (invertception?!) thus restoring the logic state present on the input. It can be removed but I had two unused gates and I just had to use them.
So, without further delays, here is the schematic:
Transient and overvoltage protection is identical to the analog input’s circuit. TVS diode for transient and a Zener diode for long-term overvoltage conditions. If you compare the two schematics you will probably notice that the value of pull-down resistor has been increased to 100k. This forms a voltage divider that scales the input voltage down to approximately 90% of its value. Assuming a minimum 5V input signal, this leaves 4.5V at the gate’s input while the positive-going threshold voltage is around 3.5V for the CD4093 IC when powered from a 5V supply. This translates to a typical value of 70% of the supply voltage and we have 90% available. Well above the threshold.
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December 3rd, 2013
During the development of one light controller (more on this later) I had a requirement for two analog inputs that would allow connection of external LDRs to enable operation only in low light conditions. Normally you would just use a basic voltage divider with an LDR going to supply voltage and feed the output directly to an ADC. But since this particular LDR was supposed to be connected via long cable I wanted to have a robust analog input that would survive any transients and/or crazy connections that might occur during installation and normal operation.
This is not it. This is the basic circuit that will be used as a starting point: a voltage divider with a non-inverting unity gain amplifier as an input buffer. It works as a universal 0-5V analog input and can be easily expanded to 0-10V using a different value for resistor R2 (see notes below). Another advantage of R2 is that it provides a known reference when nothing is connected to the input so you can also detect broken wire conditions for resistive sensors.
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November 6th, 2010
I was looking for a decent handheld oscilloscope/meter and eventually ended up buying the UT81B from Uni-Trend. There isn’t much information available about this model so I decided to do a small review of it.
Let’s start with some basic specifications from the manufacturer:
- 8MHz bandwidth
- 40MS/s sample rate
- adjustable trigger (level and slope) with single-shot mode
- voltage, current, resistance, capacitance and frequency measurement
- 10 screen memory
- 160×160 monochrome display with backlight
- USB connection
Specs seem quite good for a handheld device and it should accurately display signals up to 4MHz. Time to check it out!
Read the rest of this entry
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As we age, maintaining physical health becomes more important than ever. For seniors living in healthcare facilities, staying active and healthy can make all the difference in enhancing their quality of life. From a balanced diet to gentle exercise, creative outlets, and more, there are many ways to support the physical well-being of seniors. Let’s explore the ways that seniors can thrive in healthcare homes, focusing on holistic approaches to health that are not only effective but also uplifting and engaging.
The Power of a Balanced Diet for Seniors
A healthy body starts with what we eat. For seniors, maintaining a balanced diet can provide the essential nutrients that keep energy levels up and prevent chronic health issues like diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure. In healthcare facilities, meals are often designed with seniors’ nutritional needs in mind, but there are creative ways to ensure these meals are both nutritious and enjoyable.
— Tailored Nutrition Plans:
Every senior has unique dietary requirements, which is why tailored nutrition plans are a key component of maintaining health in care homes. These plans take into account individual health conditions, preferences, and nutritional gaps. For instance, a senior with osteoporosis might need extra calcium-rich foods, while someone managing diabetes will benefit from a low-sugar, high-fiber diet.
— The Joy of Fresh, Seasonal Produce:
Incorporating fresh, seasonal fruits and vegetables into daily meals brings both variety and essential nutrients. Brightly colored produce like berries, leafy greens, and orange vegetables are packed with vitamins and antioxidants, which support immune health and improve cognitive function. Plus, enjoying fresh ingredients can lift moods and make mealtime an enjoyable experience.
— Hydration Is Key:
Seniors are often more susceptible to dehydration, which can lead to a host of health issues such as confusion, urinary tract infections, and fatigue. Encouraging regular water intake and offering hydrating foods like watermelon, cucumbers, and soups is vital in keeping seniors well-hydrated and feeling their best.
Exercise for Every Ability: Staying Active in Senior Care
Exercise is one of the most powerful tools for maintaining physical health, no matter your age. For seniors in healthcare homes, exercise doesn’t need to be strenuous—it just needs to be consistent and enjoyable. Movement helps with flexibility, balance, cardiovascular health, and even mental well-being.
— Gentle Exercise for Strength and Mobility:
Many care facilities offer gentle exercise programs tailored to seniors’ abilities. Chair yoga, water aerobics, and tai chi are popular choices because they are low-impact, easy on the joints, and incredibly effective at building strength and improving flexibility. These exercises also boost circulation, which helps prevent swelling and other health complications common in older adults.
— Group Exercise Classes:
Staying active can be a social event, too. Group exercise classes bring residents together, creating a sense of camaraderie and motivation. Whether it’s dancing to music from their youth or joining in on a group walk around the facility’s garden, group exercise encourages physical activity in a fun, supportive environment.
— Daily Movement Goals:
For those who prefer a less structured approach, setting daily movement goals can keep seniors active. Something as simple as walking to the dining hall instead of using a wheelchair or taking a few laps around the facility can add up over time, improving heart health and reducing the risk of falls.
Creative Outlets for Physical and Mental Well-being
Physical health doesn’t stop with exercise and diet. Having creative outlets can be just as important for overall wellness, offering a chance to express oneself while keeping the mind and body engaged.
— Art Therapy for Seniors:
Art therapy is a wonderful way to support both physical dexterity and mental clarity. Activities like painting, drawing, or pottery help maintain fine motor skills, while also providing emotional relief. For seniors with memory conditions, creative outlets can stimulate cognitive function and trigger positive memories.
— Gardening for Active Aging:
Gardening is an enjoyable activity that brings both physical and mental health benefits. Whether it’s tending to indoor plants, outdoor flowers, or a small vegetable garden, gardening encourages gentle movement and fosters a sense of purpose. The act of planting, watering, and nurturing plants also helps improve dexterity and hand-eye coordination, while the fresh air and nature boost mood.
— Music and Movement:
For seniors who love music, incorporating movement into music therapy sessions can do wonders for both physical health and emotional well-being. Dancing, tapping along to a rhythm, or even singing engages the body and mind, making it a full-body experience that fosters joy and keeps spirits high.
Mental Wellness and Social Engagement
While physical health is essential, mental and social well-being are just as important for seniors in care homes. Being socially active and mentally stimulated has been shown to enhance physical health, improve mood, and even extend life expectancy.
— Social Games and Group Activities:
Playing games such as cards, bingo, or trivia keeps the mind sharp while encouraging social interaction. These activities are not only fun, but they also create opportunities for seniors to stay connected with their peers and caregivers, which can reduce feelings of isolation and depression.
— Mindfulness and Meditation:
Mindfulness practices such as meditation or deep breathing exercises can reduce stress, improve sleep, and even help manage chronic pain. Offering meditation sessions or quiet spaces for reflection in senior care homes allows residents to tap into their inner peace, which can positively affect their physical health.
— Lifelong Learning:
Many senior care homes offer educational programs that stimulate curiosity and cognitive function. Whether it’s a book club, a history discussion group, or a class on technology, lifelong learning keeps seniors mentally engaged and gives them something to look forward to each day.
Conclusion: A Holistic Approach to Senior Health
Staying physically healthy in a care home doesn’t just happen in the gym or at the dinner table—it’s a holistic effort that encompasses diet, movement, creativity, and social connection. By embracing a wide variety of wellness activities, seniors can enjoy a higher quality of life, staying strong and vibrant in both body and mind. Through personalized care and diverse programming, senior care homes are creating environments where physical health and happiness go hand in hand.
In the end, it’s all about creating opportunities for joy, movement, and connection—because a healthy senior is a happy senior!
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Unsecured loans and you can equilibrium transfer credit cards are two of your own most popular means individuals consolidate loans. Deciding which one will help you to reach finally your wants less can be be difficult to ascertain at first. Below are a number of the secret variations of using an individual mortgage as opposed to a credit card to combine financial obligation, to help you result in the top choice.
As to why use credit cards having debt consolidation?
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- Package ahead of time during the day if you find yourself gonna has one to personal debt reduced. You’ve made the ability to enjoy!
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RESPONSE: Healthcare, social care and housing leaders share their views on social care reform whitepaper
Following the publication of the UK Government’s long-awaited adult social care reform whitepaper, which details its 10-year vision for the sector and provides information on funded proposals that will be implemented over the next three years, leaders from the healthcare, social care and housing sectors have responded.
Some of the key funding commitments from the whitepaper include £570 million per year (2022–23 to 2024–25) to provide funding to local areas to deliver the Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG); £300 million for the period 2022–23 to 2025–26 to allow local authorities to integrate housing into local health and care strategies; and £150 million of new funding to deliver a programme of digital transformation for the social care sector over the next three years.
Cllr Martin Tett, Adult Social Care Spokesperson for the County Councils Network (CCN), has expressed concerns that the amount of funding committed so far falls short of the ambitions proposed.
“Proposals to digitalise social care, a greater emphasis on supported housing, policies on workforce recruitment, and a person-centred care service are what the County Councils Network has called for and this white paper builds directly on our report with Newton earlier this year that showed the art of the possible with councils playing the lead role in transforming the system,” Martin said.
“However, while CCN supports many of today’s proposals, we remain concerned that the amount of funding committed so far falls short of the ambitions laid out. In particular, there remains little detail on how the government will implement a ‘fair price for care’ and new duties for self-funders to access council arranged care and their rates.
“This policy alone could cost £761m a year in county areas, so it is vital that the government fully funds this aspect of the reform package, and works with local authorities and providers on its implementation to ensure it does not unintentionally destabilise care markets in the short term, or lead to unsustainable costs for councils.”
The Association of Directors of Adults Social Services (ADASS) has also weighed in on the whitepaper. It says that the document should be seen as a first but highly significant step on a journey to transforming the adult social care sector.
Stephen Chandler, ADASS President, commented: “I am really pleased to see this publication, it represents a foundation stone for which we have been waiting for 20 years or more. By its own admission the white paper is just a starting point and I look forward to continue to work with government to make its ambitions a reality.
“This is going to be a 10-year programme of transformation and its success will depend on the continued and growing involvement of groups representing all those who commission, provide and, most importantly, draw on care and support.”
However, he noted that the care and support of tens of thousands of older and disabled people is at risk this winter because of widespread staff shortages among care providers unable to match pay rates being offered in other sectors.
“The white paper paints a promising picture of a more professionalised care workforce in the future,” he continued. “What we urgently need now is a bridge to that brighter future, to address the immediate crisis and ensure that everyone gets the care and support they need this winter.”
The Royal College of Occupational Therapists (RCOT) believes that the commitments from the UK Government do not go far enough to fixing the social care “crisis”.
Steve Ford, RCOT Chief Executive, added: “There is a substantial lack of acknowledgement of the skills and workforce needed, such as those provided by occupational therapists, to help roll out an increased demand in adaptions to people’s homes.
“We are still awaiting the outcome of the 2020 consultation on options to raise the accessibility of new homes. This must not be further delayed. All new homes should have a mandatory level of accessibility, and there must be an increase in supply of fully accessible new build homes.
“Furthermore, we have seen on the ground that there is a growing challenge in accessing and procuring equipment in housing and social care, which is impacting in the ability to provide the right resources to keep people living independently in their homes. This needs addressing urgently by the government to ensure that supply chains are robust and are not impeded further by the recent logistical barriers.”
However, he welcomed the announcement of additional funding for the DFG and said the sharp focus on housing within the whitepaper was “much needed”.
“‘Occupational therapists will also welcome announcements such as recommitment of £500m for dedicated Continuous Professional Development (CPD) budgets for allied health professionals and others, and further recommitment for a new digital hub for the social care workforce to access support and mental health and wellbeing resources,” continued Steve.
The TEC Services Association (TSA) has fully welcomed the social care reform whitepaper. It believes the document recognises the enabling potential of technology and marks a critical step forward in building a more sustainable and effective adult social care system.
Alyson Scurfield, CEO of TSA and who had been closely involved in the rapid development of the whitepaper, said: “Technology can improve people’s lives and help them achieve their aspirations. It empowers individuals and their families, giving them the confidence and tools to choose and feedback on their care and support and also improving the knowledge and understanding of care professionals.
“It’s vital that digital tools are used more proactively across adult social care, identifying risk and preventing incidents, so people can live healthier lives for longer, in their own homes – something TSA identified in its joint Commission with the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services earlier this year.”
Housing LIN CEO Jeremy Porteus commented: “I welcome the commitment and vision set out in today’s White Paper. From HAPPI to TAPPI, it implicitly touches on many of the areas that the Housing LIN champions with a passion.
“The challenge now is to apply these high level ambitions to ensure that the sector explicitly has the right leadership, tools and resources to innovate and deliver the quality and range of housing and care choices that people want, not just in the right place and in the right time, but in the right home.”
In contrast, the Health Foundation says that the whitepaper falls short of being able to fix the social care “crisis”.
Hugh Alderwick, Head of Policy at the Health Foundation, stated: “The funding provided by government for social care over the coming years is barely enough to meet growing demand for care —let alone improve and expand the system and provide care to more people who need it.
“While there are some welcome initiatives, such as developing a mix of housing options to help people live independently, they are a drop in the ocean given the challenges facing people using and providing care. The white paper’s aim to improve terms and conditions for social care staff is positive, but there is no extra funding to achieve it.
“Beyond the money to cover the new cap on care costs, just £1.7bn of extra funding from the health and care levy will go towards the social care system over the next three years. This will do nothing to tackle the high levels of unmet need, persistent workforce shortages and recruitment difficulties, and the precarious position facing many care providers. To meet these challenges, we estimate that additional funding of around £7.6bn in 2022/23 is needed, rising to £9.0bn in 2024/25, over and above that provided for in the Spending Review.”
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The UK is set to become the first country in the world to make it illegal to own or use artificial intelligence (AI) tools that create child sexual abuse images.
New measures will see people jailed for up to five years for exploiting AI to create this content with even tougher 10-year sentences for people who run websites to share child sexual abuse images.
The government says the aim is for the law to catch up with rapidly developing technology that is being exploited by criminals and abusers.
Here, Yahoo News explains the four new laws being brought in to crack down on AI-assisted online child abuse, and the incoming Online Safety Act.
How is AI being used for child sexual abuse?
Today, according to Technology Secretary Peter Kyle, it is actually legal to possess a "paedophile manual" which gives guidance on how to use AI to sexually abuse children.
While it has been illegal to download or possess so-called "grooming manuals" since 2014, the Internet Watch Foundation (IWF) warned last year that a loophole in the law still allows people to create instructions on how to generate AI "deepfake" images of children.
"Nudeifying" real-life images of children, or stitching their faces on to existing images of abuse, are among the ways AI is being used by abusers, the Home Office said.
In a 2024 report, the IWF said: "AI-generated imagery of child sexual abuse has progressed at such an accelerated rate that the IWF is now seeing the first realistic examples of AI videos depicting the sexual abuse of children.
"Perpetrators can legally download everything they need to generate these images, then can produce as many images as they want - offline, with no opportunity for detection. Various tools exist for improving and editing generated images until they look exactly like the perpetrator wants."
The foundation said most of this AI-generated child sexual abuse material is now realistic enough to be treated as "real", with the most convincing images "visually indistinguishable" even for trained analysts.
It warns of a "noticeable increase" in AI-generated child sexual abuse imagery on the clear web (rather than the dark web) including on commercial sites, and that AI is offering more opportunities to make money off of these images.
Fake images are also being used to blackmail children and force them to livestream further abuse. Ministers believe that this online abuse is encouraging viewers to go out and offend in real life.
How many people are affected by it?
Appearing on the BBC's Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg programme, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said up to 800,000 people are viewing this kind of material.
While there already is a legal framework in place for online child abuse, Cooper said AI is "now putting online child abuse on steroids" and is "escalating and industrialising" the scale of it.
A report by the IWF in October 2023 found over 20,000 AI-generated images on a dark web forum in one month, with more than 3,000 depicting criminal child sexual abuse activities.
In a subsequent report published in July 2024, the charity found over 3,500 new AI-generated child sexual abuse images had been uploaded onto the same forum.
The charity's latest data shows reports of AI-generated child sexual abuse images have risen by 380%, with 245 confirmed reports in 2024, compared with 51 in 2023. Each of these reports can contain thousands of images.
Cooper told Kuenssberg that half a million children every year experience some form of child sexual abuse, although this also includes abuse carried out offline.
What is the government doing about it?
Under new measures being brought forward in the Crime and Policing Bill, it will be illegal to own artificial intelligence tools designed to make images of child sexual abuse.
This new offence will be punishable by up to five years in prison.
Those who have been found to own AI "paedophile manuals" could be jailed for up to three years.
The Bill will also introduce a specific offence for paedophiles who run websites to share child sex abuse, which could carry a 10-year prison sentence.
New powers will be given to the Border Force to help prevent the spread of child sexual abuse images from abroad, including by allowing officers to call for individuals suspected of posing a risk to children to give up their phones for inspection.
When does the Online Safety Act come into force?
Another piece of legislation, the Online Safety Act, aims to protect both children and adults online by putting a range of new duties on social media companies and search services.
Platforms will be made to implement systems and processes to reduce risks their services are used for illegal activity, and to take down illegal content when it does appear.
They will be required to prevent children from accessing harmful and age-inappropriate content and provide parents and children with clear and accessible ways to report problems online when they do arise.
The act will also compel major platforms to be more transparent about which kinds of potentially harmful content they allow, and give people more control over the types of content they want to see.
Regulator Ofcom will have the power to fine firms who don't follow the rules up to £18m or 10% of their qualifying global turnover - whichever is greater - and in very serious cases can apply for sites to be blocked in the UK.
The Act passed into law on 26 October 2023 and is set to be implemented from 17 March this year.
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Jewel is explaining why she thinks it’s OK to cozy up to MAGA.
On Saturday, the Grammy-nominated folk singer, full name Jewel Kilcher, posted a video to Instagram in which she responded to fans who were disgusted by her decision to perform at one of President Donald Trump’s inauguration events.
“Let’s talk,” Jewel begins in the clip. “As many of you know, I am a mental health advocate. If there’s anything that I’ve learned in the past 20 years, it’s that mental health affects everybody’s lives across party lines.”
She goes on to say she “reached out to the last administration” to discuss more advocacy for mental health, to no avail.
“If I wait to try until I agree 100% with the people that might be willing to help me, I’d never get off the bench,” she says. “I don’t think that’s how activism works. Waiting until everything’s perfect enough to participate ― it’s actually because things are so imperfect that we have to find ways to engage and to participate, and we have to act now. We cannot wait another four years.”
“I believe there are people in the new administration that are willing to help on this issue,” the singer continues. “I do not agree on all the politics, but if I can help shape policy, make sure mental health is in the conversation when it comes to American health, if I can help put resources or mental health tools into the hands of the most vulnerable who need it, I’m going to try, and I’m going to fight.”
Last week, fans of the “Who Will Save Your Soul” singer were shocked when she delivered a surprise performance at the “Make America Healthy Again” ball hosted by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Trump’s nominee to lead the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
In a clip posted to X, formerly Twitter, Kennedy teases Jewel’s appearance by telling the crowd they’re in for “a special treat.”
“About a week ago I got a call from a woman who is Cheryl’s favorite musical artist in her whole life,” Kennedy says in the clip, referring to his wife, “Curb Your Enthusiasm” alum Cheryl Hines, who is also on stage. “And she said to me, ‘I want to come and sing to the crowd tonight.’”
Jewel takes the stage and thanks Kennedy for “sacrificing so much to make America healthy again,” before launching into a cover of “Over the Rainbow” — a song that she says “sums up the hope that founded America, and that I think we’re all feeling again.”
Considering that Kennedy has spread anti-vaccine misinformation and other conspiracy theories for decades, many of Jewel’s longtime fans were outraged when clips of her inaugural performance began to circulate on social media. Many fans flooded the comment section of one of Jewel’s latest Instagram posts — which shows her participating in a panel discussion about mental health and the role of artificial intelligence in wellness — to express their disapproval.
“Hanging out with RFK Jr but claiming to care about public health is next level hypocrisy,” one Instagram user wrote.
“How is YOUR mental health, Jewel, knowing you’re supporting a movement that endangers lives and will only increase the despair and suicide rates among LGBTQ+ individuals?” another person commented.
“It’s gross that you would lend your name and talent to celebrate that man and his vile, inhumane movement,” someone else wrote. “Hope the check was worth it.”
Jewel posing with RFK… girl, who will save YOUR soul?
— Milo 🦷 (@computertooth) January 22, 2025
The pushback prompted Jewel to release her video on Saturday. In it, she acknowledged the political divide in the U.S. — and sympathized with both sides.
“Half of our country feels hope right now, and I honor that,” she said. “And half of our country feels disenfranchised and scared and vulnerable, and that is unacceptable.”
She then apologized specifically to her fans in the wider LGBTQ community.
“I am so sorry that I caused pain, especially in my LGBTQIA+ community, because you guys are treasures,” Jewel said. “You make the world a better place. You’ve made my life a better place, and I will not stop fighting.”
In her video Saturday, Jewel implored her fans on both sides of the political spectrum to keep everything kumbaya.
“None of us can afford to stop fighting, and I really believe that the only way we change is in relationship,” she said. “It isn’t in isolation or by isolating, it’s by being in relationship, by reaching out, by having hard conversations. And I really hope that we can push through our hurt and move toward understanding on both sides.”
Many people on social media didn’t quite buy Jewel’s rationale for aligning with MAGA. Below, you can see some of the responses to her statement.
Ah yes, ‘so sorry for the pain’—right after the check cleared. Truly a heroic sacrifice to sing your heart out at a controversial event. What a heartfelt apology… or was that just another lyric? 🤣
— Nothing lasts forever! (@Nto79549105) January 27, 2025
I won't listen to anything she has to say. Anyone who performed, and does so in the future is an accomplice to this fascist regime that is causing havoc, and fear throughout our country. These performers are complicit, and normalizing this cruelty.
— Claire S🤍 (@SaintLaurant) January 25, 2025
It’s cute how she thinks an administration that wants to eliminate health insurance, does warrantless
Immigration raids, treats women’s rights like shit, and eliminates whole DEI departments somehow cares about mental health.— Agent Orange 🍊 #fella (@altmaralago) January 25, 2025
This might be true in a normal transition of power but this isn't normal and should never be treated as if it were.
— Heather Beaven (@ElectBeaven) January 25, 2025
So…Jewel can suck rocks. Care about mental health soooo much, but preformed for a man who is going to dismantle the HHS with his INSANE views. Fuck all the way off. pic.twitter.com/kG6KiJt7yB
— allison (@Chickie819) January 24, 2025
Performing a song at an event isn’t a seat at the table to discuss mental health policy issues. There isn’t even a possibly here, so this reasoning makes no sense.
— TxTania (@TxTania) January 26, 2025
Need help with substance use disorder or mental health issues? In the U.S., call 800-662-HELP (4357) for the SAMHSA National Helpline.
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Thousands of disgruntled travellers had their bank holiday weekend plans ruined amid a string of flight cancellations on one one of the busiest days of the year for airlines.
More than 40 British Airways (BA) and EasyJet flights have been cancelled on Friday to and from Heathrow and Gatwick airports, causing “chaotic scenes”, with some passengers reporting issues with the airlines’ customer services.
Britons hoping to be in Rome, Athens, Brussels and a number of American cities over the long weekend have vented their frustration on social media over missing weddings, birthday celebrations and even a memorial service.
Further flights were cancelled on Thursday evening in what airlines have blamed on poor weather conditions in London and across Europe.
Labour MP for Huddersfield Barry Sheerman wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter: “Chaotic scenes at Heathrow as flights cancelled & people stranded…has it become the norm for those travelling with British Airways.”
BA passenger Bernie Dunn wrote: “Spending the day in Edinburgh Airport. Plans for weekend also ruined due to this. Poor communication and customer service, not good enough British Airways.”
Another traveller wrote: “British Airways cancelled our flight to Vienna 3 hours before we are due to fly - offers an alternative flight to get us there by tomorrow 7pm. Tried calling customer services and the line just disconnects. Thanks BA - f***ed us over our friends’ wedding!”
My flight from Nice to London was cancelled with very little notice and as there are no other flights today I’ve had to book for tomorrow. The only fare available tomorrow was 900 euro! Missing my father’s memorial prayers. Terrible service. Will not fly BA again!
— Sandra Weiner (@s4tw) August 25, 2023
@British_Airways canceled my flight to Rome today THIS MORNING. Their chat is USELESS and no one answers the phone. I have a ship to board tomorrow morning at 9am and there no flights available anywhere.
— Jesse Ryan Graham (@jesseryangraham) August 25, 2023
@British_Airways I have been in Heathrow since 8:00pm or so, awaiting a connection to Dublin from NYC. Flight was delayed then cancelled, with zero updates from staff here at the airport, not a single email, call, text or app notification how to proceed. “Get a hotel and wait”
— Gary Nieves Jr • GLNJR • 🇵🇷 (@garynievesjr) August 25, 2023
The Standard can confirm at least 31 BA flights to and from Heathrow Airport were cancelled on Friday, while the Independent reported at least 50 were cancelled.
BA flights to Edinburgh, Glasgow, Houston, Copenhagen, Jersey, Washington DC, Athens, Rome and Brussels were cancelled.
Flights meant to be arriving in London from Scotland, Venice, New York, Nice and Naples were also among those cancelled.
Cancelled EasyJet flights that were due to arrive at Gatwick on Friday included services from Edinburgh, Athens, Faro, Nantes, Milan and Valencia.
EasyJet had already cancelled 36 flights on Thursday affecting around 5,000 passengers.
Friday August 25 is expected to be one of the busiest days of the year for airports as it marks the start of the bank holiday weekend and final weekend of the school holidays for many families.
LBC presenter Sangita Myska found herself stranded in Edinburgh after her flight to London was cancelled on Thursday evening.
She wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter: “You cancelled our Edinburgh to London flight with 2 hours notice.
“This means an entire plane-load of people (inc a v frustrated elderly lady) are at the airport now stuck trying to find last minute hotel rooms during the busiest part of the year - when those rooms are at their most expensive.
“It means I may miss a medical appt, my partner will miss work, and other passengers are stuck. We’ll end up spending £66 on a taxis.”
Peter Mackie said his British Airways flight from Heathrow to Glasgow on Thursday evening was cancelled after a four-hour delay, and his flight re-booked for Friday was also cancelled.
A reduction in flying was imposed by Heathrow Airport on Thursday, limiting the number of aircraft which can safely take off and land per hour, applying to all airlines, the Standard understands.
British Airways said in a statement on Friday: “Like other airlines, due to adverse weather conditions experienced in the London area and across Europe, we’ve made some minor adjustments to our short-haul schedule.
“We’ve contacted affected customers to apologise and offer them rebooking options or a full refund.”
EasyJet apologised for the cancellations.
The airline said in a stateme: “Due to the impact of ATC restrictions across the network yesterday caused by adverse weather conditions across the UK and Europe which also resulted in the temporary suspension of operations at London Gatwick, some flights yesterday evening have been unable to operate as planned.
“We have been doing all possible to minimise the impact for our customers, providing those on cancelled flights with options to rebook or receive a refund as well as hotel accommodation and meals where required and we advise any customers who source their own that they will be reimbursed.
“Due to the knock on impact of yesterday’s weather and air traffic restrictions, we advise customers to check the status of their flight on our Flight Tracker www.easyjet.com/en/flight-tracker or via the app.”
| 0.966134 | 1,173 |
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Our products are priced for material, labor, overhead, and profitability. On our website, all product prices include a percentage to cover shipping costs in order to provide “free shipping” on most orders over $150. In our catalog, we do not bury the shipping expense in our product prices, and shipping costs are passed on in addition to the product costs. Due to fluctuating raw material costs, prices are subject to change without notice.
Payment Methods and Terms
Online checkouts accept all major credit cards through Stripe. A printable order form is also available. For mail-in or phone orders we accept US currency cash, money order, checks drawn from a US bank, or Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express cards. Please make checks payable to “Beeline.”
PRINTABLE ORDER FORM LINK
For mail-in and phone orders up to $500, we expect full payment before shipping. Over $500 we require 50% down payment before shipping, with the balance due within 30 days of the invoice date. After 30 days from the invoice date, the bill will be subject to a finance charge of 1.5% per month.
A fee of $25 will be charged for returned checks.
If an overpayment was made, we can either refund you or credit your account.
State Sales Tax
We are required to collect sales tax in the states of Michigan, Pennsylvania, South Dakota and Washington. If you are exempt from sales tax, we are required to file a signed tax exemption certificate. Please call or email us for that form.
Turn Around Time
Orders will be processed as quickly as possible. We will try our best to fulfill online orders within 2 business days and will notify you of any delays. Orders received after 12 noon will not be processed until the following business day. Skid-sized orders over 200 pounds may require up to a week or more, especially at peak season, which is generally January through June. Order early to ensure timely delivery.
If your order contains out-of-stock items, we will contact you by phone or email with several options. We can ship your order without the backordered item and send the backordered item(s) separately, with additional shipping and handling charges. We can hold your order until the backordered product is available. Or you may choose to cancel that part of your order. We also have the option of filling your order in part or entirely from one of our other branches.
Limitations / Liabilities
We will be liable only for the purchase price which customers have paid for an item. We do not offer warranties, either expressed or implied, for products which we do not manufacture. Customer purchases glassware and wax foundation at their own risk. We cannot offer refunds on or exchanges for the following; Beeswax Foundation, Medication, Containers and Glassware or Bee Food. See shipping policy for further information for damaged and returned items.
We reserve the right to correct or adjust any price or product due to photographical or typographical errors.
We ship online orders to all 50 states of the USA from the appropriate branch. Canadian customers may place orders by phone or email. We do not ship outside of the USA and Canada.
On our website only, Free Shipping applies to most orders over $150 to the USA.
Pick Up Orders
Orders can be picked up at the nearest branch within store hours or by appointment. All orders picked up at a Beeline Branch receive a 10% discount from the website prices.
Monday through Friday, 8:00 A.M. to 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM to 5:00 P.M., EDT. We are closed for most major holidays.
Address: 20960 M-60, Mendon, MI 49072
Monday through Friday, 8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M., PDT, Saturday pickup by appointment only. Hours are subject to change August through December. We are closed for most major holidays.
Address: 19019 Moon Road SW, Rochester, WA 98579
For online orders, all shipping costs are covered with product costs, providing “free shipping” for most orders over $150. For all orders under $150, and for all phone and mail-in orders, shipping and handling will be calculated and charged at checkout based on weight and zone from our nearest branch.
For pallet-sized orders placed by phone, email or mail, all freight costs will be calculated with LTL carriers, either directly with the LTL carrier or through an LTL broker, to find the best price. Miscellaneous additional shipping charges may occur for the following reasons:
When providing a shipping estimate for small or large orders, we will do our best to accurately calculate. However, in some situations, the shipping costs can change. If the cost increases significantly from the cost you were originally quoted for the same product, we will contact you before shipping.
We must approve any items you wish to return. Please call the branch from which your order was shipped for verification. The product must be in as good a condition as you purchased it. Products must be returned to the original branch and must include the invoice number. Return shipping must be arranged through FedEx or UPS or delivered to your local Branch.
For all returned merchandise that was shipped accurately but is no longer wanted, the return shipping cost must be the customer’s expense. For all replacements for damaged items, or mistake corrections, return shipping costs will be covered by Beeline. No returns or exchanges may be made on Beeswax Foundation, Medication, Containers, Glassware or Bee Food.
All products shipped from our facilities are shipped F.O.B. and become the customer’s responsibility.
With the best of efforts in our stock-picking, we can still miss parts. Please check all orders immediately. If something is missing, contact us within 10 days of the invoice date or we cannot be responsible for errors or discrepancies.
Beeline Apiaries and Woodenware, LLC, is a limited liability company registered in the State of Michigan. We along with our manufacturing partner, Beeline of Washington, are intent on providing our customers with a safe and happy experience.
Our website address is www.beelinewoodenware.com.
Should you need to Contact Beeline Apiaries and Woodenware, LLC, you may do so in one of the following ways:
Website Contact Form: www.beelinewoodenware.com/contact
Send mail to:
Beeline Apiaries and Woodenware, LLC
20960 M-60 Mendon, MI 49072
When you send us a message using our contact form, you agree to provide us with your name, business name, email address, phone number and other personally identifying information including IP address. We only use that contact information to respond to your inquiry.
We use Google reCAPTCHA on this site. reCAPTCHA collects personal information from users to make the determination of whether they are human and not a bot to prevent SPAM. The reCAPTCHA algorithm checks to see if there is a Google cookie placed on the computer being used. An additional reCAPTCHA cookie will then be added to the user’s browser.
For users that register on our website, we also store the personal information they provide in their user profile. All users can see, edit or delete their personal information at any time, except they cannot change their username. Website administrators can also see and edit that information.
If you have an account and you log in to this site, we will set a temporary cookie to determine if your browser accepts cookies. This cookie contains no personal data and is discarded when you close your browser.
When you log in, we will also set up several cookies to save your login information and your screen display choices. Login cookies last for two days, and screen options cookies last for a year. If you select “Remember Me,” your login will persist for two weeks. If you log out of your account, the login cookies will be removed.
We use Google Analytics on this site. Google Analytics gathers data about you as our visitor. It records what website you came from to get here, how long you stay, what pages you visit, what kind of browser you are using, and a lot more technical data, including your computer’s IP address. The tracking information helps us to understand what attracts people to this site and what they read. This helps us make good decisions about the design and content for this site. Occasionally we aggregate statistics about the visitors to this site. No personally identifying data is included in this type of reporting. We respect the bounds of the Google Analytics Terms of Service. If you prefer to avoid this tracking, you can opt out of Google’s advertising tracking cookie or use a browser plugin to opt out of all Google Analytics tracking software.
Our website is hosted by Digital Ocean in their New York City (NY) datacenter. They do not retain personal data that is stored on our site or sent through contact forms.
Zimmerman Design serves as webmaster for our site, and their staff has agreed to be bound by the terms of this policy.
Stripe processes credit cards using a tokenized process that does not store your credit card information on our website. You may opt to save payment information in your user account, but there is no way for your card information to be stolen from our website.
Communication between our site and your computer or mobile device is encrypted using a secure certificate.
Security updates to our website are automatically installed, with daily updates checked by our webmaster.
If our website is breached by a third party, we will disclose to all users with accounts on this website the nature and extent of the breach, including any personally information that may have been compromised.
Changes to this Policy
Call or email the branch nearest you to determine location eligibility. Visit our Locate a Dealer page to view a map of current Beeline dealers. If you are outside of 60 or 80 miles of an existing, protected Beeline dealer, you are likely eligible. Your nearest branch will be able to tell you if your nearest Beeline dealer is protected or not. If you are eligible, read our policy here thoroughly before deciding which level you would like to enter. Once decided, fill out the application form found in the policy document, and submit to your nearest branch. As soon as they accept your application, you are free to place your initial order. The total of this initial order will determine which level you are entering, and which discounts you receive.
To maintain your level, your total invoiced sales within 12 months (or if you have begun mid-season, we extrapolate your total based on your total sales in that time period) must exceed the Annual Total in the chart above. To move to the next higher level, your total invoiced sales to date must exceed the Annual Total of the higher level. For example, if you are a Worker Level Dealer, and wish to become a Queen Level Dealer, your total invoiced sales to date must exceed $30,000, to become a Queen dealer. This can happen anytime within the 12-month period.
Not able to reach the Drone Level, but still want to buy and resell? Sure! We will give you quantity pricing and you can resell as much as you want!
Please remember, all dealer discounts are taken off our low-volume pricing. Catalog quantities and discounts are disregarded. This pricing is usually the same as our catalog pricing, unless prices have changed mid-year.
Every year on November 1st, we will assess your dealership level, based on your total invoiced sales to date, and determine which level you will be in for the next year.
Read about pricing, advertising, production, shipping, placing orders, and dealership perks in our policy here.
We also strongly recommend associations, clubs, bee schools, etc. to pool their order for a “dealership” status. A primary objective of our dealership network is to cut shipping costs for the end customer, so any of these “dealership” methods helps everyone. Can you or someone you know fill a spot in our Dealership Map?
| 0.93957 | 2,542 |
The Lexus car loan calculator is an online financial tool designed to help potential car buyers in Malaysia estimate their monthly payments and overall loan costs when purchasing a Lexus vehicle. This tool is essential for consumers who want to plan their finances before committing to a significant investment like a luxury car. By simulating various financial scenarios, the Lexus car loan calculator provides a clearer picture of the financial commitment involved. It incorporates factors such as the car model, price, down payment percentage, loan period, and interest rates. Users can adjust these variables to see how they impact the monthly installment and total loan amount, thus offering a comprehensive understanding of their financial responsibilities.
Lexus Auto Hire Purchase Calculation
How Does the Lexus Car Loan Calculator Work?
The Lexus car loan calculator works by users selecting their preferred Lexus model and its corresponding price in Malaysian Ringgit (RM). They then enter the down payment amount, usually calculated at 30% of the car’s price, although this can vary. Next, users choose the loan tenure, which typically spans seven years, and input the interest rate, commonly around 3%. The calculator then computes the estimated monthly payment and the total loan amount. This process helps users compare different financing options and choose the one that best suits their financial situation.
What Are the Estimated Monthly Payments for Different Lexus Models in Malaysia?
The estimated monthly payments for different Lexus models in Malaysia vary based on the model chosen, the down payment made, and the interest rate applied. For example, the Lexus ES can have an estimated monthly payment ranging from RM 2,981 to RM 3,480. The Lexus NX’s monthly payment may range from RM 3,739 to RM 3,931. For the Lexus RX, customers might expect to pay between RM 4,727 and RM 5,030 monthly. The luxury Lexus LS could have payments between RM 10,321 and RM 13,156, while the high-end Lexus LM might range from RM 12,382 to RM 14,802. These figures are calculated based on a standard loan configuration of a 30% down payment, a 7-year loan period, and a 3% interest rate.
Why Use the Lexus Car Loan Calculator?
Using the Lexus car loan calculator is beneficial for several reasons. Firstly, it provides transparency by breaking down the cost of ownership into manageable monthly payments, allowing potential buyers to budget effectively. Secondly, the calculator helps users explore different financial scenarios by adjusting variables like the loan period and interest rate. This feature enables consumers to find a payment plan that aligns with their financial goals and constraints. Moreover, the calculator can offer insights into how different Lexus models compare in terms of affordability, assisting buyers in making informed decisions. Ultimately, it serves as a powerful tool for financial planning, reducing the uncertainty often associated with purchasing a luxury vehicle.
What Considerations Should Be Made When Using the Lexus Car Loan Calculator?
When using the Lexus car loan calculator, several considerations should be made to ensure accurate and realistic results. Users should first verify the accuracy of the car’s price, as this directly influences the calculations. It’s important to choose a realistic down payment amount, considering personal savings and financial capacity. The selected loan period should reflect the user’s long-term financial plan; a shorter period typically results in higher monthly payments but less interest paid over time. Interest rates can vary based on the lender, so users should research current market rates or consult with financial institutions to use an accurate figure in their calculations. By taking these factors into account, users can maximize the benefits of the Lexus car loan calculator and make a well-informed purchasing decision.
How Can the Lexus Car Loan Calculator Assist in Comparing Models?
The Lexus car loan calculator assists in comparing models by allowing users to evaluate the financial implications of purchasing different Lexus vehicles. By entering varying model prices, users can instantly see how these differences affect their monthly payments and total loan amount. This feature is particularly useful for buyers who are undecided between two or more models. The calculator provides a side-by-side comparison of financing costs, making it easier to weigh the pros and cons of each option. Additionally, users can adjust other variables, such as the loan term or down payment, to see how these changes impact affordability across different models. This comprehensive approach simplifies the decision-making process, enabling users to select a model that best fits their budget and lifestyle.
Are There Any Limitations to the Lexus Car Loan Calculator?
While the Lexus car loan calculator is a valuable tool, it does have some limitations. The calculator provides estimates based on the inputs provided, which means the accuracy of the results depends heavily on the user’s data. Changes in interest rates, unexpected fees, or alterations in financial circumstances are not accounted for in the basic calculator. Additionally, the tool does not factor in insurance, maintenance, or other ownership costs, which can significantly impact the total cost of owning a vehicle. It’s crucial for users to consider these additional expenses when planning their budget. Furthermore, while the calculator offers a general overview, consulting with financial advisors or Lexus dealerships can provide more personalized and precise financial advice tailored to individual needs.
| 0.937488 | 1,076 |
Associate Data Scientist
Are you fascinated by the potential for data science to benefit society? Do you enjoy building applied machine learning prototypes? Are you intrigued by the intelligence mission? Do you thrive in diverse environments that value integrity and collaboration? If so, IQT Labs might be the place for you.
IQT Labs is the research arm of In-Q-Tel (IQT), a non-profit strategic investor that connects cutting edge startups to critical intelligence and defense missions. We conduct applied research at the interface of data science, engineering, and human machine interfaces (HMI). Our goal is to generate unique capabilities and insights that address critical mission challenges of our government partners.
The Associate Data Scientist plays a central role in IQT Lab’s open source research activity. We work with engineering and HMI team members to apply novel deep learning techniques to mission challenges. We also support those teams in efforts such as a helping develop a data science pipeline for engineering or HMI-led projects.
On a daily basis, we:
- Contribute technically to open source GitHub repositories for mission relevant projects
- Apply cutting edge codebases and publications from the research community to government challenges
- Communicate data science insights to broad audiences in blog posts and presentations
Each Associate Data Scientist contributes to one or two projects in diverse technology areas. Associate Data Scientists also receive extensive mentorship as they contribute to projects, from senior staff that has been pushing the envelope on data science applied research for many years.
- Develop and apply scalable algorithms based on cutting-edge machine learning/deep learning approaches and frameworks (e.g., PyTorch) that can handle a wide variety of data.
- Address research problems based on intelligence community needs and conduct high-quality applied research.
- Conduct experiments to evaluate the performance and effectiveness of developed solutions.
- Present findings via blogs, conferences, podcasts, publications, or customer meetings, as appropriate.
- Write well-structured and re-usable code, typically in Python and Bash.
- Contribute to the development and maintenance of open source projects.
- Contribute to the team’s research and development activities.
- Collaborate and interface with external entities (startups, incumbent technology companies, US Government data scientists) regarding technologies and data science.
- Full time with flexible hours
- Remote position
- Family-friendly culture and benefits
- Unlimited PTO (that we actually use)
- Parental leave
- Flex Spending Account
- Urgent childcare benefit
- Travel (once we ramp back up from COVID)
- Monthly project meet ups are optional, or could be attended virtually
- Twice annual Labs offsites
- Thrice annual company-wide events in either the DC metro area or California.
- Annual domestic travel to attend conferences
- Occasional international travel if presenting at a conference
We expect all candidates to demonstrate:
- Extensive experience developing and debugging in Python
- Experience building and applying algorithms based on machine learning and/or deep learning methods
- Written and verbal communication skills
- Firm grasp of statistics, confidence intervals, and error propagation
- MS degree in computer science, mathematics, physics or related quantitative field
- BS degree in computer science, mathematics, physics or related quantitative field with 2+ years of relevant experience
- Commitment to continued understanding of advances in data science and their application to ongoing research projects
- Ability to obtain a TS/SCI Security Clearance
We are most interested in candidates who demonstrate:
- Enthusiasm for
- Advances in Deep Learning (How can we more creatively train large models?)
- Mission-oriented research (How can we leverage deep learning architectures to solve mission challenges?)
- Storytelling (How do we tell a compelling story about our research?)
- Problem solving skills to evaluate complex technical problems, identify root issues, propose considered solutions, and code concise solutions,
- An ability to thrive in a non-traditional, dynamic environment
- Experience with multi-threaded, big data, distributed cloud architectures and frameworks such as Docker, AWS, Kubernetes, Azure, Spark, Hadoop, Hive, Spark, and/or Elastic Search
- Experience with filesystems, server architectures, and distributed systems
We recognize that 2020 was an extraordinary year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. We are proud of how our team came together to balance work, family and health. We understand that these unique pressures caused some people to temporarily drop out of the labor force. We are eager to connect with qualified candidates who are re-entering the professional world after a gap focused on other critical responsibilities.
At IQT we value, welcome, and embrace diversity of ideas, viewpoints, and backgrounds. This diversity makes us stronger and nimbler, so come to us with new ideas and viewpoints that we can weave into our vision for future missions.
This is an exempt position reporting to the Vice President of Data Science at IQT Labs.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
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Mike Myers went from being a fan-favorite Saturday Night Live cast member to a full-fledged comedy movie star, but at least one person who worked on one of the actor's sets didn't have such a great time. Security guard-turned-radio DJ Jay Brody went viral after posting a tweet about working with Myers on the 2008 movie The Love Guru. He quote-tweeted a video of John Wick 4 star Keanu Reeves helping the crew by carrying equipment with his story about the Wayne's World star, which he evidently feels to be the polar opposite. After his post made the rounds, Brody shared more of his story on his radio show. The Vancouver DJ claims that he was fired from The Love Guru only hours after beginning work, simply because he looked at Myers. Read on to find out more.
Brody brought up his story in praise of Reeves.
In light of the recent release of John Wick: Chapter 4, a video of Reeves hauling production equipment up a flight of stairs from November 2021 recirculated on Twitter.
Some fans praised Reeves for pitching, especially as the star of the movie, but others weren't impressed.
Brody noted that Reeves should be lauded, because moving equipment is not normally in the job description of the talent, and because, in his experience, movie sets usually aren't so egalitarian.
"People saying that 'he shouldn’t be praised for helping' have no idea what it’s like working in film," Brody posted. "Mike Myers had me fired off the set of The Love Guru because I made eye contact with him, and I was there as his body guard… [crying-laughing emoji] Give Keanu his roses."
Brody says he was told the rule about looking at Myers in advance.
After his tweet went viral, Brody revealed more on his radio show, Carly and Jay, which he co-hosts with Carly Meyers.
"It was years ago. I was working in film security, and I got a call from a company that hired out guards, and they said, 'Do you want a job on the film The Love Guru?" Brody began. "I’m like, 'Sure. What would I be doing?' 'You’ll be basically guarding Mike Myers' trailer on the film sets wherever they go.'"
Brody said he had done jobs like that before, so he felt comfortable taking it on. But, he said he was also told, "Here's the catch, can’t look at him."
"Well, I need to look at him to see him to be his bodyguard," the DJ remembered responding. Whoever was staffing him then reiterated, "If you look at him, you're going to get fired."
Brody also learned that the Canadian actor would be in costumes that would make it difficult to discern who he was. But, the company assured him that even if he got fired, they'd find him more work, given the situation.
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He says he got a phone call within an hour of making eye contact with the star.
Kathy Hutchins / ShutterstockBrody said on his radio show that, within the first hour he was working on The Love Guru, he saw "a man approaching in a long wig, a fake beard..." He continued, "I'm like, oh, I think that's Mike Myers."
The DJ decided to look away, per his instructions, but realized that he did need to see if the person approaching was really the star, because he couldn't "let just anyone into the trailer."
He went on, "So, I look up, I catch his eye for a second, I give him a nod to let him know I'm cool, and then I look away. And within an hour, I get a phone call letting me know that I'm fired and I have to get off the set, because I broke this weird rule."
In an additional tweet, Brody claimed, "Everyone I worked with got fired within 48 hours."
Other people shared similar accounts.
Tinseltown / ShutterstockIn response to Brody's tweet, a few people spoke out about their own knowledge of The Love Guru—which was critically panned and a flop at the box office—while others shared their experiences on other movie sets.
"Oh man, what dept were you in?" filmmaker Cavan Campbell responded. "The rigging best boy literally started his morning safety meetings with a warning to just walk quietly away if you ever so much as saw Myers within 200' of you."
Someone else posted, "I was an extra in Love Guru and remember being told that we can't make eye contact with Mike. When I tell people this, they don't believe me. Thanks for confirming. But [Jessica] Alba was a dream!"
Best Life has reached out to a representative for Myers for comment but has not yet received a response.
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The COVID pandemic changed life as we knew it for more than a year, and though we're starting to see some semblance of a return to normalcy now that more people are vaccinated and mask mandates are being lifted, some remnants of the chaos COVID left in its wake remain, especially when it comes to the economy. Many industries were severely disrupted due to the havoc of the pandemic, leading to an increase in demand and a decrease in supply. From staples like toilet paper and cleaning supplies to favorite foods like bubble tea and chicken wings, so many products have become scarce at some point in the past 15 months. Recently, one of the biggest issues plaguing 30 percent of states in the U.S. was a gas shortage, but just as that is being resolved, another shortage could affect your daily transportation. Keep reading to discover what you'll likely have difficulty finding this summer.
There is a shortage of cars in the U.S.
Valerii Apetroaiei / iStockThe shared excitement to get out and explore this summer has people across the U.S. facing a car shortage as automakers have reduced car production, the Associated Press reports. Ford is planning to "produce only half of its normal number of vehicles from now through June," according to the outlet, and General Motors has stopped the production of many of its cars and SUVs. The Acura RLX, Alfa Romeo 4C, BMW i8, Cadillac CT6, Chevrolet Impala, Honda Civic Si, and Honda Civic Coupe will all no longer be produced in 2021.
"It’s like toilet paper was a year ago," Michelle Krebs, executive analyst for Cox Automotive, told the AP. "Everyone is rushing to buy a car."
The shortage stems from pandemic shutdowns and a lack of computer microchips.
Tramino / iStockJason Fichtner, an economist from the Bipartisan Policy Center, told Washington, D.C., ABC affiliate WUSA9 that the car shortages are the result of two things—pandemic shutdowns and a dearth of computer chips. "The automobile industry temporarily closed car assembly plants as workers couldn't safely work in close quarters of a factory floor," Fichtner explained. On top of that, there's a limited amount of computer microchips, which newer cars depend on. "One big reason automakers can't find enough chips is that the semiconductor manufacturers are giving priority to manufacturers of smartphones, video game consoles, and other consumer electronics," Fichtner said.
According to CBS Automotive Correspondent Jeff Gilbert, microchips are "the digital equivalent of screws" for cars. He told a local CBS News affiliate that the 2020 shutdown of car factories due to the pandemic prompted carmakers to limit their purchases of these types of chips. On top of that, Mark Wakefield of consulting firm AlixPartners told CNBC that the limited supply of microchips was brought on by a fire at a supplier in Japan and because of natural disasters in Texas and Taiwan.
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The COVID pandemic has also led to a rise in demand for cars.
Mark Dymchenko / iStockAccording to recent new car inventory data by TrueCar, "vehicles are turning on dealer lots very quickly because of the supply and demand imbalance." The data showed that the average car is at the dealership for only 56 days, Valeri Tompkins, Senior Vice President, OEM Solutions at TrueCar, Inc., explained in a statement. She said that's "two weeks less on the dealer lot than during this exact time last year."
The shortage has also driven prices up of both new and used cars. "The average listing of the used vehicle on TrueCar is up $2,300 year-over-year, so if consumers are looking to sell their used vehicles, now is a great time," she added.
General Motors revealed earlier this month that new full-size trucks were being sold for 10 percent more than last year and full-size SUV prices were listed 20 percent higher, The Verge reported. Jessica Caldwell, director of insights at automotive resource Edmunds, told The Verge that approximately 13 percent of people who purchased a new car in April 2021 paid more than the sticker price. "Prices are just soaring," Caldwell told the outlet. "And as high as the prices go, it seems like it doesn’t really deter people."
After noting how the demand for cars usually increases in the summer months, Caldwell said: "I imagine this year [demand] will be even higher because people are itching to go out, go places, go on road trips, go back to school."
It could take months, or longer, for the automotive industry to return to normal.
Elena Perova / iStockPete Earle, an economist from the American Institute for Economic Research, told WUSA9 he suspects it'll be at least a couple of months before things are operating like usual in the car industry. "It could be a matter of months or maybe a little bit longer before things get back to normal," Earle said. Fichtner also suspects it'll take a few months for businesses to get back on track. "Optimistically, by Labor Day we'll be back to normal," Fichtner noted. "Realistically, probably by the end of the calendar year. Pessimistically, probably sometime in 2022."
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This week at BCMCSunday, January 23, 2022
9:30 am Worship Service in the Sanctuary—no in-person attendance—service is live streamed
Tuesday, January 25, 2022
9—11 am Community Playschool
7 pm Abuse Prevention and Response Committee
Wednesday, January 26, 2022—No Youth Group or Chancel Choir in January
7 pm Menno Ringers in B7
Thursday, January 27, 2022
9—11 am Community Playschool
2 pm Hospitality Commission meeting in Fellowship Hall
6:15 pm Chancel Bells in Room B7
Sunday, January 30, 2022
9:30 am Worship Service in the Sanctuary–to be announced whether the service will be live-streamed only or in person
10:30 am Faith Formation
1 pm Congregational Meeting via Zoom
Pastor Renee Reimer will be on vacation from January 14-29.
Pastor Nathan Koontz is increasing his hours up to 3/4 time for the month of January to help cover pastoral staffing until Interim Pastor Todd Schlosser begins on February 1, 2022. Pastor Nathan will be working Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, with flexible work days on Friday and Saturday as needed.
Congregational Meeting will be January 30 The Jan. 30, 2022 congregational meeting will start at 1 p.m. and will be held by Zoom. It will not be a hybrid meeting.
Following is the agenda for the meeting and the Zoom link.
For the Financial Report booklet click here There are copies of the Financial Report booklets at the church on the ledge by the church mailboxes. BETHEL COLLEGE MENNONITE CHURCH
Congregational Meeting Agenda
Sunday, January 30, 2022, 1 pm – Via ZoomZoom Link is:
Meeting ID: 813 5299 9266
1. Call to Order and Centering Prayer – Elizabeth Schmidt, Moderator
2. Approval of September 12, 2021 congregational meeting minutes and November 21, 2021
special congregational meeting minutes – prepared by John Kliewer, Interim Clerk
3. Report from the Auditing Committee – Diane Born, Auditing Committee
4. Presentation of 2021 Financial Reports -– Mike Claassen, Finance Manager
Zoom poll: Do you approve the 2021 Financial Reports? Yes No
5. Presentation of 2022 proposed budget – Mike Claassen, Finance Manager
The Church Board recommends the following: It is moved that the congregation approve the proposed general fund budget of $522,681 for 2022. During the year, if income is less than expenses, the first $10,000 will be covered by general fund reserves, then from benevolences up to $8,000. Any additional amount necessary will be taken from general fund reserves.
Zoom poll: Do you approve the 2022 proposed budget? Yes No
6. Pastoral Transition Update – Elizabeth Schmidt, Moderator, & Ada Schmidt-Tieszen,
7. Faith Formation Report: Plea for Volunteers! – Mary Ellen Hodge, Faith Formation
8. Columbarium Expansion Project Report – Glen Ediger, Columbarium Expansion Task Group
9. Other business
10. Closing Prayer – Pastor Nathan Koontz
Save the date for the next Safe Sanctuary training on Sunday, February 6th from 10:30am-11:30am. This training will take place in the fellowship hall but will be available over zoom too. Please email Renee for a link if you’d like to join via zoom. Please plan to attend if you are a mentor, youth/child Sunday School teacher, sponsor, or Wednesday night club leader and did not attend a training this past fall.
The new Library Theme is focusing on the state of Kansas. Check out the many books that celebrate Kansas. Also, a couple of 2000 piece puzzles in excellent condition have been donated to the library. We are using them as a fundraiser. We are asking for a minimum donation of $5 for one puzzle. Just place your donation in the basket or give it to the committee person on duty. We look forward to seeing you in the library and let us know of any addition you would like us to add to our collection. Library Committee
Follow-up Links from January 19, 2022, COVID Zoom Conversation with Dr. Koontz
During our church’s zoom conversation with Dr. Jennifer Scott Koontz on January 19, requests were made for links to be shared that Dr. Koontz uses to stay informed and updated on COVID-19 related issues. Below is a list of her suggested links.
Armbrust did testing on dozens of mask brands and gave them pass/fail ratings on how well they worked. You can find their results for individual brands here: https://www.armbrustusa.com/pages/mask-testing
Kansas Hospital Association posts a weekly dashboard with hospital data from across the state. This link includes several resources and the dashboard link: https://www.kha-net.org/CriticalIssues/HospitalPreparedness/covid-19/
CDC: This is their main link: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html. I also think it’s helpful to follow them on Facebook and Twitter because they post regular updates.
CDC Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report: Scientific articles from the CDC get posted here and you can subscribe for email alerts: https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/Novel_Coronavirus_Reports.html
Kansas Department of Health Environment COVID data: This is the state COVID data that gets updated three times per week: https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas
Two links with resources on aerosol transmission from Dr. Jose-Luis Jimenez from the University of Colorado. The first is called “FAQs on Protecting Yourself from Aerosol Transmission”: https://tinyurl.com/FAQ-aerosols. The second is a calculator to assess risk in different situations and has additional statistics: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/16K1OQkLD4BjgBdO8ePj6ytf-RpPMlJ6aXFg3PrIQBbQ/htmlview?urp=gmail_link#gid=519189277
Dr. Eric Topol – He is a physician who has been an excellent source of information throughout the pandemic. His work has been consistent and thoughtful. He has a website, drerictopol.com, with excellent articles, but following him on Twitter is a great way to get regular updates (@EricTopol).
Andy Slavitt, Former Biden White House Sr Advisor for COVID Response, has a regular podcast called “In the Bubble.” He has interviews with excellent scientists such as Dr. Paul Offit, Dr. Michael Mina, and many others: https://lemonadamedia.com/show/inthebubble/
Journal of the American Medical Association Open Network: This publishes scientific articles related to COVID on a regular basis. This is heavier on science than some of the other links, but can be a great resource to see the latest publications on diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and the impact of policies: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/pages/coronavirus-alert
medRxiv is the preprint server for health sciences and shares scientific publications before they undergo the peer review process. These articles should be viewed as preliminary but the majority of COVID research is shared here first: https://connect.medrxiv.org/relate/content/181
Link to order four free home antigen tests per household: www.covidtests.gov
The University of Kansas Health System’s Facebook page hosts regular video morning updates.
Each state has a health department (ours is KDHE) and many post excellent data and information from their state.
The UK shares excellent data. This is a link to their technical briefings on variants and their impact on cases, hospitalizations, etc: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/investigation-of-sars-cov-2-variants-technical-briefings
Bethel College Announcements
Life Enrichment at Bethel College has been canceled for spring 2022, due to ongoing health and safety concerns. Organizers hope to resume Life Enrichment in fall 2022.
TODAY (Sun., Jan. 23) – Bethel College Music Department Honors Recital, 4 p.m., Administration Building chapel, featuring freshman, sophomore and junior vocal and instrumental students who performed exceptionally during the fall 2021 semester. Current Bethel COVID protocols require masking indoors regardless of vaccination status.
Sat., Jan. 29 – Kauffman Museum annual Kansas Day event, “Famous Kansans,” noon-4 p.m. (with food trucks in the museum parking lot starting at 11:30 a.m.), museum and grounds. Along with activities inside and outside the museum, there will be presentations on Gordon Parks (Kirk Sharp, director of the Gordon Parks Museum), Blackbear Bosin (Erin Raux, director of the Mid-America All-Indian Center) and William Allen White (Bev Buller, author and retired educator). For more information, see the Kauffman Museum Facebook page or kauffmanmuseum.org. Current Bethel COVID protocols require masking indoors regardless of vaccination status.
Sat., Jan. 29 – Guest recital with Gjergji Gaqi, piano, from Tyler (Texas) Junior College, 7 p.m., Administration Building chapel at Bethel College. Current Bethel COVID protocols require masking indoors regardless of vaccination status.
Save the date: Fri., Feb. 11, guest recital with Bethel College Professor Emeritus of Music Don Kehrberg, oboe.
Click on this link for information and sign up sheet for the Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale Fellowship Meals for 2022
Western District Conference Announcements
As Western District Conference comes to the end of our fiscal year on January 31, we invite you to share a gift with WDC during this season. We are grateful to many who have given their time and resources to WDC in 2021 to help our congregations Witness & invite others to faith in Jesus Christ, Dwell in just & loving relationships, and Connect to God’s mission in the world. As of December 31, contributions and other income are $331,300. This leaves a gap of $94,000 to meet our expenses year to date, so your generous gifts are invited to help close the gap towards WDC’s 2021 budget goal! You may make an online contribution here or send a check to Western District Conference, PO Box 306, North Newton, KS 67117. Thank you for your generosity!
Western District Conference invites you to visit our website to read the latest news, stories and announcements and share them with your congregation!
Everyone is invited to the WDC Final Thursday Book Discussion on January 27, 2022 at 7:00pm via Zoom. We will discuss This is God’s Table: Finding Church Beyond the Walls by Anna Woofender and explore what it means to explore “raw, honest, gritty way[s] of doing church.” Contact the library at [email protected] to register or borrow a copy of the book.
Camp Mennoscah Announcements
To all who supported Camp Mennoscah through gifts, prayers, volunteering, and visits in 2021, thank you immensely! Camp Mennoscah is looking forward to the 74th year of building on the Rock and playing in the sands of the Ninnescah River. Come be part of faith formation and connecting with others! It’s more fun together.
Other events and happenings:
- Summer staff positions are being filled, but more staff is needed! Applicants should be 18 years old or older and in agreement with the Camp Mennoscah mission statement. See website for details.Information and the online application can be found here! Call or email with questions.
- Camp Mennoscah wants to respect your wishes regarding emails. To unsubscribe from these announcements, reply “unsubscribe” to this email. Camp Mennoscah sends announcements, newsletters, and the annual catalog by email. To unsubscribe from all, reply “unsubscribe all.”
- Camp Mennoscah Merch! From CamelBaks to tee shirts and stickers, you can find your Camp Mennoscah merchandise at https://camp-mennoscah-store.square.site/s/shop
- Volunteering opportunities continue through the winter months! The wish list is full of both items and volunteer projects for every group size, skill set and length of project. These items and projects help with the faith formation that happens at Camp Mennoscah. The list has more wishes and there are more projects to do. Email [email protected] or call 620-297-3290 to volunteer. See the Wish List for other ways to support Camp Mennoscah!
- Camp Mennoscah has openings for a part-time custodial/housekeeping position (10 hours) and a part-time office/administrative position (30 hours with benefits). Some of the office/administrative tasks can be done from home. Contact Olivia at [email protected] for more information.
- Camp Mennoscah is seeking a full-time Director of Development, Marketing & Communications to lead our ongoing operational and advancement needs. This position reports directly to the Board of Directors while taking directive from the Executive Director when related to operational considerations. As a member of a small, very hands-on staff, the role is expected to be highly collaborative. This professional must embrace the mission of Camp Mennoscah, have an established background in coordinating nonprofit donation strategies, possess strong written, interpersonal, leadership and relationship building skills, and work as an independent contributor with good organization and follow-through. Most of the work will commence off campus, however some in-person time at camp is required.
This role involves organizing broad-based fundraising initiatives, advocating for Camp Mennoscah through speaking engagements, promotional materials, and social media, as well as recruiting volunteers, and building relationships with board members, donors and staff.
Our ideal candidate will have a bachelor’s degree, a minimum of five years of fund development experience, or equivalent experience in church relations, and a passion for Camp Mennoscah. They should also be familiar with office related applications, and other technology used for communication and social media. Experience with CampBrain and the associated donor database is a plus.
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled and early submission is encouraged. Please send application materials (resume, cover letter, references and salary requirements) to [email protected].
For Mennonite Men Oregon Eco Excursion click here
For Mennonite Disaster Service On the Level click here
For Mennonite World Conference Info click here
Mennonite Mission Network Prayer Request: Mennonite Mission Network requests prayer for young people, ages 15-22, considering participation in Youth Venture next summer. Experiences include: learning about the Hopi people in Kykotsmovi, Arizona; joining an immigration/borderlands tour in Tucson, Arizona; and engaging with a civil rights learning tour in the southern states. International opportunities may also be available, depending on the COVID-19 situation.
Western District Conference Prayer Request: Give thanks for WDC’s relationships with other organizations and institutions, and pray that these partnerships would extend God’s healing and hope in the world.
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Gambling tourism allows you to travel while also enjoying your favorite pastime. From luxurious casinos in well-known locations to hidden jewels to the rise of online gaming, there are numerous intriguing possibilities available.
This post will introduce you to some of the world’s most popular gambling sites, including the always-busy Las Vegas, the dynamic Singapore, the gorgeous New Zealand, and the rapidly expanding Australian online casino market.
Las Vegas: The World’s Gambling Capital
As we all know, when people think of gambling places, Las Vegas usually comes to mind first. Some of the most well-known casinos and resorts may be found in this vibrant Nevada city, which is referred to as the Gambling Capital of the World. The Las Vegas Strip, with its 4.2 miles of neon lights and over 30 casinos, generates more than $6 billion annually in gaming revenue.
Perhaps every gambling enthusiast is familiar with a list of famous casinos, such as The Bellagio, MGM Grand, and Caesars Palace, which provide a variety of games such as poker, blackjack, slot machines, and roulette. Las Vegas has much to offer in terms of entertainment options beyond casinos, such as world-class events, dining, and nightlife. Travelers with an inquisitive nature or seasoned gamblers alike will find something to enjoy in Las Vegas.
Singapore: The Gaming Industry’s Emerging Gem Journey
Singapore, one of the richest countries in the world, is becoming increasingly popular for gambling vacations. The city is home to two of the world’s most luxurious casino resorts, Marina Bay Sands and Resorts World Sentosa. These resorts offer great dining options, elegant shopping, stunning architecture, and a variety of gaming opportunities.
The renowned rooftop infinity pool of the Marina Bay Sands offers a breathtaking perspective of the city. Situated on Sentosa Island, Resorts World Sentosa is a casino complex featuring hotels, theme parks, and exciting nightlife. Singapore’s stringent regulations, which offer a secure and equitable gambling atmosphere, draw tourists from all over the world.
New Zealand: A Bettors’ Secret Treasure
New Zealand offers unique and enjoyable gambling experiences, even though it’s not as well-known as Singapore or Las Vegas. There are several reputable casinos in the nation, such as SkyCity Auckland, which offers a variety of table games, slot (or pokies, as they are called there) machines, and poker rooms.
New Zealand casinos are generally smaller, cozier, and offer a more laid-back vibe. Beyond its lively casino scene, New Zealand is renowned for its breathtaking beauty and outdoor experiences. After spending the day taking in the breathtaking natural surroundings, guests can spend the evening in the casino, trying their luck.
Further information regarding gambling tourism in New Zealand can also be found in this article written by Gavin Harper, a specialist in Australian online casinos.
What’s Driving the Increase in the Popularity of Australian Online Casinos?
Aussie internet casinos have become increasingly popular recently. This phenomenon is a necessary component of the gaming tourist environment for a number of reasons.
First of all, you may gamble conveniently from the comfort of your home while playing at online casinos. Without ever having to leave their home, players can access a vast selection of games whenever they choose.
The variety is huge: from classic table games to pokies and live dealer games, Australian online casinos offer a huge selection of games. This variety makes it easy for players to choose their favorite game. Both new and returning players can take advantage of plenty of promotions and bonus offers from a number of Australian online casinos. Free spins, deposit matches, and loyalty programs are a few examples of these incentives that can improve the whole gaming experience.
The popularity of mobile gaming and advancements in technology have made online gambling more accessible and enjoyable. A fantastic gaming experience is created by the combination of excellent graphics, fluid gameplay, and interactive components. Australian online casinos that adhere to strict operating regulations offer a safe and equitable gaming environment. Knowing that their personal and financial information is safe gives gamers a sense of security.
To Sum Up
Gambling tourism allows you to see the sights while playing your favorite games. Each location offers a unique gaming experience, from the glitz and glamor of Las Vegas to the modern sophistication of Singapore and the allure of New Zealand. What’s more, Australian online casinos are becoming increasingly popular, offering players another easy and diverse choice.
Whether they prefer the sophisticated surroundings of Singapore, the relaxed atmosphere of New Zealand, the bustling casinos of Las Vegas, or the convenience of online gambling, every player can find the perfect place. So, pack your bags, place your bets, and start an incredible journey to some of the world’s most popular gambling destinations.
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In mid–2013 I needed a new computer. Like many others I chose A MacBook Air instead of a Windows laptop.
It wasn’t my first Apple. In 1984 I bought one of the first 128k Macs. There were others.
Yet for twenty years my work had revolved around Microsoft Windows.
A vote against Windows
So why throw away the skills and software investment?
It came down to three reasons.
First, the 2013 MacBook Air’s all day battery. At the time no other laptop came close to this. With care you could eke out 12 hours. The best Windows laptops of the day could manage, perhaps, six hours. And that’s being generous.
Second, the MacBook Air is light and thin without compromising on the keyboard or touchpad. While many rival 2013 laptops were as light and thin, there were compromises.
The third consideration is more complicated. It wasn’t so much that Windows 8 was an annoying, hard-to-use mess. Although that is true.
It was that Microsoft’s misstep opened the door to alternatives in ways earlier Windows upgrades did not.
Moving from Windows 8 was not going to be a wrench.
At around this time Windows 8.1 arrived. It was another dog’s breakfast. Microsoft doubled down the madness.
Windows 8.1 was meant to fix 8. It changed nothing.
The move from Windows 8 to OS X Mountain Lion proved less jarring than the move from Windows 7 to Windows 8. There was no going back.
There could have been going back.
In mid–2013, Microsoft’s first Surface Pro was a promising alternative to the MacBook Air.
True, it was underpowered and overpriced. The first Surface models needed expensive add-on keyboards that are fine for casual use, but painful after hours of touch-typing.
Microsoft’s second generation Surface Pro was better. The keyboard wasn’t perfect but was usable.
Had they arrived a few months earlier, a Surface Pro may have graced my desk instead of the MacBook Air.
This may sound contradictory given the earlier comments about Windows 8. There is a simple explanation.
Windows 8 didn’t make sense on a two-year-old desktop computer. Nor did it make sense on a 2013 Ultrabook. Windows 8 was almost as bad on an ordinary 2013 touch screen PC.
You could see what Microsoft was trying to do with Window 8 when you tried it on a Surface.
Windows 8 still wasn’t great. Yet on a Surface it showed occasional glimpses of logic. There were hints of elegance.
As Apple might say; it just works.
Maybe it doesn’t work well as you’d hope. Yet on a device that acts as both a laptop and a tablet Windows 8 was no longer incoherent.
Coherence isn’t the first word that springs to mind with Windows 10. Yet, for the most part, that’s what distinguishes it from Windows 8.
If you’re using Windows 10 on a laptop without a touch screen, you won’t find yourself accidentally dropping into tablet mode. It acts like a laptop operating system.
A laptop operating system that acts like a laptop operating system shouldn’t be a big deal. But that was the problem with Windows 8. It didn’t act like a laptop operating system or a PC operating system.
Apple operating system
When I chose the MacBook, I turned to Apple for the hardware and stayed for the software.
It took time to warm to OS X.
The first thing I did after taking my new MacBook Air out of its box was install Windows 7.
For a while the MacBook Air was a Windows laptop. It may have been the best Windows possible laptop of the time. The MacBook was snappier, lighter and had longer battery life than anything that came with Windows installed.
Over time I moved to OS X. It was a revelation. Life was easier, work was easier, everything was easier. My productivity soared.
OS X, or macOS as it’s now called, isn’t perfect. It has flaws and annoyances. On the plus side it is robust in ways that Windows never was. You can go months without rebooting. Try doing that with Windows 8.
These days a lot of computing takes place in the browser. You can do almost everything there.
That’s the thinking behind the Google Chromebooks. They use a browser as an operating system. With so much software now being delivered as an online service, operating systems take a back seat.
This is an area where Windows will struggle to recapture its greatness. When everything revolved around operating systems, Microsoft called the shots in the computer industry. Apple carved out a niche.
Now the PC action is all in and around the browser and cloud computing. Today’s main battleground is with phone operating systems.
Microsoft is strong in cloud. It has first class cloud apps, but it lost the plot with phones.
You can still get phones that run Windows 10. Almost no-one buys them. Microsoft has little interest in selling Windows Phones. That may undermine other parts of the business.
In contrast Apple not only has the popular iPhone, but has found ways to integrate the iPhone with its laptop operating system.
It feels like magic when an incoming iPhone call gets the Apple Watch tapping your wrist and a notification appears on the MacBook. You can answer the call or respond to a text message on any of these devices. They act as a coordinated team.
Windows 10 fixes a lot of the Windows 8 problems. It’s the operating system Microsoft should have had in 2013.
The damage from a failed version will echo down the years at Microsoft. And elsewhere. While it isn’t the reason why PC sales plummeted in recent years, the Windows 8 debacle did not help.
Last month Microsoft trumpet that 400 million computers now run Windows 10. It’s an achievement. But let’s not forget in most cases Microsoft gave the software away.
Today it costs more than $100 for an everyday user to buy a Windows 10 upgrade. At that price Microsoft missed $40 billion in revenue.
It’s not just the money. Nor is it the loss of prestige or the distraction. There’s also a loss of momentum. Above all these, there’s the dawning realisation that Windows is no longer centre stage.
Nothing is going to fix that.
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Dune bashing is one of the most prominent attractions of any desert safari. It’s a sport that offers quite a thrilling ride over the undulating dunes in the 4×4 vehicle driven by expert guides of Best Desert safari Dubai Operator. It is a rollercoaster ride like no other, as the roaring engine and shifting sands give an unforgettable rush.
This is what Dubai Safari makes dune bashing exciting-to be unpredictable. Every rise and fall brings a challenge and makes it exciting, leaving you at the edge of your seat. For those adventure lovers, this is certainly an experience not to miss.
Camel Rides and Traditional Experiences
Of course, no desert safari can be whole without a ride on a camel-a piece of the Age-old tradition known as vessel of the desert. Camels are said to have been the main mode of conveyance in the Arabian desert for periods. Camel riding stretches you an idea about the traditional traveling lifestyle of the Bedouins.
The camel ride is, of course, a gentle journey as well as a search of the desert. The swinging gait of this lets you capture the dunes’ vast expanse while appreciating the peacefulness of the desert. This is a rare chance to reconnect with nature to absorb all the simple elegance life in the desert has to offer.
Other than riding on a camel, most desert tours will include cultural activities you would associate with the desert itself, including falconry demonstrations and henna painting. Such cultural experiences upgrade the understanding you would otherwise have of the region’s heritage and give you a personal connection to the land and its people.
A Night Under the Stars
Imagine sitting in the desert, under a canopy of stars, far from city lights, at the end of day. Night sky in the desert is breathtakingly beautiful – just the right kind of setting for rest and reflection. No noise but the whispers of the wind penetrate the desert, carrying with it some sense of peace and tranquility that cannot be easily found elsewhere.
Many desert safaris also offer an overnight option, where you spend the night at a Bedouin camp. Surrounded by warmth and comfort in traditional Arabian hospitality, you are treated to a sumptuous dinner under the stars. The combination of palatable food and great entertainment and the magical atmosphere of that evening will make it unforgettable.
No other experience can be as exquisitely exquisite as spending the night sleeping under the stars in a desert. The exposure and quietness of the desert perfectly create an interface with nature that is both humbling and exhilarating at the same time. It’s the best time to relax and reflect while taking in the splendor and marvel of the surrounding world.
Safety Tips for a Desert Safari Adventure
A desert safari is an exciting adventure, but do not forget about safety so as not to get worried. A few simple precautions can really help you make the most of your desert excursion with minimum risks.
First and foremost, take care to do it with a respected safari operator who has professionals to drive the car and well-maintained vehicles. Desert terrain is very difficult to get to, and specialists should be doing this for you. Well-updated operators have time for such priorities as safety: they keep to strict norms of security measures and will let you rest in peace during your safari.
Remains wise as at dune bashing or quad biking and hence takes any warnings from guides. Wears seatbelts and helmets wherever required not to behave too recklessly and cause accidents. Its safety is everyone’s responsibility, and your cooperation is necessary to make it a hassle-free tour.
The Romance of Sunset Desert Safaris
While sunrise safaris bring serenity, sunrise excursions bring a different kind of magic. When the sun is setting, it changes the desert into a magical spectacle-sand, with constantly changing colors and moods, to create a unique atmosphere.
The warm colors of sunset are especially brilliant for photography as it deepens and richens your picture. Take a shot of the desert landscape as the sun disappears below the horizon silhouetting the state into shadows-drama shots.
A sunset safari offers one the unique opportunity to enjoy an easy going evening in the desert. Most tours include a traditional Arabian dinner, with live entertainment and cultural performances. The combination of mouth-watering food, music, and dance under the stars creates a festive atmosphere that celebrates the spirit of the desert.
In fact, visiting the secrets of the Arabian desert to have an adventure with a strong flavor of culture and natural beauty by going on safari in Dubai is not very common. Whether you are an experienced traveler or visiting there for the first time, you would be allured by the promise of the Arabian desert to make you feel captivated and inspired.
Every moment in the desert, be it the thrills of dune bashing all the way or complete serenity on a camel’s back, is a wonderful experience and a moment of discovery. Rich in Bedouin culture, beauty in the landscape, and warmth in Arabic hospitality, this was indeed an adventure not to forget.
And if you are prepared to appreciate the charm of desert, then this is the best time to book your safari. Begin an adventure that will provide you with enduring moments and an increased love for the spell-bound world of Dubai’s deserts.
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They say if we feel we are blessed to be doing well, we should help others too! That’s what Fortis College DH students had the courage to do!
Note from StudentRDH: There are a lot of requirements dental hygiene students need to meet in order to graduate and acquire the golden ticket. Amazingly, I have met a group of dental hygiene students who have surpassed what is expected of them and had the courage to extend help to those who are in need. ? What I admire the most about these dental hygiene students is that through their willingness to help others, they have learned how to be a dental hygienist that has a heart full of grace and generosity while working hard for their passion.
StudentRDH sponsored part of their volunteer trip to provide free dental care for an underserved population in Mexico. ☺ Thanks for sharing your wonderful experience! We are extremely proud of you all! ? Let’s find out how they made it possible!
Watch The Full Interview & Read The Blog! ✍
How It All Began
Orientation, it’s an eleven-letter word that elicits both nervousness and excitement. For a dental hygiene student, it means meeting sixteen other A-type personalities who just want to scrape every speck of calculus off teeth. We get a parade of teachers, all of whom seem extremely nice, and finally, our director who springs the amazing news that we will have the opportunity to take part in the biannual “Mexico Trip.” Immediately everyone’s eyes light up at the prospect of helping a community that doesn’t have access to dental care. ? It’s no shock that we were all in. We looked forward to this trip for over a year before it would become reality.
Enthusiastically, we watched as three cohorts came and went, all of whom had attended the Mexico trip. Every six months we would hear the excitement of students packing up in the morning as they got ready to leave. After they came back, we would see their photos from the trip, and hear the stories of memories they would forever hold dear. With every trip, we saw our turn grow closer. It was fun to think about the good times we would have and what the trip would be like. ? How many patients would we help? What would they be like? How would we deal with the language barrier? These were some of the questions running through our heads, and as our trip got closer all those questions were answered. ☺
✍ Our trip orientation meeting was very informative about the upcoming trip and we also learned some things we weren’t previously aware of. This wasn’t a trip sponsored by our school or considered a school trip, but rather an organization that was created by our director. Esencial Oral Health was one of a few volunteer organizations that operated out of a facility in Puerto Penasco, Mexico. This organization also partners with Dr. Rustin Reidhead, DDS to provide much-needed extractions and fillings. So here we are, fifteen students, five instructors, and one dentist ready to provide as many healthy smiles as possible. ?
Off We Go!
The most anticipated event aside from board exams and or graduation was finally here! We arrived early at school to pack in all the portable and disposable supplies into our cars like a game of Tetris, and our caravan was off! Mexico greeted us with amazing food, beginning with a family-style dinner to fuel us for the clinic setup. Little did we know the clinic was located in a very impoverished area far away from the pretty resorts, white sand beaches, and cocktails topped with tiny umbrellas.
The drive to the clinic was down many unpaved and bumpy roads lined with tiny shacks used for shelter. Hand washed clothes hung from wires dried by the ocean breeze and there were so many stray dogs that we lost count. It was at this point we realized just how much help these families needed and motivating us to do as much as we could. That night, we set up the clinic in record time and headed to our home away from home for the weekend.
Our Time In Clinic!
We woke up the next morning ready to take on the day, but nervous as ever. Naturally, our hosts at the clinic had prepared a traditional Mexican breakfast for us. It is second nature in the Mexican culture to make sure everyone is well fed. Then we threw on our loupes, picked our “stations”, and threw on the tunes to create a fun environment. It’s surprising how quickly the macarena ? can relieve nervous jitters.
Esencial Oral Health provided all the equipment and supplies that were available at the clinic. We were limited only to what we could pack our vehicles. We didn’t have a reclining dental chair with suction, but we did the best we could to make our patients feel comfortable while trying not to totally throw our ergonomics out of the window. Portable piezo units were available to help remove old and tenacious calculus. Suction and rinse were replaced by plastic cups (one to rinse and one to spit), and our patients relaxed on reclining beach chairs.
The patients filled out a bilingual medical history, and we used our best judgment to develop a plan of action on what we could achieve for each patient in an hours’ time. ? For some, that would mean a full mouth prophy and for others, this meant just a couple of teeth.
Our dentist, Dr. Rustin Reidhead was available to determine which teeth were most in need of extraction. He advised us as to which injections he would like us to give before walking our patients over to his building at the clinic. One somber realization we had was seeing rampant caries that nearly every patient presented with. This meant, in some cases, giving a terrified child an injection to extract bombed out deciduous teeth; all with a smile to make the experience less frightening. In less extreme cases, we placed silver diamine fluoride to arrest the progression of caries. ✅
As a group, we were humbled by the appreciation of our patients. We heard not one complaint, minimal tears, and the best patient compliance a hygienist could ask for. Many hugs were given, and blessings passed by those who received care that warmed every heart around. Throughout the day, we lean on the senior students and switched off roles when we needed a break.
The senior students provided the support and knowledge to help when we saw a patient that was more complicated than we had seen before. We also had a few instructors and students who were able to translate for us. As the day went on, the translators ram around tirelessly asking for chief complaints or providing clarity to patient questions. They were so appreciated! As we left at the end of the first day, we felt a gratitude we hadn’t experienced before, and a duty to do even more. That day we treated 100 patients.
Looking for a better boards review?
⏳ Second Day of Clinic!
On the second day of clinic, we were a well-oiled machine. Having dealt with the nerves the first day, we were now prepared to finish strong. The second day proceeded very much like the first, but with a slight melancholy feeling knowing it was our last day. We would have to leave this community that had changed us for the better, and hopefully, we had done the same for them.
We will remember each face and smile. Our desire to continue volunteering has increased thanks to those 200+ patients, and future cohorts will continue this work in the fall. This opportunity serves as a foundation for future dental hygienists to empower and help others.
Assess Your Strengths and Weaknesses, Grab The FREE STUDY PLANNER!
Related Article: How To Get A Job as a Dental Hygienist Before Graduation
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We hear so much about what not to eat that sometimes it’s hard to remember that there are plenty of foods that you can work into a balanced daily diet that have some potential health benefits. While experts are always continuing to study what’s healthy and what isn’t, the following are items are commonly known as “power foods” that you can easily (and deliciously) incorporate into your daily diet plan.
Dark chocolate: It sounds too good to be true, but it’s not. Dark chocolate has potential benefits to your heart, and it may help in reducing “bad” cholesterol (LDL) and blood pressure and increasing blood flow to the brain. This is because dark chocolate contains flavonoids, which come from the cacao bean. The healthiest option is going to be chocolate with a high percentage of cocoa and a low amount of processing. However, use caution — although dark chocolate does have benefits, it also has sugar, calories, and fat, so you need to eat it only in moderation.
Olive oil: Like chocolate, olive oil is also best when consumed in moderation. It has a lot of calories and is 100 percent fat. However, substituting this monounsaturated fat for other fats, like saturated and trans fats, could have cholesterol-lowering effects, and its antioxidants may help protect against certain cancers and other health conditions.
Coffee: While people used to consider coffee to be a vice of sorts, recent research shows that coffee may have certain health benefits, including protecting against Parkinson’s Disease, type-2 diabetes, and liver disease. Like other healthy foods, coffee is rich in antioxidants. These antioxidants become more potent after roasting; it also contains magnesium and trigonelline (which can help prevent some dental problems). Studies have shown that caffeine offers some benefits, too. All of that doesn’t mean that you should have an extra latte or frothy espresso drink, though – those add calories and fat to your coffee, so stick with the plain brew.
Pomegranate: Pomegranates are the “it” fruit these days, it seems. Research suggests that its antioxidants might keep some LDL cholesterol from forming plaque and improve blood flow, and its juice might slow the growth of prostate cancer. We do know this colorful fruit is fun to eat! It is rich in antioxidants and a great source of Vitamin C, potassium, and fiber.
Avocado: Guacamole, anyone? Avocados can be tricky because they stay ripe for just a short time before becoming overripe. However, they have plenty of mono- and polyunsaturated fats, oleic acid, and potassium. These fats, when consumed in moderation and eaten in place of saturated or trans fats, may help reduce cholesterol levels and decrease the risk for heart disease. As part of a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, avocados may help ward off high blood pressure and stroke, promote eye health, and protect against certain cancers.
Salmon: Why is this so important? It’s because salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 polyunsaturated fat, and also a good source of protein, while still being “low” in calories (233 calories in a four-ounce portion). Eating two servings of fish per week is a good rule of thumb. If salmon is not your choice, mackerel, trout, herring, and sardines also have omega-3s.
Beans: We’re not necessarily talking about your standard green string bean, here. While those are certainly healthy, it’s the navy, black, red, white and garbanzo beans that can pack an extra punch when it comes to your health. What they don’t have is much fat, and they have no cholesterol. What they do have is protein, fiber, iron, folic acid, potassium, and (red and black beans, especially) flavonoids. They’re also antioxidant-rich.
Pumpkin: While pumpkin muffins, lattes, and other delicacies are all the rage during the autumn season, eating pumpkin regularly has year-round benefits. Pumpkins are full of fiber and beta-carotene (which converts to vitamin A in your body), along with vitamin C and potassium. While we can’t wholeheartedly endorse pumpkin muffins, cakes, and sugary pumpkin-flavored specialty drinks, we can say that when eaten alone or cooked into healthy recipes, pumpkin can be a great asset to your health. Further studies are looking into the potential benefits these foods can provide in the prevention of cancers, atherosclerosis, and reduction of blood pressure.
Whole grains: Oats, popcorn, brown rice, quinoa, whole grain barley, whole wheat, buckwheat and whole grain corn all contain good amounts of fiber. Soluble fiber helps to reduce the amount of cholesterol in food from being absorbed into your bloodstream. Insoluble fiber helps with digestive health and keeps you feeling full.
Mushrooms: Ever heard of ergothioneine? It’s not one of the often-discussed antioxidants, but it’s still important. Mushrooms are full of it, along with potassium. In fact, a three-ounce portobello mushroom has as much potassium as a small banana!
Tea: Whether you prefer hot or iced, or if you want to cook it into a savory recipe, tea has many benefits for your health because it has high antioxidant content.
Seaweed: That’s right, seaweed. Popular in parts of Asia, there aren’t too many Americans who consume seaweed as part of our normal diet, but it may be a beneficial addition. Seaweed is a good source of potassium and calcium, as well as vitamins C, E, and beta-carotene.
Scallops: These are a guilt-free indulgence. Provided that they’re not breaded, fried, or drenched in butter, pan-seared scallops have 95 calories and 20 grams of protein in a serving (about 3 oz. cooked), along with magnesium and potassium.
Lentils: Maybe their slogan should be “Lentils: Not Just for Soup Anymore.” Really, though, a cup of lentils has 16 grams of fiber and a ton of folate. Not only can they be the heart of a delicious soup, but you can also cook them and use them as a bed for your main protein (like chicken, fish, or meat), instead of pasta or rice.
These foods are items you can find easily at your local supermarket without having to shop at specialty grocers or health food stores, which is one reason why they’re great choices to incorporate into your daily diet. Also, they can be used creatively either on their own or in recipes that you can make to boost your own and your family’s health.
For more tips and tools on healthy eating, visit our Diet & Nutrition center.
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Motorhome owners are increasingly switching to solar to take advantage of its energy savings and off-grid capabilities. Out of all the different types of solar panels available, many are turning to flexible photovoltaics.
Flexible solar panels maximise the surface area of your motorhome’s roof. They have incredible flex, making them easy to mount on curved and irregular-shaped surfaces.
If you want to install flexible photovoltaics onto your motorhome, you’ll need the right equipment and step-by-step instructions.
Find everything you need to do it the right way here.
What Equipment Do You Need To Mount Flexible Solar Panels on a Motorhome?
The equipment you will need depends on the installation method you choose.
First, is the roof of your motorhome rigid or made of canvas?
For obvious reasons, there are different installation approaches for canvas and rigid roofs.
Since motorhomes with solid metal or fibreglass roofs are more common, this article will focus on the best way to install flexible solar panels on a solid surface.
When installing photovoltaics on a rigid roof, there are several methods and mounting materials to consider.
You’ll need the flexible photovoltaic (PV) panels first. Options like the EcoFlow 100W Flexible Solar Panels are lightweight and can flex up to 258°. They’re excellent for mounting to curved and irregular surfaces. And unlike most thin-film flexible solar panels, they have an industry-leading efficiency rating of 23%.
With very few exceptions, you can’t connect solar panels directly to your appliances or motorhome electrical system. You’ll also need a portable power station, power kit, or other balance of system (BOS).
Typical BOS components required by any off-grid solar power system include:
You can build your system piece-by-piece using separate components from different manufacturers. Going DIY can be a challenge, especially if you don’t have extensive experience building electronics. And it’s easy to run into compatibility issues between manufacturers’ components and solar panels.
Many people avoid the hassle by buying a plug-and-play solution like EcoFlow’s solar generators. Solar generators include a PV panel(s) and a portable power station — everything you need to get off-grid electricity generation up and running.
EcoFlow’s portable power stations, like the DELTA 2, offer AC/DC and USB-C charging in addition to direct solar input, so you’ll always have options to stay charged on the go.
Now that we’ve explored what you need in addition to flexible solar panels for them to function, let’s look at the step-by-step installation.
Luckily, it’s relatively easy!
How To Mount Flexible Solar Panels on Your Motorhome
Once you’ve purchased your solar panels and portable power station, it’s time to install the panels.
It’s crucial to remember that flexible solar panels alone can only produce a minimal amount of electricity. For most applications, you’ll want to combine them with rigid solar panels, which are easy to permanently mount on level surfaces — like your motorhome’s roof.
Here we’ll focus on flexible solar panel installation only — step-by-step.
1. Purchase the Right Tools
With EcoFlow’s flexible solar panels, there are two easy installation methods. One is to screw them directly onto the exterior of your motorhome using a drill or screwdriver. The PV panels come with six pre-drilled holes — one in each corner and 2 in the middle on either side of the frame.
One of the main advantages of flexible solar panels is their lightweight, low-profile build. If you’d rather not drill into your motorhome’s exterior, you can permanently affix them to your vehicle using silicone-based adhesives like SG20 or Fix8. Or a double-sided acrylic foam tape like 3M VHB Tape. This isn’t a viable option with heavier-weight, thicker rigid solar panels.
2. Plan Your Solar Panel Layout
Lay out your flexible panels and mark their locations on your motorhome’s roof with coloured tape or a wax pencil.
Avoid areas where a satellite dish or air conditioner could cast shade.
Also, leave about 0.79 inches (20 mm) between each panel if you install multiple panels so that you can interconnect the panels with cables.
3. Mount the Flexible Panels
Screw Mounting: Position the solar panel where you want it mounted. Using a pen or marker, make a marker through each of the predrilled holes in the panel. Use the appropriate sized drill bit to predrill your holes on the motorhome. Screw your panel into the holes on the motorhome using a screwdriver or power drill and the right size Phillips or flat head screws. It’s usually best to screw in the diagonally-opposite corners first, as this will help ensure the panel stays in place as you screw in the other holes.
Silicon or Double-Sided Tape Mounting: Using your silicon-based adhesive or VHB tape, apply the adhesive in strips running the entire panel width beneath each cell gap.
Don’t apply the adhesive around the edges of the panel, as this can trap air under the panel. Air pockets can expand when the panel heats up, damaging the panels and the motorhome roof.
4. Interconnect All Panels
Whether you have multiple flexible panels or a combination of flexible and rigid options, you’ll need to connect them all before connecting them to the portable power station. You can connect them in series or in parallel, depending on how you want to regulate the voltage or amps.
4. Connect All Panels to the Portable Power Station, Power Kit, or BOS
Once you have installed all your solar panels, and connected them in series or parallel, simply connect your array to the portable power station or other balance of system.
5. Connect the Portable Power Station to the Motorhome
For all of your DC power needs, run wires directly from the power station to the fuse box in your motorhome.
You can run an AC power strip and extension cord directly from the portable power station for all your AC power needs — like your refrigerator, TV, hot water kettle, laptop, smartphones, and other electronics. You can also plug each appliance directly into one of the AC outlets on the station itself.
Also, after you connect the power station directly to your fuse box, any AC outlets in the motorhome should also have power.
The LCD on your portable power station will display charge levels and electricity usage. You can also monitor and control everything from your smartphone using the EcoFlow App.
Why You Should Consider Using Flexible Solar Panels on a Motorhome
Flexible solar panels offer distinct advantages for motorhome owners. Here are some to consider.
1. Using Flexible Solar Panels Maximises Available Surface Area
Flexible solar panels let you maximise the surface area of your motorhome’s roof to produce more electricity. Since they are flexible, you can install them on curved roofs and other irregular surfaces that wouldn’t accommodate a rigid PV array.
Many people use a combination of flexible and portable or rigid solar panels alongside off-grid motorhome power solutions like the Ecoflow Power Kits. With a modular power kit, you’re free to customise your setup however you want to meet your energy needs.
2. Flexible Solar Panels Are Easy to Mount
Flexible panels are much easier to mount because of their lightweight and flexible design. Unlike large and heavy rigid panels, which require mounting hardware, you only need industrial silicon adhesive or high-strength VHB tape with flexible arrays.
3. Flexible Solar Panels Easily Connect With Other Solar Panel Types
Flexible panels combined with rigid and portable panels can cover all your energy needs while travelling off the grid.
Additionally, interconnecting all PV panels is an easy process you can do yourself.
Is Installing Flexible Solar Panels on Your Own Worth It?
Installing flexible solar panels and setting up your own renewable energy system can save you money if you have DIY experience. However, be sure you know what you are doing. Mistakes can be costly and cause damage to your equipment. Combining flexible with rigid solar panels can be slightly more challenging to install on your own.
Should You Use a Professional To Install Flexible Solar Panels?
If you have any doubts about installing your flexible PV panels, consult a professional and pay them to do the installation for you. The cost of paying for a solar power system to be professionally installed on your motorhome can easily end up being less expensive than damaging your
Flexible solar panels are an excellent addition to any motorhome solar power system. They’re easy to mount on curved, irregular-shaped surfaces to maximise energy production. They produce less electricity than higher rated power wattage rigid and portable solar panels, but they are ideally suited to augmenting them.
Flexible solar panels are also a fine standalone if your off-grid electricity needs are minimal.
If you’re ready to build a custom solar power system for your motorhome, consider EcoFlow. We have multiple solutions for motorhome owners, from flexible and rigid solar panels to power stations, solar generators, power kits, and more.
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I'm here to help you clear up the questions and get back to moving your body with confidence. Understanding a few key terms related to pregnancy and postpartum fitness will ensure that you are getting your brain and body exactly what it needs.
So here you go: The 10 essential terms every pregnant fitness enthusiast should know, along with their significance in helping you achieve a healthy and balanced pregnancy and postpartum journey.
1. Corrective Exercise: Corrective exercises (CE) is the study of how your brain is sending signals to your muscles. A customized CE plan is will packed with specialized movements that address your personal imbalances, weaknesses, or compensations in the body. Understanding how to implement corrective exercises during pregnancy and postpartum can help you maintain proper alignment, prevent the most common pregnancy related injuries, and support your changing body. I always tell my clients, there will be no "waddling" on my watch! We are going to nip all the aches and pains and keep you as mobile as possible throughout your entire pregnancy journey.
2. Pelvic Floor: The pelvic floor is a group of muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues that support the bladder, uterus, and bowels. These muscles play a crucial role in maintaining continence, providing pelvic organ support, and contributing to core stability. Learning how to engage and relax the pelvic floor correctly is essential for overall pelvic health before during and after pregnancy. I'm here to help us all put an end to the running joke that mom's can't jump on trampolines or pee when they sneeze. It may be common but it's not normal and there are steps to take to prevent and cure it.
3. Transverse Abdominis: Often referred to as the "corset" muscle, the transverse abdominis is a deep abdominal muscle that wraps around your torso. It's the muscle that naturally does the work of all those belly bands on the market. Strengthening the transverse abdominis is crucial during pregnancy and postpartum as it supports the growing belly, aids in core stability and is going to help you minimize and prevent pregnancy aches and pains resulting from a weak core...which includes a lot of aches and pains!
4. Diastasis Recti: Diastasis recti is a condition where the connective tissue, the linea alba, holding the two halves of the rectus abdominis together stretches during pregnancy. Understanding diastasis recti will take the fear out of it. Knowing how to modify exercises to prevent anything further than natural separation is essential to promote effective postpartum recovery and restore core strength. It's important to understand that this is a separation that is supposed to happen and it shouldn't be something to fear.
5. Inner Core Unit: The inner core unit consists of the diaphragm, pelvic floor, transverse abdominis, and multifidus muscles. These muscles work together to stabilize the spine and pelvis. Learning how to engage and integrate the inner core unit into your exercises will provide a solid foundation for your workouts during and after pregnancy. Strengthening the inner core unit is THE key to preventing aches, pains and injuries.
6. Diaphragmatic Breathing: Diaphragmatic breathing, also known as deep belly breathing, is a technique that involves breathing deeply into the diaphragm to promote relaxation and optimal core function. Practicing diaphragmatic breathing can help reduce stress, improve oxygenation, and support a healthy pregnancy and postpartum experience.
7. Perceived Level of Exertion: The perceived level of exertion is a subjective measure of how hard you feel your body is working during exercise. During pregnancy, it's crucial to listen to your body and monitor your exertion level to avoid overexertion and ensure that you're exercising within a safe range. Outdated science used to have pregnant people monitoring their heart rate but was removed and updated by ACOG in 1994. If you've been given the guideline of staying under 140bpm, don't feel scared to ask your provider why and what science they are basing their recommendation off of. You deserve to know and if they continue to stick with that recommendation, you may have to work a little harder to get the amount of movement that you need in order to gain the health benefits of movement for your and your baby.
8. Stress Management (Physical and Emotional): As we all know, managing stress is vital for both physical and emotional well-being in life as well as during pregnancy and postpartum. High stress levels can lead to physical tension, affecting your nervous system, breathing mechanics, core function, and overall health. Incorporating practices like mindfulness, yoga, and self-care activities or therapy is beneficial for both you and your baby. It's something that is much easier in theory than practice. It may take a little trial and error to find what works best for you.
9. Relaxin: Relaxin is a hormone released during pregnancy that helps relax the ligaments in the hips and pelvis to accommodate the growing baby and prepare for childbirth. While it's necessary for the birthing process, understanding the role of relaxin is crucial for modifying exercises to prevent overstretching and injuries during pregnancy. It's noteworthy to recognize that relaxin could lead to some places in your body feeling too tight and some feeling too loose. For example, a muscle that is too loose can feel tight because it's stretched to it's max. Stretching it more may do more harm than good. A specialist can help you determine what you need to be stretching vs strengthening during this time.
10. Prenatal and Postnatal Corrective Exercise Specialist (PPCES): Aka me! A pre and postnatal corrective exercise specialist is a certified fitness professional with expertise in guiding pregnant and postpartum folks through safe and effective exercise programs. A PPCES will take you through a total body assessment and build you a program to ensure that your workouts are tailored to your unique needs, reducing the risk of injuries and supporting your journey to reclaiming your strength postpartum.
As a busy, working mom or mom to be who values their fitness and mental well-being, understanding these terms can be empowering.
To sum this all up:
Corrective exercises will help you address any imbalances and prevent injuries. And it's never too soon or too late to start. Familiarity with your pelvic floor and transverse abdominis will aid in maintaining core strength and stability. Recognizing diastasis recti and the importance of the inner core unit will support your postpartum recovery. Diaphragmatic breathing and managing your perceived level of exertion will optimize your workouts, ensuring that you stay within safe limits. Stress management is essential for both your physical and emotional health, and being aware of the hormone relaxin will help you modify exercises as your body changes during pregnancy. By seeking guidance from a PPCES, you'll gain valuable insights and customized workout routines that align with your goals.
Armed with this knowledge, you can approach your pregnancy workouts with confidence, knowing that you're taking care of your body and well-being without the worry and stress that you are doing something wrong.
As a dedicated mom, PPCES and advocate for your well-being, I'm here to support you in this transformative experience. I'm here to help you achieve a healthy, strong, and balanced pregnancy and postpartum recovery. If you have questions, are looking for customized workouts or need some guidance, please book a no cost consultation with me, Coach Joanie, and we'll get you moving in the right direction.
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In a statement that seems to not have been reviewed before being issued, the EU declared without qualification that Israeli evictions of illegal Arab squatters on Jewish-owned property and demolitions of illegal structures on public land are “illegal under international law.” It could be that the EU is unduly distracted by the possibility of a Russian invasion into Ukraine, placing it on the borders of major European nations. But this is no excuse for making unfounded declarations regarding one of the most incendiary hot spots in the world: the holy city of Jerusalem.
The subject of the EU announcement was the execution of a five-year-old court-approved confiscation order of land, widely and violently protested by local Arabs. The land has been designated for the construction of six child-care centers and a special-needs school for the local Arab population. Could it be that the Israel cares more for its Arab residents than they themselves do?
In condemning the eviction, the European Union issued a statement similar to one it issued a year ago when Israel evicted a long-squatting Arab family from Jewish-owned property. The previous statement claimed that Israel is an “occupying power” in Jerusalem, and termed Israel’s settlement policy “illegal under international law.”
In what is possibly the only truism in the statement, the EU said that the continuation of Israel’s settlement policy “undermines the viability of the two-state solution… and seriously jeopardizes the possibility of Jerusalem serving as the future capital of both States.” This evaluation, seemingly meant as a warning, is welcomed by the majority of Israelis and even, according to polls, many Arabs in Jerusalem.
The Jewish People’s inalienable right to the Land of Israel is not only Biblical, but is rooted in internationally recognized legal treaties and documents beginning a century ago. In July 1922, the League of Nations, predecessor of today’s United Nations, voted unanimously to approve for a Jewish state the territory outlined for this purpose at the San Remo Conference of 1920. The document begins: “Whereas recognition has been given to the historical connection of the Jewish people with Palestine and to the grounds for reconstituting their national home in that country…”
It laid down the Jewish legal right under international law to settle anywhere in western Palestine, i.e., the area between the Jordan River and the Mediterranean Sea. This includes what some today call the West Bank (of the Jordan River), but is widely known as Judea and Samaria.
Article 6 actually encouraged “close settlement by Jews on the land, including state lands and waste lands not required for public use.” This clearly indicates, as author and expert Eli E. Hertz has written, that not only is Israeli control over these areas not illegal, but that international pressure on Israel to withdraw from them is illegal!
The United Nations, after taking over the authorities of the League of Nations upon its formation, then reaffirmed these terms.
International law expert Dr. Jacques P. Gauthier of Canada wrote his doctoral thesis on the legal status of Jerusalem. His conclusion, after 1,300 pages and 3,200 footnotes is that the world community of nations granted the Jewish People irrevocable legal rights to Jerusalem, and to the entire area west of the Jordan River, in a non-broken series of treaties and resolutions beginning with the Balfour Declaration and the San Remo Conference, as well as affirmations by the League of Nations and the UN.
As such, all claims that the Arabs deserve a state in Judea, Samaria and Gaza are groundless. For, as Dr. Gauthier often repeats, the legal principle of “la chose jugée” (judged issue) means that once the issue was decided, as it was in the above councils, it becomes irreversible and forever binding in a “sacred trust.”
After the UN was formed, seven Arab armies invaded the land, seeking not only to wipe out the Jewish presence there, but also to prevent the establishment of a Jewish state, in opposition to the UN’s stated intention. “Israel’s War of Independence in 1948 was considered lawful and in self-defense,” writes Hertz, “as may be reflected in UN resolutions naming Israel a ‘peace-loving State’ when it applied for membership at the United Nations,” by both the UN Security Council and General Assembly.
No changes in the legal status of the land were made by the time, less than 20 years later, that Arab armies tried again to destroy Israel. This became the Six Day War, which finally left Israel in control of, inter alia, Judea and Samaria – and able to implement its aforementioned rights to settle it.
Even if San Remo and the UN are ignored, Prof. Hon. Stephen M. Schwebel, former President of the International Court of Justice (ICJ), makes very clear that Israel’s military activity during this war was purely defensive, and that “a state acting in lawful exercise of its right of self-defense may seize and occupy foreign territory, as long as such seizure and occupation are necessary to its self-defense.”
Judea and Samaria was administered by Jordan (recognized as sovereign there only by Great Britain and possibly Pakistan) between 1948 and 1967, during which period it was populated by Arabs with no recognized national entity [nor could there have been, as their national rights to the area were purposely left unrecognized]. In light of all the above, Schwebel and other experts agree: Israel has the best legal title and claim to Judea and Samaria.
Perhaps the European Union would like to consider no longer repeating the canard that Jewish settlement of the Land of Israel is illegal under international law. One hundred years of history say the EU is wrong.
Authored by Chaim Silberstein and Hillel Fendel
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You can do lots of jobs in Coldstream that would be easier with a dumpster rental. For example, landscaping and home enhancement work. However before you lease a dumpster, you need to think of how you will get rid of the waste. The waste will have to go somewhere. It is easier and more budget friendly to rent a dumpster than other alternatives. And it is the most efficient way to get rid of undesirable products.
If you require to get rid of the garbage, you can quickly lease a dumpster anywhere in Coldstream Individuals at Blue Hound Dumpster Rentals are happy to assist you every step of the method. You do not have to keep losing time and money by going to the dump. A single dumpster rental can please any task you’re working on. In Coldstream, What Is the Most Suitable Dumpster Size for My Project?10 Yard DumpsterThe 10-yard roll-off dumpsters can hold about 4 pick-up trucks of waste. Clearing out a garage or basement, rebuilding a little bathroom, redesigning a small kitchen, repairing a roofing system up to 1500 sq ft., or eliminating a deck up to 500 sq ft. prevail usages for these dumpsters. 20 Yard DumpsterA 20-yard roll-off dumpster can store the equivalent of 8 pick-up loads worth of trash. They’re regularly used for massive operations such as floor covering or carpet removal, roofing replacements as much as 3,000 square feet, deck removal as much as 400 square feet, and garage/basement clean-outs. 30 Yard DumpsterA 30-yard roll-off dumpster can hold about 12 pick-up trucks worth of waste. They are frequently utilized for new home building and constructions, large house additions, siding or window replacements for small to medium-sized houses, or garage/basement demolitions. 40 Yard DumpsterA 40-yard roll-off dumpster can hold around 16 pick-up trucks worth of waste. Commercial clean-outs, window replacement or siding for a large home, big house remediations, big construction projects, or big commercial roof projects are all typical usages for this scale. Average Dumpster Sizes Needed for Common ProjectsRenovation or Garbage Removal:Even though every task is various, a single room makeover or clean-up typically requires a 20 cubic backyard dumpster. This dumpster’s capacity is normally adequate for 6 pick-up truck loads of waste. Nevertheless, you may need a bigger dumpster for rooms with lots of cabinets or appliances. Multi-Room Contracting Jobs:Expect you’re redesigning a number of rooms in your house or having some contracting work done. In that case, a 30 cubic backyard dumpster is a great alternative. Prevent making multiple trips to the dump will conserve both time and money. Storage Location Cleanups:Getting rid of unwanted objects or debris from your storage locations can free up area in your home. For the most part, a 10 or 15-cubic-yard container will look after all your garbage disposal requirements. If you have larger items, like home appliances, you may desire a 20 yard dumpster. Complete House Clean-out:If you clean your home and get rid of furnishings, you will need a 15 to 20 cubic yards dumpster rental. For bigger houses, you will require a dumpster rental that is 30 cubic yards. This is the size of about 9 regular truckloads. Landscaping Projects:You typically don’t require a huge dumpster for yard work and landscaping. A 10-15 cubic lawn dumpster will be enough for the majority of jobs. But if there are a great deal of tree branches, you may need a larger one. Building and construction Work:The very best dumpster rental for a contracting task or a big job is the 40 cubic lawn dumpster. If you have a lot of waste to eliminate from your project, this is the ideal size dumpster. Expect you are eliminating heavy items like concrete or bricks. In that case, you require a dumpster particularly developed to handle that weight. Coldstream Dumpster Rental: What Should I Anticipate?Normally, you can anticipate to pay around $180-$ 1,000 for a roll-off container leasing in Coldstream The expense of dumpsters for rent can differ depending on different factors. When renting a dumpster, size is among the most important considerations. You don’t wish to get a bin that is too small or too large, because you will pay more cash. Many rental business consist of the travel expenses in the last bill, so ask before you hand over your credit card details. Below are some of the well-known factors that might affect the price of renting a dumpster: · How heavy the waste compounds are. · Waste that would be thought about dangerous products. · Additional garbage dump charges for certain items in some states, such as appliances or bed mattress. · Charges for going beyond the dumpster’s weight limitation. · Any licenses that should be gathered. · Needing to keep the dumpster for a longer duration than originally agreed upon when leasing it. Will I Required an Authorization in Coldstream for a Dumpster Rental? Most customers do not need to fret about getting an authorization for their dumpster leasing in Coldstream If the dumpster is entering a public gain access to area, like on the sidewalk or in the parking lot, you may need to get an authorization from the government. You can avoid requiring a permit by renting a dumpster size suited for your driveway or property. This way, you can control where the dumpster goes, and you will not have to stress over authorizations in many cases. You can seek advice from the Coldstream Public Works Department if you’re not sure. The majority of areas will not need an authorization to place a dumpster as long as it does not block public access. Coldstream Public Works can be gotten in touch with or checked online to learn more on how to look for an authorization if you believe you require one. Save time and money on your next restoration, clean-up, or home improvement job by renting a dumpster from Blue Hound Dumpster Rentals today. Don’t let your task get delayed by not having anywhere to deal with your waste. Let our knowledgeable personnel provide and eliminate your garbage to focus on getting the job done right. Blue Hound Dumpster Rentals Coldstream KentuckyCurrently serving the following Zip Codes in Coldstream: 40245 |
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Stepping out of your comfort zone and switching things up will keep issues fascinating and help you keep motivated and impressed to make this way of living a permanent life-style. The material in this website Health is intended to be of common informational use and isn’t intended to constitute medical advice, probable prognosis, or beneficial treatments. All services featured are chosen by our editors.
- Adult Swim Swimming is a life skill in addition to nice exercise and a difficult sport.
- Healthcare jobs are in high demand within the San Joaquin Valley, and many college students see big-time increases in their wages as quickly as they’re within the workforce.
The Y is a superb place to improve your health, have enjoyable and make new friends! We supply a wide range of applications for each physique sort, fitness stage and goal. A supportive community is an enormous a part of wellness and we provide the support you have to make healthy decisions to reach your health and fitness targets. The Valley of the Sun’s health & fitness applications and actions are designed to get you off the couch and into the combo. You’ll learn way of life skills for a healthier spirit, mind, and physique, take pleasure in social interplay with like-minded individuals, and increase your bodily exercise in a big selection of enjoyable and fascinating programs and fitness courses.
Diet & Fitness
Strength, or resistance coaching, exercises make your muscles stronger. Some examples are lifting weights and using a resistance band. Get entry to the latest and most progressive programming, equipment, and more whenever you be a part of conveniently on-line.
Earn a prime quality schooling and be part of our engaged neighborhood of learners. Whether you wish to earn a degree, certificate, or take a number of private improvement classes, MCC can help you build a plan that aligns together with your goals. CVCC’s Career Services will work intently with second 12 months college students towards skilled employment. Leverage your passion for fitness into an thrilling and fulfilling occupation. Our job growth potential continues to rise as indicated by Matt Dotson of the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Health & Fitness Technician
We offer all kinds of training choices that will assist you reach your wellness goals. YMCA Yoga and Pilates courses will help you develop flexibility, strength and steadiness. By emphasizing symmetry of physique and thoughts, courses will enhance your body consciousness, helping you reside extra comfortably. [newline]The Coronavirus pandemic has not only had a dramatic health impact, but in addition an economic blow as many Americans at the second are unemployed — and uninsured. Department of Health and Human Services has re-opened HealthCare.gov for a “Special Enrollment Period,” from February 15, 2021 – May 15, 2021. This Special Enrollment Period will give people who need health care coverage the possibility to enroll. But it also gives scammers a model new likelihood to call, e-mail, ship letters and texts, trying to get your money — and your personal and monetary data.
We have the best high quality and finest choice of equipment. With over 1,800 courses per month, we offer more Group Exercise choices than anybody else. To suit your busy way of life, we now have many areas open 24 hours a day. As an HFS pupil you’ll be actively engaged from the beginning of this system until graduation! This arms on program focuses on creating crucial abilities, information and experiences to successfully pursue careers within the health and fitness industry.
Wikipedia’s Contents: Health And Fitness
The Wellness Bus’s aim is to offer accessible, high-quality healthcare companies to communities which have been systematically ignored. And our Resiliency Center supplies supportive assets specifically for BIPOC individuals facing Fitness racism, while also selling the practice of allyship within our programs and establishment. A self-directed, web-based power coaching program improved knee ache and performance after 24 weeks for individuals with knee arthritis.
Mississauga Hospital, J-Wing in Mississauga [Peel health unit]
127 1st dose spots added
First available date is 2021-08-10
Book at https://t.co/BUXjHh46HL
See https://t.co/svtAKUDWVL for detailed availability #COVID19Vaccine #vhcON— Peel Region Vaccination Updates (@VaxPeel) August 10, 2021
Psychiatric survivors movement – is a diverse affiliation of individuals who both presently entry psychological health providers , or who are survivors of interventions by psychiatry, or who’re ex-patients of mental health. Cardiology – the department of medication dealing with issues of the human coronary heart. The subject consists of medical prognosis and therapy of congenital coronary Health & Fitness heart defects, coronary artery illness, heart failure, valvular heart disease, and electrophysiology. It encompasses a variety of health care practices evolved to maintain up and restore health by the prevention and therapy of illness.Anesthesia – a approach to control ache throughout a surgery or process by using a drugs referred to as anesthetics.
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Blind Faith (Sin Brothers, #3) by Rebecca Zanetti
Series: Sin Brothers #3
Also in this series: Forgotten Sins (Sin Brothers, #1), Sweet Revenge (Sin Brothers, #2), Forgotten Sins (Sin Brothers, #1), Blind Faith (Sin Brothers, #3), Total Surrender (Sin Brothers, #4), Total Surrender (Sin Brothers, #4)
Publication Date: May 6, 2014
Genres: Romantic Suspense
Add It: Goodreads
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A betrayal he couldn't forget . . .
For Nate Dean, love is a four-letter word. As part of a secret black-ops military unit, he and his brothers were genetically engineered by the government to be ruthless soldiers with an expiration date. They were loyal only to one another . . . until Nate laid eyes on the woman who stole his heart and blew his world apart. Now, years later, his family is still paying the price for his mistake. But as time runs out, there's only one person who can save his family: the very woman Nate swore he'd never trust again.
A love she couldn't deny . . .
The moment Audrey Madison spies Nate across a crowded ballroom, she can barely breathe. He's just as undeniably sexy as she remembers, yet there's an edge to him now that's as irresistible as it is dangerous. When he asks for her help, Audrey can't refuse. But she has secrets of her own--secrets that, if Nate ever discovers them, may cost them both their lives . . .
This is the third book in the Sin Brothers series. I reviewed Book 1 here–I was totally engrossed in the larger story, even though I didn’t love the romance in that book. I went on to read Book 2, Sweet Revenge, which had a hero I liked a bit better and further sucked me into the saga of these three brothers. So when Book 3 came out, I was eager to read it. I’m happy to say that I thoroughly enjoyed Blind Faith.
First, let me start off with a warning that you can’t properly review Book 3 without giving away some spoilers for Books 1 and 2. I’ll try to keep it to a minimum, but if you haven’t read the other books and don’t want to know any details, this paragraph is my quick spoiler-free summary opinion. Blind Faith packs a bit more of an emotional punch than the other two books in the series, in my opinion. Nate and Audrey have a long, tangled, painful history together. Their heartbreak is acute and palpable at the start, and while it’s clear they still have feelings for each other it seems impossible that they could move past their baggage. The way Zanetti brings them together was great, and by the end I was 100% behind the couple. Audrey is a great heroine for Nate–she’s eyeballs deep in the complex mess that is the Dean brothers’s past, but that’s what allows Nate to face his demons with her honestly. I like Nate the best of all the brothers so far. In the other books, he seems like the cynical, practical brother who’s above pesky emotions for anyone but his brothers, but here we can see that the cynicism really hides his deep fear and heartbreak. I wouldn’t call him a softy, but there’s definitely a hint of the vulnerable little boy inside that makes him seem human! And here ends the spoiler-free part–you’ve been warned!
While I enjoyed the romance in this book, it’s really the larger Dean brothers story that keeps me coming back to these books. I enjoy the pacing of the larger story–Zanetti reveals just enough in each book to make you feel like that story is moving forward but not enough to remove the suspense. In Blind Faith, we get more details about the program that created the Deans, and we get some really fascinating glimpses of the Commander and Dr. Madison. They’re still “evil” and obviously have no compassion, but this book reminds us that they’re humans, not cartoon villains. It’s really fascinating to see Audrey grapple with her own relationship with the Commander and especially Dr. Madison, which is one more obstacle between her and Nate that must be resolved. We all know that the brothers have very little time left to live at this point due to the “kill chip” set to go off in a matter of weeks. We’ve seen their romances though, and we know how much they all have to live for now, which only increases the stakes. I found myself physically feeling tense at the end of Book 3! Even though I know these are romances and so will presumably end with HEAs all around, a little part of me can’t help but worry about the outcome.
As with the other books, some parts of the plot still don’t make tons of sense. Some of the secondary characters in Book 3 are kind of silly, and Audrey’s “plan” to stop the Commander was pretty naive for someone who knows him so well. Still, the overall ride is so exciting that I find myself overlooking lots of the nonsensical parts. Unfortunately, Book 4 in the series isn’t slated to be published until March of 2015! (I won’t spoil it by naming the hero, but if you’ve read the other books in the series you’ve probably already guessed.) I guess I’ll just have to worry about the fate of the poor Dean brothers for a while longer.
Grade: 4 out of 5
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International Women’s Day was coined in 1911 and has since grown into a powerful global platform for celebrating the achievements of women while inspiring purposeful action towards gender equality. In honor of International Women’s Day, we are highlighting a few of our authors who have “Pressed for Progress” in a career traditionally dominated by men. These women have conducted groundbreaking research, are distinguished educators, are true visionaries in their fields, and are exemplary role models for women in medicine.
Sujana S. Chandrasekhar, MD, FACS, FAAO-HNS is Consulting Editor of Otolaryngologic Clinics of North America. Dr. Chandrasekhar became the President of the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery in 2014. She is the third woman and the first person of Indian descent to hold this position.
Dr. Chandrasekhar has performed groundbreaking research on intranasal surfactant for otitis media and Eustachian tube dysfunction leading to commercial use of intranasal surfactant for OM and ETD. She is also funded for gender research in otolaryngology.
Dr. Chandrasekhar is actively involved in humanitarian outreach. She has led several medical/surgical missions to Nicaragua, and has delivered lectures and performed surgeries in India, Brazil, Mexico, Colombia, and Venezuela. She was honored with the AAO-HNS’s Distinguished Service Award in September 2006 and 2012.
Anne G. Osborn, MD, FACR is an acclaimed teacher and lecturer regarded as one of the world’s most prominent neuroradiologists. She is recognized internationally for her contributions to radiological education and for helping to establish the field of neuroradiology.
Dr. Osborn is the author of numerous journal articles and medical books, including Diagnostic Imaging: Brain, Imaging in Neurology, Osborn’s Brain, ExpertDDx: Brain and Spine, and Year Book of Diagnostic Radiology. She is also the co-creator of the first comprehensive point-of-care electronic imaging reference system, STATdx.
In 1988, Dr. Osborn became the first female president of the American Society of Neuroradiology. In 2000, she was the inaugural recipient of the Radiological Society of North America’s (RSNA) Outstanding Educator Award and in 2006, she received the RSNA’s highest honor, the Gold Medal. She has also received Honorary Membership from several international radiology professional societies.
Donna M. Ferriero, M.D. is a co-author of Swaiman’s Pediatric Neurology, 6th Edition. Dr. Ferriero is Director of the Neonatal Brain Disorder Laboratories and co-director of the Newborn Brain Research Institute at UCSF. She and her lab have performed groundbreaking research on oxidative stress during hypoxia-ischemia and neural cells during maturation-dependent injury.
Dr. Ferriero is a distinguished teacher and mentor and has been recognized by UCSF with multiple awards including the Academic Senate Distinguished Teaching Award (1991), the Robert B. Layzer Neurology Teaching Award (1994), the Chancellor’s Award for the Advancement of Women (2000), the Maureen Andrew Mentor Award from the Society for Pediatric Research (2006), and the Holly Smith Award for outstanding service to the School of Medicine. She has also been recognized for excellence and leadership in Neurology. She is the recipient of the Sydney Carter Award in Child Neurology (2000) and the Royer Award for Excellence in Academic Neurology (2007).
Dr. Ferriero is President-elect of the American University Professors of Neurology and President of the Child Neurology Society. She is on the editorial boards of several journals, including Elsevier’s Pediatric Neurology.
Dr. Woodward currently holds the David G. Bragg, MD, and Marcia R. Bragg Presidential Endowed Chair in Oncologic Imaging at the University of Utah Medical Center. She was previously named Distinguished Scientist at the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology in Washington, DC.
Dr. Woodward received her medical degree from the University of Colorado School of Medicine, after which she fulfilled her commitment to the United States Air Force (USAF) with 8 years of service as an internal medicine intern, a flight surgeon, and a radiology resident at Wilford Hall USAF Medical Center in San Antonio, Texas.
Dr. Woodward has excelled as a radiology educator while also contributing to research. She has been named Teacher of the Year a total of six times at three different institutions, and was named 2014 Outstanding Educator by the RSNA for her accomplishments as a mentor, teacher, researcher, and author.
Professor Valerie J. Lund is a co-author of Cummings Otolaryngology, 6th Edition, which was deemed as Highly Commended in Surgical Specialties at the 2015 British Medical Book Awards. She has been honored around the world for her inspiring career, distinguished by many influential contributions to surgery and otolaryngology. Prof. Lund’s groundbreaking work on the endoscopic treatment of paranasal sinus cancer has saved numerous patients from radical and mutilating surgery.
Professor Lund has earned honorary society memberships in the U.S., Belgium, Denmark, the Netherlands, Germany, Spain, Romania, Russia, and South Africa. In 2008, Queen Elizabeth II named her a Commander of the British Empire for her outstanding services to medicine. Professor Lund was also one of the first women inducted into the Collegium Amicitae Sacrum, otolaryngology’s most notable international honor society.
Susan Standring, PhD, DSc is the Editor-in-Chief of Gray’s Anatomy. Dr. Standring is a past President of the Peripheral Nerve Society and of the Anatomical Society. She has spent over 40 years teaching anatomy to medical and dental students while also leading an extensive research career, publishing over 150 articles.
A large part of her research has consisted of peripheral nerve work, which lead to her initial involvement in Gray’s Anatomy. Dr. Standring was assigned the job of creating a bibliography for 36th edition after having suggested the idea to her supervisor, Peter Williams, who was the editor at the time. She then went on to edit the peripheral nerve section before being promoted to editor-in-chief of the 39th edition. In her time as editor she has made significant advancements to the fundamental text, changing the organization from a systematic approach to a regional approach and introducing the online-only components.
We appreciate the contributions these women, and all our women authors, have made to advance medicine and healthcare. In 2017, women enrolling in U.S. medical schools exceeded the number of men for the first time. We are proud to have our female authors paving the way for these female medical leaders of the future. To read more about these inspiring women and our other distinguished authors, visit our authors section on The Bookmark.
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I was introduced to Gurjot Singh in the summer of 2017. He is a Medical Doctor turned research scientist from the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore.
His work involved researching and studying the carbon metabolism of cities in developing countries. He developed empirical models to describe the flow of carbon inside cities, including the sources of influx and efflux and carbon sequestration1 in urban areas.
In 2015, he participated in the NSF-funded Drilling and Coring Summer Institute at the University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, to study techniques for coring lake sediments for scientific analysis of current and past climate.
I had some of the most scientific and new discussions with him. We talked about building large-scale energy storage with Vanadium Redox Battery2. He built a few demo units, but I was not involved at that time.
We envisioned Locavore as an enabler for cities, towns, and pockets of communities to reduce food transportation and grow a portion of their required food, enriched with high-quality nutrients.
We experimented with building portable aeroponic3 gardens for homes. We ended up building a demo aeroponics farm in the middle of Bangalore. It was semi-automated, powered by a Raspberry Pi, and he crafted a whole lot of checklists.
We would check-in in the morning, add the nutrients, and re-fill the water tanks, and the Raspberry Pi would water the plants at regular intervals. We supplied fresh produce to some local restaurants, and many were amazed by the quality. Many of my neighbors loved the fresh strawberries, too.
We had success in the lab-setting of infusing Vitamin B124 into spinach. Vitamin B12 is the only vitamin that must be sourced from animal-derived foods or supplements. A lof Indians are affected by the lack of it, as many Indians are vegetarian. We had the idea of producing Super Spinach
for expecting mothers to get their required nutrients by just eating a handful of the most easily available vegetable.
We were even invited and interviewed at Mountain View but rejected for the Y Combinator Winter 2019 Batch.
Gurjot is now building BioShakti, an energy Startup focused on the development of biofuels and e-fuels to decarbonize sectors with difficult-to-eliminate emissions, such as long-distance transportation, load-following electricity, and manufacturing (fertilizers, steel, and cement).
BioShakti is the first to introduce dry anaerobic digestion in India on a commercial scale. Dry digestion is ideal for producing biofuels from lignocellulosic biomass found in abundance in India. They have been selected by the Global Environment Fund (GEF) and United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) as an innovative waste-to-energy project.
My only involvement with them is that of an advisor and staying friends with Gurjot. He is still my go-to person whenever I need to ask him anything scientific and need a simplified answer.
That year taught me a lot and changed my perspective on what I wanted to work for. It led me to work for a Japanese Startup, and I got lucky to have worked with JAXA’s satellite data tracking farm usage in a prefecture in Japan. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 Pandemic messed up everything, and I gave up.
That led to Valinor Earth, which started as an AgTech but eventually pivoted to the big picture that we had in mind—climate. Valinor Earth is a climate tech company helping businesses fight climate change by leveraging machine learning on climate data and geospatial technologies.
The vanadium redox battery (VRB), also known as the vanadium flow battery (VFB) or vanadium redox flow battery (VRFB), is a type of rechargeable flow battery. It employs vanadium ions as charge carriers. The battery uses vanadium’s ability to exist in a solution in four different oxidation states to make a battery with a single electroactive element instead of two. For several reasons, including their relative bulkiness, vanadium batteries are typically used for grid energy storage, i.e., attached to power plants/electrical grids. ↩
Aeroponics is the process of cultivating plants in an air or mist environment, eliminating the need for soil or an aggregate medium. The term “aeroponic” originates from the ancient Greek: aer (air) and ponos (labor, hardship, or toil). It falls under the category of hydroponics, as water is employed in aeroponics to deliver nutrients to the plants. ↩
Vitamin B12 is the most chemically complex of all vitamins, and for humans the only vitamin that must be sourced from animal-derived foods or supplements. Only some archaea and bacteria can synthesize Vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 deficiency is a widespread condition that is particularly prevalent in populations with low consumption of animal foods. Such diets can be due to a variety of reasons, such as low socioeconomic status, ethical considerations, or lifestyle choices such as veganism. ↩
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How to Deal with Broadband Outages: What Can You Do?
Solutions to help you stay connected.
Arguably the most important factor in good broadband is its reliability. Nobody wants a connection that is constantly dropping or going down, especially if you rely heavily on it for whatever reason - working from home, competitive gaming, or simply keeping the kids distracted with videos.
Broadband outages can be a big pain, no matter how they happen. In this guide, we’ll be taking a look at all things outages, including what some of the common causes are, how you can rectify your lost connection, and how you can take steps to prevent it from happening again.
Common causes of broadband outages
Before we get into the crux of this guide, we’ll just do a quick clarification on the difference between an outage and slow broadband.
Here, we’re talking about when your connection drops out completely, not when it is still providing something to your devices, just not at the speeds you expect or are promised.
When you realise that you’re not getting any sort of speed or signal from your broadband router and you know you haven’t manually disconnected from it or turned it off, that’s when you know you have an outage.
The outage could’ve been caused by a number of reasons, most of which will be out of your control, such as:
- Network issues from the provider
- Weather-related disruptions
- Local infrastructure problems
- Faulty equipment
In the first three cases, there is nothing you could do to prevent it and nothing you can do to fix it. If either one of these happens, it is up to the network provider to put a fix in place.
How long does it take to fix your broadband?
Depending on the severity of the issue, you could lose connection for any time from simply a couple of minutes all the way to several days.
Network issues from the provider typically don’t take as long to sort out. It could be that it was a planned outage for them to sort some things out, whether that be remotely or practically on the lines.
As for weather-related disruptions and local infrastructure problems, these may need some more time depending on the damage.
In the case of severe storms, heavy winds can knock out older lines. This used to happen a lot in more rural areas. Some of these times, it might not just be the broadband but entire power to the building and surrounding premises that gets knocked out.
Or maybe a tree or some other form of debris has struck the telephone exchange and damaged the cables within.
If this happens, that’s when you may experience longer periods without broadband. It will take some time for the network provider to be able to send someone or a team out to safely fix the issue.
However, if you find that the source of the issue is faulty equipment within your home, that is something you can only look at yourself for the cause and solution.
Routers and the required cables don’t last forever, and with broadband technology constantly improving and evolving, you’ll want to keep your equipment fresh so you can have a connection that is always working at its best.
Things to check during a broadband outage
When an outage happens, you’ll obviously want to get on the case as to what caused it and how it can be fixed.
The first thing you’ll want to do is check if the issue is local to the device you are operating at the time of the outage. For example, if you’re on your phone, go to your settings and check if you have to manually select the correct connection again.
If you aren’t able to, find another device that uses the same connection. If that device is still connected, try turning your phone off and on again and see if that fixes the issue.
If the other device, and any subsequent devices you checked, are also receiving no connection, then it's time to look at the router.
Typically, when your broadband is out or even just playing up, the router will tell you. Every router has a light on it that acts as an indicator to the broadband connection's current status. It’ll usually be one steady colour when it is running fine.
When it is not running fine, the light may change. Some will flash a different colour or stay steady on another colour. Those are indicators of the issue, so you can figure out what's wrong that way.
While your broadband may be down, your mobile data should still be working. It may cut into your monthly allowance, but use your data to search anything you need to search for. Start with the router, finding a guide that will tell you what each light means (and hopefully a potential fix).
With any hope, the fix will be as simple as having to restart your router. You could try doing that anyway to see if that fixes the issue.
Similarly, while you’re using your data, a good thing to do would be to check your provider's website to see if they are reporting any issues.
How to check if there’s a problem in your area
Most providers will have an app that you can download to your phone/device. That way, you can access your account and do anything you’d need to do through it.
It can also act as a tool to find out any issues. If there are any issues with your connection, you can check in the app to see if your provider has reported a problem within your area.
That’s a somewhat best-case scenario as it means the provider is already aware of an issue and is likely already on the case of sorting out a fix.
If your provider doesn’t have an app or you don’t have it downloaded, usually their website will have a service status page. It may not be somewhere easy to find, but typically if you Google ‘[provider name] service status’ you should find their page.
If for whatever reason your provider does not have a service status page (big red flag for a provider, by the way), you can search on a website called Down Detector. It follows many major providers as well as general systems/platforms to check for outages and reports of outages in real time.
It’ll show you how many reports have been made to the website and how long ago, with counts of the reports adding to a 24-hour graph. A spike on the graph means more reports have been made, so if you see a spike around the time you experienced the outage, then you know something is wrong and it’s not just you.
Of course, if you’d rather find out anything or learn of any updates straight from the horse's mouth, you can find your providers’ customer service phone number and give them a call.
So you’ve identified there is an issue, now you need to try some troubleshooting to get it back working.
Obviously, if the issue is physical damage or a problem with the line that the provider has stated previously or has noted, there isn’t any troubleshooting to do. You’ll just have to hold out and wait for the fix.
If the issue is more local to your device(s), you can try various things to get it back working. We’ve mentioned these already, but you could try turning your devices off and on again, or doing the same to the router.
Most routers will also have a reset button built in which will act as a harder reset than just turning it off and on again. Likely, though, the reset button won’t be an easy click one, but instead will require something small and thin to press into it, like an unfolded paper clip.
Before doing that, you’ll want to check with your provider if that is the right thing to do. You can do this by finding the previously mentioned router guide, the one that will tell you the issue depending on the corresponding light that shows on the router.
Depending on the issue, the guide should have some troubleshooting tips and techniques of its own that you can follow, some of which may include clicking the reset button. We would recommend only clicking the reset button if your provider advises you to do so.
Using mobile data as a temporary solution
Earlier, we mentioned how mobile data should still be available to you to use. Mobile data will allow you to stay connected on that device, and you can even turn it into a hotspot for other devices to use.
If you’re unsure of how a hotspot works, it essentially turns your phone or any mobile data-enabled device into a personal hub capable of providing WiFi to other devices.
You should only use this option if you are sure you have enough data to serve other devices. Bear in mind that you will be using data yourself while operating your device and then you’ll have however many other devices you have connected also using that same data.
Not only will the connection likely not be incredibly strong (don’t expect any 4K streaming), but you may speed through your data allowance if you’re not careful, and depending on your mobile provider, if you go over your limit, they may start charging you for any extra usage.
Long-term solutions to minimise impact
Any long-term solution to minimise impact really depends on the issue you faced and may face in the future. If it was physical damage to the line or network maintenance/something the provider or network had to sort out, then there’s no need to look at long-term solutions.
For anything else, though, there are some things you could do to ensure that you don’t have any problems in the future - or at the realistic least, not be so impacted should a problem arise.
The first thing you can do is look at your provider. It may be that they aren’t as reliable as you thought. Even the bigger providers can’t satisfy every customer.
If your outage issues are down to the providers’ network being rather shaky in your area, your best choice would be to look at the other options in your area and research which offers the most reliable connection.
Or if you’re happy with your provider but want a little more stability, you can contact them and they’ll likely provide you with some options.
They might tell you that your hardware (the router and its cables) are outdated and that you can order one of their newer models. That may come at a cost, but it would sort out your issues.
You could also order another router from somewhere like Amazon. You can find routers that may actually provide a better connection than the one you are currently using.
We wouldn’t recommend doing this out the blue as many providers build their connection and routers specific to each other. You should look into whether you can swap out your current router for another one before buying.
You can also contact your provider about changing your plan. It may be that you are on an FTTC plan when you are able to get FTTP. You could ask about upgrading and they’ll tell you what is possible.
It may be that you experience outages in certain rooms that are further away from the router. This is a very common problem in houses, so to fix that, you can get broadband extenders that can be installed somewhere else in the house and will connect to the router, acting as a mini hub for you to connect your devices to.
Is it possible to have backup WiFi?
In terms of having a backup plan, you could opt for a package that offers mobile broadband as a sort of fail-safe - or simply go for mobile broadband instead of standard broadband.
To briefly explain what mobile broadband is, it is a broadband connection that uses mobile data rather than physical fibre optic or copper cables. Think of a mobile hotspot, but without using one single device as the hotspot.
Mobile broadband uses the network of which the provider is supplied from to supply you with WiFi in your home. While it may not be as fast or as consistent as standard home broadband, it is more reliable in the sense that it is less prone to outages.
The downside to mobile broadband is that if you live in a more rural area, the network may not have great coverage and you may experience limited service.
But for houses where the network's coverage is strong, mobile data can be a good solution to your problems.
As mentioned, some providers will also offer mobile broadband as a fail-safe. If your main home broadband goes down, the router (if it’s not damaged) will turn into a mobile broadband router and find a connection via the local mobile network - or there will be a separate router dedicated to mobile broadband that can be activated when needed.
Legal and financial considerations
Finally, if you do experience a broadband outage, you may have certain rights that protect you from paying for a service that you didn’t get.
Most providers will have this as a main point of attraction to entice you to join them over their competitors. They’ll boast about things like how if you encounter an outage for a certain amount of time or slower-than-promised speeds, then you may be entitled to compensation or not be charged that month.
It’s important to check out your contract with your provider to find out what really is entitled to you should you experience an outage and how you can qualify. Providers may say one thing but then put something else in the small print that can let you down should you have a problem.
Can you claim if your internet is down?
Most of the time, yes. Many providers, particularly the bigger ones (Sky, BT, Virgin Media etc.) will allow you to claim if you experience an outage.
When we say claim, it’s not like they’ll send you money if you have any issues. Instead, what they would likely do is give you one month free, since you weren’t able to access your broadband.
This typically only applies to an outage of a certain amount of time, and not every provider will offer this. Some may offer a variation of it, while others won’t offer anything at all.
We cannot stress the importance of reading your providers’ terms and conditions so that you are aware as to what you are entitled to should you experience an outage.
If you are able to claim something back, you’ll have to get in touch with your provider. Evidence may be hard to come by other than a picture of your router, but luckily the provider would (should) have all the relevant information beforehand - remember when we said about the service status page?
If you plan on requesting compensation, it is advisable to do so as soon as possible from when the outage happened so as to not miss out. The provider may only allow a brief window in which you can claim, so be sure to check for that as well in the terms and conditions.
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| 0.958083 | 3,214 |
The sun is shining here in Sydney and a thousand attendees are gathered for the Global Conference of the Extractives Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) – a multistakeholder effort bringing together stakeholders from government, civil society, oil, gas and mining companies and investors in support of transparency to help ensure citizens see the benefits from their country’s natural resources.
The healthy attendance figure suggests that EITI retains strong commitment and interest over a decade after the concept was launched. So does the formal adoption of a revised EITI Standard that, as Jonas Moberg, head of the EITI International Secretariat notes, should produce more reliable and more detailed information. However, the path to this point has not been an easy one. Not all multi-stakeholder initiatives (MSIs) have been able to retain commitment or relevance. This has me pondering the life cycle of such initiatives and whether there are lessons emerging from the more mature collaborative efforts that could helpfully shape design of new initiatives.
The extractives industries form a good sectoral basis for study. There has been a proliferation of efforts designed to help ensure that oil, gas and mining investments translate into better development outcomes. The number of initiatives has reached the point where it risks becoming problematic – governments bewildered by the offers of support, industry overwhelmed by demands to participate, civil society capacities over-stretched and donors struggling to ensure that support to multiple initiatives does not diffuse impact. Plus, no self-respecting initiative comes without an acronym. Mastering those alone is a challenge (or perhaps the basis of a good drinking game).
In reflection of the trend, this week saw the launch of a new database of extractives initiatives developed by the World Bank Institute with support of the International Council on Mining and Metals, World Economic Forum and Rio Tinto. It is housed within the Extractive Industries Source Book, a free online, interactive resource capturing good fit practices for the sector. The initiatives database at launch contains over thirty regional and global efforts alone. Not all are multi-stakeholder in nature but many at least strive to be.
Is this a bad thing? Not necessarily. There is no shortage of needs to be addressed and so room for many initiatives. A weekly trawl of the newspapers reveals a regular supply of stories that highlight the opportunities and the problems that extractives represent. The new Africa Progress Panel report highlights many of the issues that span the value chain from award of licenses and contracts through to whether the investments from resulting revenues yield positive outcomes for citizens.
Given the high attention that oil, gas and mining receive, the multiplicity of interests and sheer size of investments involved, it is no surprise that the sector has been a testing ground for collaborative action. Thorny problems – from corruption to lack of local skills to environmental impacts – are cross cutting in their impact but hard for one actor to solve alone. MSIs offer potential to facilitate necessary collective action.
Given the context, it is perhaps less of a surprise that three major MSIs were initiated within months of each other. EITI was launched on the global stage by then UK Prime Minister Tony Blair in 2002. The process to develop the Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights focused on the energy and extractive sectors began in 2000. The multi-stakeholder steering group was constituted in January 2003 – a month that also saw the launch of the Kimberley Process – a multi-stakeholder effort to address conflict diamonds through an international governmental certification scheme. Their experiences can be a good source of learning for multi-stakeholder initiatives regardless of sector.
A decade on and all three of these initiatives have achieved traction – perhaps of varying degrees – and all are in the midst of a period of introspection, reflecting on their progress, role and vision going forward. Not all have initiated formal review processes, but some common questions are arising. Does this indicate a natural crunch point in the life cycles of such initiatives? The enthusiasm and likely confusion of the initiation phase gives way to concentration on an institutionalized process through the implementation phase, but that can only go so far before questions of effectiveness arise, before there are calls to adjust for changing circumstances, and a range of potential destabilizing factors kick in such as turnover of players involved (individuals and organizations). Does this mark the equivalent of an MSI mid-life crisis?
Judging by the conversations within EITI, the Kimberley Process and Voluntary Principles, common points of contention include in no particular order:
- reconciling calls for increasing coverage (geographic and thematic scope) with the need to retain effectiveness and credibility
- retaining common commitment and vision across the different stakeholders in the governance structure against a backdrop of evolving operating contexts and interests of those stakeholders
- maintaining momentum as initial enthusiasm gives way to the routine
Of course, this is not to imply that the dynamics in these MSIs are all the same. Far from it, but it does suggest that there could be some value in looking at more systematized learning across these efforts. How do we advise MSIs on retaining a shared vision? If an initiative adjusts its mandate, how does it ensure the structures are still fit for purpose? What is the optimal process to assess whether the original purpose has been met or not, and in what timeframe? It is hard for initiatives to put themselves out of business – but are there ways to assess when it is better to close shop rather than gradually fade away?
A 2007 survey of MSIs in the oil and gas sector by consultancy TwentyFifty specifically made a number of recommendations for successful implementation:
– a clear understanding of expectations re direct and indirect impacts
– clear promotion of the standard
– evolution of the governance structure
– development of practical guidance to aid implementation
– establishing multi-stakeholder collaboration at implementation level
– a strong secretariat with independence and ability to mobilize all stakeholders
– continuing political support of home countries and producer countries
– continuing ethos of leadership
These recommendations still resonate. Yet, this study aside, the literature to date is quite light. More dedicated analysis seems merited, although we can learn more from the field of networks analysis. Julia Roloff has documented how companies are key actors in many multi-stakeholder networks and suggests such participation is worth it when the problem being addressed is relevant to the business, urgent and complex. The life cycle models for networks offer promise for MSI learning. Roloff suggests a seven step model: initiation, acquaintance, first agreement, second agreement, implementation, consolidation and institutionalization/extinction. The group iScale simplify to a four stage model: catalyzing, launching, enhancing/expanding and transforming/transitioning. Taking the case of EITI one might see the catalyzing phase beginning in 2000, the launching phase covering the creation of the International Advisory Group, EITI Board and International Secretariat (2005-2007), and the expansion in the period since 2008 as membership grew to 21 compliant and 16 candidate countries. This Conference and the adoption of the revised standard could mark the start of the transition period.
One valuable element from the networks field is the emphasis on continued learning informing an evolving structure and process. Given the significant resources devoted to MSIs, investment in cross-learning should pay dividends. Pooling learning might help avoid newer initiatives reinventing the wheel or repeating mistakes of others. Established MSIs might benefit also from exposure to newcomers, who may be prototyping newer models of engagement. Noting how difficult it is to run an effective MSI – a platform for shared learning could form the equivalent of a mutual support group.
It might also be useful in helping manage the inclination to overburden MSIs. The newly established Institute for Multi-Stakeholder Initiative Integrity (MSI Integrity) is dedicated to examining the impact and value of voluntary business-related human rights initiatives and has done some interesting case studies, including of EITI. However, this begs the question of how much can we ask of MSIs in managing issues that may go beyond their core purpose? Success breeds typically leads to demands to do more and more, which can test even the most effective MSI. A platform for cross learning could help pinpoint the real value and the limitations of MSIs.
For those of us here in Sydney, the mood is generally positive with the EITI revised standard agreed. That does not mean that that the process has not left bruises. Would the process have been any easier with a mechanism to compare notes with other MSIs and draw on their experiences and learnings? It seems worth finding out.
| 0.946229 | 1,746 |
979 Springdale Rd, #117
Austin, TX 78702
Tuesday, By Appointment Only
Wed-Sat, 10am - 5pm
1. Approval is when a client picks up ByCloudia items and is allowed 24 hours to decide whether or not to purchase items. Items not purchased must be returned by 4:00 pm the day after they are taken out of the store.
2. Approvals are available Tuesday through Saturday.
3. Client agrees to provide their own movers for large items on approval.
4. All returned items must be in their original condition and packaging with tags attached.
5. Client agrees to purchase any items damaged or lost while in their possession during approval time.
6. Client agrees to provide credit card information in exchange for taking items on approval.
7. Client agrees to have their credit card charged for full amount by close of business the next day if there has been no communication or indication of desire to return items. This charge occurs automatically in our system.
8. Approvals are not allowed for personal promotion, staging, photoshoots or videoshoots.
The majority of items we sell are vintage, unless otherwise stated. Some signs of wear are expected, including items described as “in excellent vintage condition.” If you have any questions or concerns about a piece and its condition, please contact us for additional photos and details prior to purchase. We are happy to set up a FaceTime viewing, or anything you need to feel confident in the condition of the piece.
Listed pricing for any item purchased online does not include shipping, packaging or delivery unless otherwise noted.
Buyers have 48 hours after delivery to inspect their item(s) and contact [email protected] if they wish to return an item. The buyer is responsible for the outbound and return shipping charges, and they will be deducted from the buyer's original purchase price + taxes if applicable.
For Parcel returns, buyers are responsible for packaging and shipping the return within three business days after the return shipping label is received. The buyer may also be responsible for the packing charges incurred by the seller. Buyers may not be reimbursed for returns that are not received in original condition.
To make sure both the Buyer and the Seller are satisfied, ByCloudia collects payment from the Buyer at the time of purchase and only releases payment to the Seller after the 48-hour Return Policy window has expired.
When contacting us to initiate a return, please include:
Once we review your return request, we will contact you with further instructions.
Each returned item must be received in original condition. We reserve the right to deduct for any damage that may have occurred not related to transportation. A refund of the purchase amount, less any charges for which the buyer is responsible, will be processed upon confirmation that the item has been safely returned to the seller.
If you have any hesitation prior to purchase or would like more details, we would love to share more photos and answer any questions. ByCloudia neither assumes nor offers any warranty on vintage, or refinished/reupholstered items after items leave our showroom.Answer
ByCloudia will assist customers in determining the best method of shipment for their items. Shipping options include local delivery, White Glove shipping providers, and crating services. ByCloudia will coordinate with customers and third party shipping providers in order to deliver your items swiftly and safely. If you are setting up your own shipping, please beware of shipping companies that are not insured and bonded.
By completing a purchase through ByCloudia you acknowledge that responsibility of your purchase transfers to the Third Party delivery provider of your choice at the time of pickup.
USPS & UPS Shipping:
Items that are eligible for shipping via UPS or USPS will be mailed within 5 days of payment. Items will be insured.
Please understand that delays in shipments via USPS or UPS are not the fault of ByCloudia. If you would like to ensure an item arrives by a certain date, we will assist with expedited delivery. Items that are returned to us due to incorrect delivery addresses, will be charged a shipping fee again in order to reship. Items that are lost in the mail or stolen following delivery are not the responsibility of ByCloudia, nor can we be held liable for replacing the item. We will happily assist in filing a claim with the mail provider. Clients are responsible for any insurance deductibles involved with an insurance claim.Answer
ByCloudia is not responsible for damage, theft, loss or otherwise that occurs after the item has been purchased. ByCloudia is not responsible for damage, theft, loss or otherwise that occurs as a result of shipping or White Glove Delivery. ByCloudia is not responsible to refund, restore or replace inventory that may experience damage, theft, loss or otherwise as a result of White Glove Shipping, Ground Shipping through Fed Ex, UPS or USPS, local third party delivery providers or ByCloudia staff assisting with load in or pick up. The Royal Turkey will assist in coordinating shipping as a service to our clients, but the third party delivery providers bear full responsibility for the items. By completing a purchase, the client is responsible for any insurance deductibles related to filing an insurance claim.
If using a third party receiver, clients acknowledge that the receiving party takes full responsibility for the condition of pieces at the point of delivery if no defects are documented directly with the carrier. On request, customers may also coordinate their own shipping directly with the carrier of their choice by making all arrangements for pick-up and packaging requirements. Carriers arranged by customers take responsibility for item condition at the point of purchase.
We suggest that all clients fully inspect their item at the time of delivery and before the delivery providers leave the home. In the rare event that an item arrives damaged, please call our showroom immediately so we can begin the claim process. In order for us to assist in a resolution and file a claim, we will need to receive detailed photos within 24 hours. Please also take photos of the damage and shipping material and keep the original shipping packaging. ByCloudia will file a formal claim with the third party delivery provider. ByCloudia is not responsible to provide refunds for goods damaged, lost or stolen by third party providers.
| 0.948234 | 1,290 |
Your home is the place where you spend most of your time. Especially this year, with the Covid-19 pandemic keeping many people indoors more than usual, it is important to keep your home in top shape. The winter months are full of hazardous weather and things that can be damaging to your home.
This is why it’s important to prepare your home for winter weather, and get a head start on fixing it up before the cold fully sets in. You may have some repairs that you’ve been putting off or systems that need inspection, or maybe you just need to stock up on supplies in case of winter emergencies.
All of these things, and more, are important to take care of before winter fully arrives. The last thing you want is to be the 200th person on a waitlist for repair services because you waited too long. Getting things done now will save you trouble in the long run. But what are some of the things you need to do to prepare your home for winter weather?
Check your heating
When you install HVAC into your home, you are making an investment to keep yourself warm and cozy during the winter months. Keeping your heating systems up to date is vital to staying safe and a big step to prepare your home for winter weather.
Now is the time to get your system inspected and make sure it is running smoothly. If it needs repairs or even residential heating replacement, take care of it now so you don’t get caught with no heat in the middle of winter.
Repair services and companies for things like HVAC, plumbing, and other vital home systems will be very busy during winter because that’s when a lot of systems malfunction. So taking care of it now will mean that you don’t have to wait two weeks for repairs.
Inspect the roof
When it rains or snows, your roof is the only thing protecting your home from getting soaked inside. Whether you do it by yourself or hire a residential roofing service, inspecting your roof is vital to making sure it can withstand the cold winter months. Make sure that no sections of it are missing or damaged, and if they are, replace them.
Clean out your gutters
Cluttered gutters can be a bad thing for your home. They can cause water to back up and sit there, which can cause damage to the gutter or your roof and walls. And in the winter, this water can freeze, leading to even more damage.
So to prepare your home for winter weather, give your gutters a good cleaning. It shouldn’t take very long, and it will save you a lot of trouble down the line.
Turn off outside faucets
If you’ve got faucets outside your house, turn them off now. In fact, if your water controls allow you to do so, it’s a good idea to cut off water flow to them completely.
This is because in the cold months of winter, water freezes. And if even a little bit of water is dripping from your faucet, it will freeze, which can cause irreparable damage to your faucets and pipes.
Check your insulation
If you have an attic, now is the time to make sure that it is well insulated. Insulation keeps the air inside your house trapped inside, and the air outside trapped outside.
For many people, two-thirds of their annual natural gas bill comes from the winter months, because heating is more necessary. But without proper insulation, heat will escape, and that number could be a lot higher. So make sure your insulation is up to date to save you time and money, and keep you nice and cozy.
Check window seals
Much like insulation, windows can be a way for heat to escape your home. Check the seals around your windows to ensure that they don’t let any air in or out. This is a great and easy way to prepare your home for winter weather.
Trim your trees
Winter storms can be very tough. They often have heavy snowfall and strong winds. These factors can cause tree limbs to break, and fall onto whatever is below them. And if what’s below them is your roof, it could be bad for you.
This is why trimming your trees before winter sets in is important. Remove any branches that hang over your roof and any that are angling towards it. Also, check to see if any of your trees are rotting. Rotting trees are weaker, so it’s a good idea to get them removed so they don’t fall into your house during a storm.
Check your pipes
This is one of the most important ways to prepare your home for winter weather. Your house runs on plumbing, and a burst pipe could cause a lot of damage. So get your plumbing system professionally inspected to make sure everything is running smoothly, and take care of any repairs that may be needed.
Cold weather can be harder on pipes, which is why they burst more often in winter. Taking care of it now will help you avoid needing emergency plumbing repairs during the coldest months.
Repair your fence
Winter carries two reasons why fence repairs can be important. The first is that winter storms mean strong winds, heavy snow, and falling tree branches. These things can all cause damage to your fence, and so making sure it is as strong as possible now will help prevent further damage over winter.
The second reason is animals. When it’s cold, animals will be looking for a warm place to stay. And your home might seem like just that place. A good fence will help keep these critters out of your yard, and the smaller ones out of your home. So to prepare your home for winter weather, make sure your fence is strong and sturdy.
Check the garage door
Though you may not think about it, the cold can be harsh on your garage door as well. Extremely cold temperatures might make it harder for your door’s mechanisms to function properly. So get everything checked out now to make sure it will be able to withstand the cold.
This could mean checking the electrical components of your door, oiling the mechanisms, or getting garage door spring repairs. Whatever you have to do, you will be better off to get it done before the cold fully sets in.
Inspect your wiring
Much like plumbing, your home needs its wiring to run properly. Without it, you won’t have lights and electricity. And a problem in the wiring can lead to damage to your home and even fires.
Now is the time to get your residential electrical system inspected. If you have any faulty wiring, get it repaired or replaced. This will help prevent you from losing power or having disasters when winter comes.
Check your fireplace
If you have a fireplace and chimney, you’re probably going to be using it a lot more in the cold months. So to prepare your home for winter weather, get it checked out now.
Make sure that the chimney is clear of dirt and debris. It’s not a bad idea to get it professionally cleaned before winter comes. A buildup of debris could cause heat and smoke to get trapped, which would be very bad for your home. So getting it cleaned now will mean that it can run smoothly all winter long.
The batteries in your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are a vital step to prepare your home for winter weather, and in fact to keep your home safe year-round. These instruments are your early warning system in case of disaster, and could be the difference between life and death.
So make sure that you have fresh batteries in all of your detectors, and have as many in the house as you should. This will help keep you and your family safe during the cold winter months.
Create a storm survival kit
Now that you’ve done a lot of things to prepare your home for winter weather, there are a few things you can do to prepare in case of problems. Obviously, you hope that the winter will run smoothly. But storms, power outages, and accidents do happen, so it’s important to be prepared for them, just in case.
The first thing you can do is create a storm survival kit. This can be used in case of very bad storms that cut off power, trap you in your home, and cut you off from the rest of the world. The kit should have non-perishable foods, bottled water, first aid supplies, flashlights or candles, and anything else you think you may need in the event of a bad storm.
With this in place, you will feel much more prepared if a storm hits, and already know what to do. If you have a family, this kit can also include methods of entertainment, like board games or books. After all, a week with no electricity could mean a lot of boredom for you and your kids.
Get a backup generator
If you are able to, it’s a great idea to invest in a backup generator. Winter storms can often knock out power, and although your survival kit may include all of the lights and entertainment you need, it can still be very bad.
For example, no power means that your fridge can’t run, so all of the food will spoil. It also means that your heat won’t be working, which can be dangerous when the temperature gets very low. So investing in a generator in case of power outages will help prevent some of the worse effects of a storm.
Prepare for water damage
Even if your roof is in top shape and your gutters are clean, water damage can still happen. This can mean having to deal with wood flooring repair, antique rug restoration, the loss of precious items, and more.
To avoid being caught totally off guard, make a plan in case something does happen. Know where you can go to get emergency water damage restoration services. Doing this to help prepare your home for winter weather is very important.
Stock up on salt
Icy sidewalks can be very dangerous for you and your family, and icy driveways even worse. So stock up on salt now, and if you know a storm is going to hit, salt your driveway and pathways beforehand. This will prevent the buildup of ice, and hopefully prevent anyone from getting hurt.
Lastly, the most important step to prepare your home for winter weather is to have a first aid kit handy. Strong storms, falling limbs, icy sidewalks, and cold weather can all cause hazards to your health. Keeping a first aid kit ready to go will help you be prepared in case of an emergency.
This kit should include bandaids, rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, Neosporin or a similar antibiotic, a suture kit, and anything else you think you might need. It’s also a good idea to include hand warmers and hot chocolate, to help warm people up who have been out in the cold. And including some treats could help injured children feel a bit better.
All prepped and ready to go
Clearly, there is a lot you should do to prepare your home for winter weather. Cleaning the gutters, checking pipes, repairing heating systems, getting a generator, investing in antique rug restoration, and making a storm survival kit might seem like a lot of work. But they are all vital parts of preparing for the winter months.
This winter, you will probably be spending a lot of time in your home. And the less sturdy and safe your home is, the more problems you will have. So it makes sense to take care of all preparations now, to save yourself trouble down the line. Once you’ve gotten everything done, you will be able to relax, grab a cup of hot cocoa, and enjoy time by the fire with your family.
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Memes are a worldwide language in today’s digital world. They combine humour, social criticism, and even complicated ideas into a brief video clip or simple image. Have you ever wondered, though, what lies ahead for meme production? The CursedMemes.com technology behind is a game-changer for creating, sharing, and consuming memes.
The days of internet users creating memes are long gone. The technology behind CursedMemes.com has allowed the art of creating memes to advance to previously unheard-of levels of automation and creativity. This essay explores the technology behind CursedMemes.com, its operation, and the prospects for meme culture.
What Are Memes?
Understanding what a meme is is crucial before we get into cursed memes. A meme is an image, video, or text that goes viral quickly on the internet and travels from person to person. Memes are typically shared because their creators believe them humorous, relatable, or thought-provoking. Frequently, the captions accompany the photos, adding to their humour or intrigue.
Memes can be about anything, from jokes about everyday life to hilarious animal behaviour. They might also alter in response to global events or trends.
What is CursedMemes.com Technology?
Fundamentally, CursedMemes.com technology is a platform that generates, evaluates, and disseminates memes using AI and machine learning algorithms. This state-of-the-art engine creates material that appeals to various audience segments and recognizes meme trends and cultural movements. Consider it a meme factory with the intelligence to predict what will become popular.
This goes beyond simply creating amusing text-based images; it involves optimizing meme generation to fit the needs of today’s rapidly evolving digital environment.
How CursedMemes.com Technology Works?
So, what is the actual working mechanism of this breakthrough technology? The technology behind CursedMemes.com analyzes text, photos, and meme trends using advanced algorithms. It then creates unique meme material by combining these components. The platform regularly updates its database to remain current in a quickly evolving internet space.
Users of the site can also add custom text or themes, combining the efficiency of automated processes with the creativity of humans. It’s similar to when a chef uses a recipe but customizes it with their touches to create a one-of-a-kind dish.
Key Features of Cursed Memes.com
Some of the standout features of CursedMemes.com technology include:
- AI-Powered Meme Generation: Automatically creates memes based on trending topics and audience preferences.
- Customization Options: Users can tweak templates or create entirely new memes with a few clicks.
- Meme Analytics: Tracks how well memes perform across different platforms, providing insights for improvements.
- Multi-Language Support: CursedMemes can generate memes in different languages to cater to a global audience.
- Integration with Social Media: Seamlessly posts memes to platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.
These features not only make meme creation easier but also more effective in reaching larger audiences.
How to Make a Cursed Meme on CursedMemes.com?
It’s simple to start making your own cursed meme if you’re ready! Take these easy actions:
Step 1: Create an account by visiting CursedMemes.com.
Step 2: Select an image that seems odd or unusual.
Step 3: Add a caption that accentuates the oddball or hilarious aspects of the image.
Step 4: Post your meme on social media or distribute it to your friends.
The main goal of making cursed memes is to have fun. You can be as imaginative as you like because there are no rules.
AI’s Role in Meme Creation
The technology used on CursedMemes.com heavily relies on AI. Using picture recognition software and natural language processing (NLP), the system generates memes appropriate to a given setting. This indicates that the content created for the memes is deliberately crafted content that is meant to connect with particular audiences rather than just arbitrary pairings of words and images.
It can be compared to having a group of meme specialists working in the background; only these specialists are algorithms that are taught to identify patterns and anticipate what will become popular.
Impact on Meme Culture and Society
The emergence of CursedMemes.com technology has led to a change in the production and consumption of memes. Memes used to be a way for lone people or small groups to express themselves. These days, influencers, political movements, and companies use them as mass communication tools to change public opinion and spark conversation.
What does this signify, though, for meme culture? Are memes becoming less DIY and more grassroots, or are we just entering a new phase of meme creation?
Why CursedMemes.com Technology is a Game-Changer?
The capacity of CursedMemes.com technology to democratize meme generation is one of the key factors contributing to its revolutionary nature. Making viral memes no longer requires mastery of Photoshop or a thorough comprehension of online culture. Thanks to technology, everyone can participate equally in meme culture.
It’s like putting a paintbrush and canvas in everyone’s hands, regardless of their talent.
Meme Distribution in the Age of CursedMemes
Memes are only as good as the people who share them. One of CursedMemes.com’s main advantages is its technical connection with social networking platforms. When developed, a meme can be automatically shared on multiple channels, guaranteeing that many people see it.
This functionality is beneficial for influencers and brands who want to produce content consistently without spending a lot of effort on it.
Future Applications of CursedMemes.com Technology
The technology behind CursedMemes.com has countless possible uses. This technology is not just for personal use; corporations may use it for marketing efforts, activists can use it to propagate social messages, and educators can use it to improve student engagement in the classroom.
We may witness even more context-aware, tailored memes that target specific audiences as AI develops.
The Ethical Considerations of Automated Meme Creation
Although CursedMemes.com’s technology has many advantages, there are also moral questions. Since memes have historically been a means of self-expression, some people are concerned that automating the process may diminish its genuineness.
There are also concerns regarding the possibility of abuse. Could harmful or misleading content be produced with this technology? As with all media, thinking about these moral ramifications is essential.
How Brands Can Leverage CursedMemes.com for Marketing?
Memes are an excellent method for businesses to interact with younger consumers. CursedMemes.com technology allows brands to produce culturally relevant and trendy memes without hiring a specialized design staff.
The platform may also create memes targeted to particular demographics by evaluating viewer data, which raises the likelihood of participation.
The Future of Memes: What’s Next?
CursedMemes.com technology is only getting started as we look to the future. Memes are only one example of content generation where AI will remain extremely important. Sometimes, we come across memes that seem to have been created specifically for us.
Meme technology has a bright future, and CursedMemes.com is setting the standard.
User Reactions and Public Perception
Reactions to CursedMemes.com technology have been conflicting since its introduction. While some users find meme creation relatively easy, others are concerned that authenticity may be lost. The platform’s user base is still expanding despite these worries, indicating a need for automated meme production.
A new era of meme production has been ushered in using CursedMemes.com technology. Thanks to technology, creating and disseminating memes is now simpler than ever, regardless of your role in society, whether you are a social activist, brand, or casual internet user. Although legitimate worries exist regarding the possible drawbacks, it is difficult to overlook the advantages.
We’re all a part of the meme revolution, which is just getting started thanks to technology like CursedMemes.com.
1. What is CursedMemes.com technology?
CursedMemes.com technology is an AI-powered platform that automates meme creation, allowing users to generate, analyze, and distribute memes efficiently.
2. How does CursedMemes.com technology work?
The platform uses AI algorithms to analyze trends and create memes that resonate with different audiences. It also allows for user customization and integrates with social media for easy distribution.
3. Can anyone use CursedMemes.com technology?
Yes, the platform is designed for both casual users and businesses, making it easy for anyone with no special skills to create high-quality memes.
4. Is CursedMemes.com technology ethical?
Automated meme creation has ethical considerations, including concerns about authenticity and the potential for misuse. However, the platform also offers transparency and customization options.
5. What is the future of memes with CursedMemes.com technology?
The future of memes is bright, with more personalized and targeted meme creation on the horizon. CursedMemes.com technology is paving the way for this evolution
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Written by Anthony Stadler
On the 28th February, I finally placed my votes for the second round of the BAFTAs. I was able to vote in five categories: Best Picture, Editing, Visual Effects, Animation and Films of Foreign Language. The last two are voluntary chapters that I signed up to as I enjoy them; not because I have worked in either. Which is ironic, as the other two chapters I could’ve signed up for (if I were allowed more than two of the four voluntary chapters), were Best British Film and Documentaries; both of which I have worked in. Documentaries are a huge undertaking, as about a third of the films this year were documentaries, and after spending all day working on a documentary, I really did not fancy watching them. But it would be fun to vote for one of the ones I edited… but that would be wrong, right? Also, Best British film, are the same films that could win Best Picture but filtered down.
The strange change to this year were the acting categories, which are now voted by a jury. Normally it’s open to all members, but I’m surprised they just didn’t allow the members in the acting chapter to vote on them. Maybe they did in the first round (I don’t know I’m not in the acting chapter), but it is strange that they did a jury for the second round to pick nominations. I’m not going to make any assumptions on why this was done, but it was always a nightmare voting in the first round for this category, as you got a list of every actor, in every film you had seen that year, in alphabetical order, without photographs. Which is never fun when you are dyslexic and tired.
This year there were a lot of films that got through to the second round that I just didn’t see beforehand. A few surprise omissions, some obvious ones, and the ones that probably shouldn’t have got through. So, the heavy slog through the powerful dramatic films started, or as friend puts it “The Oh So Worthy”. I tried to get through them all, but ended up having to abstain from Visual Effects and Films of Foreign Language, for the first time ever. That said, I got through all the rest, and while I recover from the heavy films let’s take this time to talk about the animations I saw this year.
We should start with my least favourite of the Animations, Earwig and The Witch. Now I understand that I am not the target audience for this movie, but I can imagine who was. I was enticed into watching it, as it had Richard E. Grant and said it was based in the 90s; sounds great on paper. In reality, the decade made no difference and there was not enough Richard E. Grant (but in fairness there in never enough Richard E. Grant). Those were the most minor of the short falls in the film. Now I grew up watching Manga Animations, so have no issue with the style, but it didn’t feel like a film in its own right, due to its lack of plot and character growth. It ended up feeling like a collection of left-over scenes from other projects, thrown together to make an 82 minute (including credits) pilot episode, that got cancelled, so they threw on an end, gave the actors one pass to voice it, without a script hoping for the best. See, a film needs three acts. The first act the protagonist has something they need to learn and gets sent on the journey. The second act they have their adventure, and they learn and grow. The final act, they are confronted with the main antagonist, where they must take everything they have learnt and grown from to succeed, or in a tragedy they do not learn and fail. In this film Earwig starts as an entitled brat who bends everyone to her will, and ends exactly the same way. She doesn’t learn or grow; she does learn magic and her mother magically turns up the end. All completely undeserved and a waste of time. I have probably spent more words on this film than it deserves, but at least you got to learn about the three-act structure, which these films makers clearly need to learn. It was also the only animation I saw that didn’t get into the second round.
The next disappointment was Netflix’s Over the Moon. Again, for this one I understand I was not the target audience. I was still optimistic about it, but it is a bad sign when you keep waking up and having to rewind Netflix to see what you missed while watching a movie. It started off well, and I am fascinated with Chinese culture and how it perceives itself. Then I started to wonder if this film is how Americans view Chinese culture, rather than having an authentic Chinese voice (I just quickly googled the writers and directors, and my uneasy instincts were correct). As this unease grew, it went into a song montage of the protagonist mother’s getting sick and dying. This should have been really powerful, but all it did was remind me what an amazing job Pixar did, at the start of Up. If you have not seen Up, just watch it now and if the beginning does not make you cry, you’re maybe dead inside. That is the thing, if your film makes the audience wish they were watching another film, you have failed. Then the film sends her on a fantasy adventure with her future stepbrother, where she learns to love him and let go of her mother. It follows the 3 act structure fine, but it didn’t feel original, instead relied on a massive suspension of disbelief on her getting to the moon and then turned into what I can only describe as a fever dream of an adventure when she got there. This was all very disappointing, as I really love the work of a lot the cast, but they were all wasted in this mess.
But don’t be disillusioned, as Netflix did have one potential classic with The Willoughbys. This comedy masterpiece has some of the best names in Comedy voicing it, and has a dark wink in the style of Lemony Snicket and Tim Burton. Unlike Over the Moon, when The Willoughbys makes you think of other films, it adds enough originality and charm, it enriches the experience. It even made me think of the lesser film North with the story, but it had enough twists and turns that soon made me forget about that. I really don’t want to single out any of the cast as they are all amazing, but Ricky Gervais was truly a spark of genius, as the sarcastic Cat narrator. It is worth a look if you want to have a good laugh.
Universal has their offering, which may have been the funniest adventure animation of the year with The Croods 2: A New Age. If you liked the first film, you’ll love this new addition to the franchise. That said I can barely remember the first film, other than enjoying it, and the same may happen with this one. Nicolas Cage is brilliant as the stone age protagonist trying to keep his family together and fearing change. A great addition is Leslie Mann and Peter Dinklage, joining the cast this time as the Betterman family, who are trying to split Emma Stone and Ryan Reynolds up, while flaunting their advance lifestyles. It has that big blockbuster franchise feel, with all the bells and whistles that will completely entertain the whole family and within a few months you will have forgotten it; but I guess that makes it re-watchable.
Pixar have been no slouches this year, releasing two Animations straight to Disney+. Onward, came out at the start of the pandemic as a welcome treat, followed by Soul for Christmas, and the two films could not be more different. Don’t get me wrong I enjoyed both films, but Soul is old school Pixar. Soul never felt like a kids movie, it dealt with adult subjects like mortality and self-purpose, playing your heart strings like a maestro, with music to match. There is no surprise that Soul found itself on the best picture long list. Onward on the other hand was a good fun adventure movie, with a great cast, and felt a lot more aligned with the Croods 2. It’s not that Onward lacked depth, but not to the same level as Soul, as Soul truly had soul.
But there is a dark horse in the mix. Apple TV, in my eyes managed to top Pixar with their Wolfwalkers, which is my choice for best animation. Now you could argue that it’s my love of the underdog, clouding my judgment, but there is a heart to Wolfwalkers that can’t be ignored. When every animation you see is 3D computer animated, when you finally see a beautifully hand drawn, stylised 2D animation it takes your breath away. It’s not just how the movie looked; it had genuine tension in it as you felt a real sense of danger for the characters. The second you hear Sean Bean’s voice it brings back the feeling of Game of Thrones, and you question if he will make it to the end. It also covers an interesting and often (outside of Ireland) ignored section of history; Oliver Cromwell’s occupation of Ireland, which they heavily imply, just calling the character Lord Protector. So not only does it look like moving art and teaches us about ourselves, but also will kindle an interest in history. I can’t recommend this film highly enough.
Well, that’s my look at the animations, now I had better start getting ready for the films in the next round. Until next time, stay safe and enjoy movies.
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The New Landscape of International Tax
The changing global landscape of international tax entail challenges for multinational companies in adjusting and adopting their investment approach to the new regulatory environment.
There are currently several ongoing regulatory changes within the international tax area.
The OECD base erosion and profit shifting project (BEPS) – initiated in 2012 – is looking at whether and why multinational corporations’ taxable profits are being allocated to locations different from those where the actual business activities take place. A BEPS action plan was published by the OECD in July 2013. The main purposes of the BEPS action plan is to
– ensure that companies are taxed in the countries in which they are conducting their business activities, and
– prevent double non-taxation as a result of gaps in the interaction between domestic tax systems.
The action plan includes 15 action points within areas such as hybrid arrangements, interest and other financial payments deductions, transparency, substance and transfer pricing. The OECD issued its final reports on 5 October 2015.
On a regional level the EU has in July 2014 implemented changes to the EU’s Parent-Subsidiary Directive. In brief the main purpose of the Parent-Subsidiary Directive is to exempt dividends and other profit distributions paid by subsidiary companies to their parent companies from withholding taxes and eliminate double taxation of such income at the level of the parent company. The purpose of the recently implemented changes is to counteract the effects of mismatches resulting from the differences in the tax treatment of hybrid loans. The changes imply that EU member states are obligated to refrain from taxing profit distributions to the extent such distributions are not deductible by the subsidiary and tax profit distributions to the extent such distributions are deductible by the subsidiary. The changes are to be implemented by the EU member states at the latest on 31 December 2015. It has also been proposed to introduce a general anti avoidance rule in the Parent-Subsidiary Directive.
“Tax legal advice is as important as it has always been – if not more important.”
Swedish regulatory changes
Changes in the regulatory environment can also be found on a country level. Prior to 2009 there were no limitations on interest deductibility in Sweden. In 2009 rules were introduced implying restrictions on deductibility of interest on intra-group loans used for intra-group acquisitions of shares. As of 2013 the rules have been tightened and the main rule is currently that interest on intra-group loans is non-deductible – regardless of the purpose of the loan. There are two exceptions to this main rule, so far the Swedish tax agency has taken a restrictive approach towards applying these exceptions. The Swedish courts have yet to assess the new rules. In June 2014 there were new rules regarding interest deductibility in Sweden proposed by a government appointed committee. The main rule in the proposal is that interest expenses – applying to interest on both intra-group loans and external loans – and other financial expenses are non-deductible to the extent they exceed interest income and other financial income. Interest expenses and other financial expenses are accordingly only deductible to the extent there are corresponding amounts of interest income and other financial income. A standard financial deduction – financial allowance – is also proposed. The financial allowance equals 25% of a company’s taxable profit. It has also been proposed that tax losses carried forward in a company as per 31 December 2015 will be subject to a 50% reduction. The proposal has in general been met with considerable criticism. In April 2015 the Swedish Government announced that they will adhere to the work done by OECDs BEPS project and the recommendations on best practice for limitation on interest deductions (action 4) and that new Swedish rules should be enacted as from 1 January 2017. The outcome of that announcement is still to be seen but the expectation is that Sweden, like many other countries, may introduce rules limiting interest deduction to a certain ratio to EBIT/EBITDA (e.g. 10 – 30%).
Challenges with these changes
All current and future regulatory changes on a global, regional and country level – such as the ones described above – make the international tax law environment considerably more complex and unpredictable. The economic consequences of a company’s business activities also include tax costs. Changes in the tax consequences are important for companies to know prior to making a business decision regarding for example an investment or financing. It is a challenge for companies to conduct business activities efficiently as the regulatory environment changes and the changes affect not only future but also current business activities. The tax consequences of business activities which are known today may be different in the near future making it difficult for companies to make long term plans with predictable consequences. Changes which happen quickly require adjustments with short notice.
“The ongoing discussions about fair share of taxes and corporate social responsibility add a new dimension to the dynamics of the international tax environment. “
Regulatory changes are not the only changes currently taking place in the international tax world. There are also fairly new discussions regarding the tax – taking into consideration not only what is required according to the applicable laws and regulations and general tax avoidance rules – companies should be paying. These discussions concern whether globally present companies are paying their “fair share of taxes”. The focus here is not whether these companies are following the relevant tax laws and regulations but whether they are paying a reasonable amount of income taxes considering their income. One example of this can be seen in the British parliamentary questioning regarding multinational companies’ business activities in the UK in relation to the amount of corporate income tax paid in the UK.
In the same context there is also a focus on corporate social responsibility (CSR). The view that is being expressed in this regard is that companies should consider their obligation to pay taxes in the same way as they consider their environmental and ethical obligations. In Sweden these discussions have also become relevant at the level of the Swedish tax agency which in its activity plan for 2014 stated that it will act towards companies developing their own tax policies. Development of tax policies is in the view of the Swedish tax agency a way for a company to look after its brands and take social responsibility. The tax policies should according to the Swedish tax agency be an equally integral part of CSR work as having environmental policies and ethical guidelines.
The ongoing discussions about fair share of taxes and corporate social responsibility add a new dimension to the dynamics of the international tax environment. The discussions can be said to be an expression of the global tax system not being up to speed. It is also an expression of the tax system being more politicized.
In our work as tax advisors at PwC Sweden we notice the impact of both the regulatory and behavioral changes on our corporate clients. We see these changes materialize in various ways.
We are as always being asked to provide our professional advice on the application and interpretation of tax law. However we are also being asked to express our view on future possible changes of the tax regulations as well as the probability of such changes being implemented. It is also of increased interest for our clients to know what is going on in other countries in the tax regulatory environment.
At the same time we are being asked what the current discussions within the tax environment are with regard to fair share of taxes and corporate social responsibility. The requests for developing tax policies and guidelines are more frequent. Companies’ interest in tools for monitoring and managing tax risk with efficient processes is also increasing.
Tax legal advice is as important as it has always been – if not more important. At the same time we see a simultaneous focus on the general approach towards taxes. The corporate leaders currently have a difficult balance to maintain. An increased tax cost would normally be expected to negatively impact a company at the same time as tax management impacts a company’s reputation. The reality is that tax is a cost and at the same time an obligation. A successful tax strategy will balance the regulatory and behavioral aspects in a sustainable way. Following the implementation of the ongoing regulatory initiatives the regulatory and behavioral aspects of the tax environment may be more aligned than currently and discussions shift towards more focus on the new regulatory framework.
For more information
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Master of Ridicule
In the history of Western satire, two figures dwarf all other contenders: Aristophanes, the scourge of Socrates; and Jonathan Swift, radical enemy of the Whiggish reign of unbridled commercial endeavor and craven religious tolerance.
Great satire, of course, is typically the chosen literary tool of the reactionary imagination, and this truth is magnificently on display in Swift’s letters, pamphlets, essays, and fictional excursions. For those who seek to defend traditional order, nothing more effectively dissects the pretensions of one’s enemies than ridicule—the cutting edge of the satiric rapier—a weapon Swift wielded so ruthlessly that even today he is often dismissed as a mentally disordered misanthrope. But even if that point were conceded (and it is a dubious one), we would have to add that if Swift loathed humankind, he may well have had good reason.
Swift was born in Dublin in 1667 to English parents who emigrated to Ireland after the Restoration—along with many others who sought to take advantage of cheap lands stolen from Catholic families by Cromwell and his predecessors. The Swifts were moderate Anglicans and were very much a part of the new “Anglican Ascendency” that dominated the region of Ireland known as the Dublin Pale. The majority Catholic population of the island was literally “beyond the Pale” and had by then been stripped of virtually all its traditional rights. Swift’s father was a lawyer who died shortly after Swift was conceived, and Jonathan often later referred to himself as an orphan.
Indeed, for several of Swift’s earliest years he lived in England under the care of his wet nurse, who had “kidnapped” the boy and chosen not to inform Swift’s mother of her child’s whereabouts. (As fantastic as the story sounds, it does not appear to be entirely apocryphal.) Upon his return to Ireland, he was taken under the wing of his father’s eldest brother, his uncle Godwin, who paid for Swift’s first formal education at Kilkenny College.
Swift was at best an indifferent student, both at Kilkenny and, later, at Trinity College Dublin, where he was enrolled in 1682. Poetry and card playing appear to have been his passions, and he despised the standard curriculum of Greek and Latin, logic, and grammar. Syllogistic reasoning was his bête noire, and in an early flash of satiric inspiration, he wrote: “Words are but wind; and learning is nothing but words; ergo, learning is nothing but wind.” Somehow, though, he managed to matriculate, earning a B.A. degree speciali gratia (“by special grace”), a distinction indicating that he earned the degree by the seat of his pants.
As William of Orange prepared to invade England and Ireland, Swift’s uncle Godwin, fearing civil insurrection, arranged for his hasty retreat across the Irish Sea. Swift made his way mostly on foot across England to the estate of Sir William Temple at Moor Park, south of London. Temple was, in fact, a friend of the Swift family and was happy to give refuge to a promising young “orphan,” though, as Swift quickly realized, the title of personal secretary conferred upon him by Temple proved to be little more than demeaning servitude. Swift had arrived in England with great ambitions. He hoped that Temple, a former diplomat with many Whig connections, would help him secure a clerical appointment in one of the prestigious English cathedrals. Temple made promises, but nothing ever came of them. While at Moor Park, Swift also served as a tutor to nine-year-old Esther Johnson, the daughter of Temple’s housekeeper. One of Swift’s most important biographers, Leo Damrosch, has uncovered suggestive evidence that Esther may well have been Temple’s illegitimate daughter.
Esther’s bond with the writer of A Journal to Stella (the pet name conferred upon her by Swift) was the most
important one of her life—and his. Gallons of ink have been spilled over the centuries in an effort to fathom the secret of the great writer’s friendship with the younger woman who can certainly be described as his muse. Swift’s biographers have differed over whether their relations were ever carnal, though it is certainly true that after his return to Ireland, she joined him there and resided in his household until her death. Most of the evidence is ambiguous, but it is likely that their relations were platonic. Whatever the case, the Letters provide a fascinating glimpse into the kind of sharp intellectual repartee that must have characterized their daily conversation.
After Temple’s death in 1699 and following his wishes, Swift was made responsible for preparing Temple’s papers (official diplomatic correspondence, essays, and pamphlets) for publication—a thankless task that paid little and left Swift hamstrung in his own early literary endeavors. Temple had been close to the Whig monarch, William III (a frequent visitor at Moor Park), and through Temple Swift had become acquainted with most of the men associated with the so-called Whig Junto, the leaders of the Whig party under William III and Queen Anne. More than once in his life, Swift described himself as an “old Whig,” which indicated that he was in sympathy with the Whig understanding of liberty and the prerogatives of parliamentary rule that had grown out of the Glorious Revolution. Yet he came to despise the Whigs’ alliances with commerce and their taste for foreign entanglements (for example, the War of Spanish Succession), which in the case of William III amounted to dreams of imperialist dominance of Europe.
On these points, he found himself increasingly in sympathy with the relative isolationism of the landowning Tories. Most importantly, Swift’s eventual defection to the Tories was motivated by his defense of the Anglican hierarchy against the dissenting churches favored by the Whigs. The dissenting churches included the Presbyterians, who were associated with the tyrannical social leveling of the Cromwellians, and the so-called Socinians. This term in England had come to designate virtually all of the churches aligned with the radical Reformation. For Swift, such sects were anathema for several reasons, but most importantly because of their fanatical conviction that the Kingdom of God could be established on Earth. His vision of human nature was deeply pessimistic; he believed that any movement that promised to throw off the shackles of hierarchical authority would lead only to a savage Hobbesian debasement.
In short, while Swift had little interest in theology or supernatural dogma, he saw the Anglican church, the established state church, as the stronghold of social order—as the cornerstone, in fact, of British political stability. This conviction was so deeply rooted in his character that it finally, and ironically, undermined any hope he had in securing the much-coveted ecclesiastical appointment in England that William Temple had refused to secure for him. That is patently evident in his response to the Test Act controversy.
The Act dated back to 1673 and was intended to prevent “those dangers which may happen from popish recusants.” In practice, the Act required any occupant of a [British] civil or military office to take communion in the Church of England at least once a year and to forswear any belief in what the Church of Rome taught about the sacrament. On the face of it, this seems relatively uncontroversial. Virtually all the rights of Catholics had been curtailed—both in Ireland and throughout the British Isles—after 1688, and the possibility of a resurgence of the Jacobite threat was negligible. But the Whigs were eager to abolish the Test Act in an effort to extend religious toleration so that dissenters would be eligible for public office, a move that would, in Swift’s view, open the door to unacceptable political unrest. As he observed in a 1706 collection of aphorisms called Thoughts on Various Subjects, “Liberty of conscience, under the present acceptation, produces revolutions.”
Thus when Swift entered the fray, he did so flying the banner of intolerance and produced one of his most memorable satires, the Argument against Abolishing Christianity in England (1712). As in many of his satires, he adopted for his purpose an alias—the voice of a Whig parliamentarian who speaks with exquisitely reasonable moderation on a recently proposed bill (entirely fictitious) to abolish Christianity.
“I do not yet see the absolute necessity of extirpating the Christian religion from among us,” he states, but what would be truly radical would be to “stand up in defense of real Christianity, such as [was] used in primitive times to … influence men’s belief and actions.” But to resort to such an argument would be to “dig up foundations; to destroy at one blow all the wit and half the learning of the kingdom; to break the entire frame and constitution of things….” However, if his fellow members of Parliament should insist on abolishing Christianity, he will suggest an amendment to the bill: “that instead of the word Christianity, may be put religion in general … which by laying restraints on human nature, is supposed the great enemy to the freedom of
human thought and action.”
Swift manages here to suggest not merely the latent hostility toward religious belief among the Whigs but, more broadly, the idea that Christianity had become little more than a nominal creed among the ruling classes of England. Needless to say, the Whig oligarchs were none too pleased with such an attack.
A few years earlier, Swift had already attacked in the most scathing terms the blatant departure of the Christian churches from their primitive origins in A Tale of a Tub (1704). Whether the Tale quite merits the unreserved praise it has sometimes received, there is no doubt that the play of his wit in this long work is complex and fertile, even as it reveals a certain satiric overreach.
On its surface, the Tale is a moral fable. Three sons are each given identical coats by their dying father. They are exhorted to cherish said coats and to refrain from ever altering them. Each son proceeds to do precisely that, altering his coat to suit his whims. Yet the Tale is also an allegory. The eldest son, Peter, represents the Roman Catholic Church; the second son, Jack, represents the Calvinists; and the third son, Martin, the Anglican middle way. Peter, of course, covers his coat with vainglorious frills; Jack strips away anything that might reek of ostentation; and Martin, while avoiding ostentation, allows some modest adornment.
Swift’s elaboration of the allegory introduces new and sometimes grotesque hilarities at every turn, but curiously, even Martin, like his brothers, is cast in the mold of a London rake. They are all inveterate pleasure seekers; they drink and fight and dally with ladies of the night—just to mention a few of their corrupt diversions. The problem, as even many of Swift’s contemporaries recognized, is that the satire seems to go well beyond censuring the abandonment of gospel simplicity; it can easily be understood as an attack on religion itself, though to be sure, the Puritans are dealt the most devastating blows.
Many were offended, and Queen Anne was outraged when she learned that the author was the same Mr. Swift who had petitioned her for preferment in the English church. Thus, he found it expedient to turn to his Irish connections, who advanced his cause in Dublin, where he eventually landed at St. Patrick’s Cathedral as its Dean—the position he held for the rest of his life.
To be sure, there is no doubt about the sincerity of his faith, as another of his biographers, John Stubbs, has argued. But his Christianity had little to do with theological distinctions and everything to do with maintaining a coherent moral order. He had some personal experience of the dissenting sects, but his depictions of Catholicism were little more than the common stereotypes that had been rampant in the Protestant nations for well over a century. There is no evidence that he ever attended a Catholic service or read any of the Church Fathers, despite his fluent Latin—at least, according to historian Anne Barbeau Gardiner, until well after the composition of A Tale of a Tub.
More generally, Swift was contemptuous of the modern rationalism that departed from inherited wisdom—whether the wisdom and beliefs of the ancient church or the secular, political wisdom of the Greeks and Romans. Thus, he played a prominent role in the 18th-century debate between the Ancients and Moderns. Swift placed many of those who promoted the new Enlightenment science associated with the Royal Society among the Moderns. However, what particularly incensed him was the pronounced tendency among the Moderns toward Utopian or abstract speculation. One can find evidence of this concern in several of Swift’s works, but it is especially on display in what most would regard as the crown jewel of his satiric endeavors, Gulliver’s Travels (1726).
Swift had long been an admirer of Thomas More and his Utopia (he despised Henry VIII in part because of his execution of More), and there are some striking resemblances between the voyage of More’s fictitious narrator Raphael Hythloday to the island of Utopus (“Noplace”) and the voyages of explorer Lemuel Gulliver, especially the third and fourth. The latter, “A Voyage to the Country of the Houyhnhnms,” has been widely regarded as one of Swift’s most disturbing texts and is clearly a satiric thrust at rationalist dreams of human perfection.
The Houyhnhnms are horselike creatures whose apparent freedom from moral weaknesses is evident in their inability to understand lying or the need for money or lawyers. For these cooly logical beings, there is no complication about the apprehension of reality. To reason is to grasp reality directly and without ambiguity. They have no religion and no sense of humor. Nor do they know anything of parties and factions, or pride, or vanity, or of “proud pedants” or “scoundrels raised from the dust on the merit of their vices,” as Gulliver notes. Like the Stoics, the Houyhnhnms sought to live according to nature, but, as Swift stated in Thoughts on Various Subjects, “the Stoical scheme of supplying our wants by loping off our desires is like cutting off our feet when we want shoes.” The point is that the most advanced “modern” thinkers elevated the rational faculty to an absurd degree, making little or no allowance for the passions.
The obvious moral flaw in the Houyhnhnm scheme of society is their vicious practice of slavery. Moreover, their slave population, the Yahoos (apelike humanoids whom Gulliver first encounters when they drop excrement upon his head) unnervingly resemble the human species. Thus they are nonplussed to find that Gulliver, seemingly a kind of Yahoo himself, possesses some semblance of reason.
If the Houyhnhnms are morally blind to the “inhumanity” of their treatment of the Yahoos, the irony is that they are in some degree justified by the sheer degradation of these creatures, and Gulliver’s profound shock at realizing that he shares some kinship with them is a central theme of the book. Though the message is never made quite explicit, Swift suggests that the Yahoos represent an extreme image of man under the curse of Original Sin. It is a forceful reminder that the Utopian vision of human progress can be maintained only by turning a blind eye to the reality of human deformity.
Swift’s satiric ire was particularly triggered by those Moderns he called “projectors.” He was quite familiar, for example, with the utilitarian thought of the Dutch philosopher Bernard Mandeville, whose economic theories promoted the notion that human vices might profitably be turned to humanitarian advantage. In “A Modest Proposal,” Swift’s last great work, he speaks with the dispassionate voice of one who claims to have worked out a solution to the problem of widespread poverty and starvation in Ireland. Rejecting the “several Schemes of other Projectors,” he turns his attention to the thousands of infants born each year to parents unable to provide for them, who are destined to become beggars in the streets. His states his own scheme with horrifying simplicity:
I shall now therefore humbly propose my own Thoughts, which I hope will not be liable to the least Objection. I have been assured by a very knowing American … that a young healthy Child well Nursed is at a year Old a most delicious nourishing and wholesome Food, whether Stewed, Roasted, Baked, or Boiled; and I make no doubt that it will equally serve in a Fricasie, or a Ragout.
From an economic perspective, the great advantage is that impoverished parents of such carefully plumped infants will be able to make a healthy profit on their offspring by selling them to the affluent upper-classes to adorn their tables.
“I grant,” he writes, “that this food will be somewhat dear, and therefore very proper for Landlords, who, as they have already devoured most of the Parents seem to have the best title to the Children.”
The landlords to whom Swift’s speaker refers were, of course, the absentee landowners who profited enormously off their Irish possessions but lived, for the most part, back in England, paying little attention to the widespread poverty that resulted from their practices.
It is true that Swift once complained bitterly in his later years that his life in Ireland was a kind of “exile” and that he fully expected to die there “in a rage, like a poisoned rat in a hole.” He never liked Ireland and frequently traveled to London for the company of friends like Alexander Pope and John Gay. Yet his sense of moral justice was acute, and he did great service to the suffering Irish on a number of occasions. He was a familiar figure on the streets of Dublin, emptying his pockets of coins for the hungry.
Die there, he did, in 1745. He lies entombed alongside his beloved Stella in St. Patrick’s Cathedral, where his inscription reads:
Here is laid the body of Jonathan Swift, Doctor of Divinity, Dean of this cathedral Church, Where fierce indignation can no longer Rend his heart.
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Imagine standing at a crossroads, one path leads through a dense, rugged forest—representing the 300 Win Mag with its powerful, hard-hitting capabilities perfect for big game hunting.
The other path winds through an open, precise terrain, much like the 6.5 Creedmoor, known for its accuracy and reduced recoil, ideal for long-range shooting.
You’re faced with a choice, but it’s not just about left or right, power or precision. Each caliber has its unique advantages and trade-offs, and understanding these differences is crucial for making an informed decision.
So, why choose one path when you’re on the brink of discovering how each journey offers its own rewards?
History and Development
Delving into the history and development reveals that the .300 Winchester Magnum, launched in 1963, was engineered from the .375 H&H Magnum case to fit in a standard-length action, whereas the 6.5 Creedmoor, introduced in 2007, evolved from the .30 Thompson Center case, highlighting its high ballistic efficiency tailored for precision long-range shooting.
The .300 Win Mag, being a .308 caliber cartridge, quickly established itself as a versatile option for hunters and shooters, offering the power to tackle large game and the precision for longer distances, thanks to its lineage from the robust .375 H&H Magnum. Its ability to fit in a standard-length action made it widely accessible and popular among shooting and hunting enthusiasts seeking a high-performing, reliable cartridge.
In contrast, the 6.5 Creedmoor was designed with a focus on maximizing the high ballistic coefficient and sectional density of the bullets it fires, thereby ensuring superior accuracy over long ranges. This cartridge caters specifically to the needs of precision shooting, leveraging the advancements in aerodynamics to minimize wind drift and drop at extended distances. Its development from the .30 Thompson Center case marked a significant step towards meeting the evolving demands of long-range shooting and hunting needs, providing a balance of power, precision, and efficiency.
When comparing cartridge specifications, it’s essential to note that the .300 Win Mag features a neck diameter of .300 inches and a shoulder diameter of .339 inches, placing it among the most versatile options for hunters and shooters alike. The case length and overall length of this powerhouse are 2.62 inches and 3.34 inches, respectively, showcasing its significant capacity for powder and, consequently, its powerful performance.
Delving deeper into the .300 Win Mag’s capabilities, you’ll find bullet mass options ranging from 150gr to 220gr. This variety allows for customization based on your specific hunting or shooting needs, from achieving high velocities of up to 3,300ft/s to ensuring substantial impact with heavier bullets. The rifling twist stands at 1 in 10 inches, optimized for stabilizing a wide range of bullet types, further enhancing the cartridge’s flexibility.
Moreover, the .300 Win Mag operates at a maximum pressure of 62,366psi (C.I.P.) and 64,000psi (SAAMI), indicating its robust design and the intense power it can safely manage. Such specifications not only underline the cartridge’s reliability and safety but also its suitability for a broad spectrum of big game hunting scenarios worldwide.
How do the .300 Win Mag and 6.5 Creedmoor compare in terms of ballistic performance? The ballistic comparison between these two cartridges reveals significant insights into their operational efficiencies and limitations. Starting with knockdown power, the .300 Win Mag outclasses the 6.5 Creedmoor, delivering a more impactful punch at the target. This superior power makes the .300 Win Mag a preferred choice in both civilian and military sniper roles where stopping power is paramount.
On the flip side, the 6.5 Creedmoor offers a more comfortable shooting experience due to its significantly reduced recoil. This feature is especially valuable for shooters looking to maintain precision over extended shooting sessions. When examining trajectory charts, both cartridges exhibit minimal differences in performance at ranges up to 500 yards, suggesting a level playing field in terms of accuracy and effectiveness at medium distances.
However, these differences in power and recoil underscore the fact that each cartridge is better suited for specific applications and preferences. Whether prioritizing knockdown power for big game hunting or favoring a comfortable shooting experience for competitive shooting, your choice between the .300 Win Mag and 6.5 Creedmoor hinges on the intended use and personal shooting style.
You’ll often find that rifles chambered in .300 Win Mag and 6.5 Creedmoor are readily available from a variety of reputable manufacturers, ensuring a wide selection for enthusiasts and professionals alike. Both calibers have solidified their presence in the shooting world, supported by a strong backing of manufacturers like Remington, Ruger, and Browning for .300 Win Mag rifles, and Tikka, Savage, and Bergara for 6.5 Creedmoor rifles.
When considering the ammunition:
- 300 Win Mag ammunition is commonly stocked at most gun stores and online retailers, making it accessible for those in need. Its range of bullet weights and types caters to diverse shooting needs, from precision long-range shooting to big game hunting.
- 6.5 Creedmoor ammo stands out for its availability and affordability, an appealing factor for shooters looking to maintain a high volume of practice without breaking the bank. Like its .300 Win Mag counterpart, 6.5 Creedmoor also offers a variety of bullet weights and types, ensuring shooters can fine-tune their loadouts for optimal performance.
- Affordability and Availability of both calibers mean that shooters have the flexibility to choose based on their specific needs without being limited by scarcity or prohibitive costs.
Manufacturers continue to support both calibers, promising ongoing innovation and supply for the shooting community.
Having explored the availability and variety of rifles and ammunition, let’s now examine how the 300 Win Mag and 6.5 Creedmoor perform in various hunting and shooting scenarios.
When it comes to deer hunting, the 6.5 Creedmoor is your ideal choice. Its lighter recoil and pinpoint accuracy at shorter ranges make it perfect for taking down deer with precision. The Creedmoor’s prowess isn’t limited to deer hunting; it’s also highly effective in target shooting environments where accuracy is paramount.
On the other hand, if you’re aiming for larger game like elk, the .300 Win Mag steps up to the plate. It delivers the stopping power needed to ensure a humane and efficient kill, even at extended distances. This caliber’s versatility extends beyond elk hunting, providing the necessary punch for other larger game as well.
Both calibers show their worth at distances up to 400 yards, but the .300 Win Mag stands out with its superior power, ensuring that larger targets are effectively engaged.
When comparing the recoil and handling of the 6.5 Creedmoor versus the .300 Win Mag, it’s evident that the former offers a more shooter-friendly experience due to its significantly lighter recoil. The 6.5 Creedmoor’s design prioritizes comfort and precision, making it a top choice for extended target practice sessions and precision shooting scenarios.
Here are three key points to consider:
- Recoil Management: The .300 Win Mag’s heavier recoil, induced by its larger powder charge and higher muzzle energy, demands advanced recoil management techniques. In contrast, the 6.5 Creedmoor’s manageable recoil allows shooters to maintain focus and accuracy over longer periods.
- Use of Muzzle Brakes: While the .300 Win Mag can benefit from a muzzle brake or other recoil reduction devices to improve handling, the inherent mildness of the 6.5 Creedmoor’s recoil often renders such measures unnecessary, further simplifying the shooting experience.
- Shooter Comfort and Performance: The reduced recoil of the 6.5 Creedmoor not only enhances comfort during shooting but also contributes to better performance in precision shooting disciplines, making it a preferred caliber for shooters who value both accuracy and a pleasant shooting experience.
In conclusion, your choice between 300 Win Mag and 6.5 Creedmoor hinges on your specific needs. If you’re after significant knockdown power for larger game, the 300 Win Mag’s your go-to. However, for precision long-range shooting with less recoil, you’ll find the 6.5 Creedmoor suits you better.
Each caliber showcases distinct ballistic strengths and rifle availability, shaping their suitability for various hunting and shooting scenarios. Assessing recoil and handling preferences further refines your selection, ensuring you’ve got the right tool for your intended use.
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The Conversational AI Landscape & HumanFirst
With chatbot development the initial approaches seemed to have been centered around a single vendor or technology framework/stack to address the complete chatbot development and maintenance process, end-to-end.
In most implementations this seems to be still the case.
Setup challenges, including training data and maintenance, were among the top reasons for not implementing chatbots in enterprises, according to a recent Deloitte survey.
There is an approach now of building a chatbot ecosystem using various technologies and components. Following a more open approach and opting for the best of breed for each individual component of the conversational experience.
This principle is evident in the open architecture of Cognigy where each component of their framework can be used and implemented independently.
Building A Sustainable Conversational AI Ecosystems
The initial maturing of the Conversational AI landscape has also lead to the proliferation of various tools. These tools could be divided into three categories:
- In-Conversation &
HumanFirst cover both pre and post conversation scenarios. Again, traditionally in chatbot development and maintenance, the focus was always on what happens in conversation. However, there are specific vertical tools available to address the pre and post conversation areas. Of which HumanFirst is one.
As seen above, HumanFirst has an utterance view and also a conversations view. Hence addressing the pre and post conversation scenario.
The HumanFirst interface allows for per utterance view of user input strings or intents. This is analogous to how most NLU interfaces works. With the marked difference that in traditional NLU interfaces the user needs to decide/guess on what intents need to be serviced. And subsequently possible or plausible user utterances associated with this intent need to be crafted.
With HumanFirst customer utterances can be added and with clustering intents are defined automatically.
The conversations tab allows for past dialogs to be interrogated and utterances labeled.
According to Deloitte 20% of patents in conversational AI relate to improving the training process. Innovations focus on automating and accelerating the training process to better understand users’ inputs and improve the quality of responses.
Manually processing user input strings or dialogs, with traditional manual approaches is error prone, inefficient and not feasible long-term.
Seven Vertical Vectors In Conversational AI
Within the Conversational AI landscape there are seven vertical vectors and also a horizontal view. The verticals can be divided into three main groupings: Pre-Conversation, In-Conversation and Post-Conversation.
The seven vertical vectors are listed above, where respond & negotiate is constituted by NLU and Personalization. Vector 5 is very much a niche market, which is very much the case with vector 1. HumanFirst covers both Vector 1, and also vector 7.
As stated in the introduction, it is not uncommon for larger organizations to construct their Conversational AI landscape from various technologies, choosing the best of breed for each area of concern.
“We shape our tools and, thereafter, our tools shape us.” — John Culkin (1967)
Horizontal View Of Conversational AI Ecosystems
In broad strokes, the Chatbot development framework landscape can be divided into four categories.
Making astute technology decisions at the inception of your chatbot journey has a significant impact on what your chatbot’s trajectory will be.
Hence, choose and shape your tools wisely.
Because, later in the process those tools will shape and influence the way you plan, develop, scale your chatbot. Impediments are usually system or framework related.
Chatbot development tools and frameworks can be divided into four categories, roughly…
HumanFirst fits into category 4 as a tool to manage training data and create structure from unstructured data.
The open source, more technical NLP tools and chatbot development frameworks. Typically, these tools:
- Can be installed anywhere
- Has open architecture
- Open Source
- No or limited GUI
- Configuration file and pro-code focused
- Machine Learning Approach
- Higher barrier to entry
- Scales well
- Demands astute technical planning for installation & operational management
- Often used as underlying enabling technology by Category 3 software
- New features can be developed and the platform enhanced
- Often used by large-scale commercial offerings
- Cloud based, big tech companies
- In some instances specific geographic regions can be selected
- Seen as safe bets for large organizations
- Solutions range from pro-code, low-code to no-code
- Lower barrier to entry
- GUI focused
- Little to no insight or control as to what happens under the hood
- Little to no user influence on the product roadmap
- Rigid rule-based dialog state management
- Cost is most often not negotiable
- Collaboration and group-design-development focused
- These are independent, alternatives for Conversational AI, providing an encapsulated product
- The enabling technology under the hood is often not made known
- Independent, alternative solution providers
- Frequently built using open-source NLP tools
- Often innovative approaches are followed to the challenges of Dialog State Design, development and management
- Low-code to no-code approach
- The possibility exist of these companies being acquired
- Price is often more negotiable
- Feature requests are more likely to be accommodated
- Lower barrier to entry and to get going
- Natural Language Processing and Understanding tools
- Text or conversations can be analyzed for intent, named entities, custom defined entities.
- Often tasks like summarization, key word extraction, language detection etc. can be performed
- Data annotation and training data improvement GUI tools are available in some cases
- Also tools for managing training data
- Easily accessible, but with a higher technical barrier to entry
- Ideal for high NLP pass on user input prior to NLU
- Not a chatbot development framework
- Does not include features like dialog state management, chatbot response management etc.
- Focused on wider Language Processing implementations and not just conversational agents
- Often used for non-real-time, off-line conversational text processing
- Often used as underlying technology by Category 3 software
Democratizing Access To Conversational AI
As seen below, HumanFirst allows for the upload of utterances or whole conversations. Existing data sets can be re-used or public data can be used. The option to use public data is quite fun for experimenting and prototyping.
The idea, that with HumanFirst the ability exist to easily interrogate data, creating structure from utterance data is core to its purpose. Users can even work their way back from conversation data.
Above, HumanFirst has got a few interesting public data sets which can be used for experimentation and framework exploration. Working with familiar data helps with demystifying some core NLP concepts.
After an initial overview a few things came to mind. These might change as my knowledge of the system grows…
A few closing thoughts on HumanFirst…
- Exceptional tool for exploring & Labeling data. Improving model accuracy and accommodating scaling model scope.
- HumanFirst does cover a niche and much required gap in data preparation.
- The product might be sold currently as a data discovery tool, and structuring unstructured conversational data. But I see huge potential in implementing HumanFirst as an API within a current chatbot implementation. Especially the NLU portion. Currently aJSON endpoint is exposed to allow running real-time predictions using the model trained within Studio. The input is a single utterance, and the output is a distribution over intents. Adding intent hierarchy and entities will bolster the API immensely.
- Using the the NLU API as a first-pass or high-level pass to categorize the user input can be helpful.
- HumanFirst is offered as SaaS, but can also be installed in any cloud via containerization. This is advantageous for companies with stringent government-imposed data protection and management regulations.
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NLP/NLU, Chatbots, Voice, Conversational UI/UX, CX Designer, Developer, Ubiquitous User Interfaces, Ambient…
Cobus Greyling - Medium
Read writing from Cobus Greyling on Medium. NLP/NLU, Chatbots, Voice, Conversational UI/UX, CX Designer, Developer…
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The shocking stabbing of Brianna Ghey, a young trans girl from Warrington, has brought into sharp focus the devastating impact of the Tories’ vicious culture war.
Initially, Cheshire police declared that the murder was not being investigated as a hate crime. But now they have changed their tune, after reports from the victim’s family began circulating online, noting that Brianna had suffered years of transphobic bullying.
Complaints were made to her school, the council, the police, and local Labour MP Charlotte Nichols of the toxic environment that Brianna faced day-in, day-out. Yet not one of these bodies intervened to address the issue.
By contrast, candlelit vigils held in Brianna’s memory have seen hundreds attending to pay their respect, and to denounce the poisonous atmosphere of hate that has been whipped up by the establishment against transgender people.
Over a thousand people lined the steps and plaza of St George’s Hall in Liverpool tonight to mark, to grieve, and to remember the life of Brianna Ghey who was killed on Saturday in nearby Warrington pic.twitter.com/ywI7O8hyIY
— Michael Cowan (@mrmikecowan) February 14, 2023
Large crowds gathered last night outside St George’s Hall in Liverpool and on College Green in Bristol. And many more tributes and solidarity rallies are planned in towns and cities across the country in the coming days.
“Your policies of hate are killing our trans youth,” read one sign at the Liverpool event.
“I’m sad and angry,” stated Amber, one vigil attendee, speaking to the Guardian. “Sad that we need to be here, angry that we are here.”
“But it feels inevitable,” Amber continued. “The media’s hostility towards trans people has led to this. And we are in a position where the government knows what it needs to do but it doesn’t care. I think it’s only going to get worse. We’re going to be back here again in weeks, months.”
A candlelit vigil is taking place on College Green tonight to remember Brianna Ghey pic.twitter.com/TNeivcCGrg
— Martin Booth (@beardedjourno) February 14, 2023
Ghey’s death comes just weeks after the Tories – looking to divert attention from their own crises – blocked the SNP’s proposed Gender Recognition Reform Bill in Scotland.
This manufactured clash provoked a new round of hysterical reporting in the right-wing press, with suggestions that rights for trans people pose a ‘threat’ to the safety of other sections of society.
These divisive ideas are casually presented in public by reactionary politicians and journalists. They are then amplified by groups such as the LGB Alliance, who promote and fund hateful campaigns that seek to restrict trans rights.
This incessant dog-whistle bigotry has real-life consequences. Whenever the Tories and their media mouthpieces stir up a frenzy over such issues, trans people are exposed to another wave of abuse.
According to Home Office figures, the number of hate crimes against trans people recorded by the police increased by 56% between 2020-21 and 2021-22, and by 16% in the year before. And this is only the tip of the iceberg, with an estimated 88% of incidents going unreported.
In turn, reports show that 67% of trans people have experienced depression over the last year, and 46% have thought about ending their life.
All of this is part of an extremely cynical strategy being pursued by the Tories.
Faced with a rising tide of class struggle and industrial militancy, not to mention a looming economic slump and their own internal political turmoil, Tory leaders have made a cheap calculation: demonise the oppressed in order to divide and distract workers.
Above all, the government is desperate to cut across the powerful strike wave that is building in Britain, which recently saw half a million workers take coordinated action together.
It is not only the LGBT community who are being kicked around in this dangerous game of political football. Refugees are also being used as red meat, to sate the appetites of the rabid ranks of the Tory Party.
Following in the footsteps of Priti Patel, Home Secretary Suella Braverman has spent the last year ratcheting-up racist rhetoric against migrants, referring to them as ‘criminal gangs’ and as foreign ‘invaders’.
This has emboldened the far right. Last Friday, 10 February, fascist gangs organised a protest outside a hotel in Knowsley, Merseyside, targeted at asylum-seekers housed inside. Fifteen people, including a 13-year-old boy, were arrested. Copycat demonstrations are planned in other locations in the weeks ahead.
Braverman has subsequently condemned the mayhem in Merseyside. But her statement is meaningless. She is responsible for this violence and vitriol.
Rishi Sunak, Priti Patel, Boris Johnson, Theresa May, and every single Tory MP involved in cultivating the ‘hostile environment’ against migrants over the years is responsible. The capitalist class and their destructive imperialist adventures, which force millions of refugees to flee their homes, are responsible. The billionaire-owned media, which echoes the demagogic bile of the ruling class, are responsible.
All of these vile creatures have consciously fostered the horrific racism that incited hundreds to intimidate asylum-seekers in Knowsley.
The Tories cannot simply turn the culture war tap on and off as they please. More and more, we see how their cynical attacks on the oppressed seep down into the rest of society, nourishing the most reactionary and backward layers. The oppressed and the vulnerable, in turn, suffer the consequences in their daily lives.
Recently, for example, a young black schoolgirl in Ashford, Surrey, was beaten up outside her college in a racially-motivated attack. All the while, teachers and onlookers did nothing to protect her.
These horrific acts are symptomatic of a sick system – one built on exploitation, oppression, and violence, where different sections of society are pitted against one another by the ruling class, on the basis of gender, ethnicity, nationality, and more.
Racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia, etc. are not inherent or innate within humans. Rather, oppressive ideas are actively promoted and permeated from the top, in order to divide workers. As Karl Marx explained, the dominant ideas in every society are always those of the ruling class.
Once they are unleashed, however, these virulent views and bigoted beliefs can develop a logic of their own, creating further polarisation and unrest within society.
An example of this can be found in the North of Ireland, where the British ruling class has consistently fomented sectarianism in order to defend its own narrow, myopic interests.
The result, however, is that they have created a Frankenstein’s monster of Unionism and Loyalism which is no longer under their control, and which has become a thorn in the side of the British establishment – particularly in relation to the festering wound of Brexit.
Similarly, the Tories today will happily lean on transphobia and other forms of prejudice where it suits them. But this strategy of divide and rule can backfire.
Recently, for example, prominent businessman and Conservative donor Iain Anderson abandoned the party, explicitly citing concerns about how Sunak and co. are waging a culture war.
“It was made pretty clear [from discussions with Tory insiders that] the plan is to run a culture war to distract from fundamental economic failings,” Anderson stated. “It’s not something I want any part of.”
Elsewhere, trans Tory MP Jamie Wallis has also attacked his own party for using transgender people to score “cheap political points”, after then-PM Boris Johnson U-turned on proposals to ban conversion therapy.
At the same time, these Tory attacks on the oppressed are increasingly failing to achieve their aim. As British capitalism descends ever deeper into crisis, and workers from all backgrounds come together to defend their living standards, ordinary people can see that it is the Tories and the bosses – not migrants or LGBT people – who are the real enemy.
Brianna Ghey is the latest in a long list of names whose lives have been tragically cut short because of the actions and choices of the Tory government.
Right-wingers will look for all manner of scapegoats to blame for her killing. But it is the Tories and their system who have blood on their hands.
Migrants are drowning in the Channel. Those who make it to Britain are being intimidated by far-right mobs. Women are being raped and murdered by the police. And an estimated 330,000 excess deaths have been caused over the last decade due to austerity and cuts to public services, with a further 170,000 killed in England and Wales by the pandemic.
All of this amounts to social murder by the Tories and the rotten system they defend.
The establishment is trying to cook up a distracting furore about trans people in prisons. But instead we should be asking: why haven’t all these representatives of the ruling class been locked away for their litany of crimes?
The only way to fight their culture war is with class war. Every cynical attempt to divide workers must be answered with united class struggle, through strikes and protests, in order to channel the anger in society against the Tories and the capitalists.
This must be linked to the fight for bold socialist demands, to address the pressing problems facing workers and youth of every colour and creed: a fully-funded NHS, to cut waiting lists and provide decent healthcare for all; a properly-resourced education system, which can offer genuine support to young people; and a democratically-planned economy, run on the basis of need, not profit.
Only on this basis can we end oppression, injustice, and discrimination in all its forms. To rid society of this poison, we have to tackle it at its root: capitalism.
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A 50-something woman approaches a cosmetics counter in a New York City department store and tells the young makeup artist that the powder-based foundation she uses on her face isn’t working for her anymore. As the woman has gotten older, the powder has started to settle in the fine lines around and under the woman’s eyes.
She asks if the brand the young woman represents has a foundation that doesn’t require powder or perhaps is formulated for aging skin.
The makeup artist picks up a bottle of liquid foundation and applies it to the woman’s face. The woman is pleased: The creamy solution seems to have filled in her fine lines.
Then she touches her face—ever so slightly. The makeup rubs off onto her fingers and the woman shows the makeup artist, who says: “You need to set this foundation with powder.”
“But I asked for a foundation without powder,” the customer says.
“Just don’t touch your face,” the younger woman replies.
Instead, the customer doesn’t touch her credit card; she leaves it in her wallet and carries it far away from that makeup counter, never to return.
That makeup artist works in a department store, so it seems obvious that she’s supposed to try to sell cosmetics. Perhaps because her official title doesn’t include the word “sales,” she thinks her job isn’t to sell.
But it is. And—she doesn’t sell much of anything.
That’s because she doesn’t listen.
The easiest way to sell anything to anybody is to offer the person something that she actually wants or needs. The only way to know what she wants or needs is to listen to her when she tells you.
The 50-something customer couldn’t have been more clear: no powder. The makeup artist smeared the foundation on her face that requires a topcoat of powder.
Does anybody wonder why that sale didn’t happen?
The older woman left the mall that day and drove to a stand-alone beauty products store. As it turns out, the makeup artist there was repping the same cosmetics brand that the department store clerk applied to her face. But this one heard something the other one didn’t: no powder.
She suggested a formula designed for light coverage without powder. The woman bought it, enjoys wearing it and plans to buy more in the future.
Here’s how to listen for the sale:
1. Ask the customer what she wants. So many salespeople start talking the minute a customer shows up. They talk about what they have to sell. They talk about the things they want to sell. But that doesn’t work because even though most people like to buy stuff, nobody really likes to be sold.
Instead of selling, how about listening? If you listen closely, your customer will tell you exactly what she will buy from you. If you know exactly what she will buy, you can find something in your product line that matches.
In that case, you both get what you want.
2. Stop talking. My Grandma used to say we have two ears and one mouth for a good reason: so we can listen twice as much as we talk.
Customers—all people, really—like to be heard. If you listen to your customer talk about what she wants, what she is looking for and what she is willing to buy, you will show her that you care, that you’re paying attention and that she is more important to you than your sales pitch.
And if you offer products—or services or whatever you have to sell—that reveal how well you were listening, that customer will buy those products.
3. Match your offer to what you heard. Don’t put powder on the face of someone who just said she doesn’t want any powder on her face! You might as well say you don’t care what she wants and save her the trouble of having to wash her face before she posts a scathing online review of you and your brand.
Instead, find several products that you believe will meet her needs. Chances are good that she will buy one of them.
4. Listen with your eyes. Observe your customer’s body language and you will learn even more.
A wince, a frown, a look of distress or a roll of the eyes can indicate that the customer is unhappy with what you are saying, doing or offering. If you notice those things, ask the customer about them.
If you’re being attentive, kind and helpful, a polite customer might agree to buy something out of gratitude, even if it isn’t quite right. If you observe facial expressions, tone of voice and body language, you can stop that sale and make sure she’s buying just the right thing instead of something she will have to return later.
5. Change your mindset. Think of selling not as a money-maker or as a way to meet a quota. Instead, think of selling as a service—and specifically, as a customer service. If you’re in a position to sell, you could change someone’s life for the better. You could make someone happy. You could ease her burden, erase a worry or make her feel better.
The young makeup artist could have done all of that for the woman who wanted a powder-free foundation, simply by showing her the brand’s powder-free foundation, which was right there all along. She could have made the woman feel pretty and look younger. She could have ended the customer’s search for a new foundation.
She could have, but she chose not to listen to what the woman wanted and needed.
She could have made the sale, but she didn’t. Why not?
DR. CINDY MCGOVERN is known as the “First Lady of Sales.” She speaks and consults internationally on sales, interpersonal communication and leadership, and is the author of the Wall Street Journal bestseller Every Job Is a Sales Job: How to Use the Art of Selling to Win at Work. Dr. Cindy is the CEO of Orange Leaf Consulting, a sales management and consulting firm in San Francisco.
| 0.977922 | 1,316 |
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Everyone is invited to Novel Night on October 1, an innovative event supporting Sedona Public Library in the Village. You can choose from seven amazing book-themed costume dinnerparties hosted in the Village of Oak Creek from 5-7 p.m., and then attend the After Party at the Village Library for continued entertainment at 7:30 p.m. Order your tickets soon, they’re going to go fast. Remember, it’s a rank-choice voting system, so first-come first-served! Get the party that’s just right for you! Visit communitylibrarysedona.org to learn more.
From 5 -7 p.m. you’ll enjoy a novel-themed dinner. Each party will be unique and will include refreshments and cocktails, a full meal, entertaining activities, and special treats that are all novel related. You are guaranteed to be greeted by festive décor and costumed hosts and guests.
Maybe dressing up in formal wear and dining with Nick Caraway and friends is what you’d like? Then you should attend Meet the Gatsbys. Or maybe you’re nostalgic for long days out on the range, and a chuck wagon dinner with cowboy poetry sounds just right, then make your first choice the party celebrating The Call of the Canyon.
Of course, everyone is feeling a little “mad” these days, so A Mad Tea Party with a cigar-smoking Caterpillar and Red Queen might be the party for you. Or perhaps just getting away from it all and traveling Around the World in 80 Dayswith Phileas Fogg is how you’d like to spend the evening. The choices are many and the hosts can’t wait to meet youon October 1.
That’s part of the intrigue of this special event, you won’t know who your host is until you arrive! The dinners serve as a community event that will foster new relationships with neighbors or residents. You may dine with folks you’ve never met, but you’ll definitely have two things in common: you love a great party and you support Sedona Public Library in the Village!
We know we have lots of dog lovers–and do we have a party for you! Dress up as a dalmatian, or any dog you choose, eat pork chops (bone-in, of course), and roll over for the 101 Dalmatians party. But if a pretty garden party is more your thing, somewhere beautiful like the Virunga Mountains, then celebrate the Land of a Thousand Hills, with food, flowers, and African Décor designed to soothe. You can dress in your summer best, safari gear, or favorite wildlife.
Finally, as it’s election season, maybe you’re in the mood to celebrate the right to vote for women! Then you can attend the party that honors the suffragettes and suffragents of the early 20th Century. Costumes and menu will be themed for 1915, and remember, prohibition will not be enforced!
Proceeds from these parties will support programs and services at Sedona Public Library in the Village. In the first eight months since the Village Library opened, the program line-up is full, the services are many, and door counts average 100 visitors every day.
Programs include Storytime; English as a Second Language; Notary Public Wednesdays; Tech Tuesdays; and the Library was excited to host the Arizona Science Center’s Camp Innovation this month. The Library also has two small meeting rooms and the Javelina Room (available soon) with seating for up to 80 participants. There are two beautiful outdoor furnished patios, plenty of inside seating, and Wi-Fi. This new library branch can do so much more with the community’s support, and what better way to show how much you care than to attend the most novel fundraiser in town!
After a lively and lovely dinner, guests head over to the Village Library for desserts, champagne, cocktails, and a silent auction. (Safe drivers will be available). Guests can show off their costumes, compete for prizes, and take photos in thephoto booth. There will be dancing with music provided by Lyra who is planning a set list to reflect the many themesof the evening. The silent auction will include fabulous gift baskets, massages and spas, and specialty items includingsigned originals by renowned artist Calvin Toddy, and much more.
Themed dinners have different capacities, so some may fill more quickly than others. Again, it’s important to order your tickets soon. The cost for one guest is $100 and includes the themed dinner and After Party. Your dinner choices can’t be guaranteed, but there is simply no bad choice in the party options! Learn full details at communitylibrarysedona.org, click on the Novel Night logo, and order your tickets today! There’s plenty of time to plan your costume and tell your friends.
Many thanks to our sponsors including Sedona Village Partnership, Red Rock Café, Arts Academy of Sedona, and Sedona Vista Village. Interested in sponsoring this fun event? For all questions, contact Anne Marie at [email protected]. See you on Novel Night!
As published in the Red Rock News
Library News Column for July 29, 2022
Written by Anne Marie Mackler, Development Director
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Jaundice is a term used to describe a yellowish tinge to the skin and the whites of the eye. Often, even the body fluids are yellow. The colour of the skin and whites of the eyes vary depending on levels of bilirubin. Bilirubin is a waste material found in the blood. Moderate levels lead to a yellow colour, while very high levels will appear brown.
There are several myths that surround jaundice. Does turmeric aggravate the symptoms of jaundice? Can sugarcane cure jaundice? Let’s clear these and other common myths about jaundice.
Myths related to Jaundice
Myth 1: Jaundice happens solely due to water-borne infections
Reality: Water-borne infections like hepatitis A and E do cause jaundice but they are not the only causes. Hepatitis B and C, malaria and dengue also cause jaundice and they are not water-borne. Obstruction of the bile duct due to bile stones or cancer also leads to jaundice.
Myth 2: Jaundice is due to liver problems
Reality: Not always. Excess breakdown of red blood corpuscles in the blood and obstruction to the flow of bile can also cause jaundice [known as obstructive jaundice].
Myth 3: Itching means you are recovering
Reality: Obstructive jaundice is often accompanied by intense itching. But it is not a sign of recovery.
Myth 4: Excess sleepiness is normal
Reality: Though fatigue is common, excessive sleepiness [drowsiness] or altered sleep patterns [daytime sleepiness and sleeplessness at night] is not normal. It’s a warning sign that indicates acute liver failure, which needs emergency medical care.
Myth 5: Once diagnosed, you don’t need to investigate further since there is no treatment for the condition
Reality: It is important to evaluate the condition further with the help of liver function tests to know its severity and cause. Only then can we facilitate complete recovery.
Often, the cause of jaundice is treatable. But if we don’t investigate further and get to the root of the problem, the cause might remain untreated, which can lead to complete liver damage [cirrhosis of the liver] or sudden worsening of liver functions [fulminant liver failure], which can be life threatening.
Some causes like obstruction of the bile duct may need either endoscopic intervention or surgery to relieve the condition.
Myth 6: A person with jaundice should eat bland food with no spices and that too in less quantity to help the liver recover fast. The person should also abstain from eating non-vegetarian food.
Reality: You don’t need to switch to a bland diet, as it will do no good. In fact, improper nutrition causes lack of nutrients, which may aggravate nausea.
Doctors advise not eating food with strong flavours during jaundice because it could precipitate nausea. You need to consume a normal diet with moderate spices and eat light and well-balanced meals. This provides the body with the right nutrients and helps the liver heal faster.
Small, frequent meals help keep the food in the stomach as most patients suffer from nausea and vomiting. This improves the overall daily calorie intake, which facilitates recovery. You can eat non-vegetarian food, provided it is cooked adequately and hygienically.
Myth 7: Adults with jaundice should consume anti-inflammatory foods such as turmeric and ginger. However, they need to go easy on the turmeric as the yellow colour of turmeric can aggravate symptoms
Reality: There is no evidence to suggest that consumption of any of these substances helps the liver recover. Also, the yellowness of turmeric (haldi) does not add to that of bilirubin to aggravate the condition. So, consumption of turmeric and ginger in moderation is advised and will not do any harm.
Myth 8: Sugarcane juice is the best treatment
Reality: Although sugarcane is a good source of carbohydrates, which helps increase the nutrition quotient of your diet, it is not a treatment option. Consumption of sugarcane during jaundice may keep the body from becoming weak as appetite is reduced. Also, sugarcane can improve overall health due to its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antihyperglycemic, diuretic, and hepatoprotective (preventing damage to the liver) effects.
Myth: When a newborn has jaundice, it means that the baby is not adjusting to her mother’s milk; the baby should be fed water instead
Reality: Breast milk is the best, safest and the only complete food option for a newborn. Do not administer water as it may worsen the jaundice and may even cause a host of other infections if it is not clean.
It is important to continue to only breastfeed the baby. You may also have to wake the baby for feeds as babies with jaundice are often more sleepy than others.
Spot an error in this article? A typo maybe? Or an incorrect source? Let us know!
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EX-10.3 3 dex103.htm AMNDMNT 1 TO COAL SUPPLY AGREEMENT AMNDMNT 1 TO COAL SUPPLY AGREEMENT Exhibit 10.3
Pages where confidential treatment has been requested are marked Confidential Treatment Requested. The redacted material has been separately filed with the Commission, and the appropriate section has been marked at the appropriate place with [REDACTED] and in the margin with a star (*).
AMENDMENT NO. 1 TO THE AGREEMENT FOR
THE SUPPLY OF COAL TO MT. STORM POWER STATION BETWEEN
VIRGINIA ELECTRIC AND POWER COMPANY AND
METTIKI COAL CORPORATION
THIS AMENDMENT NO. 1 (the Amendment) is entered into this 17th day of January, 2005, by and between VIRGINIA ELECTRIC AND POWER COMPANY, a Virginia public service corporation with its principal office located in Richmond, Virginia (Buyer) and METTIKI COAL LLC, a Delaware limited liability company with its principal office located in Tulsa, Oklahoma (Seller).
WHEREAS, Buyer and Seller entered into an agreement entitled Agreement for the Supply of Coal to Mt. Storm Power Station Between Virginia Electric and Power Company and Mettiki Coal Corporation dated January 15, 1996, (the Agreement); and
WHEREAS, Buyer and Seller desire to amend the Agreement to clarify changes to the arrangement between the parties that will result from the construction and operation of synfuel processing facilities at Buyers Mount Storm Power Station located in Grant County, West Virginia.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of these premises and of the mutual covenants and agreements herein set forth, Buyer and Seller hereby agree as follows:
1. | Sale, Purchase, Quantity and Scheduling |
Section 3.1 is amended to add a new subsection (h) as follows:
(h) From time to time, Buyer may request Seller to enter into new spot and/or long term agreements to sell coal to a third party designated by Buyer who intends to process, deliver, sell and/or resell to Buyer the coal which Seller is authorized to sell and deliver to Buyer under this Agreement (a Third Party Seller). Any such agreement with a Third Party Seller shall have substantially the same terms and conditions as provided in this Agreement with respect to the quality specifications, adjustments for quality variations, quality suspension rights and other terms and conditions as mutually agreed to between Seller and a Third Party Seller (a Third Party Agreement). If Seller does enter into a Third Party Agreement, Buyer and Seller acknowledge that any coal sold under such Third Party Agreement will automatically reduce the quantity of coal required to be purchased by Buyer and/or supplied by Seller pursuant to this Agreement. If the Third Party Agreement requires that the Third Party Seller pay any additional amounts to Seller, including any purchase price premiums that are in excess of the coal purchase price paid by
Confidential Treatment Requested
| | |
| | Buyer hereunder, then Seller shall pay Buyer an amount equal to such purchase price premiums for coal that is delivered by Seller to the Station but not ultimately processed into synfuel,. Upon any cancellation or termination of any Third Party Agreement, at Buyers sole option, the Third Party Sellers rights, title, and interests in and to the Third Party Agreement (including any coal shortfall make-up rights) shall be transferred to Buyer. If any Third Party Agreement is suspended or terminated or breached for any reason, there shall be no basis to claim non-performance or breach or exercise a right of offset, counterclaim or cancellation of, against or under this Agreement. If any Third Party Agreement is terminated and/or suspended for any reason, this Agreement shall remain in full force and effect with the remaining obligations for the sale and purchase of quantities of coal to be the quantities set forth in this Agreement, reduced by the amount of coal delivered under any Third Party Agreement, if any, during each such applicable calendar month. |
2. | | Buyers Right to Operate the Facility |
| | The last sentence of Section 3.5(c) of the Agreement shall be deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following: |
* | | If Seller, in its sole discretion, determines it can provide Buyer with use of the Facility to receive coal(s) from sources other than from Sellers Mine, and such use will not impact Sellers utilization of the Facility or Buyers and Sellers obligations under this Agreement, Buyer and Seller shall then mutually agree to acceptable procedures for the throughput of third party coal through the Facility. Unless otherwise agreed by the parties in writing, any coal delivered to the Facility from a source other than Sellers Mine will be ratably delivered during Sellers normal scheduled operating hours of the Facility. Seller shall have the right to suspend or reject deliveries of coal from sources other then from Sellers Mine if they are not in compliance with the legal load limits as then currently enforced in the State of West Virginia including any permitted variances and tolerances, and/or if the equipment is not compatible with design and safe operation of the Facility as existing or modified to accommodate the delivery of third party coal. Buyer will provide to Seller a detailed tabulation of the certified weights for each truck load of coal delivered to the Facility from a source other than the Sellers Mine. Buyer shall pay Seller $[REDACTED] for each ton of third party coal throughput through the Facility that is delivered during Sellers scheduled operating hours of the Facility. If requested by Buyer, Seller shall exert reasonable efforts to extend the normal scheduled operating hours of the Facility to accommodate the deliver of third party coal and in such event Buyer shall reimburse Seller for all costs incurred by Seller in operating the Facility during such period of time. In the event Buyer requests modifications to the Facility to accommodate deliveries of third party coal, including but not limited to modifications to allow delivery of triaxle and tractor/trailer combinations, Seller shall exert all reasonable efforts to comply with Buyers request and any such modifications to the Facility shall be at Buyers sole cost and expense and Buyer will reimburse Seller for such costs upon completion of the modifications. |
| | [REDACTED] denotes confidential information with respect to which a separate confidential treatment request has been filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. |
Confidential Treatment Requested
All references within the Agreement relating to sampling of Sellers coal delivered from Sellers Mine to the Station will be amended by reference, to be sampled by Seller at the Stations receiving point or the Mine, as applicable.
Section 6.1(e) is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:
(e) Payment to Seller shall be made by check to the following address:
5. | Third Party Seller Coal Price |
Article 7 is amended to add a new Section 7.8 as follows:
7.8 Third Party Seller Coal Price
The price of coal sold by Seller to a Third Party Seller under any Third Party Agreement shall be equal to the then existing price of coal sold by Seller to Buyer under this Agreement, plus any purchase price premiums paid by a Third Party Seller under the Memorandum Of Understanding between the Buyer and Seller dated January 17, 2005.
Article 13 is amended to delete Sellers notices address in its entirety and replace with the following:
In the case of Seller to:
Alliance Coal, LLC
1717 South Boulder Avenue
Tulsa, OK 74119
Attention: General Manger Contract Administration
Telephone No. 918 ###-###-####
Telecopy No. 918 ###-###-####
(b) Article 13 is amended to delete the numbers ###-###-#### in the twenty-second line thereof and replace them with the following: ###-###-####.
[REDACTED] denotes confidential information with respect to which a separate confidential treatment request has been filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
(c) Article 13 is amended to insert the following words after the words Sellers General Manager of Operations at the Mine:
Mettiki Coal Company
Dwight Kreiser, Manager of Operations
293 Table Rock Road
Oakland, MD 21550
7. | Annex D. Sampling and Analysis Procedures and Requirements |
Annex D, Attachment A (a) is amended to delete the words truck dump receiving facility at the Station in the first and second lines and replace them with truck dump receiving facility at the Station and/or the Mine.
8. | Buyer agrees to indemnify and hold harmless Seller, for Buyers non-compliance with any of Buyers permit obligations relating to any daily, weekly, monthly and/or annual volumes of coal that can be delivered to the truck dump receiving facility at the Station. |
Except as provided in this Amendment, the Parties acknowledge and agree that, notwithstanding any other term or provision contained in this Amendment, neither Buyer or Seller will have any greater, reduced, additional or changed obligation, liability or duty to the other than as specified in the Premises Lease, Equipment Lease, Operating Agreement or the Agreement.
In all other respects, the provisions of the Agreement are hereby ratified and remain unchanged. This Amendment shall not amend, modify or in any way affect the rights and obligations of the Parties prior to the effective date of this Amendment.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties hereto have caused this Amendment to be executed by their duly authorized officers this 17th day of January, 2005.
| | | | | | |
VIRGINIA ELECTRIC | | METTIKI COAL, LLC |
AND POWER COMPANY | | |
| | | |
By | | /s/ David A. Heacok | | By | | /s/ Gary J. Rathburn |
| | | |
Name: | | David A. Heacock | | Name: | | Gary J. Rathburn |
| | | |
Title: | | Vice President - Fossil & Hydro | | Title: | | Senior Vice President - Marketing |
| 0.9418 | 2,086 |
Air Force Captain Abbreviation
General of the army is the equivalent rank in the united states army and the insignia for the two positions were originally the same. A major's responsibilities include serving as the main staff officer of a brigade and task force executive officer.
Air force officer ranks are divided into three sections:
Air force captain abbreviation. When hiring or working with a veteran, it may be helpful for you, as an employer or supervisor, to better understand what his or her military experience or title means. Ground combat and recruit training unit: Air force and their respective pay grades, insignias, abbreviations, and classifications.
Captains may serve as commanders of small units or on the executive staff at group or wing level. Air force captain pay calculator starting pay for a captain is $4,383.30 per month, with raises for experience resulting in a maximum base pay of $7,131.30 per month. Need to know how group captain is abbreviated in air force?
There are over 1,000 air force acronyms, initialisms and abbreviations.these cover training, deployment, rank, weapons, equipment, and more. The rank insignia for major is a gold oak leaf. Mcpeak redesigned the service dress uniform.
The army rank of captain (from the french capitaine) is a commissioned officer rank historically corresponding to command of a company of soldiers. Capt, or capt., is the abbreviation for the rank of captain in the united states air force. Army, air force, and marines have second lieutenants (2nd lt.) and first lieutenants (1st lt.).
Chief master sergeant of the air force; General (four stars) lt col: The table below lists all the standard ranks in the u.s.
The word captain functions as a noun in the first sentence, as a verb in the second. The air force also has at the top spot a general of the air force Whether one is, for example, a senior master sergeant or a first sergeant in the air force depends.
Air force (usaf), and u.s. The rank is also used by some air forces and marine forces. On this page you can learn more about a captain's payscale, the process of becoming a captain, and the history of the rank in the united states air force.
Captain (capt) is the third commissioned officer rank in the united states air force. The abbreviations, from lowest to highest, are as follows: It is the most junior field officer rank.
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Marine corps (usmc) , u.s. History and origin of the word captain Major (maj) is the lowest field officer rank in the united states air force.
The current air force officer rank names and insignia were taken from the army upon the establishment of the air force as a separate service in 1947. In 1944, congress created the rank general of the air force. It ranks above first lieutenant and below major.it is equivalent to the rank of lieutenant in the navy/coast guard officer rank system.
Check out variant for group captain abbreviation in air force Company grade, field grade, and general officers. In the us navy, roles include lieutenant junior grade (lt jg), lieutenant (lt), and lieutenant commander (lcdr).
Following is a list of a few of these acronyms categorized by type. The rank has only been held by one person in history: The only person to hold this rank was henry h.
2d lt, 1st lt, cpt, maj, ltcol, col, briggen, majgen, ltgen and gen. The air force officer ranks have the same names as the army and marines but are abbreviated differently. Search for acronym meaning, ways to abbreviate, or lists of acronyms and abbreviations.
For example, the ship’s captain ordered all hands on deck. A new zealand air force captain. We've got 1 shorthand for a new zealand air force captain » what is the abbreviation for a new zealand air force captain?
Eli captained “red team” to victory over the other four teams. It is just above the rank of captain and below lieutenant colonel.
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5 Reasons Why Your Online Marketing Performance Needs a Boost
There are more than 5.5 million internet users worldwide (almost 68% of the population), making online marketing a crucial channel for connecting with a big part of the audience.
As the world becomes more active in online spaces, you must ensure your brand's online marketing plans can reach and connect with its target audience. Updating your online marketing strategy is a crucial step in ensuring the success of all of your marketing efforts. So, take a close look at your SEO, social media, and performance marketing strategies and follow the best practices that highlight your USPs.
The reasons for having the best online marketing plans are endless. Here are five reasons why growing your business should be on your mind.
1. Increased Competition & Low Visibility
The digital marketplace is over-saturated and only continues to move in that direction. This can leave your brand vying for consumer's attention. Many businesses can succumb to the chances of being low on visibility and lose opportunities to be the next industry leader.
To combat this, you need innovative marketing strategies to improve online campaign performance. It includes utilising targeted ads and proposing value to each with their best interest at the core. Additionally, leverage the best SEO practices to increase search engine visibility to ensure your audience can find you easily.
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As technology advances, so do the algorithms of social media platforms and search engines. These algorithms dictate how content is ranked and displayed to users, making it necessary for marketers to be updated with constant changes. For instance, Google frequently updates its algorithms to improve user experience and deliver more compatible search results.
You can optimise your content to include relevant keywords, have strong hooks in words and visuals, and follow the guidelines for best practices of the concerned platform. By staying up-to-date, you enhance your brand visibility and maintain it, making a consistent progress rate.
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We live in a data-based world. Everything is measured and optimised for efficiency. Hence, it is in your best interest to refine the data to get up-to-date insights and make decisions accordingly. Data allows you to understand consumer behaviour and tailor strategies accordingly. Start by analysing key performance indicators such as click-through rates and conversions to identify areas of improvement.
As you personalise the user experience, you will increase lead generation and conversion, increasing your return on investment. This is a continuous cycle of progress and optimisation crucial to staying ahead in our competitive marketplace.
4. Need for Improved User Experience
User experience is at the centre of everything you do. It can be the single most crucial point, tipping the results from failure to success of your marketing plans. A seamless user experience will improve customer satisfaction and retention rates. As consumers become more discerning about online interactions, your business must prioritise creating intuitive and engaging digital experiences.
To improve user experience, focus on website optimisation—faster loading time, mobile responsiveness, and easy navigation are some critical parameters. Another feature your brand can benefit from is privacy-first marketing. With the rise of cookieless tracking solutions and the growing demand for ethical marketing, businesses are favoured when prioritising user consent and implementing transparent data practices as they appear honest and considerate of their audience.Regular user feedback surveys and the use of privacy-compliant tools can help address pain points when they are smaller in scale and build lasting customer relationships.
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Technological developments are taking place at a rapid pace. Artificial Intelligence, machine learning, virtual reality, and augmented reality are some of the most trendy ones at the moment. You can incorporate these to enhance your online marketing strategies, analyse large volumes of data, identify patterns, and make better decisions.
For example, augmented reality can create an immersive experience, giving customers an option for virtual product trials and enhancing brand interaction while personalising the journey. Machine learning can identify patterns and speed up routine tasks, boosting efficiency.
Do your marketing strategies need a closer look? Are they driving the results you are aiming for? Let CRÉO help your brand reach its true potential. Schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward impactful online marketing growth!
What is GA4 and Why Does It Matter for Your Business?
In the ever-evolving world of digital marketing, staying ahead of the curve means embracing the latest tools and technologies. Google Analytics 4 (GA4) represents a significant leap forward in analytics, offering powerful insights and advanced features.
What Are Onsite and Offpage Optimization in SEO?
With search engines constantly fine-tuning their algorithms, it takes more than just a great product or service to stay visible. This is where Onsite & Offsite Optimization makes all the difference—a powerful dual strategy that helps brands not only rise to the top of search engine rankings but also maintain a strong online presence.
What is Tracking Implementation? Importance and Benefits
In marketing, the line between guesswork and genuine growth is drawn by effective tracking implementation. This is the foundation for any successful marketing strategy, ensuring every campaign is measurable, accountable, and optimized for the best possible outcomes. With the right expertise, brands can reach their full potential through accurate and reliable tracking strategies. Let’s see how tracking implementation works.
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Istria is the ideal destination for painting holidays, with stunning landscapes, strong colours and perfect light. At least that's the case for the Irish artist and BBC TV presenter Dermot Cavanagh.
We caught up with Dermot on his recent return from Istria. He said he couldn't wait for the next one. The UK 's No.1 TV art tutor who has taught the stars to paint and inspired millions with 74 half hour episodes of his hit TV series "Awash With Colour" here explains his connection with Croatian Istria.
Istria is a painter's paradise and I hope to have the pleasure of bringing five painting groups there again this year. As both guide and tutor I help my guests paint the days away at locations that simply ooze inspiration. During my first visit to Istria, on a holiday in 1987 I got a strange feeling that I'd come home. Eighteen years on and even though I am still nothing more than a frequent visitor, I feel more of a native in Istria than I do here in Ireland . For many years now I've brought painting groups to Istria and I have never failed to be inspired by its landscape and people. Istria is the largest peninsula on the Adriatic coast and the westernmost county of Croatia . It lies at the geographic crossroads of central Europe, the Alps and the dinaric Mediterranean region and is a very worthy neighbour to the magnificent city of Venice on the opposite coast. Istria is simply my favourite place in Europe. For me its picturesque landscape can rival any in Tuscany or Provence. It is modern and sophisticated and has immense appeal to the most discerning of foreign visitors. I know and love the place and I want to help my guests experience the best of it.
It is modern and sophisticated and has immense appeal to the most discerning of foreign visitors. I know and love the place and I want to help my guests experience the best of it.
Istria was once part of Italy, therefore Italian culture and influence is everywhere, in architecture, fashion and cuisine, in fact lots of Istrians speak Italian, as well as English and German. Over the years I've made the effort to pick up a bit of the language and now I have just about enough Croatian to get by in most situations. I actually found it to be an easy language to grasp.
Artists who join in my painting holidays will find that everything has been organised for them - flights, transfers, accommodation, meals, entertainment and painting locations. All I ask is that they bring a desire to paint and a taste for great food and wine. Istria quite simply offers some of the most breathtaking painting locations you
could ever imagine. Guests who have previously experienced this painting idle have said, "not only was it the best painting holiday they had ever been on but also the best holiday in general". On the way back from a painting day in the hilltop village of Groznjan one lady remarked, "I have just spent a day in paradise".
Paradise is situated just off the ancient Via Flavia Roman road. Groznjan is a medieval town on a terraced hill, covered with old vineyards and olive gardens overlooking the beautiful Mirna valley. In 1358 the town is said to have been the administrative centre for Venetian Istria. Since the 1960's the town has become home to a colony of young artists who have restored many of the old buildings and opened studios and galleries. Today Groznjan nurtures a rich art tradition and during the summer the town hosts an international music school. Painting opportunities appear around every corner.
One couldn't help but want to paint here and the live music that wafts on the warm air along the narrow streets only adds to the inspiration. My wife Maria who helps organise all my painting activities has described the town as both hypnotic and intoxicating and that's before lunch and a glass of the famous Malvazija wine at Bastia restaurant, where by the way Bruno makes the best cup of coffee I have ever tasted.
Even though I spend the painting days giving tuition and help to the painters in the group, that does not mean that the plight of the nonpainters who choose to come along is neglected in any way. All of my painting locations have as much to offer the non-painter as they do the painter and there is a plethora of other activities and excursions available during the holiday.
Another of my favourite painting haunts is the Istrian town of Rovinj. When I walk through its steep meandering lanes and hidden cobbled squares I feel the centuries pass me by. This is a place of exuberant beauty, which made a Roman chronicler almost two thousand years ago write - "In Istria Roman patricians feel like Gods". All the great powers have ruled Rovinj at one time or another: Greeks, Romans, Venetians, Turks and Austro-Hungarians. The town is squeezed onto an oval shaped limestone rock and surrounded by the brilliant blue of the Adriatic Sea. At its centre is the impressive church of St. Euphemia, which dates back to the 5th century. The bell tower is a copy of the one at St. Mark's Square in Venice. When it comes to eating I have often had great difficulty in making recommendations since Rovinj offers so many high quality establishments - specialist fish restaurants, wine cellars, taverns, patisseries, bars and rotisseries for all tastes and palates.
I feel I must say that Istra is one of the easiest places I have ever been, by that I mean if I want something I get it, and I get it when I want it. It's a pleasure to organise painting holidays there. Maybe that's all down to a chance encounter 19 years ago with Guido Schwengersbauer, 'our man in Istria'. Guido works for the Istria County Tourism Association. Born and brought up in Austria, Guido moved to Istria 36 years ago. Maria and I first met him in May of 1987. I wanted to learn more about Istria and Guido seamed to know just about everyone there. In my opinion he was then and still is now "Mr. Istria". Guido invited us to come back in September of that year but as visitors not tourists, and he would show us the real Istra. We did, he did and I was hooked.
Nowadays Guido and his wife Maruska who comes from Dubrovnik have their own travel agency 'Alternativna Istra' which they run from an office at their home in the village of Brtonigla set amongst the famous vineyards of the Buje region. Well, to be honest Maruska runs the show as Guido still works for the tourist association
Porec is the main coastal town in Istria and possesses by far the most developed tourist infrastructure in Croatia, in high summer it's as busy as a beehive. A port was first built here in about 800 BC by the Illyrian-Histri. The town that grew up around the port soon became a thriving trade centre and cultural melting pot. After the fall of the Roman Empire the Byzantine Empire gradually took over and developed Porec into one of its most important strongholds.
The wonderful Euphrasian Basilica that stands to this day in the centre of the old town was built at this time. The Basilica is a UNESCO World Heritage site and its famous treasures of gold mosaic frescoes are one of the finest examples of Byzantine art. Most of Guido and Maruska's guests come from Austria, Germany and increasingly from Russia and Czech Republic but they are longing for the days when the Brits return!
The loss of the British market was huge and is proving very difficult to retrieve. A full ten years after the end of the Balkan war, in which by the way Istria was not effected except from suffering financially, many people here still perceive Istria to be in the middle of a war zone. In reality it is one of the most peaceful, friendly and respectful places one could ever be. Throughout the world we Irish are often renowned for our hospitality, quite honestly in my experience we don't have a patch on these people, but then Istria was already civilised two thousand years ago.
Motovun - a painter's paradise
Almost all of the painting locations, restaurants, and people I now introduce my painting guests to, were originally introduced to me by Guido; one such place is the hill village of Motovun. Motovun is one of the most beautiful small towns I have ever seen, on rounding a bend in the road it appears like a dream and is perched on a hilltop 277m above sea level. As a settlement it dates back to pre history and in the early part of the first century became a Roman stronghold. Its solid defensive walls are still intact today and are now used as a walkway providing unique views over Istria. The buildings that corkscrew up along the narrow streets are of Romanesque, Gothic and Renaissance styles and lead you to the main town square and the church of St. Stephen.
Surrounding the town is Motovun forest which extends for miles along the Mirna valley, this is the dwelling place of that famed underground mushrooms, the truffle. Summer and early autumn is the period for hunting the black truffle, with the help of specially trained dogs, whereas the Istrian white truffle is hunted in late autumn and winter.
Umag - a painting holiday base
The host town and the base for my painting holiday is the costal town of Umag. Today the old city core is full of reminders from a historic past: the town wall remains, Venetian villas and picturesque narrow streets ooze charm. The landscape around the town is generally rolling hills with vineyards, olive groves, fertile fields and a few oak and pinewoods. It is said that Umag was founded by the Celts; the word Umag meant "plain" or "flat ground" in the Celtic language. Under Roman rule Umag and the entire region of Istria prospered greatly. After the fall of the Roman Empire, Umag was ruled in turn by the Byzantines, Franks, Venice, Austria, Italy, Yugoslavia and now Croatia. A friend of Maria and I, a local lady from the art club in Novigrad (Citanova in Italian) who sometimes comes painting with us was once asked by a member of my group "Why do you mostly speak in Italian and refer to everything using Italian terminology"? She replied, "It is probably because my mother was Italian, you see" she went on, "the Istrian language is complicated - my grandmother was born in Austria, my mother was born in Italy, I was born in Yugoslavia and I now live in Croatia but we have never moved house".
The hotels we base ourselves are always officially rated 4 stars and the best in Istria, like the Sol Umag, a superb hotel located in beautiful grounds, and only 1km from the town centre. It is, like everywhere in Istra, spotlessly clean and one can always be sure of the Istrian charm and personalised service. Superbly positioned on the beachfront, Hotel Sol Umag offers breathtaking views of the sea with wonderful sunsets and is also the premier hotel of the area in terms of its extensive facilities, comfort, quality of service and food. Rooms are single, twin or double with shower, bath, WC, hairdryer, telephone, safe, minibar, satellite TV and balcony or terrace. Meals are buffet style breakfast & 4 course evening meal. Facilities include restaurants with a terrace, pizzeria, snack bar on the beach, pool bar, indoor and outdoor pools, fully fitted gym and sports centre, tennis centre and a very special wellness/beauty centre.
Maybe I have succeeded in wetting your appetite for a trip to Croatia. If so, I hope that if you have even a fleeting interest in art you will perhaps consider joining me, Maria and indeed our friends in Istria for a painting holiday of a lifetime.
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If you have joint pain, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider or a qualified fitness professional before starting any new exercise routine. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific condition and health status. However, here are some alternative exercises that are generally considered low-impact and may be helpful for individuals with joint pain:
- Swimming or Water Aerobics: Water provides buoyancy, which reduces the impact on joints while providing resistance for a good workout. Swimming or water aerobics can be gentle on joints and provide a full-body workout without putting excessive strain on your joints.
- Cycling: Cycling, either on a stationary bike or outdoors, is a low-impact exercise that can be easy on the joints. It can be a great option for cardiovascular fitness and lower body strengthening without putting excessive strain on the knees, hips, or ankles.
- Yoga: Yoga is a form of exercise that focuses on flexibility, strength, and balance, and can be adapted to accommodate different fitness levels and joint conditions. Many yoga poses can be modified to avoid putting excessive stress on the joints, making it a good option for individuals with joint pain.
- Pilates: Pilates is a type of exercise that focuses on core strength, flexibility, and stability. It typically involves controlled movements and can be modified to avoid putting excessive stress on joints. Pilates can be done with or without equipment, making it accessible to a wide range of individuals.
- Resistance Training: Resistance training, such as lifting weights or using resistance bands, can be beneficial for strengthening muscles, improving bone density, and supporting joint health. It’s important to start with light weights and progress gradually to avoid exacerbating joint pain.
- Tai Chi: Tai Chi is a gentle form of exercise that involves slow, flowing movements, deep breathing, and meditation. It can improve balance, flexibility, and relaxation, and is generally considered low-impact and safe for individuals with joint pain.
- Chair Exercises: Chair exercises are a great option for individuals with limited mobility or joint pain. You can perform seated exercises such as seated marches, seated leg lifts, seated arm curls, and seated shoulder rolls using a sturdy chair as support. These exercises can help improve strength, flexibility, and circulation while minimizing stress on joints.
- Stretching: Stretching is an important component of any exercise routine and can help improve flexibility, mobility, and joint health. Gentle stretching exercises, such as static stretching or dynamic stretching, can be done regularly to help reduce joint stiffness and pain.
- Walking: Walking is a low-impact exercise that can be easily adapted to suit different fitness levels and joint conditions. It’s a weight-bearing exercise that can help improve cardiovascular fitness, strengthen muscles, and support joint health. Start with shorter walks and gradually increase duration and intensity as tolerated.
- Balance Exercises: Balance exercises can help improve stability and reduce the risk of falls, which can be especially important for individuals with joint pain. Examples of balance exercises include standing on one leg, heel-to-toe walking, or standing on a foam pad. These exercises can be performed with support, such as holding onto a sturdy surface, and can be modified to suit individual needs.
- Elliptical Trainer: An elliptical trainer is a low-impact cardiovascular exercise machine that mimics the motion of walking or running without the impact on joints. It can provide a good cardiovascular workout while reducing stress on joints like knees, hips, and ankles.
- Gentle Aerobics: Low-impact aerobics classes or workout routines designed specifically for individuals with joint pain can be a good option. Look for classes that incorporate gentle movements, and modifications, and use low-impact exercises to reduce stress on joints.
Here’s an example of a low-impact exercise routine that could be suitable for someone with joint pain:
Warm-up (5 minutes):
- Start with a gentle 5-minute warm-up to increase blood flow and prepare your muscles and joints for exercise. You can try marching in place, gentle arm circles, or easy range-of-motion movements for your joints.
Cardiovascular Exercise (10-15 minutes):
- Choose an exercise that is low-impact and easy on the joints, such as stationary cycling or using an elliptical trainer. Start with light resistance or level and go at a pace that feels comfortable for you. Aim for 10-15 minutes of cardiovascular exercise to get your heart rate up and improve cardiovascular fitness.
Strength Training (10-15 minutes):
- Incorporate resistance training to strengthen your muscles and support joint health. You can use light dumbbells, resistance bands, or your body weight for resistance. Perform exercises that target major muscle groups, such as bicep curls, shoulder presses, or leg presses, using a weight or resistance that is challenging but manageable for you. Start with 1-2 sets of 10-12 repetitions for each exercise.
Flexibility and Balance (5-10 minutes):
- Include gentle stretching exercises to improve flexibility and balance. You can perform static stretches, such as calf stretches, hamstring stretches, or shoulder stretches, holding each stretch for 15-30 seconds. Additionally, you can practice balance exercises such as standing on one leg or standing heel-to-toe to improve stability.
Cool-down and Relaxation (5 minutes):
- Finish your exercise routine with a 5-minute cool-down to gradually lower your heart rate and relax your muscles. You can try gentle walking or slow, controlled breathing exercises to help you relax and transition out of your workout.
In conclusion, for individuals with joint pain, finding alternative exercises that are gentle on the joints can be key to maintaining an active and healthy lifestyle. Incorporating low-impact exercises, such as chair exercises, stretching, walking, balance exercises, elliptical training, and gentle aerobics, can help improve strength, flexibility, cardiovascular fitness, and balance while minimizing stress on the joints.
It’s important to listen to your body and choose exercises that are appropriate for your fitness level and joint condition. Always consult with your healthcare provider or a qualified fitness professional before starting any new exercise routine, and make sure to work within your comfort level and avoid exercises that cause pain or discomfort.
Remember, exercise should be enjoyable and sustainable, and finding exercises that work for your unique needs and abilities is key to maintaining a regular exercise routine. By incorporating joint-friendly exercises into your fitness routine, you can effectively manage joint pain and promote overall health and well-being. Stay active, stay safe, and keep moving!
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Central to the arguments promoting YIMBY solutions to housing affordability, such as Senator Scott Wiener’s SB 50, is the claim that blanket upzoning by state government will eventually ease demand and lower rents for older properties in jobs-rich parts of California. But whether this proposed solution to the state’s housing crisis could ever seriously address housing affordability in coastal California is contentiously debated among the urban planning faculty at the UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs. In this interview, UCLA professor Ananya Roy—globally renowned urban scholar and founding director of the Institute on Inequality and Democracy at UCLA Luskin—argues that the narrow lens of the supply-side approach fails to understand and address the structural causes of housing insecurity, and thus fails to address the housing crisis more broadly. TPR is proud to present the following interview with Dr. Roy.
As founding director of the UCLA Institute on Inequality and Democracy, share your findings on the underlying causes of housing unaffordability and homelessness in Los Angeles and California.
Ananya Roy: There are a few key trends at the heart of our research and the housing justice work at the Institute on Inequality and Democracy, particularly as it pertains to Los Angeles and California. The first is the massive process of the restructuring of metropolitan areas, which can be understood as a new form of residential segregation. In my own work, I have called this racial banishment. This refers to the displacement of working-class communities of color from urban cores to the far peripheries of urban life.
We have better data and information on this phenomenon in the Bay Area, much of it done by Urban Habitat and PolicyLink, among others. At the Institute, we are committed to doing similar work in Los Angeles in order to understand processes of, and in particular to understand where working-class communities of color are.
Anecdotally, we know that they are ending up in the Antelope Valley, San Bernardino, and Riverside, but we are not convinced that they are finding a foothold even there. We need to understand these broad processes of displacement and resegregation, of which eviction is perhaps the most visible symptom.
Driving these processes are myriad structural forces, which are the second piece of our research. For example, huge rent burden can be understood as a symptom of market-driven displacement. But we are particularly interested in analyzing how these processes are deeply racialized, as well as the important role played by state policies and programs—particularly practices of criminalization and policing—in these forms of banishment. We are keen not only to research these processes, but also to find ways of countering and challenging them.
The Planning Report published research by the Anti-Eviction Mapping Project on California real estate owned by large financial organizations, such as Blackstone. How significant is this research on housing in the US and Los Angeles for your work?
We need a lot more research on the financialization of land and housing in US cities and the ways actually affect our communities. We know that these forms of financialization have been going on at a global scale for quite some time, and that there is a continuity between what we see today with older forms of financialization. However, there is a distinctive pattern in the United States that is very relevant to Los Angeles.
At the risk of oversimplification, the story goes a bit like this: What we saw with the foreclosure crisis and the Great Recession was, of course, predatory lending by large banks. That predatory, deregulated lending led to a massive loss of wealth and homeownership for racial and ethnic minorities. There were whole cities and communities devastated by the vast reach of that crisis.
Those neighborhoods, as well as the neighborhoods we traditionally think of as the “inner city,” are now the siteof new forms of predatory financialization. Private equity firms such as Blackstone are buying up quite large amounts of property, including foreclosed single-family homes, and converting them into rental housing—and then, as shows, securitizing that housing and turning it into a speculative asset.
Other cities around the world, such as Barcelona and Berlin, have seen very important policy debates about how to address this kind of speculation and its impact on communities. These are debates about how to regulate massive financial forces, and also about how to protect vulnerable communities from predatory financialization. These debates are long overdue here in the United States.
The research and policy considerations you’ve described seem antithetical to the focus of the current debate in the state legislature—namely, the agenda of the YIMBY movement, as expressed by SB 50 which would have upzoned residential neighborhoods irrespective of community plans. Speak to the nature of the dialogue at the state as juxtaposed with your work.
It is absolutely correct that our work is dramatically different from the SB 50 agenda. That agenda centers the needs and demands of a very loud and entitled group: the YIMBY movement. We at the Institute do not. Instead, we center communities facing housing precarity and those that have long faced many different forms of dispossession and displacement.
When there is talk of a housing crisis in California, it is important to recognize that different social classes experience that crisis in different ways. I lived and worked in the Bay Area for a very long time; much of my academic career was spent at UC Berkeley. I saw the Bay Area—including the city that I called home for many decades, Oakland—be transformed by tech capitalism.
Now, I understand that there is a housing crisis for well-paid tech workers. I understand that there is even a housing crisis for well-paid UCLA professors. But addressing that housing crisis—which is most likely what would happen through upzoning—cannot come at the expense of deepening the housing crisis for the working-class communities that are already facing tremendous pressures of gentrification and displacement.
One of the most disheartening aspects of the YIMBY movement and the Scott Wiener coalition has been their absolute refusal to learn from and be in conversation with the housing justice conversations that have worked in different parts of California for decades. In many ways, it is a movement and coalition that has insisted on putting the housing crisis of the upper-middle and middle classes before the housing crisis of anyone else.
There are also many flawed arguments to the YIMBY school of thought, which the reason I did not join my urban planning colleagues at UCLA in supporting SB 827. the simplistic housing supply argument that if we just build more housing—regardless of the price point—it will trickle down and lower housing prices for all, and somehow, magically, more housing will appear for those who are disadvantaged. That is not how housing markets work. They are thoroughly segmented and segregated.
But most importantly, in SB 827 and even in SB 50, there was very little concern given to the key policy issues that tenant and housing justice organizations were pushing for, such as rent control, rent stabilization, and protections against displacement. w way of solving the housing crisis for the upper-middle class—particularly for thewhite, entitled YIMBY movement—by grabbing the land of those who are truly on the front lines of the housing crisis.
Several of your colleagues in UCLA’s Urban and Regional Planning Department (Professors Michael Manville, Mike Lens, and Paavo Monkkonen) recently issued a paper challenging the findings of another colleague, Professor Michael Storper, about the YIMBYs’ supply-side thesis—all the while admitting that SB 50 would not address housing affordability in our lifetimes. How does the conversation on housing break down among the faculty at UCLA Luskin?
I think it’s good for those of us who belong to the same department to be in debate and disagreement with one another. What matters most to me is whether or not those debates are concerned with the housing futures of communities that are under the most pressure in California today.
The Institute on Inequality and Democracy is quite new; we launched in 2016. In that short time, we have made it very clear that we will center, and accountable social movements and community organizations that are fighting for housing justice, against mass incarceration, or against predatory financialization. That is what our research is most concerned with.
The upzoning debate is important, but there are many other ways in which the housing question can be framed. At the Institute, we do not take as our starting point the narrow debate about the long- or short-term effects of upzoning as an instrument. Instead, our starting point is this: What are the most acute aspects of today’s housing precarity and housing crisis? What are the structural mechanisms causing this precarity? And how might we produce research, policy ideas, and forms of collective action to address that precarity?
What other approaches to address housing affordability and equity have you encountered in your global research that California could emulate?
There are indeed many lessons to be learned from other parts of the world. At the Institute, we take a global approach to questions of housing justice. In fact, we are currently home to a National Science Foundation-funded, four-and-a-half-year project to establish a global research network on housing justice. I myself have done a lot of work in cities in the global South. Certainly, we are very interested in thinking from other parts of the world about what is going on in California.
The United States, as the home of some of the world’s largest incarceration systems, criminalizes poverty and houselessness in a way that one simply does not see in other parts of the world. a deeply racialized project. This sort of criminalization is pretty unusual, and there is no good reason for it to exist other than structural racism. That is one lesson.
A second is that there are very important debates happening in different parts of the world—including, most recently, in Berlin—about the ownership of land and its use for housing. These debates are largely about using state power to expropriate or nationalize empty bank-owned housing, as well as apartment buildings if there is a tremendous concentration of ownership in a single landlord. To be clear, this is not about mom-and-pop landlords; this is precisely about forms of regulation for Wall Street landlords and massive corporations for whom housing is a speculative commodity.
Brazil is another example. Unfortunately, things will be different going forward under the Bolsonaro regime. But in the last quarter of the 20th century, Brazil’s process of democratization was focused on the right to housing and the social function of property, and the ways in which local governments might be able to insist on that social function—not only by providing social housing, but also by regulating the ownership and use of land.
Lastly, elaborate on your background and experiences that inform your current research.
I am a professor of urban planning whose work has been concerned for a long time with urban poverty and inequality. The roots of that interest lie in the city in which I grew up: Kolkata, India.
A great deal of my academic research and public scholarship has been concerned with communities living under conditions of precarity in cities around the world that have been able to forge new meanings of housing, property, personhood, collectivity, and the commons.
The Planning Report
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The underline reason is the outrageous work that makes it the fantastic creation of packaging that left a long-lasting impression in customer’s minds. So they easily find out on a far distance the logo and the banner of the brand.
The custom packaging is acting as your secret weapon if you consider it. Right? The main thing is to understand that boxes are the straight weapon that will give you the support in standing your business. The secrete of any successful business is the excellent planning to introduce its packaging. However, the product is the second thing to get attention. Moreover, brand visibility is more important to stand out your business.
The level of secrecy about the packaging is mean that; the custom packaging can be morphed or hammered into brilliant features or sizes. Likewise, the style comes to the customer’s attention. Hence, it also comes with a great level of multi-functionality that can be used for any display packaging purpose.
The main purpose of packaging is to protect your product no doubt. On the other hand, it is an essential thing to add up awareness in people about your brand. Thusly, people are started getting to know about your brand through attractive packaging. So to improve the brand visibility you must keep in mind the factor; are you using the right strategy that leads you toward reaching your goal?
However, you can design your E-Cigarette Packaging Boxes by elaborating on your brand. For instance, you can do this by inserting the extremely attractive graphics that may define the brand story. Likewise, if you are just setting up to display the product wisely so that the customers can find you. Your product will be hunting if you are displaying valuable information about the product. Let the consumer decide to have it or not? So that applies the convincing images to crawl them and to convince them to take it away with them.
How will you drag the customer to your shop? Thinking??? Exhale now! Because nowhere is the powered solution for your business that can surely turn up the sale. How? The answer is very clear, that is the displaying and showcase of your packaging. The selling comes after; the first thing is to impress the client through the sumptuous boxes.
However, the packaging the ability to use packaging in term of changing customer’s behaviors that is what makes the powerful secrete to have in the arsenal. This is the dream road to success in getting the win/win deal in your business.
How do you spread the customer’s network to entangle the people in your net? Nonetheless, the retail packaging allowing users an impact on brand history and story. By delivering mesmerizing packaging that is 100% customizable will allow letting the customers in. likewise, the customization goof-proof process is so impactful for buyers that they are exposing to the new variety of boxes as they enter the shop.
The E-liquid is a product that is unique and useful. Since the launching of e-liquid has broken the chain of smokers, cigarettes consumers. And the large chain of customers is turning toward the new edition in the market. Likewise, the marketing of E-Liquid Packaging Boxes take little effort such as to give new birth of styles and graphics for users.
The exclusive packaging gives a high rate of consumers to attract in the packaging. Because the survey depicts that 64% of the users are off-shelf buyers and they are saying to buy the packaging by impressing through packaging. Additionally, they are of the view that they don’t know about the history of the brand since they attract to the packaging.
According to the survey report the consumers are saying that they buy a product that has a gift-like appearance. Such as the cosmetic boxes, essential boxes, daily use products boxes that are all useful. But if it is manufactured with glistening, sparkling, or shining features then it must attract customers. The great chance for getting notice and also the opportunity to recommend to others.
You can get the benefits by offering double gift packaging such as give the hi-rated box as a gift to the consumer to attract. However, it gives the users the first good impression that will be long-lasting. In this way, you are getting the two in one profit; such as the perceived brand value and the increased sale.
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