text
stringlengths 80
1.04M
|
|---|
Lessons from the UK: Trust Your Bookie, Not Your Pollster
Last night, the United Kingdom held elections. What was supposed to be a tightly contested race between the Tory (Conservatives) and the Labour Party turned into a convincing victory for the former. Voters took away 10 seats from the Labour Party, putting David Cameron, leader of the Conservative Party, in a firm position to run the new government. What is interesting is that it wasn't the pollsters who were able to predict the results.
Leading up to the election, the London School of Economics aggregated all of the national polling data and found that the Conservative Party would likely come out with 278 seats to Labour's 267. After election day, the Tories had shattered all projections, collecting a comfortable majority of 331 seats.
Party leaders and pundits were stunned when the first exit polls showed landslide victories for the Conservative Party. One Liberal Democrat, Paddy Ashdown, even offered to "eat his hat" if the exit polls proved to be accurate. Later that night, as the results became clear, Mr. Ashdown had to concede.
“I have been offered 10 hats on Twitter tonight,” he told Andrew Neil of the BBC, “not all of them politely, I have to say.”The result comes as a surprise to many politicos, especially in the age of
Nate Silver and statistic-driven analytics. However, there is one group that was able to accurately report the odds of each party's chances of taking a majority.
"Who is that group?" You ask. The bookies.
That's right, the bookies. The guys who set the spread on College Football Game Day are also very good at predicting geopolitics.
An article in the New York Times points out that while major pollsters ran off a list of reasons why their models turned out to be incorrect, the betting market had the election pinned, with the Conservative Party coming in at five-to-one favorites on Betfair.
While there are legitimate reasons for the sampling being skewed, including bias answers to surveys and the inability to reach a younger audience on cell phones, it is interesting that money markets were able to cut through noisy data and hone in on the correct pattern. |
After a week of snow, and a concerted effort from the grooming team, Revelstoke Mountain Resort (RMR) will open fully on Dec. 3.
Over the last few years, RMR have pushed their opening days back a bit further every year. This year, they announced a Dec. 3 opening in the fall, with the caveat that they could not predict the weather conditions in the early season. Now, two days out from opening day, RMR announced that all systems are a go, and this year the entire mountain will be open from the get-go.
“1,713 metres (5,620 feet) of thigh-burning vertical awaits,” said a press release from RMR on Thursday, Dec 1.
RMR said their base depth varies depending on where you are on the mountain, which could present a couple of hazards to be aware of. Tree runs are discouraged, as there are still sections that will need more snow to fully cover the areas safely. Most gladed sections will also be closed.
However, the Last Spike will be open from the top all the way down the more than 10 kilometres to the village, making downloading optional. The terrain park will also be open, with feature limited to just a few as the crew continues to build for the season.
Every chair lift will be open, except the Turtle Creek Magic Carpet, giving the opening weekend crowd plenty of options.
While there will be many options for opening weekend attendees, RMR warns that as they wait for more snow, riders should be aware of “open creeks, deadfall unmarked rocks, and hazards at all elevations.”
The forecast should help make this year’s opening bright, with mostly sunny with the temperature ranging between –6 and –13 C.
Those looking to be among the first to get up on the mountain on opening day will have to arrive early and join the line. The lower gondola will open at 8:30 a.m. For more information about opening day, visit the RMR’s website. |
Marketing for Coaches is for YOU if you’re a coach.
Learn how to grow your coaching business with more fun, more intent and more meaning. Enjoy more money, less stress and greater impact.
Matthew Kimberley and the team at Book Yourself Solid® have got your interests – and you clients’ best interest at heart. Join the family. |
VATICAN CITY — The mercy shown by God to His children can transform hearts and makes Christians become channels of that mercy to those in need, Pope Francis said.
“In the midst of our own crises and our difficulties, divine mercy often makes us aware of the sufferings of our neighbor,” the pope said April 24 at a Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica commemorating Divine Mercy Sunday.
“We think that we are experiencing unbearable pain and situations of suffering, and we suddenly discover that others around us are silently enduring even worse things,” he said.
Divine Mercy Sunday, celebrated every year on the Sunday after Easter, was added to the universal Church calendar by St. John Paul II in 2000. The Polish pope was a longtime devotee of the Divine Mercy devotions of St. Faustina Kowalksa, whom he beatified in 1993 and canonized in 2000.
Like on Easter, Pope Francis did not preside over the Mass due to difficulty walking. In an interview with the Argentine daily newspaper La Nación published April 21, the pope explained that his limited mobility and pronounced limp are due to a torn knee ligament.
Italian Archbishop Rino Fisichella, president of the Pontifical Council for Promoting New Evangelization, was the main celebrant at the Mass. However, Pope Francis delivered his homily from a chair in front of the altar.
In his homily, the pope reflected on the Sunday Gospel reading from St. John, which recalled Jesus appearing to His disciples after His resurrection and greeting them with the words, “Peace be with you.”
The pope said those words gave the disciples joy, granted them forgiveness and offered them comfort, which are three key aspects of God’s mercy toward His children.
Jesus’ greeting gave joy to the disciples, who had not only locked themselves behind closed doors after Christ’s death, but “were also closed in on themselves, burdened by a sense of failure,” he explained.
“They were disciples who had abandoned their master; at the moment of His arrest, they had run away. Peter even denied Him three times, and one of their number — one from among them — had betrayed Him. They had good reason to feel not only afraid, but useless; they had failed,” the pope said.
Upon appearing to His disciples, he continued, Jesus did not reproach them but instead showed them kindness which “revives them, fills their hearts with the peace they had lost and makes them new persons, purified by a forgiveness that is utterly unmerited.”
Like them, he said, Christians also feel that joy after confession, through the consoling words of others or through an unexpected event that brings God’s pardon and peace.
“The joy God gives is indeed born of forgiveness. It bestows peace. It is a joy that raises us up without humiliating us,” he said.
After greeting His disciples, the pope continued, Jesus sends them to the world to become “agents of reconciliation” and to bring mercy to others, “not on account of their merits, but as a pure gift of grace, based on their experience of having been themselves forgiven.” |
Captain Mary Oceaneer was a collector and protector of nautical treasures the world over. Mostly a collector though. During an expedition to the far reaches of the ocean, Captain Mary was stranded during a storm, along with her parrot. They ended up at Typhoon Lagoon, and have been there ever since. Beginning March 12th, guests at Typhoon Lagoon can board a raft and wind past Mary’s Wrecked ship, where they’ll see and hear her talking parrot.
From there, it gets pretty amazing as you won’t have to venture up a ton of steps. In a first for a Florida waterpark, guests will be able to venture up the lift hill while they are in their raft. If you’ve been to a waterpark, you know that the stairs are very tiring, so this ends up being a very welcomed change.
Also, according to Disney, Miss Adventure Falls is the first part of the Typhoon Lagoon expansion, or at least it seems as Disney says “as part of an expansion at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park.” Could there be more coming in the next few years? With Universal Orlando’s Volcano Bay on the horizon, as well as Great Wolf Lodge moving in very soon, it could be a distinct possibility.
Still, Miss Adventure Falls will be the longest ride at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon and the first new ride since the park opened Crush n Gusher in 2005. |
Da Vinci Diamonds has a stand-aside Renaissance art motif, with Leonardo da Vinci’s art works as the icons and you will a distinctive Tumbling Reels element. Whenever effective combinations is shaped, the fresh winning signs disappear, and brand new ones slip to your display screen, possibly doing extra gains from one twist. There are lots of alternatives available, but i just suggest an informed web based casinos so choose the one which is right for you. The newest Avalon II position have an unequaled bonus ability you won’t see any place else. You may use the fresh totally free 5 pound sign up bonus one another because the a source of exhilaration so that as a way of exploring your website. You can also try the new slot machines and no economic relationship necessary.
- Determined because of the old Rome and also the figure of one’s outrageous Julius Caesar.
- See our very own greatest a real income gambling enterprises to try out the newest Brief Strike slot machine in the a leading web site.
- Other than taking a look at the positives and negatives away from a video slot, elite position participants as well as such as giving free harbors a make an effort to learn more about its provides.
For individuals who break that it laws, the new gambling enterprise could possibly get confiscate their winnings. Online casino incentives supplied by all of the gambling enterprises inside our databases your can select from. That it directory of bonuses offers the greatest possibilities, but which also form it has incentives out of casinos not advised by the Casino Expert. Gonzo’s Quest is regarded as one of the primary harbors out of all-time.
Quick hit vegas slots – Examining Some other Bonus Bullet Features
Jackpots slots are basically online game you to definitely honor your grand amounts out of money. He is classified to the repaired jackpots and you may progressive jackpots. The latter group give grand amounts of cash for the lucky champ because the award expands increasingly each time someone performs the brand new game. You can gamble 100 percent free slots for fun just like regular video game. You don’t need to deposit any fund in the membership manageable to start to play, so you’re also not risking some thing. The newest excitement and you may fun of time you get believe it or not compared to property-based casinos.
In the Mobile Harbors And you may Online casino games
There are many other casino games readily available for example 5 deposit ports from the among the better gambling enterprise websites on the web. You will find a number of other no-deposit bonuses which have all of our effortless quick hit vegas slots guide, select totally free revolves and added bonus dollars that can be used at the online casinos. It is now you are able to to help you allege your 5 no-deposit position bonus Uk once you sign up to some of your websites you to definitely we’ve discovered. When you’re questioning tips join a casino and claim your greeting give next continue reading.
By the hitting they, you put the highest possible bet on the paylines. In a few slot machines, hitting the Max Wager key immediately starts the fresh reels. Even though gambling enterprise greatest slot machines to experience are considered since the safest online game, they’re able to still confuse an unskilled pro. For those who look at any on the web slot machines, you’ll see an enormous control board which have a lot of keys. As the an amateur, you need to be very careful because the to not push haphazard keys – especially if you’re unsure whether or not we want to remain to experience! Below are a few our very own short-term however, very useful instruction on how to work an online slot machines.
First, a casino giving free position game is helping you away. Not every website does this as soon as the thing is that the one that does it reveals another quantity of care for players. Beyond one, you can mess around on the internet site and see exactly what its collection offers you. Often the chances are high very high inside step 3-reels slots and fresh fruit servers.
If you utilize a smart phone, you will not must set up anything, because the Thumb athlete is not available on cellphones at all. Like with very games now, you can availability the newest slot to your each other desktop and you will cellular devices without having any shed inside top quality. This really is a well-known Novomatic name that has been around for a little while. Try it out together with other free Novomatic casino games one to this provider also offers by the typing ‘Novomatic’ to the Games Supplier filter.
Finest Slot Games On the Jackpot Group 2024
Enjoy Netent harbors on the web in the Canada free of charge or real cash including the massively well-known Starburst, Gonzos Trip, Aliens and you can Scarface ports. Which have IGT’s vast group of online slots, it’s hard to ascertain those you need to play. Below, we have round in the provider’s greatest games and you can Canadian favourites, having a primary writeup on every one. IGT left with the country in terms of improvements and you can don’t miss out regarding the competition to get in the fresh mobile casino betting field. The newest creator have ventured to the mobile playing offering many slots, table games, and to help you cellular pages. |
Strategic Management of Technology
Technological innovations -- Mexico -- Management, Competition -- Mexico, Mexican Institute of Intellectual Property, Patents and government-developed inventions -- Mexico, Technology transfer
This paper reviewed the existing literature regarding competitiveness in the technological innovation sector in Mexico. The gaps in the literature were found, and, later, these gaps aided the guidelines of this research. This paper is organized as follows. Section 2 provides a comprehensive literature review in the Mexican context and international context. Section 3 describes aspects of competitiveness in Mexico and the role of R&D organizations and universities related to patent activity. Section 4 covers how the patenting system works in Mexico and provides a description of the Mexican patent system. Section 5 explains the methodology used for this research. Data were obtained from the Mexican Institute of Intellectual Property. Section 6 presents the results obtained after processing data though SPSS software version 21. The paper ends with conclusion and recommendations to improve the current situation of patents in Mexico.
In Copyright. URI: http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/ This Item is protected by copyright and/or related rights. You are free to use this Item in any way that is permitted by the copyright and related rights legislation that applies to your use. For other uses you need to obtain permission from the rights-holder(s).
Contreras Cruz, Angel, "Competitiveness of Mexico in the Technological Innovation Sector: An Assessment of the Patents Granted by Mexican Government" (2021). Engineering and Technology Management Student Projects. 2306. |
By AMY TAINTOR
Kim Kardashian, reality star and fashion guru, was robbed at gunpoint in Paris over the weekend.
Police reports stated that five armed men dressed as police officers forced their way through the hotel where she was staying, and forced the concierge to show them where she was. The concierge was tied up, and left underneath a hotel stairwell.
The armed men broke into Kardashian’s apartment and stole $11 million worth of jewelry, and tied her up in the bathroom before they made their escape.
Kim’s publicist has said that she is “badly shaken but physically unharmed.”
Kardashian’s husband, Kanye West, was in the middle of a show when he heard of the news and immediately left the stage to help his wife.
She was alone in the apartment as her body guard accompanied sisters Kourtney and Kendall on a night out.
Kim is now back in the United State, she took a private jet first thing Monday morning. The family has over doubled their security since the event. |
High School Essay Writing – Dead or Alive?
Needless to say, it’s always best to get a writer with a degree do the job. Experience is more important, an inexperienced lawyer won’t be knowledgeable about the normal court procedures and the newest laws. As a student will seek the services of an individual to do all the work, they will never fully understand the subject.
Many situations the financial problems are solved by a little quantity of cash if it’s available instantly. Another advantage you ought to search for when attempting to come across good ESL lessons is the business that offers one on a single time. There are many internet companies who will cheat you only to receive your money and then give you plagiarized papers.
What Needs to be Done About High School Essay algebra homework help Writing Before You Miss Your Chance
There are quite a lot of businesses that provide example essay. In addition, you can help yourself with some very good writing examples and purchase a high school essay online on the site. Essay writing services won’t make a difference in your capacity to write.
Locating a premium quality cheap notebook computer for a student isn’t as hard as it once was. When you’re writing dissertation, you wish to collect all crucial information from several sources, and conduct in-depth research on the subject of your dissertation. Sometimes, it’s straightforward to compose an assignment, as you only need to collect some facts and statistics about a particular topic.
What Does High School Essay Writing Mean?
The explanations for why custom essays have gotten so well known in college education aren’t far from ideal. Unfortunately, you’ve got to get a means to make it work you require terrific grades to be able to enter college and get prepared for a brighter, better future. Another way is by way of consulting different students.
High School Essay Writing: No Longer a Mystery
The best solution is to hunt for essay article writing services. Our primary purpose is to make sure that all our customers are totally satisfied by our expert services. A legitimate service is a dependable service provider you may trust.
There are private paper a lot of businesses offering informative speech writing services but the majority of them are not concerned about the academic or expert success of their customers. If you’re feeling comfortable with the grade of their work isn’t going to hurt to hire them for larger jobs later. Among the qualities is that a dependable company offers scholarship essay writing services at a very affordable price.
When you have it done, explain every point in a few of sentences. Remember that your favorite subject should have the ability to supply you with a lot of material. In fact, there’s nothing free of charge.
The Benefits of High School Essay Writing
Describe some tasks that you’ve accomplished over the last two years that don’t have any connection to academic studies. It is possible to also test her skills by placing a little order before the most important one. If the notion of working in the health care field has been a dream of yours for quite a while, medical assistant school might be a fantastic place to get started.
The Nuiances of High School Essay Writing
So you will want to answer the essay question in a manner. In the end, you’re prepared to send your essay. The very first step in writing an essay involves examining the topic in order to understand precisely what is.
There’s quite a few essays completed by them. You will also discover how to combine unique components of your dissertation together. Example essay is crucial for students who don’t know how to compose their own essays.
Please make sure you read the scholarship essay competition terms and conditions prior to applying. Additionally, you’ve got to bear in mind a specific first draft shouldn’t function as the last draft. In the procedure analysis assignment, the author should develop https://www.rsccd.edu/Trustees/Documents/Dockets/2016%20Dockets/07-18-16%20DOCKET.pdf a detailed, step-by-step how-to guide so as to inform the reader about how some processes are complete.
The High School Essay Writing Stories
Your resume is supposed to highlight you, and show your prospective employer why you stick out from the rest of the applicants. You might wonder why it’s important to find out more about a school essay. To begin with, in case you have to compose a high school essay, you must have a program.
They may also think that they can manage to do all the job. They are supposed to have enough practice so as to be able to write perfect essays. They will be required to e-mail me a short essay prior to the start of class.
Students think that the absolute most polished paper with minimal or no grammatical lapses is the ideal thesis. Though they could have research that is good and writing skills, they find it tough to write essays. If college students are interested in being successful they must be multifunctional and agile.
What Does High School Essay Writing Mean?
Your writing can take on several forms, like a letter or memo, a guide, or a book. If you discover that the writer did not provide precisely what you expected, request a revision, and we’ll make the corrections. You can select the writer of your choice to complete your request.
The professional really needs appropriate paper writing skills too. Thus employing an expert for doing your essays could be the proper selection. It’s thus important seek out superior help in writing critical essays.
So, always remember that research paper writing isn’t extremely difficult but it’s definitely tricky, for sure. Try our scholarship essay writing services and you’ll never be let down. With enough practice, writing a comprehensive sentence gets second nature.
Essay on science and spirituality tease is a rather portion of the forensic high and higher school experience. The great thing about the Brave Writer materials is they grow with your son or daughter. They want to know who you are and what you think.
High culture, thus, is singular is the nature and somewhere to place. Students will produce personal pieces to explore their own voice but also be involved with a group piece which will be done during the last celebration. Some students have difficulty writing because they don’t think about what they mean or don’t understand how to organize their ideas correctly.
The Good, the Bad and High School Essay Writing
You could also scroll down the page manually in the event that you decide to achieve that. You’re able to browse all our 730 writing worksheets in thumbnail view, and that means you don’t have to wait around for any of them to load to obtain an idea about what they’re like. When required, answer extra questions regarding the custom written paper you wish to order. |
Material and methods
Study webpages.-Our very own degree was presented at the Xima Gou (village; 42°07?N, 1step one5°22?E; step 1,450 meters height), around 31 kilometer north of Baochang, Taipusi Qi (county), Interior Mongolia, China. The room was a student in an everyday region in which steppes was basically intermixed which have croplands. New climate is actually semiarid and continental having a somewhat sensuous summer and you will a cold, inactive winter season. Mediocre monthly temperature ranged away from ?19.1°C to help you 21.1°C. The new indicate yearly total precipitation involved 350 mm, ranging from 258 in order to 550 mm. Accumulated snow defense endured regarding ninety days out-of middle- or late ). The rain try 415 mm and average monthly temperatures try twelve.2°C during the 2006. The new floor of urban area is sandy and you may loamy Chestnut surface ( Scheibler ainsi que al. 2006).
Our very own capturing plot is actually located on a good nine-ha grassland (three hundred ? 3 hundred yards) surrounded by grain (Triticum) and cabbage (Brassica) cropland. Herbs was controlled of the yard Leymus chinensis and the plant Corispermum mongolicum, in addition to integrated a variety of grasses such as for example Cleistogenes squarrosa and you will Setaria viridis, herbs and additionally Artemisia sieversiana, Artemisia scoparia, and Heteropappus altaicus, and you may quick shrubbery Caragana microphylla and you can C. korshinskii. The capturing spot encompassed 31 gerbil burrow options, that’s, colonies, early in our very own research. The exact distance ranging from dos gerbil territories ranged out-of 15.8 m to 274.9 yards. The brand new nearby surrounding gerbil society involved step 1.5 km from our studies web site. Most other rodents found in the investigation urban area provided Spermophilus dauricus and you can Cricetulus barabensis. nivalis) occasionally went along to the analysis website. Zero livestock was indeed grazed at study website throughout our very own research.
Trapping process.-Mongolian gerbils were livetrapped from on dos-times menstruation; and that, there were a dozen trapping instructions altogether. The typical air temperature ranges away from – 19°C to help you -5°C during November-February at our very own research website; thus, livetrapping throughout cold temperatures leads to large pitfall mortality out of significant cooler. Hence, i didn’t pitfall during the winter. To compliment the possibilities of grabs, i made use of a concentric circle capturing method ( Liu mais aussi al. 2007). Pitfall stations was arranged in 3 or 4 concentric circles in the equivalent spacing at each and every burrow program, which had been adjusted in line with the town filled by the an excellent burrow program. Five so you’re able to sixteen trap station was basically spread equally for each community. You to cable-interlock alive pitfall (twenty eight ? 13 ? ten cm) is placed at each station on trap door unlock to your a burrow entry otherwise gerbil runway preferably to optimize get probability ( Liu et al. 2007). On the 450 barriers in total was in fact put at all this new entry off 29 burrow possibilities per week and was baited with fresh peanuts during capturing. Per trapping period survived for step 3 successive weeks. Barriers were place within 0500-0600 h off Get so you’re able to August, and you may featured all the 1-dos h until on the 1100 h. Barriers had been signed out-of 1100 so you’re able to 1500 h to end trap death of temperature, and you will trapping resumed within 1600 h and you will continued until 1900 h. During the April, September, and you can October, trapping come ranging from 0630 and 0730 h and you may proceeded right until 1730 h. Gerbils was indeed energetic during the all of our capturing circumstances ( Agren mais aussi al. 1989a; Liu ainsi que al. 2007).
Steppe polecats (Mustela eversmanii) and least weasels (M
The caught gerbils had been bottom-slash during the first grab for permanent identity, and you can step 1 or higher small patches of your own agouti fur to the the latest forehead, straight back, and you may pelvis was basically cut to reveal black colored locks for very long-length observance. We reduce only about step one toe for each base, deleting you to definitely-50 % of a toe at combined with a pair of evident, thin-bladed scissors. This new cut feet was in fact preserved inside the alcohol to have analyses regarding microsatellite DNA in an alternative studies. 1 grams. Reproductive reputation, pitfall venue, and you may identification matter were submitted for every single simply take. Males was in fact experienced during the reproductive position whenever they got scrotal testes and you can noticeable ventral smell glands that have both clear figure otherwise large, obvious skin pores enclosed by released material. Female gerbils have been thought in the reproductive status whenever they got an excellent protruding instinct, enlarged nipples in the middle of white mammary tissues, or an established pubic symphysis ( Liu ainsi que al. 2007; Payman and Swanson 1980). Gerbils was felt juveniles if themselves mass was Liu mais aussi al. 2007). Caught pet had been released in one web site away from grab. I noticed gerbils grabbed within the a great burrow program in 2 successive capturing periods and you can seen (that have binoculars) using the same burrow program given that a social group ( Agren mais aussi al. 1989a). The capturing and handling of Mongolian gerbils around adopted assistance authorized by the Creature Proper care and employ Panel of Western Society away from Mammalogists ( Gannon et al https://datingmentor.org/hispanic-dating/. 2007) and you will was basically authorized by the Organization Animal Play with and you can Care and attention Panel of one’s Institute away from Zoology, Chinese Academy regarding Sciences. |
Occasionally even strong Grandmasters misevaluate the consequences of transposing into a pawn endgame. Let’s see if you can do better than them this time!
Get “Premature Resignations in the Endgame 4” and 384 other lessons in Magnus Trainer now!
During the Kiva Finals, the Play Magnus team works to bring you a fresh, new, and FREE lesson designed to help improve your chess skills every day! Lessons help you learn everything, from strategy and tactics to openings and endgames. |
ProKold Adult Ice Shoulder Wrap
Click Image for Gallery
The Pro-Kold reusable ice wrap features an ice mat (pillows of purified water with food-grade freezing agents) which is sewn into the wrap using a hook engageable, nylon velvet loop. The outer material and polyethylene/cotton micro mesh inner fabric with anti-microbial finish safely control bacterial growth on the wrap.
The Elite Kold Cold Shoulder Wrap was specifically designed for throwing athletes. Provides two hours of safe temperature cold treatment for the shoulder, rotator cuff, upper arm and elbow. Contains pillows of non-toxic, purified water which remain flexible when frozen. Can be worn over clothing or directly against the skin without frostbite or skin burn. Ripstop nylon inner
fabric provides rapid cold transfer.
- Elite model has two layers of ice (stays colder longer)
- Covers upper rotator cuff, upper arm and elbow
- Stays cold up to 24 hours in insulated bag
- Universal fit - left or right
- Adult & Economy model available, see below
Item No DK-54 |
Should new employees be allowed to work remotely from day one?
Working flexibly – it’s the hot topic at the centre of conversation for both employers and employees. According to Randstad’s 2021 Employer Branding report, work/life balance is now the #1 priority for jobseekers in New Zealand, topping salary and benefits for the first time.
Pre-pandemic, the idea of hybrid working and the autonomy to switch between office and home was a perk offered to only senior or long-standing employees. They’d paid their dues, solidified their place in the business, and as a result, they were afforded the freedom of choice.
But now, the ability to work flexibly is something jobseekers are demanding. And in the talent-tight market both Australia and New Zealand are facing, employers have far less power to say no. If employees proved they could work remotely when they needed to during lockdown, why should they revert to being in the office five days a week? That’s the battle playing out for many HR leaders in the region and it begs the question, should working flexibly be given or is a right to be earned?
Speaking to HRD, Jay Munro, Head of Career Insights at Indeed, said it’s important to be open and honest with jobseekers early on in the recruitment process about what levels of flexibility the company can offer.
“Organisations should offer the same options for flexibility to all employees - existing or new - but they can adjust the level based on the job function or business unit,” he said. “Some departments may introduce flexibility in a scheduled way, requiring staff to be in the office on designated days, but allowing them to work remotely the remainder of the week.
“Flexibility that goes beyond working location should be built into wider employee engagement programs and policies, such as the ability to leave early to attend to health and fitness needs, or other commitments.
“To do this, we need to shift our view of what productivity means – it isn’t based on the number of hours put in, but the work and outcomes achieved.”
One of the biggest concerns around offering flexibility to new hires is how to navigate the onboarding process and ensure their integration into the business doesn’t suffer as a result of working remotely. While in lockdown, new hires have little choice but to stay home. But when restrictions ease and staff can return, Munro said it’s important to coincide training and catch-ups in person when other team members will also be in the office.
“For new employees working mostly or entirely from home, HR could consider asking them to come into the office on specific days for training, to meet the team in-person and to fast track their learning,” he said. “What’s important is that the conversation around flexibility and onboarding is had early and is an open dialogue between both parties.”
Again, it’s vital for both hiring managers and jobseekers to be upfront about their flexible working expectations. Just like salary and benefits, Munro said jobseekers will be looking to negotiate depending on what their ideal scenario is and employers should be willing to listen too.
In the war for talent, flexible working options are proving a significant draw. The desire to have more autonomy over our lives and create a better/work life balance is one after-effect of the pandemic that isn’t going away anytime soon.
“For hirers, be prepared that if flexibility relates to working location, such as being in the office or remote, you need to consider the individual’s perspectives on their own health, safety, and wellbeing,” Munro said. “Showing that you respect existing or potential employees’ decisions and views about their safety demonstrates you are committed to creating safe and comfortable working environments for all.” |
With less than three weeks to go until Christmas the sight of these majestic sprout stalks from Lyncroft Farm down the road in Ormskirk is filling us with festive cheer. The tops are incredibly versatile and delicious – throw then into stir fries and miso soups, chop finely and serve raw with loads of lemon juice or simply sauté with garlic.
Our veg team were out on the road last week visiting the Wasses in North Yorkshire. Farming on the edge of the moors, our UK buyers helped out with the carrot harvest under thick snow. Due to the weather they were unable to use any of the harvesting machinery and were picking the roots by hand; a welcome reminder of the lengths our farmers are willing to go to bring us our veg. Speaking of carrots, our supply heads North this week to Skea in Scotland. Light and sweet tasting, with an excellent crunch to juice ratio – a carrot lover’s perfect snack.
Storm damage in the Dominican Republic is causing problems with our banana supply. With fewer plantations in operation the market is becoming tighter and Fairtrade in particular are harder to get hold of. We apologise that a few recent batches are not certified Fairtrade and offer our reassurances that selling Fairtrade bananas is of the utmost importance to us. In the meantime, we’re doing our best to get the supply back to normal.
In better news, European ratatouille is offering great value and quality at the moment and Spanish sweet potatoes are also cheap, plentiful and tasty. European oranges are getting sweeter and juicier by the week and the kiwifruits from Agricoop are to die for. |
From Ace of Spades:
As far as history: the GOP edged the Democrats in absentee balloting in 2008, but only by 2%, in a 10% loss to Obama.
Dick Morris Says, Here Comes the Landslide:
Voters have figured out that President Obama has no message, no agenda and not even much of an explanation for what he has done over the past four years. His campaign is based entirely on persuading people that Mitt Romney is a uniquely bad man, entirely dedicated to the rich, ignorant of the problems of the average person. As long as he could run his negative ads, the campaign at least kept voters away from the Romney bandwagon.
But once we all met Mitt Romney for three 90-minute debates, we got to know him — and to like him. He was not the monster Obama depicted, but a reasonable person for whom we could vote. As we stripped away Obama’s yearlong campaign of vilification, all the president offered us was more servings of negative ads — ads we had already dismissed as not credible. He kept doing the same thing even as it stopped working.
The result was that the presidential race reached a tipping point. Reasonable voters saw that the voice of hope and optimism and positivism was Romney while the president was only a nitpicking, quarrelsome, negative figure. The contrast does not work in Obama’s favor.My wife and I were discussing exactly this last night.
Here's our theory:
In advertising every time you hit a person with a message it is called an IMPRESSION.
The Impression/Message the Obama campaign was putting out was "Mitt Romney is Evil".
The Obama Campaign spent tens of millions of dollars (probably much more), and the media gave Obama free air time to repeat that message hundreds of thousands of times, til it reached almost everyone in the country a good 200 times for each person.
In other words, between Obama's ads, and the free air time provided to Obama by the Palace Guard Media, Obama was able to amass a good 300 million people times perhaps 200 impressions for each person.
That's a lowball of 60 billion impressions, all with the same message: ROMNEY IS EVIL.
But then, Romney shows up in the debates, and he is not evil. Instead, he looks like a normal guy who is pretty damned intelligent, and eminently sincere. He also looks very organized, and under control of himself.
After that, everyone of those 60 billion impressions the Obama/Media Campaign put out against Mitt Romney all turned out to be for Mitt Romney.
It is as if Coca Cola ran a year long ad campaign for Pepsi.
Books and theses will be written on this campaign; Negative Advertising/Marketing Impressions, if they are an absolute lie, can transform themselves instantly into positives impressions for the target of denigration.
Obama miscalculated, on a colossal scale.
Couldn't happen to a more calculating asshole. |
OGDEN — A little bit of Hollywood could be coming to Weber County.
A team of investors, including a developer behind a Park City film studio, is pursuing creation of a studio, film school and rodeo arena on a 90-acre parcel in western Weber County. The ambitious plans are still preliminary, but those involved envision it as a place for moviemakers, visitors wanting to soak in the Hollywood atmosphere and students interested in pursuing film careers.
“People who visit may have the opportunity to be in a film at any time,” said Matthew Bartlett, a partner in the project and a Riverdale attorney. Moreover, he said, it could create 600 jobs, directly and indirectly.
The working name of the facility is the Promontory Studio Ranch and Bartlett described it as “a film ranch” with a western and agricultural feel. It would be built in western Weber County, bordered roughly by 2700 West on the west, 1200 South on the south and the Weber River, running diagonally on the northern and eastern sides of the triangle-shaped property.
Among the proposed elements are a soundstage studio, recording studios, a “high-end hotel,” a rodeo arena that could seat 3,500 to 4,000 people, walking paths, a horse pasture and more. The architectural style would aim to fit the agricultural setting of western Weber County and the public would be invited to visit.
“We want people to feel this is a place they can come and enjoy,” Bartlett said. What’s more, he wants the site “to be 100% filmable.”
Bartlett has submitted preliminary plans to the Weber County Planning Division as part of a request to get the property rezoned from agricultural to commercial and he offered details to the Western Weber Planning Commission during a work session on Tuesday. The planning commission is tentatively set to make a recommendation on the zoning request at its June 11 meeting.
“I think this is awesome,” said Greg Bell, a planning commission member. The location, about two miles west of the Interstate 15-West 12th Street intersection, is as good a place as any in the zone for commercial development, he thinks.
Meantime, Bartlett said most of the financing for the project is “kind of preliminarily in place,” but that the plans need to keep moving forward to keep the funding in place. He didn’t offer a precise price tag, but indicated the cost would be sizable.
“They’re not cheap to build, I can say that. It’s a substantial investment in the community,” Bartlett said. He’d like to see the facility open in late 2020 or early 2021.
Aside from Bartlett, he said partners in the project include Todd Bay of Bay Entertainment Group and Giant Entertainment and Management of Westlake Village, California.
Bay helped create Park City Film Studios in Park City, which has since changed ownership and become Utah Film Studios, according to Marshall Moore, a Utah Film Studios vice president. The ABC television series Blood and Oil was filmed at Park City Film Studios, according to Bartlett, while the new incarnation, Utah Film Studios, is the location for filming of Yellowstone, the Paramount Network TV show.
The Weber County studio would earn money, at least in part, by renting out use of the facilities to filmmakers and Bartlett maintains that there’s plenty of demand for such space. Studios in California, he said, are perpetually booked.
Indeed, he touted proximity of the location to Ogden-Hinckley Airport. “The developers are already exploring ways in which to increase air traffic from Southern California directly to the Ogden-Hinckley Airport as a means of bringing those people to the county,” read the plans submitted to county planners. |
Can we just take a minute to digest that a sexist veteran actor can say anything he likes and still get away with it?
Radha Ravi’s derogatory speech of Nayanthara has been the talk of the K-town. He slut shamed her in a press meet for her upcoming film, ‘Kolaiyuthir Kaalam’.The speech caught on so many controversies and many celebrities, including Chinmayi, Rana Daggubati and Vishal have Tweeted their opinion.
Chinmayi, who shared her story on sexual harassment by famous lyricist Vairamuthu, using the #MeToo movement had so much to say about this.
So the Producer’s council and the Nadigar Sangam can’t take any action in my case because they cannot ‘interfere in the functioning of other unions’.
But This man is actually abusing a successful female actor on stage.
Do take action, if you could?
Mucccccchu thanksu. https://t.co/GXHhpZ8d85
— Chinmayi Sripaada (@Chinmayi) March 23, 2019
Radha Ravi initially wanted to meet Nayanthara and her beau, Vignesh Shivan, to “explain” that he did not have the intentions to degrade her.
He then once again took the stage at the press meet of a short film ‘Enakku Innoru Mugam Irukku’. He pointed out that director Perarasu had asked him not be scared by the controversies and he said that his family do not know what fear is.
“Yes, I said that if anyone felt hurt, convey my regrets to them. I never apologized to anyone, it doesn’t run in my blood. Why should I apologize, have I done a heinous crime?” he said.
Radha Ravi believes that if he had said something so wrong, then the people who attended would have condemned it then and there. |
Welcome to KU Ichnology!
is the study of
, the record of
microbe, plant, and animal behavior preserved in rocks.
Ichnology (not to be confused with Ichthyology—the study of
fish) is a major subdiscipline in the field of
which is concerned with the study of ancient life at large.
Ichnology lies at the crossroads of paleontology, biology,
sedimentology, stratigraphy, pedology, and
study of modern and experimentally produced traces—has
risen to prominence in both continental and marine
sedimentary geology studies as it provides the modern
analogs from which we gain insights as to the relationship
between organisms, their structures, and their relationship
to that specific environment.
Interest in ichnology has swelled over the past few decades
as researchers have rediscovered the wealth of information
pertaining to interpreting geologic history contained
within trace fossils. Trace fossils are used to study the
behavior of ancient organisms and the evolution of
behaviors through time; scientists also use them to study
the characteristics of ancient environments, hydrologic
systems, ecological relationships, and climate change.
This website is dedicated to the presentation of the
breadth of information available about this diverse field
of scientific study. Here we present information on the
basic principles of ichnology, a photo and video gallery of
trace fossils, and a bibliography with access to some
published articles for those with interests in specific
topics. This website also serves as a showcase of the
ichnologic research done here at KU by the IBGS research
group. Keep checking in as we update this page with new
information and new research!
We are currently looking for volunteer translators! Some ichnogenera have been published in other languages and unfortunately, we are not able to translate them. If you are able to read Spanish, French, Portuguese, or Hungarian, and have some basic knowledge of biology and geology, then we would be very happy if you can help us out!
For more information please contact us here
NOTE: This site is in active development and experiencing frequent updates. If you experience odd behavior, please do a hard page reload with Ctrl + Shift + R, or clear your browser data cache. If you continue to experience issues, such as broken links, please report them using the contact page linked above. |
Technology is changing every industry, including waste management, and at Arizona State University students have set out to design the “garbage truck of the future” to transform the safety and efficiency of trash collection for the 21st century.
“The theme of the project, was making trucks smarter so that drivers don’t have to do as much,” Kevin Dooley, a professor of supply chain management at Arizona State, said in university press release.
Over the past fall semester, 36 graduate students studying business and industrial design at Arizona State partnered with Republic Services, one of the nation’s largest recycling and waste disposal companies, which is headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona, to help tackle this real-world problem and get hands-on experience developing technology-based solutions for industry. Students were divided into teams and asked to come up with new designs for garbage trucks.
“We were looking for a partner to help us improve efficiency and make the job less strenuous for drivers,” Brett Beitzel, Republic’s director of fleet and asset management, said in the release.
The university said students spent several weeks gaining greater insight on the challenges of trash collection, poring over customer and driver data and shadowing garbage truck drivers on their collection routes to observe their motions and pain points on the job. Many of the resulting solutions incorporated artificial intelligence to improve the process of trash collection, reducing the possibility of human error and easing the demands on drivers.
Industrial design student Patrick Andrus and his team pulled ideas from the emerging autonomous vehicle industry to come up with a trash container that can detach from its truck and drive itself to the dump, leaving the driver free to go elsewhere. Reducing the operating costs of transfer stations would save Republic somewhere around $70 million a year, the team estimates.
Another team of students also incorporated artificial intelligence into their garbage truck design to improve the efficiency of trash collection, as well as the safety of drivers. Business student Abby Rudd and her team observed that trash bins are often located in confined spaces or surrounded by a gate. This means that to empty the bins, truck drivers must angle their trucks so the hydraulic arms are in perfect position to reach a bin, a time-consuming and risky process.
“Lots of accidents occur when you’re backing up,” Beitzel explained in the release. “Our drivers use cameras and sensors, but it’s still the hardest place to see. If you can reduce backing, it will improve safety a ton.”
To address this issue, Rudd’s team created a system that uses AI and sensors to guide a truck into the right position to retrieve a bin on the first try. The system could save Republic more than $130,000 a year on labor and fuel for each route, the team estimated.
Other solutions not centered on AI include a rotational axle system that would allow big trucks to pivot 360 degrees and a “perpetual motion” system, in which a truck would slow down, but not quite stop to collect trash along its route.
Students said they valued the opportunity to tackle real-world problems with this project, and Republic Services said it plans to evaluate the students’ ideas and include them as part of the company’s strategic technology road map.
“No matter what you’re doing, defining and analyzing a problem, getting to the root cause, brainstorming and discussing the business case is going to be relevant. It’s a process I know I can leverage for a future role,” Rudd said. |
But even though that still yuan requires a time of maturation, already several economies have begun to incorporate it as currency of international reserve and some until decided to use to yuan in the bilateral commerce with China. risk that arises in this sense ties to the decision to incorporate an excessive portion of the Chinese currency within the composition of the reserves and to bet to a currency that does not respond to the market forces and that in spite of being endorsed by an economy that grow strong, maintains several elements of fragility. Considering the importance of China like plaintiff of raw materials and thinking to future, those are not few that see the dollar lose protagonism in the commerce of raw materials and to they yuan as one of the currencies that in the future will participate in the commerce of commodities. In fact, the own Chinese government had raised in the month of March the idea that the dollar is replaced like unit of world-wide reserve. For Mark Mobius, that directs Emerging Markets Group de Templeton Asset Management: Yes, the raw materials could be denominated in other currencies. It has been providing these services for more than three decades ordine cialis on line before his 2008 retirement, said the track twice had evacuated its grandstands while races were running. Bringing the drug with some kind of drink or liquor can have the negative impact on amerikabulteni.com buy cialis your wellbeing. This duration could be for some weeks or faced for a long time, it needs care of that viagra 25 mg man. Cinnamon is another weight loss agent that can promote sexual arousal in women and provide satisfaction in non prescription viagra postmenopausal women. This already is beginning. The managers of bottoms support to yuan to denominate the price of the raw materials because, as it were mentioned, China is world-wide the consuming major of them. They yuan shows between currencies global, that cannot be denied. But so that the Chinese currency can acquire true protagonism as it descries international, must freely be negotiable, possibility that at the moment does not seem to be in the mind of the governors of Chinese. The importance of the support of a type of competitive change to take advantage of the exports for its growth, (where the United States appears like one of the main destinies), maintains desire to continue with the intervention in the exchange market to avoid the natural appreciation of the Chinese currency.
Emerging Markets Group
Published August 31, 2012 |
Visitors to museum exhibitions are often greeted by a long wall text, a daunting tract of historical context and theoretical jargon that — however necessary — can feel decidedly uninviting. At the entrance to Estamos Bien — La Trienal 20/21 at El Museo del Barrio in New York City, we are confronted not with a reading assignment but a photograph: Ada Trillo’s “Peaceful Protest” (2020), taken from the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art at the height of Black Lives Matter demonstrations last summer. The black-and-white panoramic image, depicting hundreds of supine bodies strewn across the pavement in a staged “die-in” against racist violence, speaks for itself.
Immediately captivating and visually gripping describes much of the art in this sprawling, at times overwhelming, showcase of 42 artists who identify as Latinx — a gender-neutral term for Latin American descendants living in the US or the Caribbean. That’s not to say that its organizers, El Museo curators Rodrigo Moura and Susanna V. Temkin and guest curator Elia Alba, have skimped on didactic material; the show features bilingual wall labels throughout its eight galleries. But many of the works on view would stand on their own, independent of the context and framework offered by El Museo. In their selections, the curators refrained from sacrificing form or quality to pander to notions of “Latinidad.” Instead, the works defy pervasive stereotypes of Latinx art as a niche category requiring special interest, scholarship, or institutional validation.
Expanding on El Museo’s biennial survey The S-Files (1999-2013), which featured Puerto Rican and Latinx artists from the New York area, La Trienal gathers artists who are local as well as those from Florida, California, Illinois, and beyond, illustrating the geographical reach of the largest so-called “minority” in the United States. All but one, painter Cándida Álvarez, had never before been exhibited at the museum; the show’s greatest contribution might be staking a claim for these diasporic creators.
Next to Trillo’s photograph is a stack of newspapers and an epitaph printed on a black wall, the elements of Lizania Cruz’s “Obituaries of the American Dream” (2020-21). The papers, which visitors are invited to take, are filled with individual anecdotes about the moments when the myth of equal opportunity in America “died” — personal stories Cruz collected as part of an eponymous online project commissioned by El Museo in advance of the triennial’s opening. Her haunting, minimalist installation lays to rest a romanticized ideology rooted in brutal expansionism.
Memory, particularly sensory recollections, emerge throughout the show as a balm for trauma and displacement. In “Dinner As I Remember” (2016), Francis Almendárez narrates a slideshow of food and family-themed images: onions simmering in a pan, loaded pupusas, candid photos of relatives at the dinner table. Almendárez’s voice, affectionately recalling the flavors of his Central American upbringing in LA, continues to echo as we admire Dionis Ortiz’s floor piece “Let There Be Light” (2020-2021). Painting inexpensive vinyl tiles to imitate luxury materials is a trade Ortiz learned from his father; the technique is used here in a thoughtful meditation on domesticity, labor, and tradition. (The museum’s label draws connections to early Cubist collage — a reference I don’t think is necessary — and Carl Andre, an artist I prefer to never think about.)
Many of the works in this triennial are concerned with commodity and materialism — challenging, dismantling, or laughing along with consumerist absurdity. In a trio of untitled oils, each measuring no more than eight by eight inches, Victoria Gitman renders with hyperbolic precision close-ups of sequined jackets from the 1980s, poking fun at value systems as well as the gendered history of painting. On the back wall, sculptures from Lucía Hierro’s “Racks” series (2019) — 12-foot-high snack display strips, complete with plushy versions of bags of Fritos, plantain chips, and chicharrones — transform bodega staples into cartoonish props, comedically exaggerating their ethnic import.
Humor gives way to solemn reflection with two tapestries by Eddie R. Aparicio, rubber castings of ficus trees from the artist’s Los Angeles neighborhood that have been embellished with paint, glass shards, and the plants’ own organic residue. One of them, a suspended piece titled “El Ruido Del Bosque Sin Hojas (The Sound of the Forest Without Leaves)” (2020), honors the forests in El Salvador destroyed by incendiary weaponry during the nation’s bloody US-backed civil war.
A sweet scent wafts from Yanira Collado’s enchanting geometric sculpture “Untitled” (2020), built of blocks of soap derived from the resin of the Cuaba tree. In Collado’s native Dominican Republic, the multi-purpose Cuaba soap is used for everything from feminine hygiene to spiritual cleansing counter-spells. Rituals come up again and again throughout this show; they’re a defiant form of resistance against hegemonic powers.
Other artists choose to tackle oppressive systems head-on. In a short video at the start of the third gallery, the research collective Torn Apart/Separados presents a visual database mapping detention centers and ICE facilities across the US. Not far is Vick Quezada’s “Table Remains” (2018), a grid of hand-pressed ceramic cafeteria trays that abstracts a mass-produced object found in prisons and other spaces of confinement through an intimately artisanal process.
In the fifth gallery, we finally encounter an introductory wall text for La Trienal, which also names the show’s financial supporters. Among them is the Jorge M. Pérez Family Foundation, founded by South Florida “condo king” Jorge Pérez, whose 2008 book includes a foreword by Donald Trump and who infamously told journalist Jeff Gooddell that by the time sea level rise becomes a problem in Miami, “I’ll be dead, so what does it matter?” Though Pérez has opposed Trump’s presidency and walked back his comments on climate change, the reminder that a real estate developer helped fund this show is sobering. A few steps away, artist Carolina Caycedo memorializes dozens of environmental activists murdered in recent years in a family tree-inspired wall drawing titled “Genealogy of Struggling” (2021).
María Gaspar’s Disappearance Suits (2012–20), photographs of the artist in natural settings wearing costumes that camouflage with her surroundings, brings one of the most poetic moments in the exhibition. Draped on a nearby rack are the artist-designed garments themselves — a hay-covered onesie, for instance, that she wore to blend in amid California’s grassy Marin Headlands. The concept makes me think of Ana Mendieta’s earthworks, but instead of imprinting her body on the landscape, Gaspar makes herself invisible, evoking the chameleonic strategies Black and Brown Latinx women depend on for survival.
Two works in the final gallery deal more viscerally with the Latinx body. Earlier this year, Carlos Martiel stood naked on top of a pedestal at El Museo, his body ostensibly covered in blood drawn from historically marginalized people, including Black, trans, and Native American individuals. The dried copper-brown residue left behind by Martiel’s footprints is presented in a glass encasing accompanied by video documentation of the performance, titled “Monument I” (2021). Across the room, a group of massive paintings by Vincent Valdez, collectively titled “The Strangest Fruit” (2013) illustrates the horrific lynchings of Mexican Americans across the US Southwest in the 19th century.
These pieces compete for attention with Michael Menchaca’s “A Cage Without Borders” (2020-21), a dizzying yet engrossing three-channel animation whose cacophonous soundtrack — integral to its denouncement of big-tech surveillance techniques — nevertheless drowns out the reverent silence that Martiel and Valdez’s oeuvres merit.
Confronting the absence and presence of the Latinx community is relevant to the museum’s recent history. Founded in 1969 at the height of the Nuyorican movement in New York, El Museo was born as an alternative space dedicated to Puerto Rican art and culture (“El Barrio” refers to its home neighborhood of East Harlem, where nearly half of the population is Hispanic.) Its focus has since expanded to encompass Latinx art at large, but also what some critics decry as market-friendly work by established artists based in Latin America.
In the spring of 2019, hundreds of artists and cultural workers signed the “Mirror Manifesto,” an open letter demanding more Latinx representation among the museum’s curatorial staff. The museum had just brought on Moura, a Brazilian curator; his appointment and that of director Patrick Charpenel, who came to El Museo from the corporate collection-turned-museum Jumex in Mexico City, were viewed as examples of “hiring Pan-Latinos … whose vision is to replicate a European blueprint of an art institution.” That June, on the day of El Museo’s 50th anniversary, activists took to the museum’s galleries to perform readings of the text.
Is Estamos Bien — La Trienal 20/21 a step toward healing these grievances? It’s worth noting that Moura and Temkin were joined by the Queens-based, Brooklyn-born artist Alba, in curating the exhibition. I suspect the differences in their backgrounds and lived experiences were pivotal to finding artists who embody such diverse aspects of the ever-shifting Latinx reality.
The triennial’s title, Spanish for “we’re fine,” references Cándida Álvarez’s painting in the show “Estoy Bien” (2017), made in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria. The cheeky phrase carries equal parts bitterness and hope in the face of adversity — a fitting expression of El Museo’s complicated past and this show’s promise, perhaps, of a more inclusive future.
Estamos Bien — La Trienal 20/21 continues at El Museo del Barrio (1230 Fifth Avenue at 104th Street, Manhattan) through September 26. The exhibition was curated by Rodrigo Moura, Susanna V. Temkin, and Elia Alba.
photo by Martin Seck; courtesy of El Museo del Barrio |
Today’s article will show you how you can insert images or pictures on your PowerPoint slides.
Basically there are 3 ways to display images on a PowerPoint slide:
- a single picture in a picture box
- or a background image on your slide
- or, and this is special, a slider or carrousel with different images
Set a background image on a slide
This method is great to avoid the typical white backgrounds of PowerPoint presentations. Open your presentation and go to the slide where you want to use an image as background.
From the PowerPoint ribbon, click the Design tab and then the Format Background button.
This opens the format background widget on the right.
Set the Fill option to Picture or texture fill. Then you can choose to insert a local picture or search for a picture online.
To insert a local picture, click the File button and browse for your file. When you have the file selected, click the Insert button. The chosen picture is now set as the background of your slide.
When you have no interesting picture available locally, then you can search for an image on the internet. To do so, click the Online button of the Format Background widget. Then you can use the Bing Image Search engine. Type in your search term and click Enter.
Select a picture from the huge image list and click the Insert button. This image is set as the background image of the current slide.
With most images, the image is too hard to be used as a background because the texts and other shapes placed on top of it later on, will be difficult to read. It is a good idea to use the transparency slider. With the transparency slider, you can add a portion of transparency to an image. This will brighten the image and makes the shapes that will be added to the slide, more readable.
How to insert a single image on your slide?
An image is great to assist your message on a slide. An image of your product that you are talking about. A chart to illustrate your sales prognoses. A red bullet to illustrate that your train is late on an information screen.
On your PowerPoint slide, click the Insert tab of the PowerPoint ribbon and click the Pictures button. You will see another button called Online Pictures to insert images from the internet, the same way as we saw at the background image option.
Navigate to the image that you want to use and click the Insert button to assign this image to the new picture box.
Use a Picture Slider on your Slide
Sometimes you need to display a picture slider or picture carrousel on your slide. Basically a picture slider is a slide show of images on a single PowerPoint slide. A normal picture box that hosts a series of images and displays each image for a number of seconds. This can be done in a fixed or random sequence.
A picture slider is no default PowerPoint functionality, but this slider is only possible when you use the Dynamic PICTURES add-on. To use it, just insert a normal picture to your slide. Maybe you can start with the first image that you want to show in the slider.
After the placement of a normal picture on your slide, select the picture box shape and click the Pictures button from the Dynamic ELEMENTS tab.
Typical for a picture slider is that you assign a folder or a number of folders to a picture slider. This slider will then display all images (JPG, BMP, PNG etc) of the folder(s). This is very handy when you want to show a large number of images like e.g. a picture frame to show family photos, or photos of a company event. For each picture slider, you can add, edit or remove folders from the folder list. Use the 3 buttons at the folder list for this. Click the green Add button to add a first folder to your folder list.
When you would run the slide show, the add-on will scan all folders for all available images. Optionally, you can scan all pictures of the sub folders too, or to limit the image selection to the folders listed only. Furthermore you can select landscape or portrait pictures. And finally, you can choose the display the images in a fixed or random sequence.
Use the slider to specify how long a picture is shown in the slider.
You can now run the slide show and the pictures that were found in the folders, were displayed after each other. You can always add or remove files from the folders (via another computer) which will have an impact on your picture slider. When you add new images, these images will be included automatically in your picture slider, without restarting your slide show. |
So: what does a professional audio nerd do on a day off? Check out an audio dealer, of course! I’d seen Craigslist ads for Electric City in Westminster, Colorado, for months–and finally went the 30 miles or so to check it out. One of the things that separates Electric City from your average Craigslist seller of vintage gear is that they’re a service and repair company—and everything they sell has been checked out and brought up to original spec.
The store has everything from portables to full systems. I was taken by this homemade jambox—the audio equivalent of folk art, no?
This shows the range of gear you'll find at Electric City---from a funky '50s Philco console with separate stereo speaker to '90s B&O Uni-phase speakers.
Several rather worn tube console radios shared space with the unmistakable Philco Predicta. Hmmm--how do I make it hi-res?
A little bit of everything on this rack, from a Perreaux preamp to a cute Harmon-Kardon tube combo.
Anyone want a Crown DC-300 for $199? It'll sound like broken glass, but it'll last forever!
Some interesting-looking Knight tube amps (with cages off) atop who-knows-what '50s speakers.
There are reel-to-reel decks all over the shop.
The enclosures are obviously Karlsons---but what on Earth are those drivers with the Darth Vader/Electrolux horn?
Back in the day we talked about receivers with a high "KPD" factor---knobs per dollar. Here're the speaker equivalent, massive '70s 6-ways? 7-ways? from Kenwood.
A wide range of cassette decks, including a Nak and a big Pioneer.
A couple very nice Tandberg cassette decks.
I'm not a big Pioneer fan, but this rack full of silver faces was pretty impressive.
I’d never seen a Nakamichi System One in the flesh/metal before. From the top down, the DS-200 Program Timer, that allowed you to program recordings off the air from FM; the 630 FM Tuner/preamp; the 600 Cassette console; a System One bridge adapter and a pair of bridged 620 power amps. This is a rare variant of a rare system: most had a 610 control preamp and only one 620 power amp. Priced at $2,000, it doesn’t strike me as totally outrageous. According to the 1977 Audio Annual equipment Directory, the 630 tuner/pre was $630; the 600 cassette was $550 in matte black; and the 620 amps were $630 each. That’s $2440 in 1977 dollars, and doesn’t include the rack, timer, or bridging adapters. |
Tri-State is your direct source for all your linen and equipment rental needs. Providing a direct link between the manufacturer and you, our valued customer, we offer hundreds of high quality products at the best prices in the Washington DC, Maryland and Northern Virginia areas. We have the perfect linens for any type of restaurant, hotel, country club, church, weddings or banquet festivities
Tri-State Linens & Event Rental is located in Beltsville, Maryland in a 20,000 square feet warehouse. Founded in 2006, we provide the special event and catering industries
with the highest quality of products and services at the best rates!
We have the ability to deliver to the metropolitan Washington DC, Maryland and Northern Virginia areas. We offer around the clock delivery service.
TriStateLinens.com has everything to make your event a success!
The best part is: It's all In-house!!!
No matter the budget, size, or time, we are able to produce the perfect luxurious and elegant event.Contact a representative today for a free consultation.
We will supply you with everything from custom linens
, dance floors
or anything else that may be required for your special day.
What will you cover the table with? How about that perfect china that you picked out? A white table cloth just wonít do. What about that corporate presentation? You want everything to match with your great idea. Our inventory is stocked with hundreds of fabric colors
in many different fabrics and colors
. If you donít see the color
you want, have no fear... We have a team of seamstresses onsite that can create the perfect table cloth within 48 hours. And if we can't find the perfect fabric from any of our hundreds of in stock linens, don't worry... Because we also have direct contact to our fabric warehouse and usually receive the needed color within 24 hours. We would like a 2 week notice for planned events if possible. Of course there are those events that will always be last minute and we understand. Just try to give us as much notice as possible, and the best part is... there's no additional charge for last minute orders!
Just in case you find yourself in a jam and still need more equipment, Tri-State can provide it all. We have dedicated a 6,000 square feet warehouse to three sizes of round tables
, cocktail tables
, banquet tables
, plastic chairs
, wooden chairs
, and chavairi chairs
, and much more!!! Our inventory is always available no matter the time of year.
If you need itÖ We have it!!!Request a Quote or Contact Us today for more information!
, Table Linens
, Chair Sashes
, Chair Covers
, Event Rentals
, Laundry Service
, Weekly Linen Service
, Event Planning
, Photo Gallery
, Custom Inspirations
, Napkin Folding Techniques
, Table Setup Tips
, About Us
, Site Map
Request A Quote
, Contact UsCOLOR DISCLAIMER: Using state of the art technology, TriStateLinens.com has invested great time, effort and expense to insure the best possible color representation on our website. Despite our efforts, we cannot guarantee the color displayed on your monitor will precisely match the color of our linen. Variances in the type and age of monitors, as well as web connections influence how color is perceived. You can always request a swatch to confirm the color. |
10 Questions to Ask When Hiring a Roofing Contractors
No matter what type of roofing project you’re contemplating, from a total home re-roof to smaller repairs, selecting the right roofing contractor is vital. The quality and durability of your new roof depend heavily on the knowledge and experience of the contractor—and can even affect your future energy bills! To make sure you end up with a reliable roofer that meets all expectations, here are 10 essential questions to ask before hiring any professional roofing contractors.
What type of roofing system do you install and repair, and how long have you been in business doing it in this area specifically
As a homeowner or property owner, it is crucial to do your due diligence before hiring a roofing contractor. One important question to ask is regarding the type of roofing system the contractor uses for installations and repairs. A good roofing contractor should be knowledgeable and have experience with a variety of roofing systems, including shingles, tiles, metal roofs, and more. They should also be able to provide you with information about the benefits and drawbacks of each type of material and which would be best suited for your specific needs.
Another critical question to ask is how long the contractor has been in business. Experience is key when it comes to working with a roofing contractor, as they will often be handling one of the most important parts of your property. A reputable contractor should have a proven track record of quality work, and be able to provide you with references and examples of previous projects. It is also important to ensure that the contractor is licensed, insured, and bonded and that they adhere to all safety regulations and standards. By asking these questions, you can ensure that you are hiring a qualified and trustworthy roofing contractor who will provide top-quality workmanship while protecting your property and investment.
Are all roofs installed by the same team or do you outsource to other roofing companies that specialize in certain types of roofs?
The decision to hire a roofing contractor is one that should not be taken lightly. After all, this individual will be responsible for ensuring that one of the most important elements of your home is sound and secure. However, before signing any contracts or handing over any money, it is important to ask the right questions. One query that should be high on your list when speaking with a potential roofing contractor is whether they use an in-house team for all their installations, or if they sometimes outsource certain types of roofs to other companies that specialize in those materials.
When asking this important question, keep in mind that there are pros and cons to both approaches. A roofing company that keeps everything in-house may be better able to standardize their work processes and maintain consistency in their results. However, an outsourced team that specializes in a certain type of roof may be able to provide more specific knowledge and expertise, ensuring that your roof is installed with the utmost care and precision. By understanding these potential benefits and drawbacks, you can make an informed decision about which type of roofing contractor is right for your needs.
What standard materials are used for roofing installations – is there an upgrade option available
When it comes to roofing installations, there are several standard materials that are commonly utilized. These include asphalt shingles, metal panels, and clay or concrete tiles. Each material has its own distinct advantages and disadvantages, depending on factors such as cost, durability, and aesthetic appeal. However, for those who want to take their roofing game to the next level, there are definitely upgrade options available. In recent years, innovative and sustainable materials such as solar tiles and green roofs have emerged, providing homeowners with both energy-efficient and environmentally friendly options that can help reduce their carbon footprint. Choosing the right material for your roof can be a daunting task, but with the right guidance and advice from a professional roofing contractor, you can feel confident that you are making the right choice for your home and your budget.
How does the company handle warranty and liability insurance claims, if any arise
When it comes to selecting a roofing contractor, it’s not just about the quality of their workmanship, but also their responsibility in handling warranties and liability insurance claims. A reputable roofing company will have a clear and concise policy in place for these situations and should be able to provide specific details about the process. It’s important to ask questions, such as what type of warranties they offer how long they last, and what the insurance coverage entails. By doing so, you can ensure that your investment in a new roof is protected and that you’re working with a company that values transparency and accountability in its business practices. After all, a good roofing contractor will not only deliver excellent results but also peace of mind in knowing that your home is in good hands.
How long will it take for project completion – what’s the estimated timeline
Before hiring a roofing contractor, it is essential to question them about the estimated timeline of the project. The completion time can vary based on the size, complexity, and weather conditions. It is important to ensure that the contractor is not overbooking themselves or rushing through the project. Asking for a realistic timeline can help you plan ahead and avoid any inconvenience. Furthermore, a reliable contractor should be able to provide a detailed explanation of the steps involved in the roofing process and how long each step will take. Don’t hesitate to ask follow-up questions and request a written timeline that includes the projected start and completion dates. Remember, the roof is one of the most crucial parts of your property. Taking the time to choose a trustworthy contractor and questioning them about the estimated completion timeline can save you time, money, and stress in the long run.
Will the company provide a written estimate before work begins
When hiring a roofing contractor, many homeowners know that the stakes are high. If the job is done poorly or without proper attention to detail, it could lead to costly repairs down the road. That’s why it’s important to ask the right questions before signing on the dotted line, and one of the most crucial questions to ask is whether the company provides a written estimate before work begins.
A written estimate is more than just a piece of paper with a number on it. It’s a sign that the contractor takes their work seriously and is committed to providing transparency and clarity throughout the process. With a written estimate in hand, homeowners can have a clear understanding of what the job entails, what materials will be used, and how much it will cost. They can also feel confident that they won’t be hit with unexpected fees or expenses later on. So when considering a roofing contractor, don’t be afraid to ask for a written estimate before work begins. It’s a small step that can make a big difference in the long run.
How does payment work – are installment plans available?
When deciding to hire a roofing professional, one of the most important questions to ask is, “How does payment work?” It’s critical to know whether the contractor offers an installment plan, as many homeowners may not be able to pay the full cost upfront. An installment plan allows homeowners to pay for the roof in smaller, manageable amounts over a period of time. However, not all roofing contractors offer this option, and it’s important to inquire about payment terms before signing any agreement.
Additionally, it’s important to ask how the contractor calculates their pricing. A reputable roofing contractor should provide a detailed estimate that breaks down all costs, including materials and labor. This will help you understand the pricing structure and ensure you are not taken advantage of with hidden fees or charges. It’s also worth asking about the payment schedule and what is included in the final price, such as clean-up and disposal of old materials. By asking these questions, you can make an informed decision and choose a roofing contractor who will provide quality work at a fair price.
Does the company offer any additional services such as gutter cleaning or inspections after installation?
When it comes to choosing a roofing contractor, there are a lot of factors to consider. You want to find someone with experience, who uses high-quality materials, and who can provide you with a fair estimate. But what about after the installation? It’s important to ask whether the company offers any additional services, such as gutter cleaning or inspections.
Gutters are an important part of your home’s drainage system, and neglecting them can lead to serious water damage. If your new roof is installed without addressing any gutter issues, you could still end up with leaks or other problems. Additionally, regular inspections are crucial in maintaining the health of your roof. A reputable roofing contractor should understand the importance of these services and offer them as part of their overall package. Don’t be afraid to ask questions – it could save you time and money in the long run.
Is it possible to visit job sites and inspect past work for reference?
Whether it’s for a new construction project or a roof replacement, finding the right roofing contractor is essential to ensure the longevity and safety of your property. However, in a market flooded with numerous contractors, it can be challenging to pick the best one for your project. One way to separate the wheat from the chaff is by asking about their past work experience and requesting to visit job sites to inspect their workmanship. This not only gives you an opportunity to evaluate their expertise but also gives you the confidence that you’ve made the right choice.
Additionally, inspecting past work lets you see firsthand how the contractor handled similar projects that they’ve worked on in the past. You can check for quality and attention to details that matter, such as flashing installations or ventilation systems. This also gives you an opportunity to confirm whether the work was completed on time within the budget as per the contract with their previous clients. By examining the contractor’s past work portfolio, you will get a better feel for their style, and if it resonates with yours, you can be sure that you’ll get the same results for your project too. In conclusion, by asking about previous job sites and inspecting past work, you’re doing your due diligence and ensuring that you’re in good hands with the roofing contractor of choice.
Who is responsible for obtaining building permits and ensuring compliance with local codes and ordinances related to roofing projects
When exploring various roofing options, it’s important to do your research and ask the right questions in order to ensure your project is completed with the highest degree of safety, quality, and compliance. One key question to ask your roofing contractor is who is responsible for obtaining building permits and ensuring compliance with local codes and ordinances related to roofing projects. This is no small matter, as failing to comply with these regulations could lead to fines, legal issues, or worse – endangering the health and safety of your home and family.
If your roofing contractor is reputable and experienced, they should be highly familiar with all relevant permits, codes, and ordinances related to roofing projects in your area. Moreover, they should be able to provide clear, detailed explanations of these regulations to help you feel confident in their ability to execute the project with the utmost professionalism and safety. Be wary of any contractor who seems unsure or hesitant about these regulations, as this can be a red flag that they lack the experience or expertise needed to complete your project to the highest degree of safety and quality. Ultimately, asking these questions and ensuring compliance can help ease your stress and ensure a smooth, successful roofing project.
By choosing a reliable roofing company with years of experience in the industry, homeowners can rest assured that their roofing projects will be handled professionally. Make sure to do your research and read reviews before choosing a service provider and ask as many questions as you need to feel confident that you are making an informed decision. With the right team in place, any roofing project can be completed on time and to the highest quality standards, ensuring durability and longevity for years to come. Ensure that you understand all of the services, payment plans, warranties, liability insurance claims, and any additional services before selecting a roofing company – and always be sure to check local building codes before starting any projects! Taking these steps can make all the difference when it comes to finding the perfect contractor for your specific needs. Equip yourself with knowledge and contact professionals today – it will be worth every penny in the long run!
Want to learn more? Contact Us Now! |
ECON170 - Economic History of the U.S. - Peter de Luca
|Economic History of the U.S.
|Peter de Luca
I graduated from Columbia University in New York City with a B.A. in Economics and then much later in life earned an M.B.A at Keller Graduate School of Management.
I have been teaching at the college level for 40 years. I have taught economics at DeVry University, at many colleges in the Los Angeles Community College District, and here at College of the Canyons in Santa Clarita.
I teach mostly at Pierce Community College. Since 2008, I have taught over 600 online class instances for DeVry, Pierce and Corinthean College. In 2009, I was voted “Online instructor of the year” at Corinthean Colleges. In 2011, I coached the Taft High School Academic Decathlon team in economics and they finished third in the state.
ECON 170. Introduction to U.S. Economic History (3 credits). This course covers events and economic concepts applied in the United States from the Revolutionary Wars for independence to the present.
There have been many economic concepts proposed throughout the past two and a half centuries in the U.S. The most important question is: “Which economic concepts worked, and which ones did not work to strengthen our economy?”
Our history is our economic laboratory. Many economic concepts have been tried at some time in our history. We will examine those historical economic events and analyze their success or failure.
What to Expect in this Course
We will cover about 15 chapters in this course. I will also teach macro and microeconomic concepts that support and reinforce the material discussed in the chapters.
IMPORTANT: I provide my own video lecture for each chapter covered in the course. These videos will make learning easier and faster for you. My videos use my own PowerPoint presentations which you will be able to download.
My videos lectures will make this online course feel more like an on-campus class.
Below is a link to one my chapter video lectures that you can sample now. It is chapter 19 titled: “Money, Prices, and Finance in the Postbellum Era.” Chapter 19 is one of the most important chapters in the course.
Link to chapter 19 video lecture: Money, Prices and Finance in the Postbellum Era
Types of Assessments
Each chapter will have a quiz. We will cover on the average, one chapter a week. Some of the more important chapter quizzes, you will be allowed to take twice under certain requirements.
The quizzes will be monitored using Proctorio. You will need a web camera on your computer.
I only use Proctorio to make sure that it is you that is taking your quiz. The chapter quizzes are open book and open notes.
There will be four closed book tests. The tests are NOT comprehensive. Each test covers a small range of chapters in the book. You will be given a study guide and a chapter question breakdown for each test. The last test is the final exam.
They will be monitored using Proctorio.
If your grade in one of your tests is higher than a chapter quiz grade, then I will replace that chapter quiz score with your test score. But there are requirements specified in the syllabus.
REQUIRED TEXT: Gary M. Walton. Hugh Rockoff, History of the American Economy. 13th Edition, 2014. ISBN- 978 1 337 10460 9
But any of the older versions down to the 9th edition will work very well. You can get the 9th edition or the 10th edition on Amazon.com between $5.00 and $15.00.
Other Relevant Course Information
This course can be accessed on the first day of class via Canvas at https://coc.instructure.com. Log into Canvas using your CanyonsID single sign-on:
- CanyonsID Username is your COC student email address (Ex: [email protected])
- CanyonsID Password is your COC student email password
Check out the Online Education website for more information on a variety of topics that can help you be a successful online student such as: exam proctoring, learning styles, computer skills, and tips for student success. If this is your first online course, feel free to take our online learning readiness assessment to assess your skills.
The Learning Center (TLC)
The TLC provides FREE online tutoring resources to COC students!
Academic Accommodation Center (AAC)
College of the Canyons AAC provides educational services and access for eligible students with documented disabilities who intend to pursue coursework at COC. A variety of programs and services are available which afford eligible students with disabilities the opportunity to participate fully in all aspects of the college programs and activities through appropriate and reasonable accommodations. For more information on their services visit the Academic Accomodation Center website.
The Counseling Department offers appointments online. You can schedule an appointment by visiting the Online Counseling website. Counselors can help you map out a plan to reach your educational goals as well as advise you on course selection and registration.
Management of Stress and Mental Health
Often the pressure on our students is very strong, involving academic commitments, relationships, outside jobs and family pressure to name a few. The staff and faculty of College of the Canyons are here to see you succeed academically and care about your emotional and physical health. You can learn more about the broad range of confidential student services, including counseling and mental health services available on campus by visiting the Student Health & Wellness Center in the Student Services Building (across from the bookstore). The phone number is 661-362-3259 that you can call 24/7. You can also e mail for an appointment at [email protected]. At the Canyon Country Campus the Health Center will be in the new Student Services Building.
Also, the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline number is now 988. All students at COC are encouraged to enter that phone number in their cells. You can call it when you, or someone you know, is having thoughts of suicide or is in severe distress.
You can also now use the Crisis Text Line: Just text "Courage" to 741741. Someone will get back to you immediately. Its free, 24/7, and confidential.
Veterans Resource Center
The College of the Canyons Veterans Resource Center is a department within the Student Services Division at the college, created to help veterans and veteran dependents with applying to College of the Canyons, enrolling in classes, and requesting VA Education or Vocational Benefits. For more information please visit the Veterans Resource Center website, email [email protected] or phone (661) 362-3469.
The Library provides live online and in-person research help, access to a full range of e-resources and physical materials that support the curriculum, individual and group study areas, and much more!
Last updated: 08/21/2021 Sub#: 210 |
Our hours are:
CLOSED Sun & Mon,
11 to 7 Tues. & Wed,
11 to 8 Thurs to Sat
Sit & Stitch Thursdays from 6 to 8: bring your project to get help, get started on something with a FREE class, or just come and work on your knitting or crochet!
Happy Holidays Everyone! As the year comes to a close, we want to wish everyone Happy Holidays and Happy New Year! We would also like to thank everyone for their support though out the year. It's been challenging but we are still here and ready to help you in any way we can in person and online; we are just a call or email away. Needful Things will be closing early on 12/24 (11am to 3pm) and we will be closed until 1/2/23 to do our annual inventory and prep for a huge surprise in March! We will be reopening...
Knitting Fever Incorporated and Euro Yarns have given us a direct link to their drop ship kits. Use it to order the items and it will be mailed directly to you from Knitting Fever and Euro Yarns. International customers, please email with orders because Knitting Fever and Euro Yarns will not directship outside the United States at this time. Just copy and paste the link in your favorite browser and look around! https://shoplocal.knittingfever.com/?acct=10881
Many of our wonderful yarns are no longer available to us, so we are giving you the chance to purchase them at a discount!
Online, you can find them at this Link , these yarns are priced 20-50% off.
As of December First, we have owned the shop for 1 year!
To celebrate, we are doing specials, both in store and on our website:
12/2 Wool and wool blends are 15% off
12/3 Clothing is 20% off
12/4 Self striping, multicolor or variegated yarns are 15% off
12/5 You will receive a little gift with your purchase; aside from the stitch markers we typically include with orders.
12/6 Single color yarns are 15% off |
Have you been looking into home security recently, but you are having second thoughts? If you are having a hard time deciding whether you should commit to one, you are definitely going to enjoy this read which will elaborate on the good and bad sides of security systems.
There are plenty of security providers out there and I bet that you have run across lots of reviews that you are already taking into consideration. The pros and cons of Brinks home security will help you a great deal if Brinks is one of your top choices. Now, let’s look at some of the pros and cons of security systems in general.
You surely have valuables that you keep at home, so having a security system will ensure that they stay untouched. Also, the protection of your family members is surely on the top of the list of the things that you want to keep safe.
- Peace of mind
The security systems will not only keep burglars away, but they will take care of the members of your family as well. The modern apps will notify you when kids have arrived at home, whether there is an open door, provide you with emergency alarms for elder members of the family and so much more. The peace of mind that the security system will give you is invaluable.
- Cheaper home insurance
Just by installing a security system, you may lower the price of the home insurance premium. What’s more, if you live in an area with high crime rates, the cost of your insurance may drop even more.
- Remote viewing
There’s no need to worry or want to get home sooner when you are traveling or going away for business because thanks to the security systems you can have real-time footage or recordings of every spot of your home where there’s a camera.
Although the prices of the packages of the home security systems are favorable nowadays, they can still accumulate when you calculate all of the monthly fees.
- A false sense of security
When you get home security, you probably think that no burglar will come into your home. However, some burglars are really experienced and alarms don’t discourage them. They can still get valuable things before the police arrive at your door.
- It’s pretty easy to forget it
Usually homeowners get so comfortable with their home security that they forget to turn the alarms on as they leave the house or go to sleep. When you’re used to nothing bad happening in terms of security scares, it’s easy to get comfortable by leaving it on the backburner on your mind.
- You will get charged for false alarms
If you activate the alarm by accident, forget the code, or take too long to turn it off, the police may come to your doorstep. Some companies will charge you after the first mistake, so you should be really careful and not forgetful at all.
Now after you have considered the pros and cons of home security systems, you may find it much easier to make a decision. |
Mainland China-Hong Kong Interim Measures Arrangement One Year On: Crossing the River by Feeling the Stones
Reporters: Dong Long and Suraj Sajnani, King & Wood Mallesons
On 1 October 2019, the Arrangement Concerning Mutual Assistance in Court-ordered Interim Measures in Aid of Arbitral Proceedings by the Courts of the Mainland of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (the “Arrangement”) came into force. Kluwer previously reported it here and here. On 8 October 2019, the first interim measure under the Arrangement was granted by the Shanghai Maritime Court. We can expect to see more applications under the Arrangement. Inevitably, challenges will follow, creating a situation of “crossing the river by feeling the stones” (摸着石头过河) for parties and practitioners.
Before the Arrangement, parties looked to local legislation for local courts to (1) recognise and enforce interim measures granted by tribunals in a foreign jurisdiction, and/or (2) itself issue interim measures over an arbitration commenced in a foreign jurisdiction.
In Hong Kong, where the arbitration law has largely adopted the UNCITRAL Model Law, both above-mentioned mechanisms are available (sections 35 and 45 of the Hong Kong Arbitration Ordinance). Such mechanisms were not available in Mainland China (see previous commentary on the Blog from the Mainland China perspective: Part I and Part II).
As a starting point, in Mainland China, arbitral tribunals are not empowered to grant interim measures. For arbitrations seated in Mainland China, a party making an interim measure application (usually called a preservation application) should first submit it to the arbitration commission administering the arbitration, which then passes the application on to the relevant court (see Articles 28 and 68 of the PRC Arbitration Law). Prior to the Arrangement, the domestic laws of the PRC provided no mechanism for a court to provide the same assistance to a foreign arbitration, nor was there a ready mechanism to enforce an interim measure made by a tribunal in a foreign arbitration or by a foreign court.
Given the rise in arbitrations involving or concerning parties from Mainland China as shown by HKIAC’s 2019 statistics, this lacuna and its consequences have become more evident in recent years. The risk is apparent: if the subject matter of the interim measures is in Mainland China, the power of any order made largely depended on the voluntary cooperation of the party against whom the order was made. On the whole, the effectiveness of such orders would be undermined.
While the introduction of the Arrangement does not (and does not claim to) fill the entire gap, it opened the first door in in allowing interim measures to cross borders in respect of Mainland China.
Key Points of the Arrangement
Two issues fall under the question of “who”. The first is who the parties to the arbitration are: the Arrangement applies only to commercial arbitrations between parties of equal status. This excludes Investor-State arbitrations (see Section II(II)2 of the Interpretation and Application by the Supreme People’s Court of the Arrangement Concerning Mutual Assistance in Court-ordered Interim Measures in Aid of Arbitral Proceedings by the Courts of the Mainland of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, published in the People’s Court Daily on 26 September 2019) (the “SPC Interpretation”).
The second is which arbitration institutions can take advantage of the Arrangement. The answer to this question is in Articles 2 and 6 of the Arrangement.
For Hong Kong-seated arbitrations (Article 2), only those administered by institutions confirmed by both jurisdictions are eligible. The premise of this is that ad hoc arbitrations cannot take advantage of the Arrangement. Conversely, Article 6 of the Arrangement does not require confirmation of a list of eligible Mainland arbitral institutions. Under Article 10 of the PRC Arbitration Law, a Mainland arbitral institution is one “registered with the administrative department of justice of the relevant province, autonomous region or municipality directly under the Central Government” (see the relevant list here).
Article 1 of the Arrangement states what the term “interim measures” means in the Mainland and in Hong Kong respectively, the specific types of which are defined by domestic laws of Mainland China and Hong Kong.
In Mainland China, interim measures are called “preservation orders” which are, as the name suggests, for preserving the status quo. They are broadly divided into three categories: the preservation of property, evidence, and conduct. In Hong Kong, the types of interim measures are less rigidly categorised.
In both jurisdictions, Arrangement applications are made before the arbitral award is made (Articles 3 and 6 of the Arrangement), and even before an arbitration has been commenced. An extra caveat should be noted that if an application is made to a Mainland court before the commencement of an arbitration: the applicant should request the Hong Kong arbitral institution to communicate with the Mainland court regarding its acceptance of the case no later than 30 days after the preservation measure is taken (paragraph 3, Article 3 of the Arrangement).
The question of “where” also encompasses two issues: (1) where the arbitration in question is seated; and (2) which court to turn to for the application.
On the first issue, many have already noted that an “arbitration in Hong Kong” must mean an arbitration that is seated in Hong Kong (Article 2 of the Arrangement). The same requirement does not apply to Mainland arbitrations, which only needs to be an arbitral proceeding administered by a Mainland arbitral institution. The seat of the arbitration in this case could be outside of Mainland China (see SPC Interpretation, Section II(III)).
On the second issue, Article 6 of the Arrangement states that the application in Hong Kong should be made to the Hong Kong High Court. For parties making applications to Mainland Chinese courts, Article 3, Paragraph 1 of the Arrangement sets out the rule which helps to pinpoint the appropriate court. The applicant should apply to the court of either (1) the respondent’s place of residence, or (2) the place of the subject matter of the application (e.g. where the property or the evidence is located). This physical location needs to be identified to a municipal level; in terms of court level, the applicant should seek a court at the intermediate level: this is usually straightforward, as such courts would include the word “intermediate” in their names. Some specialised courts are also deemed intermediate level courts, such as maritime courts and the Shanghai Financial Court.
Articles 4, 5, and 7 outline the documents and information needed to make the application to a Mainland Chinese court and to the Hong Kong High Court respectively. These articles are, however, outlines. The application should be made having full regard to the practical meaning of relevant provisions in the context of domestic law.
The reader should keep in mind that while the language of the Arrangement appears to be straightforward, it should be considered only as a starting point for applications. The specific types of interim measures and the procedure for their application remain the subject of local laws. There are many factors to consider when making actual applications, which if overlooked, could lead to delay or even failure in obtaining the interim measure.
Mainland Chinese court-compliant documents: Courts in Mainland China place great importance on the authenticity of documents submitted. Depending on the documents, authenticity may be proven by a number of means, individually or combined. Given the likely international nature of applications made under the Arrangement, the notarisation / legalisation / certification / authentication of documents is particularly significant. The specific steps (and their names) may vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, but will often involve notaries public, the ministry of foreign affairs of the place where the documents are created, and the PR China embassy or appropriate authority at the particular jurisdiction. Furthermore, documents not in Chinese need to be translated (Article 4 of the Arrangement) by a court-approved translation agency. It is important that these time and costs factors be considered well in advance of the application to avoid delay as this process often takes a number of weeks.
Security or undertaking: Whether in Mainland China or in Hong Kong, the applicant should be ready to provide court-compliant security or undertaking (Article 8 of the Arrangement). Courts in Mainland China often calculate security based on a percentage of the claimed amount, and require it to be provided in the form of a guarantee by a bank or by an insurance company. The specific requirements will vary from court to court and from dispute to dispute. Applicants should therefore factor in the costs of such security when charting out the costs of an application.
Making an application before commencement of arbitration: In a straightforward arbitration, 30 days may look like ample time for communication between the Hong Kong arbitral institution and the Mainland court (Article 3 of the Arrangement). However, for example, the HKIAC receives arbitrations commenced under potentially problematic arbitration clauses almost daily.[fn]This was discussed during a Webinar hosted by the HKIAC on 6 May 2020 titled “Dos and Don’ts of Drafting Arbitration Clauses”.[/fn] There is therefore a risk that there might be unexpected time lag or non-acceptance of the arbitration, causing the applicant to run afoul of this requirement and to potentially lose the security put up for the application.
Choosing amongst multiple possible Mainland Chinese courts: If there are multiple possible courts to choose from (whether it is because different assets are in different locations, or the respondent and assets are in different locations), the applicant may only make one application. Some factors that may help the parties decide where to make the application include: (1) the familiarity and experience a court has with cases involving a foreign element; (2) the ease and convenience with which execution of the preservation order may be carried out; (3) the need for further enforcement against the final arbitral award. The applicant does not have to confine the application to preservation measures that can only be taken out at the court of application, as choosing one court does not necessarily deprive the applicant of assistance by another relevant court (though this matter is subject to discussion between and implementation through the courts) (SPC Interpretation, Section II(IV)1).
Role of the Hong Kong arbitral institution: The Hong Kong arbitral institution plays an important role in an application to a Mainland Chinese court, though this role has manifested itself differently in the small number of applications seen to date, depending on the Mainland Chinese court to which applications are made. Paragraph 2, Article 3 of the Arrangement requires the application to be passed from the arbitral institution to the relevant court. This is in line with the practice of Mainland Chinese arbitral institutions passing on applications to the relevant Mainland Chinese court. However, the SPC has also commented that a party should be allowed to submit its application together with a transfer letter issued by the Hong Kong arbitral institution (SPC Interpretation, II(V)1, 2). Communication with the relevant Mainland court before application to determine its practice would be helpful in avoiding confusion and delay.
Provision of “asset clues”: the application for preservation of assets or evidence in Mainland China needs to include “clear particulars of the property and evidence to be preserved or concrete threads which may lead to a train of inquiry” (Article 5(4) of the Arrangement). This is sometimes colloquially referred to as “asset clues”. The key point to note here is that the Mainland Chinese courts do not take on an investigative function, and such “asset clues” (or the lack thereof) may well be determinative the outcome of the application.
This article was first published on Kluwer Arbitration Blog |
LeAnn Drum is a Level 9 athlete training at Paragon Gymnastics where she is coached by Randy Pendergast and Rachael Rosenthal.
She resides in Montvale, NJ with her parent’s Don and Patty Drum.
In the fall, LeAnn plans on attending college to study International Relations.
National Honors Society
Spanish Naational Honors Society
Level 9 State Qualifier
Level 8 Regional Qualifier
Words of Wisdom:
“Nothing worth having comes easy.” – Theodore Roosevelt |
Online casinos are also referred to as virtual casinos or Internet casino. They are online versions of traditional casinos. Online casinos offer gamblers the opportunity to participate in online casino games and place bets. Online casinos have increased in popularity due to the widespread Galaksino use of Internet technology. These casinos online are accessible across the globe.
One of the best online casinos is the Coral Casino. Coral Casino offers a wide variety of games for casino online that include blackjack, video poker craps, and Baccarat. Coral Casino has an intuitive interface that lets you see how your hands appear to be on the virtual playing field. The interface of Coral Casino allows you to make choices on casino games that include blackjack roulette, video poker, craps, baccarat, and bingo. You can also choose the dealer for different games.
This online casino offers many casino games, including video poker and hot slots. There are many live dealer games, as well as bonus video poker games. You can find bonus tournaments with live tournament players within the bonus video poker section. These tournaments could offer large cash prize.
There are separate slots and video poker machines at most casinos online. You will find that live dealers are now a part of most live casino games. There are other video casino games such as baccarat, video poker, roulette, and blackjack. There is also the option of playing keno bingo and other slot games. Online casinos often offer both bingo and slots.
With a casino game site there is a wide range of casino games for you to try. Popular online casinos such as the Coral Casino offer all kinds of slots, table games video poker, table games, and live dealer games. Some casinos online provide additional games, such as progressive jackpots and card games. There are also video poker tournaments and live draw games.
Many games offered online by online casinos offer players an welcome bonus when they sign up. You can use this welcome bonus to buy tickets to the most popular online games, or to purchase extra chips. Casinos online offer players bonus points and free spins on their slot machines when they play in video poker tournaments. Certain online casinos offer welcome offers to their players upon registration and then again when they leave the casino.
To increase your odds of winning, it’s smart to take advantage of the casino bonuses for free that these games offer. Casinos online often provide complimentary casino checks to those who deposit money into their accounts. To be eligible for the free casino check players must bet a certain amount. The free online casino gaming cash is also offered through many of the promotion Simple procedures for free.
There are numerous ways to win real cash from free casino games online. The best part of online gambling is that there aren’t any restrictions or limitations on the amount you are able to bet or how much you can spend. If you’re able to learn how to play, then you’ll have no trouble making money. It’s all you need to do is keep your eyes on the prize and not get too distracted by the excitement. It is important to remember that if an online casino player loses money and gets caught up in the excitement, they are responsible for the amount of money they have spent on the site. |
Parrot Customization Kit for Minidrone Jumping Race Max.
Comprises set of two complete wheels – black shafts, rims and tyres - and one two-part red facade.
For more information on fitting minidrone spares visit the support section on www.parrot.com
Compatible with Jumping Race Drone - Max
Colour: Red / Black
Parrot item: PF070124AA
|Manufacturer product number (MPN) |
Belt with Nickel Buckle Brown Suede
Tax included. Shipping calculated at checkout.
- Monk Facts
- Features & Care
In a sense, a belt is like a pair of shoes, people may not notice them when they’re nice, but they sure will if they’re not. Simonnot Godard’s belts are made in Italy using the finest French calf suede. Each belt is fully lined and stitched, and fitted with the highest quality buckle after being cut precisely to the customer’s size. These beautiful belts are very refined and will pair beautifully even with a formal suit, but because they are suede they can also be paired with casual trousers, even jeans! *Please note that all belts come as a size 44 and can be cut to size by any reputable shoe or leather repairer. This allows you to adjust the size of the belt to your exact waist measurement.
Simonnot Godard have been making pocket squares and handkerchiefs since 1787, so it is no wonder that they do it better than anyone else. The company is uncompromising in its commitment to materials and process: only the finest cotton and linen is used, designs are chosen from over 200 years of archived patterns and then woven using traditional weaving machines. Each pattern in Simonnot Godard’s cloths is intricately woven into the design, rather than being printed onto the fabric. When the cloth has been woven it is sent to the Voges region, where it is washed and finished in the famously pure mountain water. The final stage involves hand rolling and stitching the fine edges of each piece, a fantastically difficult task that Simonnot Godard do more skilfully than anyone. They are truly the finest cotton and linen pocket squares that money can buy.
- Nickel buckle
- Calf suede
- Fully lined
- Made in Italy |
Darwin is the current Auditor of O'Hara Township and has been in office since 2017. He has a proven track record of uncovering tax evasion schemes, particularly by exposing UPMC's private parking lot tax evasion that amounted to millions of dollars. Darwin has also been successful in his efforts to demand greater transparency in contract compliance, winning 13 cases against the current County Controller. He is the only County Controller candidate who refuses campaign donations from UPMC, Highmark, and corporate PACs. Darwin is a second-generation Taiwanese American who graduated from Fox Chapel Area High School and earned a degree in Computer Science from Yale. His technical background makes him a suitable candidate for the role of County Controller. Darwin's platform includes countywide parcel review to crack down on tax evasion by corporations and nonprofits, auditing clean air enforcement to benefit impacted communities, and enforcing health and nutrition contracts in our jail, which currently has soaring overtime costs and a death rate almost twice the national average. |
URL encoding is a way of converting characters that are not allowed in a URL (the address of a website or web page) into a special code. This is necessary because some characters, like spaces and certain symbols, have a special meaning in a URL and cannot be used as is.
For example, a space would be encoded as "%20" in a URL. This allows the computer to understand what characters are in the address, even if they are not allowed in the URL itself.
URL encoding is reversible, meaning that the encoded characters can be converted back to their original form.
The process of converting encoded characters back to their original form is called URL decoding. It is a simple process that replaces the encoded characters with their original counterparts. For example, the encoded space character "%20" would be converted back to a regular space character.
Most web browsers and servers have built-in functionality to handle URL encoding and decoding automatically, so it is typically not something that needs to be done manually. |
Researchers say a widely-used antifungal drug may hold promise for treating people with cystic fibrosis, a life-threatening genetic disorder that causes serious damage to the lungs. In studies using human cells and animals models, the researchers found that the medication, called amphotericin, helps lung cells function in a way that could make it easier for patients to fight chronic bacterial lung infections that are a hallmark of the disease. The findings from the study, which was supported in part by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), part of the National Institutes of Health, will appear in the journal Naturaleza.
If human studies validate the findings, the use of the drug could be good news to the more than 30,000 people in the United States and 70,000 worldwide who live with cystic fibrosis, a disease with no cure and few treatment options. It holds special promise for a subset of patients, about 10 percent of the people with cystic fibrosis, who do not respond to any treatment.
“The really exciting news is that amphotericin is a medicine that’s already approved and available on the market,” said Martin D. Burke, M.D., Ph.D., leader of the study and a professor of chemistry at the University of Illinois in Champaign. “We think it’s a good candidate.”
Cystic fibrosis is caused by a defect in a gene called CFTR (cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator). This gene normally makes a protein that controls or channels the movement in and out of cells of such materials like salt, bicarbonate, and water—all of which are important to normal lung function. In people with cystic fibrosis, however, the defective gene makes a protein that is itself defective, causing the accumulation of acidic and sticky mucus that not only clogs the lungs and makes it hard to breathe, but also makes the lungs vulnerable to bacterial infection.
While some treatments are currently available, they are limited because different people have different types of mutated proteins and because 10 percent of people with cystic fibrosis makes no protein at all. But amphotericin, Burke said, has the potential to work regardless of the kind of mutation, and even when the protein is missing.
“Instead of trying to correct the protein or do gene therapy – the latter of which is not yet effective in the lung – we use a small molecule surrogate that can perform the channel function of the missing or defective protein,” Burke said. The researchers call this surrogate — the amphotericin — a “molecular prosthetic,” because it restores function much like a prosthetic device does when it replaces a limb.
In their studies, the researchers used lung tissue from patients with cystic fibrosis, as well as pig models of cystic fibrosis, and found that amphotericin spurred a host of changes associated with improved lung function — restoration of pH levels, improved viscosity, and increased antibacterial activity, among others.
The researchers noted that amphotericin can be delivered directly to the lungs to avoid common side effects. They cautioned that more experimental studies are needed before the drug is safe to treat cystic fibrosis in people. But experts are hopeful.
“The cystic fibrosis community is truly in need of new therapies to reduce the burden of this disease. We are interested to see how this potential treatment performs in clinical trials in the future,” said James Kiley, Ph.D., director of the Division of Lung Diseases at the NHLBI.
This work was supported in part by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI grant HL091842) and the National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS grant 5R35GM118185). Both are part of the National Institutes of Health. The study was also supported by additional institutions outside of NIH. For a more complete funding disclosure, please see the full research article. |
Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) works under Department of Defence Research and Development of Ministry of Defence. DRDO dedicatedly working towards enhancing self-reliance in Defence Systems and undertakes design & development leading to production of world class weapon systems and equipment in accordance with the expressed needs and the qualitative requirements laid down by the three services.
Defence Research Laboratory, DRDO, Tezpur (Assam) invites application from energetic and enthusiastic candidates with zeal to work at high attitude areas for Walk-in-Interview to be held at the Office of Director, DRL (DRDO), Tezpur, Assam located at Solamara Camp, on Airport Road 12 Kms from Tezpur city for the following fellowships.
Research Associate (RA)
No of post : 01
Essential Qualifications : Ph.D. in Horticulture / Agriculture/ Entomology/ Zoology/ Botany
Stipend per month : Rs.40,000/-
Age Limit : 35 years
Jr. Research Fellow (JRF)
No of post : 10*
Essential Qualifications : MSc in Chemistry/ Molecular Biology/ Micro Biology/ Botany/ Horticulture/ Entomology/ Environmental Science (with Net qualification) / Master Degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences/ M. Tech in Food Tech and Equivalent
Stipend per month : Rs.25,000/-
Age Limit : 28 years
(i) Interview: Date and time for Walk-in-Interview is on 17th December 2019 (Tuesday) at 0930 hrs.
(ii) Certificates: Certificates in original are to be produced in support of educational and age proof at the time of interview
(iii) Cutoff Date: Age and Education qualification will be counted as on the date of interview. Age Limit is relaxable by 5 years for SC/ST and 3 years for OBC candidates.
(iv) Place of work & Tenure: Place of work is DRL Detachments at Salari and Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh. Tenure of RA is 2 years only and that of Jr. Research Fellow is initially 2 years which is extendable as per Govt rules. Award of Associateship or Fellowship does not confer any right to absorption or employment in DRDO.
Interested candidates MUST register his/her name for the interview by submitting 2-pages (Max) Bio-data on personal data, contact details and brief on educational & professional qualifications latest by 07th December 2019 at email ID: [email protected]
No application will be entertained after the closing date. |
The biggest challenge for those who need to track miles for the purposes of an IRS report to get money back from your employer, or if you are a small business owner. Some prefer to track miles in a traditional way, but it’s much more time-saving to use a mileage tracking app. How to choose the perfect app to keep track of mileage with?
How to keep track of mileage for taxes
Even though some may think the business mileage tax deduction process is complicated, using an effective app to keep track of mileage is quite easy and fully automated. That’s why there’s no point in tracking the mileage of your business trips in a traditional manual way in a mileage logbook or an Excel mileage log template.
Tracking business mileage in the manual will surely take you much more time than if you used an app, and what’s more, using such a template won’t automatically show you any conflicts that may result in an IRS fine.
Investing in a mileage counter app will save you time, allow you to control business expenses on business cars, and keep control over the location of the drivers, and you won’t need to worry about the mileage rate, which thanks to the app you have direct access to.
How to compare mileage tracking applications
Depending on what your job and position in the company are, you may find quite different functions to be useful for you. After all, working as a freelancer, you won’t probably be a rideshare driver to need a function of a common dashboard seen to all the users, but you will rather need a simple mileage tracker app. Let’s have a look and decide what is the best mileage app for mileage reimbursement.
The best mileage tracker apps in 2022
Let’s find out which mileage tracker app is the best in 2022.
MileageWise MilelQ Everlance TripLog
Average $12,000 $6,500 $6,500 $6,300
Produces yes yes yes yes
Creates yes no no no
Imports Trips yes no no no
Mass Distance yes no no no
Built-In yes no no no
for 70 Logical
Vehicle yes yes yes yes
There are so many features offered by MileageWise as a tracker app, and they are its advantages at the same time.
In contrast to other apps, it’s the only app in the world that allows you to import your Google Timeline to make it an IRS-compliant mileage log. It’s also the only app with a built-in auditor for 70 logical conflicts correction, which helps avoid fines. Its common dashboard allows the employees and the employers to control where the vehicles are. Even if you forget about a trip, MIleageWise creates retrospective mileage logs.
If you feel persuaded, all you have to do is to download the app from Google Play or Apple Store. Pay for the subscription by Stripe, or PayPal systems, which will transfer money from your bank account for the subscription, but won’t store your bank card data. |
I respect my roots/culture and have a good mixture of eastern and western values. I am very close to my family and have some amazing friends. I am confident, ambitious, with a good sense of humour.
Interested in meeting people looking for online dating like Female1?
Why not join the UKs best online dating agency The Asian Single Solution
My ideal partner would be a gentleman, ambitious, loyal, spontaneous, manly, geeky and most importantly have a great sense of humour!
That said, no point in having any of the above if there is no initial spark... |
Ontario College Student Experience Survey
Are you a full-time student in your second semester of study or beyond?
If so, you’re eligible to complete the Ontario College Student Experience Survey (OCSES) survey which is an online survey and students can complete on their own time. You’ll be asked to provide input on your program of study, college services and the overall Georgian@ILAC Toronto learning environment. Georgian@ILAC Toronto wants you to have MORE say. The survey is conducted by Institutional Research and Strategic Insights. If you have questions about this survey, please email [email protected]
About the survey
- the survey is administered three times a year: June, November and February
- all information is confidential; you are provided with a unique survey link – please do not share with others. Responses will be reported in aggregate and anonymized
- your invitation email will come from [email protected]
- it should take you approximately 10 minutes to complete; you can complete it on your computer, phone, tablet or other mobile device
- it will include questions on your college experience in four areas:
- teaching and learning quality;
- program-related knowledge and skills;
- work-integrated learning;
- student services and resources; and
- demographic questions.
- to thank you for your time, students will be entered into a draw to win prizes. Specific details of the prizes are included in the email invitations.
in compliance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), Georgian@ILAC Toronto is providing a fully accessible online survey using Qualtrics, compatible with current screen readers and assistive technologies. Students may use assistive technologies/devices at their disposal to complete this survey. Students can contact the Accessibility team for assistance.
Deans, Associate Deans, and Specific Program Staff all take a keen interest in your feedback about your specific program.
Dr. Chris Anstead
Tell us how you’re doing!
Six months after you graduate and again two years later, you’ll be contacted by a research firm to comment on your career success and satisfaction as a Georgian@ILAC Toronto graduate:
- this province-wide telephone survey of all college graduates is a quick way for you to provide us with an update on your status
- the feedback you provide is entirely confidential
- it’s important to ensure that your email address and telephone number are accurate in our records
- the research firm will call you repeatedly until they have an opportunity to gather your feedback
- though completing the survey is not mandatory, taking a few minutes to provide your input can help shape the future direction of the college – we hope you will participate!
As part of the graduate satisfaction survey, you’ll be asked for permission to contact your direct supervisor for the Employer Satisfaction survey. The purpose of the survey is to assess the performance of the college – not your performance. Your employer will not be contacted without your consent.
If you recently hired a Georgian@ILAC Toronto graduate, you may receive a call from an independent research firm to gauge how well you feel the college has prepared the graduate to meet your needs as an employer. You’ll be asked to comment on the graduate’s abilities as well as to suggest what new skills are expected from today’s graduates:
- the feedback you provide is critical in helping us to ensure we’re preparing our students today for the jobs of tomorrow
- all information gathered is confidential
Thank you for your continued support of Georgian@ILAC Toronto students and our programs! |
In this piece for ROAR Magazine, Jerome Roos explores the psychological, social, and economic impact of living under the imminent threat of catastrophic man-made climate change.
“As public awareness of these developments grows, many people find themselves riven by an increasingly acute sense of anxiety — about the state of the world we live in, about the self-reinforcing disorder that appears to have grabbed a hold of late-capitalist society, about the relentless death drive of global capital that has sent humanity careening towards the abyss of ecological self-destruction. The resultant social malaise, fruit of a generalized sense of helplessness wrought by neoliberalism’s decades-long assault on all expressions of popular power and collective agency, has penetrated deep into the body politic. ‘No one is in control,’ the late sociologist Zygmunt Bauman once noted. ‘That is the major source of contemporary fear.'” |
A few months ago I wrote about the criminal who was lucky to recover after inhaling a fake gold earring. By chance I’ve just come across another case report written by the same Victorian surgeon, Bernard Pitts. Not a well-known figure, principally because he wrote little and shunned publicity. But he seems to have been a very good operator, and a pioneer of abdominal surgery in an age when few dared rummage inside that part of the body. This report was published in the Proceedings of the Medical Society of London in 1884:
The following case is a very unusual one. I have not heard of any similar accident. Frances V., aged 46, a laundry-woman, has suffered from a right femoral hernia for twenty years.
A femoral hernia occurs when part of the abdominal contents, usually a loop of the intestines, bulges out through a structure known as the femoral canal, in the groin or upper thigh. It is more common in women than men, and obesity is a significant risk factor. Femoral hernias are particularly dangerous because the borders of the femoral canal are rigid, meaning that the intestine can easily become strangulated – that is, the blood supply is cut off, causing necrosis.
She wore a truss till three years ago. On Aug. 30th, 1880, she was admitted into Guy’s Hospital with symptoms of strangulation of three days’ duration.
Today a femoral hernia is likely to be treated as an emergency, and immediate surgery is typically recommended. So it’s pretty astonishing that this patient lived with one for two decades. Her condition would have been pretty serious after three days of strangulation, too – the affected section of bowel was at imminent risk of gangrene.
An operation was performed by Mr. Jacobson. The sac was very thick and the intestine dark. She left the hospital on Sept. 27th, wearing a truss. The hernia at the time of operation was about the size of two fists.
No details of the operation are given, but it is likely that the surgeon returned the intestine to the abdominal cavity and then inserted a couple of tough stitches into the margin of the femoral ring to tighten it and thus prevent recurrence. In 1880 this was a very serious and risky procedure – it was barely a decade since Joseph Lister had introduced the revolution of antiseptic surgery.
For one year after this she kept up the hernia with the truss, but subsequently the great increase in the size of the hernia rendered the truss useless. During the last winter she has suffered from a bad cough, and the hernia became as large as a child’s head, but always reducible.
That is a very large hernia. A chronic cough is another significant risk factor for this condition, because coughing briefly but dramatically increases the pressure inside the abdominal cavity, making the protrusion of its contents more likely.
Several small ulcers formed on the skin, which caused her to leave the truss off altogether. About nine o’clock on the evening of the 4th of last December the patient was going upstairs in her home at Kennington, when, whilst sneezing violently, she felt something give way suddenly in her right groin. She became very faint, but managed to walk to her bedroom, and then discovered that about a foot of intestine had escaped through a rent in the coverings of the hernia.
She made an attempt to return it, and sent for her medical man, who tried taxis for a short time, and then advised her removal to St. Thomas’s Hospital.
‘Taxis’ means that he tried to push the intestine back into the abdomen. Unsuccessfully, as it turned out.
She was brought to the hospital in a cab on a cold and frosty night. I saw her directly on her admission at twelve o’clock. She was an extremely stout woman, and suffering then from severe shock. An examination under ether was at once made on the bed, and one foot and a half of small intestine was found protruded through a rent in the skin, about an inch long, and situated a little above the old operation cicatrix.
‘Cicatrix’ is an old term for a scar.
There were one or two chronic, small ulcers to be seen on and near the lower part of the cicatrix. The exposed intestine was bruised, congested, dirty, and very cold.
A bad state of affairs. The ‘bruising’ suggests that there was already some degree of infarction, or loss of blood supply. The presence of dirt also indicated a strong possibility of infection.
A number of hairs and foreign particles were removed from the bowel and mesentery, which was then carefully cleansed with warm carbolic lotion. Failing to get the bowel back by taxis, the opening in the skin was enlarged freely, and a large quantity of small intestine escaped from the sac, at least four or five feet, together with the caecum.
Remember, this was all happening not in the operating theatre but at the patient’s bedside, probably in the reception area that Victorian hospitals typically reserved for emergency admissions.
A slight enlargement of the crural ring was made with the hernia knife, and by patient manipulation the intestines were returned into the abdominal cavity.
The crural or femoral ring is the upper (internal) opening of the femoral canal.
A sponge was placed in the opening, and the very thickened sac was dissected from its surroundings and removed; this involved the ligature of a considerable number of vessels. The sponge was then removed, drainage for the peritoneal cavity provided, and the cut edges of the sac brought together by very stout catgut. A large portion of redundant skin (including the cicatrix and the ulcerated parts) was then removed, and the edges of the wound brought together by silk sutures, and the wound dressed with carbolic gauze.
A striking feature of this operation is that the surgeon cut away a significant amount of tissue. The reason for this, I suspect, is that the hernia had been developing for so long that the overlying skin and soft tissue had stretched considerably, so it was necessary to trim it back once the bowel had been returned to the abdomen.
The patient slept a little during the night after a subcutaneous injection of morphia. On the morning of Dec. 5th the wound was dressed, the temperature being 100.4°. In the after-part of the day the breathing became very laboured. Pulse 132; temperature 102.4°; great lividity of countenance.
102.4°F is 39.1C: a fever edging towards the worrying end of the scale. It is possible, even likely, that she had an infection, particularly since the operation was performed in anything but aseptic conditions.
She was propped up in bed and brandy administered. The subcutaneous injections were discontinued. December 6th: Breathing decidedly better, but cough very troublesome. Temperature normal. The wound was dressed and the abdominal drain removed. After this she made a slow recovery, the temperature never reaching higher than 100°. She has been for some time convalescent and is wearing a truss.
It would be fair to say that she had a lucky escape, for several reasons. Even living for twenty years with an untreated femoral hernia is pretty remarkable – but she also survived two major operations at a time when anaesthesia was crude and abdominal surgery in its infancy.
And then there’s the sneeze. As the surgeon himself observes, ‘It certainly seems difficult to understand how such an accident as happened to this woman was possible.’ Admittedly I haven’t spent hours researching the subject, but before I came across this case I’d never heard of somebody sneezing their own guts out. |
Rye and ergot
I have some rye flour that has been sitting on my shelf for maybe 8 months. It has not been airtight, nor has it been refrigerated. I have some questions:
1. Is this dangerous? If there was no ergot on the flour before (it's Bob's Red Mill, so I assume there was not), could it have developed since then?
2. Should I toss the bag? I hear it can go rancid.
I've just made two rye loaves and got a concerned question from my mother. |
A new autistic-led taskforce has pledged to address the “hypocrisy and injustice” that faces autistic people, and make it easier for them to control their own lives, with the help of a £100,000 grant.
The National Autistic Taskforce (NAT) is being funded for two years through the grant from the Shirley Foundation, which was awarded because many of the taskforce’s members had worked as advisers to the National Autism Project (NAP), which is also funded by the foundation.
Dame Stephanie Shirley, the foundation’s founder, was so grateful for their work that she provided £100,000 funding for an autistic-led project.
The leadership of the new taskforce, and all its founding members, are themselves autistic.
The focus of the taskforce will be “to help empower autistic adults, including those with less autonomy and higher support needs, to have a stronger voice in the decisions and direction of their own lives”.
It was launched at a House of Lords event this week.
In a speech to launch the taskforce, the project leader, the autistic lecturer and consultant Dr Damian Milton (pictured), said that although there have been some improvements in public awareness, educational support, and peer-led community support for autistic people, there were still “many gaps in knowledge and service provision” that can lead to “horrendous consequences”.
He said: “Whilst there has been much ‘basic science’ research in the field of autism, good quality research and evidence in terms of support strategies, and how best to help autistic people live fulfilling lives, is far less forthcoming.
“In the worst cases, this can lead to ill-informed practices that can exacerbate the difficulties faced by autistic people.
“This is all the more pertinent for those who are less able to articulate their needs and advocate for themselves in ‘traditional’ ways.”
One of the concerns of the taskforce is that significant numbers of autistic people are being denied their freedom through the application of Deprivation of Liberty rules, with many forced into long stays in assessment and treatment units.
Among the taskforce’s tasks will be to examine how autistic people can be given more control over their lives, and how to improve access to independent advocacy services, including support provided by autistic advocates, while it is also likely to focus on the failings of the national care regulators, including the Care Quality Commission.
A series of NAT working groups, known as GNATs, will look at key topics such as research, care standards, and effective diagnosis.
Non-autistic people are being asked to join the working groups, but all of them will have a majority of autistic members.
The aim of the GNATs is to be “productive irritants”, pushing for action on government policies and how they are put into practice.
There will also be a new website, AutNav, aimed at autistic people and people with learning difficulties.
Although the taskforce is a two-year project, the aim of one of the GNATs is to look at how to make NAT a self-sustaining body.
Dinah Murray, a member of the NAT strategy board, and strategy adviser to the taskforce, told Disability News Service: “We are basing our practice on the key autistic strength of atypically strong and pressing interests: we see hypocrisy, injustice, and the failure of the whole legislative infrastructure blatantly before us, in regard to people for whom we have exceptional fellow feeling, and it really fires us up.
“We are also highly solution focussed as part of our autistic dispositions. We want to shake things up and we are not afraid to try.”
She said there were “appalling injustices going on” and that they had “the shared expertise, passionate commitment and tough mindedness to drive needed change”.
She said there were widespread “negative attitudes and poorly thought out practices”, but “the most gravely abusive treatment is of people with the highest care needs”, such as Connor Sparrowhawk, whose death in 2013 in an NHS care unit led to the Justice for LB campaign.
She said autistic people were facing “incarceration, forced drugging, distant re-location, fatal neglect, absent access to communication support, imposed life decisions made without consultation [and] excluded family and friends”.
Murray said: “We have sources of deep knowledge in these areas and we have an intensely committed team determined to change things; we are solution focussed, flexible and seeking justice.”
She said she believed it was the first time an autistic-led project had been given such significant funding “without specific requirements about how it should be spent”.
Murray said the project showed “a shift in the power balance”, and was an example of co-production “based on a history of earned mutual respect”.
She said it followed “an acknowledged autistic success” in which she and other autistic members of the taskforce had had enough “common purpose” and “will” to work successfully with the National Autism Project, even though they had originally thought the project was “misconceived”.
The National Autism Project aims to provide “authoritative” recommendations on autism research and practice and “raise awareness at government level and among funders” of the benefits of greater investment.
A report by the project, published in January, found that the failure to base support for autistic people on the best available evidence came at “an unacceptable human and unsustainable financial cost”.
The challenges, it found, were “exacerbated by the limited investment in research to fill the many gaps in that evidence”.
Milton told the House of Lords event: “The National Autistic Taskforce is a vital opportunity for the autistic community and its allies to work together to turn the core principles of the National Autism Project into reality.
“Namely: personalised actions, choice and control, addressing inequalities, and a life-long perspective.”
Dame Stephanie, whose late son was autistic, said: “The National Autistic Taskforce is a hugely exciting project.
“It takes us to the next level – a group of independent autistic people determining what they will focus on, who they will bring in and how they will work together.
“I’m confident they will have a major impact on how we think about autism as a society.” |
Fifteen years ago, in 2008, our journey began with a powerful vision.
Don Lavender, our programme director, has dedicated his life to addiction and psychiatric recovery across three continents, including working in several prestigious treatment centres. With a strong belief that “family systems work” in the addiction field, he combined his passion for equine therapy and his passion for addiction treatment. He envisioned a small recovery centre in the mountains of Spain that would treat each client with individualised care.
Don and his wife Meena, a bilingual family therapist, educated in the family programme at the Hazelden Centre in Minnesota, USA, were ready to turn the vision into reality.
They approached Meena’s son, Ameet Braich, to ask if he would be interested in opening a small Centre in Southern Spain.
Ameet had graduated from Hazelden in Minnesota with an MA in addiction counselling and psychotherapy. His interests were how early childhood trauma impacts insecure attachment relationships. He also completed training in EAP (equine-assisted psychotherapy), crisis intervention, and multicultural issues.
Don, Meena, and Ameet all agreed on one thing: they wanted a small, more intimate setting rather than the large hospital environments they had all been working in.
The first home they found was in San Pedro de Alcantara. This was a lovely location—close to the beach but located in Suburbia. They decided they needed a more private location and moved to El Paraiso, a more isolated Cortijo. In 2017, they moved to Velez Malaga, where Camino Recovery currently stands today. The setting is perfect—a breathtaking view of both the beaches of the Mediterranean Sea and the picturesque mountains.
Today, Camino Recovery has evolved into one of Europe’s premier trauma centres—a recognition we are proud of. Clients come to Camino from all over the world. Few are locals—most travel overseas to arrive at our magical, transformative centre for healing.
We attribute much of our success to keeping a family-like feel to our small centre and our continued growth in the fields of addiction and psychology. Additionally, we make clinical-based decisions at our centre that are not influenced by upholding our business. Every decision we make is based on the best interests of our clients.
As we celebrate our 15th anniversary, we reflect on the profound impact of our small addiction and trauma recovery centre nestled in the heart of Spain.
Here are five invaluable benefits that define our successful approach:
1. Personalised care and attention
At Camino Recovery, personalised care and attention are the cornerstones of our approach to recovery.
We recognise that addiction recovery is never a “one-size-fits-all” scenario, and every client’s journey toward recovery is as unique as they are. Our small size allows us to provide personalised attention and care to meet the specific needs of every person who walks through our doors.
As soon as a client enters our centre, we embark on a collaborative treatment plan. Our dedicated team starts with comprehensive assessments to understand each client and meet them where they are. This in-depth evaluation informs the creation of a personalised treatment plan that addresses each client’s specific challenges, strengths, and goals.
Our approach involves a range of evidence-based therapies and specialised interventions, all uniquely tailored to meet the needs of each client. From Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy to equine therapy, our focus remains on understanding the complexities of trauma and addiction on an individual level.
Our personalised approach allows for adjustments or modifications to treatment plans as progress is made, ensuring that each individual receives care that is both effective and relevant. Our goal is always to make everyone feel safe at Camino—everyone belongs, and everyone has a place.
2. Tight-knit community
At Camino Recovery, we are proud that our small centre cultivates a sense of community that is unparalleled.
Perhaps part of this tight-knit feel is because Camino began as a family organisation, and we continue to foster the family atmosphere. We believe that healing flourishes within a supportive and connected environment. However, the bonds formed here are not merely between clients but extend to our dedicated team members.
Central to building these bonds is our emphasis on group therapy. Group therapy sessions serve as a platform for clients to share their experiences in a safe and confidential setting. Through these sessions, a sense of camaraderie develops as clients support and encourage each other—they realise they are not alone.
Beyond structured therapy, our centre emphasises family programme because we believe addiction is a family disease. Our family programme is unique to treatment centres—it includes four or five days where family members visit our centre and participate in their loved one’s therapy. Our family programme has proven successful for both our clients and our clients’ families who become involved in the healing process.
Our tight-knit community encourages support, understanding, and empathy, creating a safe space where clients’ lives are changed every day.
3. Holistic approach to healing
We understand that addiction and trauma affect every part of a person’s life, which is why we believe in treating the whole person—mind, body, and spirit.
Our commitment to holistic healing involves addressing these interconnected aspects of healing. To foster holistic healing, we see each client as the complete individual that they are and begin with a combination of therapies to address all aspects of their life. These therapies work together with the goals of:
- Addressing underlying issues
- Managing triggers
- Reshaping thought patterns
- Fostering mental and emotional resilience
We offer a wide range of evidence-based therapies, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy, dialectical behavioural therapy, and EMDR therapy. Our small centre also allows us to offer a comprehensive, holistic programme including:
- Massage therapy
- Mindfulness meditation
- Energy work
- Acupuncture and Tui Na
- Nature trails
- Nutrition therapy
From mindfulness exercises to art therapy sessions, each aspect contributes to a holistic approach that empowers our clients on their path to personal growth.
4. Our approach to trauma
Camino Recovery understands the link between trauma and addiction, which is why addressing trauma is a foundational approach to our holistic healing.
We recognise the impact of trauma—unresolved trauma changes brain functions, which then impacts an individual’s relationship with self and others. We recognise that trauma often underlies addiction, making it crucial to address the root causes of trauma in order to work toward lasting recovery. Our clinical team utilises combinations of evidence-based approaches to trauma, such as:
- Equine-assisted psychotherapy (EAP)
- Eye-movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR)
- Trauma-focused therapy
- Art therapy
- Recreation therapy
Above all, our addiction centre prioritises a compassionate and non-judgmental environment where clients feel safe to explore their trauma. By combining therapeutic interventions and supportive communities, we strive to guide individuals toward healing. We stand by our belief that “When you resolve the trauma, you resolve the problem.”
5. Long-term connections and continued support
A client’s treatment at our centre is only the beginning. For someone to achieve long-term sobriety, they need to be supported long after they have left our treatment centre.
Our relationships extend far beyond the completion of the programme at Camino. Alumni remain integral to our extended family, benefiting from free continuing care. The enduring connections forged within our small centre provide a sense of belonging for sustained recovery long after leaving our care.
Our commitment to ongoing support begins during the treatment phase, where we equip our clients with tools, coping strategies, and relapse prevention skills necessary for life after treatment. Additionally, we offer comprehensive free continuing care, which includes:
- Free access to one morning a week outpatient services for a year
- Comprehensive planning and support
- Ongoing availability of our family programme
- Bi-weekly alumni online group
As we celebrate this 15-year milestone, we extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who has entrusted us with their recovery journey.
Looking ahead, we remain dedicated to providing compassionate, individualised care to every person who walks through our doors. We embrace the future, committed to changing lives and fostering lifelong recoveries.
How can Camino Recovery Help?
We have fifteen years of helping people break from the strongholds of addiction and past trauma. If you or someone you know is seeking help, reach out. Our doors are always open, and our experienced team is ready to provide the compassionate care and personalised attention that has defined our centre for the past 15 years.
Join us in shaping the future of healing and addiction recovery. Together, we can make the next 15 years even more impactful. Contact us today for a confidential conversation to see how we can help you or your loved one. Take that first step—we are here for you. |
The bladder is a muscular balloon-shaped organ that can expand and contract (get smaller) depending on how much urine is in the bladder. 1 ,2
The bladder is made up of four layers of tissue:1
- Urothelium – this layer consists of cells that keep the urine in the bladder and prevent it being absorbed into the body. It is the first layer inside of the bladder.
- Lamina propria – is next to the urothelium layer and consists of blood vessels.
- Muscularis propria – this is the thickest of all layers, and it is responsible for contracting the bladder to empty urine.
- Perivesical tissue – surrounds all the other layers of the bladder and consists mainly of fatty tissue to help protect the bladder.
Cancer of the bladder occurs when cells in the bladder grow and divide in an abnormal way.1
The most common type of bladder cancer is urothelial carcinoma, which accounts for approximately 85% of all bladder cancers.3
Other types of bladder cancer include squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma. These types of cancer only account for a small percentage of bladder cancers (1-2%), however they tend to be aggressive (grow quickly).3
Bladder cancer can be either:
- Non-muscular-invasive bladder cancer – where cancer cells are only found in either of the first two layers of the bladder; the urothelium cells (the innermost cells of the bladder) or the next layer of tissue called the lamina propria.1,3
- Muscular-invasive bladder cancer – where cancer cells have spread beyond the first two layers of the bladder into the muscle layer and in some cases, into nearby tissue.1,3 |
When and How to Effectively Use Tags in WordPress
Welcome back to my blog, fellow website designers and WordPress enthusiasts! Today, I want to dive into a topic that often gets overlooked in the world of WordPress: tags. Tags may seem like a small detail in the grand scheme of website design, but when used effectively, they can greatly enhance the user experience and improve your website’s search engine optimization (SEO). In this blog post, we will explore when and how to effectively use tags in WordPress, so you can take your website design to the next level.
Why are Tags Important in WordPress?
Before we delve into the specifics of using tags, let’s first understand why they are important. Tags serve as a way to categorize and organize your content, making it easier for both users and search engines to navigate and understand your website. When you assign relevant tags to your posts, it helps search engines identify the main topics and keywords associated with your content. This, in turn, improves your website’s visibility in search engine results pages (SERPs) and drives organic traffic to your site.
When to Use Tags in WordPress:
Tags for Categorizing and Grouping Similar Content:
One of the primary purposes of tags is to categorize and group similar content together. When you have a blog or website with a wide range of topics, tags allow you to organize your content based on specific themes or topics. For example, if you have a food blog, you can create tags for different cuisines like Italian, Mexican, or Chinese. This way, users can easily find all the recipes related to a specific cuisine by clicking on the relevant tag.
Tags for Improved Navigation:
Tags also help improve the navigation of your website by providing users with an alternative way to discover related content. By clicking on a tag, users can quickly access a list of posts that share a common tag. This feature allows visitors to explore your website further and discover content that they may have otherwise missed. It enhances the overall user experience and encourages users to spend more time on your site, reducing bounce rates.
How to Use Tags Effectively in WordPress:
Limit the Number of Tags per Post:
While tags are useful for organizing your content, it’s essential not to go overboard with them. Using too many tags can dilute their effectiveness and confuse both users and search engines. It’s recommended to limit the number of tags per post to 5-10, depending on the length and complexity of your content. Choose tags that are directly relevant to the post and align with your overall content strategy.
Use Descriptive and Specific Tags:
When assigning tags to your posts, make sure they accurately describe the content. Avoid using generic or vague tags that don’t provide much value. Instead, opt for descriptive and specific tags that reflect the main topics and keywords covered in the post. For example, if you write a blog post about "10 Tips for Healthy Weight Loss," relevant tags could include "weight loss tips," "healthy lifestyle," and "fitness advice."
Utilize Tag Clouds:
Tag clouds are visual representations of the tags used on your website. They display tags in different sizes based on their popularity or usage frequency. Tag clouds not only add visual appeal to your website but also offer users a quick overview of the topics you cover. Consider adding a tag cloud to your sidebar or footer to make it easier for visitors to navigate through your content based on specific tags.
Common Misconceptions about Tags in WordPress:
Tags Improve SEO Rankings:
While using tags can improve your website’s SEO to some extent, it’s important to note that tags alone won’t skyrocket your rankings. Search engines primarily rely on the quality and relevance of your content, backlinks, site speed, and other factors to determine rankings. However, using tags appropriately can indirectly contribute to SEO by organizing your content and making it more accessible to both users and search engine crawlers.
Tags and Categories Are the Same Thing:
Tags and categories serve different purposes in WordPress. Categories are broader topics that help classify your content into general sections, while tags are more specific and allow for greater granularity. Think of categories as chapters in a book and tags as the index keywords. Both are valuable for organizing your content, but their roles differ.
Tags may seem like a small aspect of website design, but their impact on user experience and SEO should not be underestimated. By effectively using tags in WordPress, you can enhance navigation, improve content organization, and drive more organic traffic to your site. Remember to use tags selectively, be descriptive and specific with your choices, and consider implementing tag clouds for a visually appealing and user-friendly experience. So, go ahead and start leveraging the power of tags to take your WordPress website to new heights!
Q1. Can I use the same tag for multiple posts?
Yes, you can use the same tag for multiple posts if it accurately describes the content of those posts. However, it’s important to ensure that the tag is relevant and adds value to each post it is assigned to. Using consistent tags across related posts can help create a cohesive browsing experience for users.
Q2. Should I use tags for every post on my WordPress site?
It’s not necessary to use tags for every post on your WordPress site. Tags are most effective when they add value and improve navigation. If a post doesn’t fit into any specific tag category or doesn’t benefit from being grouped with similar content, it’s perfectly fine to skip tags for that particular post.
Q3. Can I edit or delete tags after assigning them to a post?
Yes, you can edit or delete tags after assigning them to a post. WordPress allows you to manage tags easily. Simply navigate to the post editor, locate the tags section, and make the desired changes. Editing or deleting tags will not impact the post’s URL or affect its indexing by search engines.
Q4. Are tags case-sensitive in WordPress?
No, tags in WordPress are not case-sensitive. Whether you use uppercase, lowercase, or a combination of both, the tags will function the same way. However, it’s good practice to maintain consistency in tag capitalization to avoid confusion and ensure a clean and professional appearance.
Q5. Can I display tags in my WordPress theme?
Yes, most WordPress themes include options to display tags on posts or in a tag cloud format. You can typically enable this feature through your theme’s customization settings or by using a widget. Displaying tags can enhance user engagement and encourage exploration of related content on your website. |
Parents and youths have been challenged to change their mindset on Technical and Vocational Training (TVET) from associating it with failures.
With implementation of Competency Based Education and Training (CBET) in tertiary institutions which is parallel to CBC in primary schools, TVET will be a pathway for success in the near future.
The National Coordinator CBET Implementation, Stanley Maindi said this while addressing a forum at Jeremiah Nyaga Training Institute, adding that one could rise from artisan to professor through the pathway of CBET.
“We are sensitising the parents and youths to have a change in the mindset towards TVET by showing them CBET is now the way to go for success in life,” noted Maindi.
Previously, the coordinator noted the curriculum was run without involving industry sector which resulted to mismatch of skilled manpower and industrial needs.
“However, through CBET, our new curriculum, we are involving industry sector which is guiding us on industrial needs and skills required,” he added.
Maindi said CBET is demand-driven by what the industry sector needs and centres on what learners could do.
He further said the government is rolling out a work plan on how to implement the CBET by carrying out pilot programme adding that in Mt. Kenya Region, the program is being carried out in Meru, Nyeri and Nyandarua.
Maindi who was addressing a gathering of tutors from various TVET institutions from Mt. Kenya Region, CBET Champions, said the government has tripled allocation for the TVET to sh23 billion showing its seriousness in the CBET curriculum.
He said the tertiary education is almost free with capitation being provided by the government and flexible to learners for even those in informal sector have chances of training.
The Chairman, Mt Kenya Chapter of Kenya Association of TVET and chair Regional CBET implementation committee, Geoffrey Rukunja said the CBC in primary schools level is the foundation for CBET, noting that talents identified at primary level would be sharpened further at TVET level through CBET.
Rukunja noted that unlike the current curriculum which is leading to flooding the market with graduates who were after white collar jobs, through CBET, there would be no flooding of skilled labour.
He said CBET was also providing an opportunity for mobility where skilled manpower could move within East Africa and Africa in general.
By Kimani Tirus |
We are all aware that technology is evolving at a rapid pace. The constant change and innovation in the industry makes it crucial to focus on keeping up with the newest trends. Moreover, IT professionals must learn how to quickly adapt their skills and evolve in their roles. The ability to embrace new trends enables them to keep up with the constant novities in the industry. The key thing is to always be open for learning new things and concepts of emerging technologies.
We want you to be up to date, so we have prepared a list of top new technology trends in 2022:
Computing power is a well-known concept in our digital era. The reason is that already every device we use is computerized. Moreover, IT experts have announced that current infrastructure will evolve even more in the coming years.
The biggest benefit of commuting power is the fact that it is generating more tech jobs. However, it still requires acquiring specialized qualifications for the job positions. On the other hand, this field upholds fields from data science, robotics and IT management. Also, it has the largest percentage of employment. Behind the logic that we are more and more dependent on our computerized devices, this field flourishers more in all its aspects.
This is where artificial intelligence (AI) comes in play. Artificial intelligence has been a key ingredient for making our world smarter and faster. It makes our everyday tasks so much more efficient, enjoyable and easier. AI devices are here to stay for the long run. Data scientists are working on AI home appliances and robotics, various devices and even wearables. In addition, more companies are transforming to digital spaces and almost every higher-level job position in the IT industry requires knowledge in automatization.
Datafication is a process that transforms everything from our lives into our devices as data. Our devices can store information and data for as long as it takes. Another great benefit of datafication is that it provides more jobs on the market. The reason is because it leads to a higher need for IT professionals, engineers, technicians and so on. Data jobs are more about skills than big qualifications.
Artificial intelligence (AI)
It is estimated that the AI market will grow over 190$ billion dollars by 2025. Not to mention that AI will offer some of the highest salaries on the job market. AI already offers superiority in speech recognition, navigation apps, smartphone personal assistants (Siri in IOS) and so on. Other than those known solutions that AI offers; AI will shift to helping predict demand for services. Some of those services are going to enable hospital authorities to be better decision makers regarding resources utilization.
Nowadays, people are very dependent on technology. This dependency leads to security issues because all our lives are kept on our devices. With the help of digital conviction, people believe that technology helps to create a secure and safe environment for them. For creation of safe digital spaces for users, major concepts are cybersecurity and ethical hacking. Being an ethical hacker, you must have professional certifications.
Genomics is part of technology that can study your DNA. The goal is to help improve your overall health and genomics helps you detect diseases earlier and fight them. Genomics studies genes, DNAs and their structure and mapping. This is designed to help you quantify your genes and in turn find diseases so you can properly heal from them.
Remarkable new technology is quantum computing. Quantum computing is a form of computing designed for quantum phenomena (superposition) and quantum entanglement. This technology can be used for preventing the Corona virus outbreak and to develop new vaccines. This is due to its ability to monitor, use and analyse new data regardless of the source. Quantum computing can also be applicable to banking and finance or managing credit risks.
These were the current most engaging trends in the tech industry. Many of these trends will benefit its users and the overall job market. We are all aware that technology is going forward at a very fast pace and we must take each opportunity to learn new things and be a part of it.
In addition, AVIANET is not only a provider of Virtual Event Platforms but we are also an IT service provider. With both our services and products we strive to keep up with the trends in the IT industry for our services and at the same time improve our virtual events. |
I’ve been meaning to update my website for years and never managed to get around to it, so I decided the best way to keep me interested and get used to updating regularly was to take it in a completely different direction hence the Monkeywiz Blog!
This is still going to be a place where I showcase my personal (and proffesional) work, but I will now be including more work in progress, usefull tips and tutorials, as and when I come accross them (or maybe even write a few), as well as including interesting links and more of my personal view of the world (or rants as people who know me might call them).
I’m still playing with all of the in’s and outs of this blogging software, which is why it currently has a rather drab exterior, but expect huge changes to the look and format of this site very soon. If you came here looking for some of my flash work or 3D animation, don’t worry, check back soon and I’ll have some new stuff up (and maybe even some of the old stuff if I decide it’s good enough).
Enough chat for now, back to editing the site |
ELEGOO 3D Printer
ELEGOO® Saturn 3 MSLA 3D Printer 12K Printing Accuracy Upgraded Air Purifier Laser Carved Build Plate
Questions and Answers
Do you have a guarantee? How long does it last?
when will the Saturn 3 ultra be on sale?
I need the invoice, how can I get it?
wellraider on 17 February 2024
Everything arrived well and so far I haven't had any problems with this printer. I am satisfied with it :) |
Filmed on location at more than thirty archaeological and historical sites in twelve U.S. States and two Canadian Provinces. America: From The Ground Up! follows archaeological adventurer Dr. Monty Dobson as he digs into America’s story- From the Ground Up. Join Monty as he searches for clues to America’s hidden history: from exploring the ruins of America’s lost civilization to an underwater search for clues to Benedict Arnold’s sunken fleet on Lake Champlain, to a recreation of Perry’s naval victory over the British on Lake Erie with more than twenty tall ships, join us for the archaeological adventure of a lifetime! airs Fridays 2-3 a.m. beginning 11/22
- #101 – America’s Lost Civilization (800AD-1600) – Centuries before Columbus arrived America was home to the towns and cities of a thriving Native American Civilization. Dig into the archaeology of America’s lost civilization at sites like Cahokia, a Native American city of 30,000 people and the spiritual heart of a civilization that stretched from the Great Lakes to the Gulf of Mexico.
- #102 – The Fur Trade (1600-1750) – Travel along on an expedition to discover the archaeology of the Fur Trade. From Quebec to the Great Lakes the archaeology of the forts and settlements of the frontier record the story of expansion into the old Northwest Territory.
- #103 – World War America (1750-1775) – Join Monty as he digs into the archaeology of the towns, forts and settlements along the contended border zone between Colonial America and New France that tell the story of America’s first world war: the French and Indian War.
- #104 – Revolution (1774-1783) – From the siege of Quebec to exploring shipwrecks of Benedict Arnold’s defeat on Lake Champlain to the forts of the Great Lakes: Monty digs into the archaeological sites that tell the real story of America’s War for Independence.
- #105 – The Science of Archaeology – Join Monty on an expedition to discover how archaeology works. From above the ground with satellites and helicopters, to exploring below the surface with ground penetrating radar and underwater sonar mapping, Monty digs into the science behind the latest archaeological discoveries.
- #106 – War of 1812 (1795-1815) – Travel along on an expedition to investigate the archaeology of the shipwrecks and forts along America’s Northern frontier that record the secret history of America’s second war for independence: The War of 1812. |
Our partnerships have a purpose, they tell a story that has integrity.
No two of our partnerships are the same. We work with our partners to understand their priorities and tailor-make our partnership to deliver impact.
In return, our partners help us do more, reach more people and share the magic and joy of being part of the Scottish Ballet family. We offer partnerships focused on:
- sponsorship of productions
- support of our health and wellbeing programmes
- alignment with our innovative digital content
- VIP hospitality for guests, staff and clients
- bespoke events and private performances
- unrivalled behind the scenes access
- investment in talent
For more information on partnering with Scottish Ballet, please contact Kirsten Cockburn, Director of Partnerships, on 0141 331 2931 or email [email protected].
An alternative to a bespoke partnership is our Corporate Membership offering, which gives companies the opportunity to connect with Scottish Ballet on a tickets and hospitality basis.
Scottish Ballet makes a commitment to corporate entities that make financial contributions towards our work; to be honest, open and transparent in our negotiations, and to deliver all partnership benefits in a friendly, effective and efficient manner. Scottish Ballet undertakes to comply with all relevant laws including tax legislation, the Data Protection Act 1998, the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002, and the Institute of Fundraising’s Code of Fundraising Practice.
Scottish Ballet adheres to the Fundraising Code of Practice four key principles: legal, open, honest and respectful. If, however, you have a concern or complaint about Scottish Ballet’s fundraising practices, in the first instance we ask that you submit your concern in writing to the Executive Director. We will endeavour to resolve the matter, however, if you are not satisfied with the resolution, your concern will be referred to Scottish Ballet’s Board of Directors.
Complaints that can’t be resolved by Scottish Ballet will be referred to the Independent Fundraising Standards and Adjudication Panel for Scotland (the Panel), which will consider the complaint, decide if the charity has breached the Fundraising Code of Practice and make recommendations for remedial action. It will also consider whether there is a regulatory concern to report to OSCR (Scottish Charity Regulator). |
Moving is a complex process that needs meticulous organization, preparation, and focuses on the little things. Finding the best movers in Maple Ridge is crucial, whether you’re moving down the block or across the country, to guarantee that your items are treated with care and that your move is as seamless as possible.
In this article, we’ll review the essential things to consider while choosing moving companies in Maple Ridge and how to ensure that you settle for the best one to meet your demands; read further to get a comprehensive idea.
Tips To Find The Best Movers In Maple Ridge
Following are some of the most practical tactics to settle for the best Maple Ridge movers.
Do some research and contrast various movers
Researching and contrasting several moving firms is the first step in locating the top movers in Maple Ridge. Search for reputable moving firms that are licensed and insured. Check out their website, read internet reviews, and get referrals from friends and relatives. You may also look up their reputation with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) if they have complaints or unfavourable reviews from prior clients.
Obtain a Documented Estimate
After you’ve selected a smaller group of potential movers, it’s time to get a quote. Get a thorough written quote from the movers that lists all the services they will offer and the associated costs. Verify that all fees, such as taxes, fuel surcharges, and other supplemental expenses, are included in the estimate.
Ask About the Relocation Procedure
It’s crucial to comprehend the shifting procedure before picking movers. Ask the movers what precautions they will take to ensure your items are loaded and packaged securely to reach your new house undamaged. Inquire about the kind of truck they’ll use and whether they have experience transporting your stuff, such as delicates or oversized furniture.
The Expertise of Movers In Maple Ridge
The best movers have a wealth of industry knowledge and experience. Look for movers who have a history of successfully moving families and businesses and have been in business for a considerable time. Confirm that the movers in Maple Ridge have the tools and resources necessary to handle your particular needs by asking them about their experience with various types of moves.
Consider Moving Companies In Maple Ridge With Insurance.
Make sure that the movers you select are insured. This will safeguard your possessions in case they are harmed or misplaced during the moving process. Verify the movers’ insurance policies and see if they provide additional coverage options.
Investigate Your Storage Choices
Make sure to inquire with the Maple Ridge mover regarding their storage alternatives if you need to store some of your possessions while you move. Several movers offer storage options for people who need to temporarily keep their things in a warehouse or a portable storage container.
Wrapping up, if you seek services of reliable movers in Maple Ridge, Purely Canadian Movers can help you with your relocation. Our skilled personnel has years of experience, making the moving process as seamless as possible. |
French luxury conglomerate LVMH has announced the appointment of Hedi Slimane as artistic, creative, and image director of French fashion house Céline, with effect from February this year. He will direct all Céline collections, extending to men’s fashion, couture, and fragrances.
The company said in a press release that “Slimane’s talent and his remarkable ability to anticipate and express in a unique way the evolutions and desires of his age, will ensure a further era of exceptional growth and development for this famous Maison.”
“I am particularly happy that Hedi is back within the LVMH Group and taking the reins of our Céline Maison,” said Bernard Arnault, chairman and CEO of LVMH Moët Hennessy. “He is one of the most talented designers of our time. I have been a great admirer of his work since we collaborated on Dior Homme, which he launched to global critical acclaim in the 2000s. His arrival at Céline reinforces the great ambitions that LVMH has for this Maison. Hedi will oversee and develop all creativity for both women’s and men’s fashion, but also for leather goods, accessories and fragrances. He will leverage his global vision and unique aesthetic virtuosity in further building an iconic French Maison.”
“I am delighted to join Bernard Arnault in this all-embracing and fascinating mission for Céline,” added Slimane. “I greatly look forward to returning to the exciting world of fashion and the dynamism of the ateliers.” |
All children and youth in foster care need the support of a nurturing family to help them navigate their childhood years and grow into healthy adults. This is no different for children and youth who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and questioning (LGBTQ+). Resource parents have an opportunity to provide safe and supportive homes for LGBTQ+ youth. To assist resource parents in understanding the youth’s unique needs, affirming their identities and supporting their well-being, the County of Orange Social Services Agency, in partnership with Seneca Family of Agencies, will host a Super Saturday training called Supporting Queer and Transgender Youth in the Child Welfare System. The training will be on Saturday, March 26 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. via Zoom. Be sure to check your inbox for the invitation to register. |
1 thumb-sized piece of fresh ginger, peeled and finely grated
1 sprig of fresh rosemary, leaves picked and chopped
2 fresh bay leaves
1 small cinnamon stick
sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
100 gram soft brown sugar
100 millilitre balsamic vinegar
Start by sterilising your jar (or jars). Preheat your oven to 140°C. Wash your jam jars, lids and rubber seals in hot soapy water and rinse in warm water. Let the jars drip dry, place them on a baking tray and pop in the oven for 30 minutes.
Meanwhile, toss the peppers and chillies in a large roasting tray with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. When you remove the sterilised jars from the oven, turn the heat up to maximum (240°C). Once hot enough, add the tray of peppers and chillies to cook for 40 minutes, or until the skins have blackened. Using tongs, carefully transfer the peppers and chillies to a large bowl, cover it with cling film and leave to steam for about 20 minutes
Carefully peel all the peppers and chillies – you can wear plastic gloves to protect your hands if you like. Pull out the stalks and remove the seeds, then finely chop it all and put aside.
Make sure the stirrer attachment is in place in the HomeCooker pan, then set the temperature to 175°C. Once the pan has heated up, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil along with the onion, ginger, rosemary and bay leaves, cloves and cinnamon. Add a good pinch of salt and pepper and set the timer for 15 minutes, so the onions get golden and sticky.
When the time’s up, reduce the temperature to 130°C, add the peppers, chillies, sugar and vinegar. Set the timer for a further 60 minutes to reduce everything down to a thick, sticky chutney.
Once it’s done, remove the cinnamon stick, bay leaves and cloves. Spoon the chutney into jars and store them in a cool dark place. Delicious with roast meats, strong cheese or sausages.
By clicking on the link, you will be leaving the official Royal Philips ("Philips") website. Any links to third-party websites that may appear on this site are provided only for your convenience and in no way represent any affiliation or endorsement of the information provided on those linked websites. Philips makes no representations or warranties of any kind with regard to any third-party websites or the information contained therein. |
What are Operating Expenses?
Operating Expenses Definition
Operating expenses, often known as operating expenditures or “opex,” are incurred by a business for its operational activities. In other words, they are the expenses incurred by a company to carry out its everyday activities.
Operating Expenses are expenses incurred by a business through normal operations such as rent, marketing, salaries, insurance, etc.
There are two types of operating expenses:
- Selling, General, and Admin Expenses (SG&A)
- Cost of Goods Sold (COGS)
Operating expenses do not include tax depreciation. SG&A provides marketing and research and development, whereas COGS includes staff salaries.
What is included in the operating expenses?
The following are examples of operating costs:
- Staff pay (excluding labor for manufacturing)
- License costs
- Promotion (including for social channels like LinkedIn)
- Accountancy charges
- Building upkeep and repairs
- office equipment
- Fees for attorneys
- Real estate taxes
- Vehicle costs
- Travel costs
The income statement of a corporation shows operating expenses.
What is not included in operating expenses?
Non-operating expenses are costs incurred by a company unrelated to its core operations. Non-operating expenses include the following items:
- Cost of interest
- Inventory costs that are no longer relevant
- Settlements in litigation
- Asset disposition losses
- Expenses for reorganizing
It’s helpful to isolate these items from the business’s results of operations. Because they aren’t part of the company’s main activities and may only occur seldom.
How to calculate operating expenses?
Calculate your operating expenses by adding your cost of goods sold (COGS) to achieve an operating expense ratio (OER). Then divide by your revenue to generate an operating expenditure ratio, a proportion of revenue spent on these expenses.
OER = COGS + OpEx / Revenue
You may now seek average operating expense ratios in your industry to see how your company stacks up.
The operating expense formula is essentially the total of various selling, general, and administrative (SG&A) expenses such as office staff wages, sales commissions, promotional and advertising costs, rental expenses, utilities, and so on. It is expressed mathematically as,
Salaries + Sales Commissions + Promotional & Advertising Costs + Rental Expense + Utilities = Operating Expense
On the other side, the formula for operating expenses is revenue minus operating income (EBIT) minus cost of goods sold (COGS). It is expressed mathematically as,
Operating Expense = Revenue – Operating Income – COGS
What are the ways to reduce operating expenses?
Spend less on insurance:
Look for package deals that cover numerous services (such as dentistry and vision) under one coverage.
Shop around with various insurance brokers to ensure you’re obtaining the best rates for your specific company needs. Keep in mind that brokers might earn commissions on insurance sales. Hence, they may not all be motivated to save you money.
Think about a four-day workweek:
While the psychological advantages of a four-day workweek are becoming more commonly recognized, there are also considerable financial advantages to working fewer hours.
Switching to a four-day week eliminates a percentage of variable overhead costs, saving thousands of dollars per year on things like power, office supplies, and even housekeeping.
It can also reduce perks like workplace meals, snacks, and even commuting expenses.
Use technology to your advantage:
Adopting technology can be inconvenient, and it may even cost money upfront. Still, it will save you money in the long term.
Your entire organization’s staff can benefit from online systems and software that increase efficiency and free up time.
Artificial intelligence (AI) can help handle data more quickly and reduce human error. Technology can also help improve communication inside your company and throughout the supply chain.
When it’s required, outsource:
Delegating or outsourcing tasks to specialists can save your running costs while raising your earnings.
Outsourcing advertising, marketing, financial advice, legal matters, and other areas to specialists can produce far more efficient results. At the same time, freeing up time to focus on significant growth.
You might also discover that hiring a full-time accountant or legal counsel is unnecessary. You can save money by outsourcing those tasks for fewer hours. While it isn’t always the best option, it is something to think about.
Shop around and begin negotiations:
Too many business owners discover years later that they have been overpaying for goods or services. Reduce the amount you pay for goods and services to save money quickly.
You may create a pipeline that includes receiving bids from various vendors for each project.
You will get a good deal if you negotiate for loyalty or exclusivity. And for purchasing in bulk or collaborating with other small businesses. Don’t be afraid to get innovative and look for fresh, cheaper alternatives.
Bad debt expenses are categorized as operating costs and usually get listed under selling, general, and administrative costs on your company’s income statement.
IT and accounting outsourcing are examples of ways to save operational costs in a firm. Because they allow you to acquire business-critical services without the payroll costs and other taxes. It would incur if these specialists were part of your regular workforce. |
Contribute & Partner With Defcon Level Warning System Today!
Thinking about contributing and partnering with the Defcon Warning System? Great! The Defcon Level Warning System is non profit and depends our partners (People like you) to keep us going strong!
There are many ways you can partner with us and help us stay on top of what's going on in the world! Every bit, whether giving financial support through subscriptions, Paypal or cryptocurrency or contributing knowledge, news, alerts or other intel, nomatter how small is a big help in our efforts to bringing up to date information, alerts and new ways to stay informed on our website.
There are multiple ways to contribute, including Patreon, Paypal and even using cryptocurrency by scanning the QR image below.
The first way is by to Subscribe to a membership level, some of which give you extra benefits for becoming a member, such as early access, and membership only alerts, news and intelligence updates:
The second way to contribute to Defcon Level Warning System is by using Paypal. Simply click on the following button or scan the QR image below with your mobile device to begin the process:
Click the button below, or scan the QR code with your phone. If you want to contribute Bitcoin or cryptocurrency, scan the second image below.
Did you know that having visitors on the site helps in our search engine rankings? Checking the site as often as you can, and reading our content actually gives us more exposure, helping to build the community faster, and allowing more people to see the news stories that we publish.
One of the best ways you can contribute is actually very easy to do. Just visit the site as often as you can and check the new content out! The longer you stay on the site, and the more pages you visit the more it helps boost our rankings in the search engines, boosting exposure to our great content.
A great way to partner with us is by sharing our content on your own website, and with people that you know such as friends and family. You can be a big part of building the Defcon Level Warning System intelligence gathering community.
Our community is a big part of Defcon Level Warning System. We have members serving in the military and living all over the world who contribute in many ways. We want YOU to become a part of our great community. Together, we can create a place where everyone has easy access to what's going on in the world.
If you have news alerts, news articles or information to contribute about world conflicts and events please send to [email protected].
Once we receive the information you send us we will vet the information, and if we find that it is both accurate and relevant we may add it to the website and send the information out on our social media accounts and reflect the status of the defcon level accordingly, if that intel causes the need for a status change.
Ad blockers are wonderful aren't they? Unfortunately however, sites that rely on ad revenue to fund the time and effort they put into creating and maintaining their site and content are hurt very badly by lost revenue due to ad blockers.
A big way you can help us is by disabling your ad blocker so that the ads running on our site aren't being blocked from showing or hindered in any way.
We try to make them as unobtrusive as possible and ads, along with financial contributions go a long way in funding all of the time and effort we put into giving you great content and up to date news, alerts and information.
It doesn't take that long to disable your ad blocker, and our content creators and researchers would really appreciate it as their time and effort could then be properly compensated and we can continue adding quality value to this already great community. |
A smile makeover comprises dental treatment options to fix cosmetic issues that degrade your overall looks. The best dentist in Brooklyn, New York, can fix issues such as broken, decayed, chipped, discolored, and uneven teeth. They customize the dental treatment suited to your specific requirements. Want to know the best smile makeover dentistry options to straighten your teeth? Find them below:
Clear aligners can significantly improve your teeth’ alignment. Such transparent plastic trays are virtually impossible to see when worn. You can straighten your teeth without compromising the look of your smile. As clear aligners are removable, they make the treatment convenient for patients. They don’t adversely affect your dental hygiene and meals because of being removable. You should wear them for at least 22 hours every day to experience their effectiveness. Clear aligners fix various teeth alignment disorders. However, they can’t enhance uneven teeth caused due to abnormal positioning of the jaw. Metal braces and other dental appliances can fix such oral issues.
Braces are one of the best teeth straightening solutions. They are made of two key elements – wires (which connect the brackets of every dental arch) and metal brackets (which are cemented to all the teeth of patients). Braces work with the application of a consistent force on your teeth that gradually moves them to a better position over time. As the wires of your braces get tighter, a higher amount of force is applied to your teeth. Braces are an all-inclusive teeth straightening option, and their treatment duration ranges from 1 to 3 years.
Traditional braces are effective but noticeable on the wearer’s teeth. Metal braces can affect the looks of your smile, and people tend to avoid teeth straightening treatments. They don’t want to handle all the metal inside their mouth. Ceramic braces are a lighter version of metal braces, which aren’t much visible on your teeth. The dentist uses transparent wires and tooth-colored brackets rather than brackets and metal wires. Ceramic braces can fix several issues, which metal braces can cure; however, they aren’t durable.
Want to straighten your teeth and look better than before? Try these smile makeover dentistry options in Brooklyn to straighten your teeth. With the right treatment, you can get a new look that may turn around heads. |
Set of three silk socks
It's the fine details that can really pull a look together, and Raey's soft grey socks are ideal for completing endless looks. This set of three is spun from pure silk in Italy, and lightly ribbed for definition.
COMPOSITION: 100% silk.
CARE: Hand wash
COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: Italy
Lightweight ribbed-knit silk
Set of three
Fine-gauge knit top, heel, sole and toe
Product number: 1159503
Size S/M (8-10UK/ 41-43FR/ 41-43EU)
Size L/XL ( 10-12UK/ 43-45FR/ 43-45EU) |
Round Game Joystick For Mobile Phone Rocker Tablet Android, Metal Button Controller With Suction Cup Mobile Phone Game Joystick Game Control Touch Screen Joypad Game Controller
by STEVVEX Game
Save up to 75%
Original price $55.00
Current price $13.90
- MULTIPLE COLORS AVAILABLE: Phone Controller Have Blue,Silver, Red colors special aluminum alloy material to choose from.
- HUSTLE FREE: No wires, no Bluetooth setup, no batteries, no charging.Just stick it onto the touchscreen and press play.
- HIGH PERFOMANCE: This phone game controller joysticks are waterproof and sweat proof for the sweaty-palmed gamer in all of us.
- HIGH SENSITIVITY PLASTIC ROCKER: ANTI-HAND SWEAT! Mini Mobile Joystick will give you the best precision and comfort for the touch screen games. Most player increase their performances.
- PERFECT GRIP TO CARRY: No additional spiral pattern covering game. No wires, Bluetooth or battery needed, just paste it on the screen to start playing! It helps to relieve finger pressure by simply pressing the pressure on the screen of the phone, allowing the player to completely abandon the analog joystick and enjoy a variety of complex games.
Brand Name: STEVVEX Game
Model Number: ST88GM667ZZQ
Language: English Version |
GREAT FLAVOR: Medium spice chili gourmet sauce not too hot, not too mild.
100% NATURAL: Made with the freshest of ingredients, Blue Zones Hot Sauces are one of a kind. 100% natural, no artificial ingredients, preservatives or added sugars and naturally smoked.
USES: Put it on everything, use as a condiment, all-purpose seasoning, marinade or sauce. It will go great with any food from around the world.
SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY: Blue Zones Nicoya support the centenarian community of Nicoya, Costa Rica by dedicating a percentage of all our sales directly to their families. At the same time, Blue Zones Nicoya has its production facilities in the area, which in turn provide direct and indirect jobs to the community. Blue Zones Nicoya also develops the Macaw Project, which helps reinsert Macaw populations to the Nicoya Peninsula. |
Board Observership Program 2024
Free informational webinar
What is The Observership Program?
Founded in 2014 and modelled on a similar successful program in the United States, The Observership Program provides training and practical experience in not-for-profit and Government appointed board leadership and ongoing networking opportunities to create a passionate and motivated community of future leaders.
We are seeking a motivated adult between the ages of 25 and 40 with Cerebral Palsy who is eager to develop their governance skills and create a positive impact for individuals living with CP.
What are the benefits of the program?
Learn how a governance board works and what it takes to be a board member
Benefit from personalised mentoring to guide your growth and development
Expand your network and connect with other like-minded people in the program
Become a Board Observer at CPSN for 12 months and gain hands-on experience
Ready to learn more?
Join us for a free webinar on October 4th, where 2023 Observer Alison Hibbert will detail her own experience with the program, and help you better understand what it entails, and what it can do for you. |
Online Poker is a game that takes the familiar card-playing activity you’ve likely played in a bar or casino and turns it into an accessible and interactive gaming experience for people of all skill levels. Players can sign up for free or play real money games on a variety of devices including desktop computers, laptops and mobile phones. They can participate in tournaments, cash games and Sit ‘N Go events or a combination of the three.
One of the biggest draws of the game is the fact that anyone can participate. The only thing required is an internet connection and the willingness to learn the rules of the game. This allows people from all walks of life to join the game and compete against players from all over the world. In addition to being accessible, Online Poker is also incredibly affordable. You can play for as little as $1 per hand. For those looking to take their poker skills to the next level it is possible to turn a profit and even make a living from playing.
Choosing the right online poker site is important for new players. Regulated sites offer a secure environment for signing up, depositing and cashing out funds. In addition to SSL encryption and digital device fingerprinting, many reputable online poker sites offer a full range of support services including email and live chat. This is an excellent way to get answers to questions quickly and easily.
Another important tip for new players is to understand that poker can be very addictive. It is important to set limits and stick to them. There is nothing wrong with playing the game for fun, but it should not be a distraction in your day to day life. It is also a good idea to track your results so that you can see how you’re doing and identify areas where you need to improve.
It is also important to remember that it’s normal to lose money when moving up stakes. This happens to all players, even professionals. When you move up in stakes it’s important to have a short memory and not take your losses personally. It’s all about the math in the long run!
While it’s a great idea to have redundancies, like an extra battery for your laptop or mobile phone and a backup router or hotspot, you should always ensure that you have a stable internet connection before starting to play. A slow internet connection will not only slow you down, but it may cause you to miss hands and potentially lose money.
While some players choose to play online poker professionally, most play it as a pastime. It is a great way to socialize with friends, meet new people and enjoy the excitement of competitive poker. The best part is that you can do all of this without leaving the comfort of your own home! |
LabCasa Gialla sul Molo is located in Sampieri, a few miles from Scicli – known as the main filming location for the successful long-running TV show Inspector Montalbano, based on Andrea Camilleri’s detective novels.
Sampieri is a small seaside town seemingly stuck out of time. Tight alleys cut through small single-story homes, the sandstone reflecting the bright Sicilian sun. Behind the village, homes give way to rows of greenhouses whose “red gold” – Sicilian cherry tomatoes – support the local economy and employ many of the parents of our core group of children. The waterfont of Sampieri is adorned with palm trees, and the dunes of the adjacent beach are broken by a thick forest of mediterrenean pine trees. The beachfront forms a small bay, at the edge of which a single building dominates: a large delapidated turn-of-the-century Hoffman brick kiln with a tall stone chimney. This listed industrial archeology site is affectionally reffered to as “Ô Pisciuottu” by the locals.
Over the town of Sampieri the sky is almost always of a deep cobalt blue, which sometimes merges with the open sea, and sometimes takes on a violet, orange and red tinge. It is easy to see what inspired local Sicilian painter Pietro Guccione, who expressed the region’s colors better than anyone else.
Sampieri is only home to a few hundred people. There are no shop windows, no bank or post office, but there is a small school, whose blue windows face the sea just beyond the small pier where fishermen lay their rudimentary hulls to rest for the night. The docks are the town’s beating heart, and is often busy with the sound of children’s voices and laughter. That is where our small Yellow House is located. |
"If you're looking for high quality and personal service, you've come to the right place. At Richard Lewis HVAC Inc. we’ll give you the attention and personal service you'll come to expect and enjoy."
"Richard was at my home the same day and completed the repair in a timely manner at a cost that impressed me to leave a tip. Definantly a smart choice for my HVAC system. I will be replacing my entire system in the spring at a price that I can not believe. Wish I would have called Richard sooner."
West Union Ohio
We serve all of Adams County including West Union, Peebles, Manchester, Seaman, Winchester, Sinking Sprigs, Blue Creek, Bentonville, Cedar Mills, Tranquility, Lawshe, Lynx, Rome, Stout, Wrightsville, Panhandle, Cherry Fork, Brown County, Highland County, Scioto County, and Brown County.
Commercial and Residential.
Come see us at the Lucasville Swap Meet Trade Days. It is under new management and a totally new concept. The new management team is awesome and easy to deal with. You can call 937.728.6643 for more details. |
Jeanette Maitland is a retired Business Studies teacher, living near Aberdeen. Her husband, Ken, was diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia and Parkinsonism in 2003. Jeanette cared for Ken until his death in 2012. Jeanette was a founding member of NDCAN and has been an active campaigner on several issues, particularly around personal care in the home. She has spoken at conferences and events across Scotland and abroad to raise awareness on the issues impacting unpaid carers of people with dementia. Below, Jeanette talks about the work she has done with her local Musical Memories group during lockdown.
At this point some of you may be asking the question🙋 - why bother? What good is it doing? What's in it for you? The answers are quite simple.
- Lots of people with dementia and carers attended various activities pre Covid, and are now missing out on the friendship and fellowship that was enjoyed and looked forward to. We merely wanted to continue our connection and hopefully provide a bit of light relief. To do this though, new skills had to be learned, mostly by our 'leading light' volunteers having to pick the brains of their more technological friends. They have been marvellous - recording, inserting clips, linking everything up, and it may be that they blame this learning process for the change in their hair colour!
- As far as members and viewers are concerned, there has been encouragement from their feedback. Some folks were so happy to see their loved ones singing along to a song, a broad smile on their face, having conversations or reminiscing, and just enjoying the general feel good factor the session left them with. Of course, the video can be viewed as often as you like, and at any time of day or night which has been of real help to some carers.
- As for the volunteers, it is fair to say that we all gain great pleasure from mixing with our members and friends, the conversations, cuppas, laughter using the musical instruments and hearing their updates as we chat. We missed all of this so greatly the 'wee home video' (glitches, gremlins and all) is our way of trying to stay connected. We all get so much from the Musical Memories sessions. If we can bring someone to smile, laugh, reminisce or start a conversation - even if just to say how good, bad or indifferent the video was - then mission accomplished.
Please do not be discouraged from starting up a Musical Memories session (or any group) due to your lack of skills. There is always someone out there with knowledge to set you on your way as you learn on the job. Alzheimer Scotland staff in your locality could also help. Volunteers become deeper friends and even though three of our group are members of the Sweet Adeline singers and the rest vary in their vocal skills, taking part is so worthwhile as we enjoy singing and love the banter with our members. Although initially the video link was circulated by our Dementia Resource Centre in Aberdeen to Musical Memories members, this has now been expanded to members of our 4 local Dementia Cafes (The Living Well Project) and has also been viewed by Moray and other regions. One of the ways you can link up is to visit Alzheimer Scotland's Aberdeen/Aberdeenshire Facebook page.
We are sending you all our love, hugs, good wishes and keep smiling xxxx ❤️ |
The Safe Amplification Site Society is urging the Province of British Columbia to improve liquor laws to facilitate live music for people of all ages. We’ve launched a petition at safeamp.org/liquorlawpetition, and here's why:
It's widely known that BC’s liquor laws are outdated. In reality, they're more than that: they’re ageist, stifling, and dysfunctional. In particular, they make it very hard for music venues to admit people under age 19 – a demographic that includes about 20% of British Columbians. We believe this is wrong, because music is good for everyone. We’re urging the Government of BC – and all the candidates running for that government – to support the following three improvements to BC's liquor laws:
1) Create a new liquor license that permits minors on the premises of live music venues while alcohol is served to those aged 19 and older.
Under existing law, the only permanent liquor-serving venues that can allow minors are theatres, restaurants, and stadiums. But because concert-goers want to dance, don’t want to eat, and don't like stadiums, most spaces don’t fit into those categories. In this expensive province, venues rely on alcohol sales to cover costs. To do that legally, they have to ban minors, even though a lot of minors could care less about alcohol and simply want to see their favourite bands perform. It’s immoral that 20% of BC cannot attend most concerts simply because of their birthdate! It would be wrong to ban people from events because of their race, gender, sexuality, or religion, and it’s wrong to ban them because of their age too.
2) Overhaul BC’s Special Occasion Licenses (SOLs) and base the categories of licenses on audience size rather than public vs. private.
SOLs allow a facility without a permanent liquor license to serve alcohol on ‘special occasions.’ There are two types. ‘Private’ SOLs are cheap and easy, but the audience has to be invited and must buy tickets in advance. ‘Public’ SOLs are much harder to get, but anyone can attend and pay at the door. Weirdly, there’s no differentiation based on the size of the event: a rock concert for 500 invited guests who buy advance tickets can use the easy ‘private’ license, but a piano recital that ten people wander into off the street needs the difficult ‘public’ license. This unfairly punishes small independent events, even though those are generally safer than massive parties. Instead, we think it should be easy to license an event for, say, 100 people or less, and harder to license a bigger event.
3) Immediately repeal Policy Directive 12-09, which disallows liquor primary venues from temporarily de-licensing to host all-ages events.
Prior to 2013, bars and clubs could temporarily 'de-license' to host all-ages events. This meant a nightclub could close their bar, lock up their liquor, and allow minors at whatever event was happening there that night. Citing anecdotal and spurious claims from “police, LCLB and communities” that minors attending de-licensed events were “consuming liquor either prior to entering or outside the establishment,” the Liquor Board banned this practice in January. As has been documented here, here, here, here, here, and here, we believe this was a terrible decision; it should be repealed immediately. |
The Van Hise PTO (Parent-Teacher Organization) works to engage our school community and enhance classroom learning by providing volunteer and monetary support to a broad range of events and projects that benefit students, teachers and families. Each year the PTO undertakes various fundraising efforts, including a direct appeal, to provide funding for community building events for families, technology upgrades for the classrooms, garden and outdoor classroom development, and annual grants to support teachers and staff. Every family with a child at Van Hise is automatically a member of the Van Hise PTO.
The Van Hise PTO is focused on enhancing the school experience for all students and families, via fundraising, community building, promoting school spirit, and communications.
A. To be a volunteer support group for Van Hise Elementary School.
B. To promote fellowship along with communication between children, parents, school and community.
C. To be kept informed of and supportive to the programs, purposes and philosophies of the Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD) to provide the best education possible for all students.
D. To represent the school and students before the school administration, district administration and committees, and the school board.
E. To develop united efforts among faculty, parents, students and the general public to provide for every child the highest advantages in physical, mental and social education.
All are Welcome, All Belong...to the PTO
The Van Hise Elementary PTO holds various events throughout the year, in addition to monthly meetings. Members are encouraged to express their ideas and opinions at PTO meetings. All members attending a PTO meeting have a vote in the operations of our organization. Committee members provide monthly reports and the principal provides any school updates. To help enable families to attend, childcare is provided by Red Cross certified students from Hamilton Middle School. We welcome you, your unique perspective, and ideas!
Watch for a monthly newsletter from the PTO highlighting upcoming events and featuring school happenings.
If you have questions or would like to get involved, please contact your PTO President at [email protected] |
Requires a Netatmo Rain Sensor and a Philips Hue Light.
This Trigger fires every time your Netatmo Rain Gauge detects that it is raining.
This Action will briefly turn your hue lights off then back on.
Check out our best Google Calendar integrations and learn how you can automate GCal in minutes with IFTTT!
IFTTT helps people save time by automating and customizing their Smart Home.
Wyze is an extremely popular smart home brand for their modern and sleek appearance, accessible pricing, and the broad spectrum of devices on their site. From home monitoring, health accessories, and other smart home solutions, Wyze can...
Explore more great ways to automate
Netatmo Weather Station and Philips Hue |
The Impact of Mobile-First Design in Omaha - MediaSavior
In a rapidly digitizing world, mobile devices have become an integral part of our lives. People in Omaha rely on their smartphones and tablets to access information, make purchases, and interact with brands. As a result, businesses need to prioritize mobile experiences on their websites. Mobile-first design is an approach that places mobile devices at the forefront of web design, ensuring optimal usability and engagement. MediaSavior, a trusted digital media company, recognizes the importance of mobile-first design and implements it to create effective web experiences for businesses in Omaha. In this article, we will explore the impact of mobile-first design and how MediaSavior leverages it to meet the needs of mobile users.
The Rise of Mobile Devices
Mobile devices, including smartphones and tablets, have revolutionized the way people in Omaha access and interact with digital content. According to recent studies, the majority of internet usage now occurs on mobile devices. Here are some key statistics:
1. Mobile Internet Usage
In the United States, mobile devices account for approximately 57% of internet usage, surpassing desktop usage. This trend is consistent across various demographic groups, including different age ranges and income brackets.
2. Mobile E-commerce
Mobile shopping continues to grow in popularity. In 2020, 67% of e-commerce sales in the United States were made through mobile devices. A seamless mobile shopping experience is essential for businesses that want to succeed in the digital marketplace.
3. Local Mobile Searches
Mobile devices have become an essential tool for conducting local searches. Nearly 80% of local searches on mobile devices result in a purchase. This highlights the importance of optimizing websites for mobile users looking for businesses and services in Omaha.
The Significance of Mobile-First Design
Mobile-first design is an approach that prioritizes mobile devices when designing websites. Instead of adapting a desktop website for mobile, mobile-first design starts with the mobile experience and then expands to larger screen sizes. Here's why mobile-first design is significant for businesses:
Mobile-first design ensures that websites are fully responsive, meaning they adapt to different screen sizes and devices seamlessly. This responsiveness guarantees users in Omaha a consistent and optimal experience, regardless of the device they use.
2. Improved User Experience
Mobile-first design promotes a user-centered approach, ensuring that websites are designed with mobile users in mind. This focus leads to streamlined navigation, simplified content layouts, faster loading times, and thumb-friendly interactions. As a result, users have a positive experience and are more likely to engage with the website.
3. Increased Conversion Rates
Mobile-first design plays a vital role in driving conversion rates. A website that is optimized for mobile users in Omaha reduces barriers to conversion, improves the overall user experience, and facilitates easy conversion actions, such as form submissions or purchases. This ultimately leads to higher conversion rates and improved business outcomes.
4. SEO Benefits
Mobile-first design is aligned with search engine optimization (SEO) best practices. Google, the most popular search engine, prioritizes mobile-friendly websites in search results. By implementing mobile-first design, businesses improve their chances of ranking higher in search engine results pages, driving organic traffic to their websites in Omaha.
MediaSavior's Approach to Mobile-First Design
MediaSavior takes a mobile-first approach to web design, recognizing the significance of mobile experiences in the digital landscape. Here's how MediaSavior implements mobile-first design to create impactful web experiences:
1. User-Centric Research
MediaSavior conducts user research to understand the needs, behaviors, and preferences of mobile users in Omaha. This research informs the design decisions, ensuring that the mobile design caters to user expectations.
2. Streamlined Navigation & Content Hierarchy
MediaSavior focuses on designing intuitive navigation and clear content hierarchy for mobile devices. They prioritize essential information and employ visual cues to guide users through the website seamlessly. This enhances engagement and reduces user frustration.
3. Optimal Performance & Speed
MediaSavior pays close attention to optimizing performance and speed for mobile devices. They employ techniques such as image optimization, caching, and the use of lightweight code to ensure fast loading times, providing a smooth browsing experience for mobile users.
4. Responsive Testing & Iteration
MediaSavior rigorously tests websites across different mobile devices and screen sizes to ensure optimal responsiveness. They make iterative improvements based on the test results, guaranteeing consistent user experiences across devices.
Mobile-first design has become crucial in today's digital landscape, with mobile devices dominating internet usage and e-commerce. By prioritizing mobile experiences, businesses in Omaha can meet the needs of their mobile users, enhance user experiences, and drive better outcomes. MediaSavior recognizes the influence of mobile-first design and implements it to create impactful and user-centered web experiences. Through responsive design, improved user experiences, increased conversion rates, and SEO benefits, MediaSavior ensures that businesses are well-positioned to engage mobile users effectively.
Recognized on MarketWatch, FOX, CBS, and NBC, MediaSavior is a trusted digital media company. They offer a range of services, from web design and AI consulting to drone videography and content creation. Call MediaSavior today at (531) 231-2231 or email [email protected]. |
From June 30th to July 4th, Origin Directory had the honor to co-sponsor the 47th anniversary of the International African Arts festival in Brooklyn held at For Greene’s Commodore Barry Park. This year was undoubtedly jam packed with astonishing performances and activities that celebrate African culture and family. Speaking of family, the festival was filled with dance, music, storytelling, and hand crafted goods for people of all ages. With vendors like Chic Arie, The Earth Center, The Sacred Healing Herb Center, Soma Fashions, E’Toy Experience, Colorful Roots, WAB Wear and many many more, the festival was a one stop shop for all your High end African fashion, healing, and food needs.
The entertainment lineup was also something that would make you want to stay all day. The performances would excite any cultural maven and music fan and even spoken word poets. Performers included the very talented avant-garde jazz and hard bop musician Reginald “Reggie” Workman who will play a tribute to John Coltrane; the world-renown Ballet Folklorico, an Afro-Cuban-Franco-Haitian folk and popular dance and music ensemble from Cuba; Akae Beka, the roots rock reggae band formerly known as Midnite; the Muntu Dance Theatre of Chicago; the Grammy-nominated jazz duo The Baylor Project featuring Jean Baylor and Marcus Baylor, and Neil Clarke’s Mongojazz Project. Other amazing preformers included spoken word, neo-soul artist Wordsmith; Ishangi Family African Dancers; Ed Stoute Ensemble, and calypso artist David Rudder. The festival’s closing performances featured Rene McLean, Urban Djeliya and Bongi Duma, who performed a tribute to Hugh Masekela.
Origin Directory had a great time sponsoring this event bein that it is the oldest and largest multi-disciplinary festivals dedicated to keeping African arts and culture in New York City. It’s been over four decades that this festival has thrived and we are looking forward to next year’s. There’s no festival that does art, family and music like the International African Arts Festival.
If you’re an event host or small business, you should check out Origin Directory also. Being one the the most all inclusive black business building websites, it will undoubtedly help your business grow. In addition to the website itself, Origin Directory offers crowd funding, networking, business venture connections and opportunities. Another gem of the site is the classifieds section allowing employers to post job openings, or even sell items. Our primary mission is to help black business grow and flourish economically. We recognize needs in the community that are going unacknowledged and therefore we set out to trigger definite change and consciousness in issues regarding expanding black business.
Please click here to check out the main website. Origin Directory will help unify local and intentional business right at your home computer. An emphasis on unity is at the core of Origin. Origin Directory believes that it is an imperative goal to aid one another in supporting a vision of social and economic evolution. Sign up for your free account today! |
Digital transformation has been extremely impactive and a term heard around the world in almost every industry, government included. Traditional roles of information technology asset management (ITAM) and software asset management (SAM) need to evolve and change to go beyond compliance and audits to ensure service is aligned with strategic IT initiatives that span across complex hybrid IT environments.
In mid-2020, Flexera conducted a survey with 461 global IT professionals (56 of whom were in government) that play significant roles in the SAM and ITAM processes within their organizations. The survey results were compiled and released in our inaugural Flexera 2021 State of ITAM Report. The report details the importance of IT asset management along with the current maturity of today’s ITAM teams; by determining the value they are delivering to their organization and how they serve the needs of the digital enterprise.
Why it matters where ITAM teams report
The reporting structure of ITAM teams can impact the focus of IT efforts, and typically influences the entire organization’s efforts. The figure below compares the diversity of where these teams report within Governmental organizations and the global comparison; showing that 5% more government ITAM teams report to the CIO/CTO. Despite their size, SAM teams are a critical element to understanding and controlling IT spend. They can greatly affect organizational efforts and the measured success of the IT organization.
Why Cross-Functional Collaboration is Important
SAM teams are a critical ITAM component and the ability to interact broadly with other IT functions can improve the success rate to accomplish their goals. Global SAM teams reported the most interaction with Infrastructure Management (55%), while government SAM teams reported 45% interaction. However, 50% of government SAM teams reported interaction with IT Service Management functions while global teams had 48% interaction.
While few SAM teams had significant interaction with the CIO/CTO (27% globally), an even smaller amount interacted with the cloud teams (24%). Government organizations had 32% of their SAM teams interacting with the CIO/CTO, and 20% interacting with the cloud teams. It’s important for SAM teams to address these gaps to ensure visibility and relevancy as IT becomes increasingly cloud-centric.
Software Optimization is impacted by SAM Maturity
For over the last decade SAM processes and best practices have been defined and refined. However, still less than half have made the step to advanced maturity. The responsibilities of SAM teams can be affected by where your organization falls on the maturity scale, and in the end determine the success your organization as a whole can achieve.
Those teams who tend to implement and focus mainly on audit and discovery, are in the beginner maturity level. Intermediate maturity can be defined when an organization implements ongoing tracking of software and the use of license positions, which are a precursor to being able to optimize activities. The image below compares where government organizations fall on the SAM maturity stages. 41% of government respondents have reached the advanced stages, compared to the 45% global respondents. SAM teams create the biggest impact to your organization, so it’s important to continue to work toward fully optimizing your software.
With maturity level affecting the responsibilities of SAM teams, it’s critical to broaden focus from basics such as software discovery, toward growing cloud and container environments. While SAM teams are often small, their responsibilities increase as SAM practices mature and organizations expand. It’s essential that SAM leaders enable their teams to fully impact their organizations strategic goals by prioritizing advancement through the maturity stages.
Is delivering value by reducing waste a challenge or opportunity?
Although minimizing wasted IT spend provides opportunity for savings or reallocation, it’s absolutely a challenge, and a large one in all organizations including government. With decentralized ownership of technology (SaaS, cloud, containers, and more) they can contribute to gaps in spend control and governance. Flexera found that respondents estimate 25% IT waste (desktop software, data center software and SaaS) on average, while most analysts estimate it to be at least 30%.
Flexera asked survey participants in all areas of the ITAM maturity stage to rank spend optimization. While all 5 challenges are the same, the order and rank of the challenges differed depending on where the organization fell on the maturity stage. Organizations who work to create scalable ITAM programs to keep up with strategic initiatives will continue to push the scope of SAM team responsibilities beyond audit and compliance.
COVID-19 and the push of SAM initiatives toward cost savings
SAM initiatives will often align with cost savings, and for good reason, 69% of global organizations and 62% of government organizations are planning to focus on optimizing and saving on software spend and within the next 12 months.
With the challenges of COVID-19 pandemic materializing, organizations are focusing on reducing cost structure and becoming more efficient across the entirety of their spend. With SAM teams expected to deliver much of those savings, there is an increased focus on SAM best practices. 15% of global respondents compared to 21% government organizations say they will have a decreased focus on audit response, however this year analysts are predicting that there might be an uptake in vendor audits to reduce negative revenue resulting from the pandemic.
Aligning SAM team’s success metrics to key Initiatives
The top 3 metrics that government SAM teams focus on are all related to cost savings, such as ‘hard’ savings on software, cost avoidance, and accurate license positions. This differs from the other global respondents whose initiatives are more geared toward compliance.
For most organizations, cost optimization activities translated directly into the greatest savings. These activities include reusing existing licenses, savings that result from vendor negotiations, and reducing maintenance spend on unused software. While government organizations have better alignment for SAM success metrics and organizational goals, it’s always important to continue to optimize success metrics to reflect outcomes from these types of activities to measure the true impact on strategic initiatives.
Journey toward scalability and maturity
Digital Transformation continues to be an important driver for organizations looking to increase savings and enhance their ITAM/SAM teams.
As organizations grow, it’s important for SAM teams to do the same by transitioning away from just compliance metrics. By advancing along the maturity stages and implementing best practices, your team can grow and focus on delivering initiatives that align with the overall business goals. With a growing focus on key initiatives such as cost savings, connecting with the CIO/CTO, and increasing cross functional collaboration beyond the IT organization, you can ensure the impact is delivered strategically to the entire organization.
By leveraging data and focusing alignment on key initiatives, government IT professionals can benchmark their own ITAM success and create both organization-wide success as well as significant cost savings.
Download the Flexera 2021 State of ITAM Report now for more insights and details regarding the maturity and impact of ITAM/SAM teams. |
DMT - KM4 BLACK/GREEN MTB Shoe
Please note: Due to the high demand of DMT shoes the availability might not be up-to-date. Contact us for the latest information on the availability and expected shipping!
Great all-around trail shoe with the comfort of hybrid knit construction.
SIZE 37 > 48
WEIGHT GR 305 (SIZE 42)
Hybrid Engineered knit upper
Breathable mesh for ventilation
BOA® Fit System with single L6 dial
Abrasion resistant coating on toe cap for added protection
Bicomponent Composite outsole with inserts for toe studs
Due to our heavy #shoedoping action right now, your desired cycling shoes may not be in stock, but don’t worry we can always get them to you from our suppliers & manufacturers.
Contact us [email protected] for more info on the delivery times on your shoes. |
When you fail to reduce your agreement to writing, there is the very real risk that you may be out of luck if the other party to the agreement breaches their end of the deal. And the reason has a name:
The Statute of Frauds.
This doctrine requires that certain categories of agreements must, as a matter of law, be reduced to writing. And if they aren't, a subsequent claim that the agreement was breached will likely be dismissed as a matter of law.
As with most rules, there are some ways to try to circumvent the Statute of Frauds - even if you failed to reduce your agreement to any form of writing. Perhaps the most practical way of doing so, however, is demonstrating that despite the lack of a writing, a significant part of the agreement had been performed, whose only real explanation would be that these actions were taken because a clear agreement had been reached.
In other words, if the actions that were performed were "merely steps taken in contemplation of a future agreement," that will not suffice to take a case outside the ambit of the Statute of Frauds. See, e.g., General Obligations Law 5-703; Messner Vetere Berger McNamee Schmetterer Euro RSCG v. Aegis Group, 93 N.Y.2d 229, 235, 237 (1999). |
It’s preposterous to open a business and operate it without a well-planned and well-written business plan. This is most especially important for a complex and competitive industry such as a hotel-based business. The business plan is the business owner’s roadmap on how to operate the different aspects of their business, what they want to achieve, and what financial, sales, and marketing conditions their business is in currently. However, creating a business plan is a big task that can be frustrating at times and some business owners give up because of it. It is important to remember that making a business plan can be a key to a business’s success; it is a requirement to propose investment opportunities to investors or screen your current business goals. If you need to create a business plan, this article will talk about how to create a hotel business plan.
10+ Hotel Business Plan Samples
1. Hotel Business Plan Template
2. Hotel Business Planner Template
3. Hotel Sales Business Plan Template
4. Hotel and Resort Sustainability Management Business Plan
5. Small Startup Hotel Business Plan
6. Hotel Market Analysis Business Plan
7. Bed and Breakfast Hotel Business Plan
8. Family Hotel businesses Strategic Plan
9. Sample Hotel Business Plan
10. Business Plan of a Three Star Hotel
11. Luxury Hotel and Residence Business Plan
What is a Business Plan?
A business plan is a written document that comprehensively describes how a business defines its objectives and outlines its methods of achieving them. It also serves as a roadmap for the business’s marketing, financial, and operational point of view. Business plans are usually a must-have for startups to give them a clear idea of how they want to run the business and where they want to go.
Details to Include in a Hotel Business Plan
1. Executive Summary
The executive summary sums up the entirety of the business plan. However, you can also use this part to highlight the two most important aspects of your business that motivates you to continue doing your operations:
- Mission statement: A one-line description explains why your hotel is in business, what needs you want to solve for your visions for your company to come true.
- Objectives statement: This outlines what you hope to accomplish in a certain timeline.
2. Company Analysis
Give more information about your hotel’s history, the services and perks you offer, and your unique selling points that make you stand out from your competitors.
3. Industry Analysis
Include the information you’ve gathered on the current industry trends and state of the market and how these factors will impact your hotel’s business. If you’re using the business plan as a proposal to investors, including this section is important so they can see how you understand the hotel industry. Knowing these factors is a keynote of making important decisions for your hotel.
4. Customer Analysis
You also need to include this section to show the important information you’ve gathered about your target market such as their geographic, demographic, socioeconomic, psychographic, and behavioral segmentation details. This will help explain what types of guests will mostly stay at your hotel. You can segway on explaining which features will be meeting the needs and wants of the target market with location, amenities, and services.
5. Competitive Analysis
Include also the research you’ve conducted about your competition with each of their strengths, weaknesses, occupancy rates, and market share. You can do this by making a SWOT analysis. Don’t forget to include details on what makes you different or stand out from them.
6. Strategic Plan
Your strategic plan should consist of the following:
- Marketing: Include details on how exactly you will attract guests, what message will you use for your marketing and promotion methods, what resources and channels will you use for marketing and promotion, etc.
- Distribution: What 3rd party channels will you use and what technology will you need to do this effectively?
- Revenue management: What pricing techniques will you use for your amenities and services? What will your payment and cancellation policies be? Which room types will you be selling, and how will they be marketed? Where can you compensate income or demand streams when necessary?
7. Operations Plan
Your operations plan is where you out on how you will run your hotel? Include the following elements in this plan:
- The number of staff and supervisors you need
- The job descriptions of your staff and management
- Work experience and career background of the staff and management
- The service standards
- Manual guidebook
- Details of the suppliers
- Inventory management
Don’t forget to also describe the management style of your hotel business. You can also state what uniquely qualifies you to make your hotel a success.
8. Financial Plan
Provide the start-up costs and capital investments of your hotel, the ongoing business costs, operational expenses, and revenue projections for the next five years.
How much profit does a hotel make per room?
The monthly average revenue per available room in 2020 was around 36 U.S. dollars for hotels in the United States.
How much does it cost to run a hotel?
The cost to open a small hotel in the United States is around $1,000,000. The cost could even go higher than a million dollars.
Once you’re done writing your business plan, review it and revise any errors that you found. Errors such as grammar, spelling, and inaccurate information should be removed. If you find the task quite overwhelming, ask help from a colleague to help you write the business plan. You can also let the rest of your employees read the business plan so you can ask for suggestions on how you can improve it. Because no investor or lender will be interested in your hotel business if you cannot present a clear plan to them. To help you get started making the business plan, download our free sample templates above to use as your guide!
FREE 11+ Construction Business Development Plan Samples in MS Word | Google Docs | PDF
FREE 20+ Budget Planning Samples in PDF
FREE 20+ Workout Plan Samples in MS Word | Google Docs | Pages | PDF
FREE 20+ Lesson Planning Samples in PDF
FREE 14+ Employee Work Plan Templates in PDF | MS Word
FREE 8+ Sample Weekly Meal Plan Templates in PDF
FREE 17+ Sample Classroom Management Plan Templates in PDF | MS Word
FREE 13+ Homework Planner Samples and Templates in PDF | MS Word
FREE 14+ Leadership Development Plan Samples in MS Word | Pages | Google Docs | PDF
FREE 15+ Sample Math Lesson Plan Templates in PDF | MS Word
FREE 11+ Gym Business Plan Templates in PDF | MS Word
FREE 13+ Sample Lesson Plan Templates in MS Word | PDF
FREE 15+ Music Lesson Plan Samples in MS Word | PDF
FREE 19+ Construction Safety Plan Templates in PDF | MS Word
FREE 9+ Sample Sharing Plan Templates in PDF |
SCM API 2.0 Release Take 2
In January we
announced the release of SCM API 2.0.
After the original release was published we identified four new high-impact
issues. We decided to remove the new versions of the plugins from the update
center until those issues could be resolved. The issues have now been resolved
and the plugins are now available from the update center.
Summary for busy Jenkins Administrators
Upgrading should make... |
This post contains affiliate links.
I’ve been working with Chroma yarn in both fingering weight and worsted weight and I think its time for a review. I’ll say right up front that I’m addicted to yarn. I can usually find something to like about most of them. But I do like Chroma, very much so. It stacks up nicely against its competitors.
I had a ball of Chroma Worsted weight in colorway Dear Diary.
I made it into a cowl I called Chromatism.
Its a design that I think shows off the Chroma yarn quite well but it will work with any worsted weight yarn. You can grab a copy for yourself right here.
I also had a ball of Chroma Fingering weight in colorway Manzanita.
I made that ball into a shawlette called Shetland Glory.
Its a freebie too. Garb your copy of that one right here.
And now I’m working on turning this ball of Chroma Fingering …
into a pair of fingerless gloves.
Obviously they aren’t ready for their public debut yet but when they are I’ll have the free pattern here.
As I said, I think I’ve worked with this line of yarn enough to have a few helpful and hopefully intelligent things to say about it. While you never really know if you’re going to like a yarn until you give it a try for yourself, a review never hurts right? Right.
What is Chroma Yarn?
Chroma comes is two weights, two thicknesses:
- fingering, aka #2
- worsted, aka #4
Chroma is a long colorway yarn. That’s a little yarn industry term which means there will be long stretches of one color and before it changes to another color. These yarns are also called self-striping because that is exactly what they do. They add stripes to your project and you don’t have to fuss with changing yarn, cutting yarn, or weaving in ends.
Chroma is made from one ply. By that I mean it is one single strand of yarn. Most long colorway yarns are single ply yarns. The fiber is dyed “in the wool” and then spun into yarn. That’s how they achieve the self striping effect.
Chroma is made from 70% superwash merino and 30% nylon. Nylon gives yarn strength and durability. It will hold up better than a 100% wool yarn if made into socks or mittens or anything that gets hard wear.
What I Like about Chroma Yarn
I’m an aficionado of long colorway yarns. By definition they are muti-colored which is always a bonus in my eyes. Working with all those changing and shifting colors in one ball of yarn always seems like cheating to me, like I’m getting out of doing the hard work of changing yarns. I do like cheating. So I’ve tried a lot of different long colorway line. I think I like Chroma best. Here is why
- Its soft. Chroma is soft enough for me to wear against my skin, against my neck even. To me Chroma feels softer than Gina and Kaleidoscope (two other long colorway yarns) and light years softer than Noro Kreuyon.
- It doesn’t have that over-twist problem. If you’ve ever worked with single ply yarns that you’ve probably noticed that many of them are over-spun. They are not balanced and you can see that by the way the twist and curl back on themselves as soon as you start working with them. In all fairness, it is nearly impossible to spin a perfectly balanced single ply yarn. They all have to be over-spun a little to keep the fibers from separating. Chroma is almost balanced though. I appreciate that because it means I don’t have to spend time untwisting the yarn.
- The shifting colors in a ball of yarn are very consistent. Some of the colors make thin stripes and some make thicker stripes but they are repeating throughout the ball. You know what you are getting next when you work with it. I can’t say that about some of the others.
- I like the price. You get 100g for $9.99. That’s true for both the worsted and the fingering weight. Last time I checked Gina (which used to be my fav long colorway yarn) was 50g for $6 and Noro Kreuyon was 50g for $9.
- You can get matching solid colors. I feel like I should add exclamation points to that but I’ll restrain myself. Instead I’ll just say that as a designer and a fan of long colorway yarns, I’m often trying to find a solid that would pair up nicely with a long colorway to do stranded knitting, or mixing stripes, or mosaic, or something. My search usually leads me to Malabrigo, which makes single ply solids in worsted, but with Chroma you don’t have to look. If you want a solid, they got ’em. Now there are only four solid colors (I think they are called natural, black, gray, and brown) and they are kind of boring when compared to their colorful cousins. Meh. They are for background.
(A Malabrigo solid is what I picked to go with two colorways of Gina in my Cadence scarf. If I’d realized that Chroma had both the long colorways and a few solids to pick from I would have made that scarf in all Chroma. !!! Sorry, I just had to get that out of my system.)
Anything I don’t like?
It does not stand up well to being ripped out and re-worked. Its a soft, and softly spun, single ply yarn. It has a fine halo of fibers that stick out all over the yarn. When you try to pull out a row (or three) those stick-y out fibers grab on to each other. Yeah, this is a yarn that resists ripping. And once you have pulled out your rows, that soft yarn is a little worse for wear. You’ll get two, maybe three tries, to get the stitches looking the way you want them. After that, this yarn is toast. Don’t bother ripping. Its time to cut and start with fresh yarn.
The worsted weight yarn is a little splitty. This won’t be an issue for crocheters. Its not so splitty that your hook will separate the yarn. And the fingering weight is fine enough to make this a non-issue. But if you have the worsted weight and you’re using lace-tip knitting needles, you may find yourself splitting the yarn every now and then. Or maybe that was just me trying to knit too fast.
Overall I like Chroma Worsted and Chroma Fingering yarns. I’d recommended them to anyone who wants to play with a long colorway yarn. Also this is a Knit Picks product and their company policy is “If for any reason you are dissatisfied with your order, please contact us within 60 days and we will be happy to process your return or exchange”. (Love that about them and its one of the big reasons I signed up to be an affiliate for Knit Picks.) So if you do order Chroma and don’t love it like I do, you just send it back.
But you won’t. Its yarn. Very soft, cuddly, colorful yarn. at that. Who sends that back? Not us. |
EDC Las Vegas‘s 20th anniversary was filled with three nights of great performances across 8 stages. In additional to the phenomenal lineup and top quality production, Anna Lunoe and Alison Wonderland went down in history as the first female solo acts to perform the kineticFIELD Main Stage.
Gender is irrelevant when it comes to music, the art should speak for itself.
Unfortunately, female artists have been a minority in the dance music world for years and the few female DJs usually pertain to the house/tech-house genres. More bass focused genres such as trap, dubstep, and future bass are mostly male-dominated with the exception of a handful of female producers such as Nina Las Vegas, Mija, CRAY, and Yntendo.
With both Anna Lunoe and Alison Wonderland killing their performances on the main stage, hopefully this will inspire women to cast their doubts aside and enter into the dance music scene.
Alison Wonderland said:
“This is the first year EDC Las Vegas has had women on the main stage. I feel honoured and also a massive responsibility to represent what’s right.” |
In order to write any strong research paper or project what comes first is the choice of a topic. While topic selection might sound an easy task, there are several dilemmas that students face. For example, an area may be interesting, it may not be relevant or an area may be highly appealing but there is limited research that is available on the topic. It is because of such reasons, many novice researchers need help in Topic Selection.
Assignmentwriting.ae is the renowned company offering the best Writing Services in Dubai, UAE. We have skilled and qualified academic writers who possess knowledge in a variety of fields including management, business administration, marketing, human resources, psychology, law, medicine, and many more. These writers are aware of key issues or concerns of the organizations and society at large and help you select a topic that is relevant as well as interesting.
One of the key challenges that researchers face is finding resources and studies related to the topic. This is important in any research because only after a good review of existing studies researchers can gain an in-depth understanding of the research area. To this end selection of an appropriate topic is extremely important. While the topic needs to be well-researched it also needs to point out a unique research contribution that rationalizes the need for the study. Our writers are well-aware of such aspects and help you frame the research topic that helps you gather studies as well as point towards a differentiated contribution. We help you find relevant resources and study materials surrounding the research issue and assist in conducting a literature review as well. With our help in the topic selection, you can easily prepare your proposal and get approval from your university.
A crucial aspect of topic selection is identifying the methodological approach of the study. Some research topics are essentially quantitative and aim to gain measurable research outcomes and the title clearly indicates the same. On the other hand, some topics are relatively less researched and therefore a qualitative approach is required. The topic title and the methodology needed to be well-aligned so that the study is able to derive the desired result. However, often inexperienced research scholars fail to understand such aspects and fall in the trap of methodological dilemmas or issues that lead to poor project outcomes at a later stage. We as professional writing company ensure that such things do not happen. At first, our writers counsel the researchers to understand their level of comfort with qualitative and quantitative methodology and assess the methodological approach that can best meet the research aims and objectives. Such analysis at the very beginning of the study helps the researchers gain greater confidence and control over the project and ensure that there are no issues at an advanced stage of research.
Finally, research topic selection also determines your methods and techniques of data collection. So if your topic demands to collect qualitative and detailed information from the sample you have to conduct in-depth interviews or focus group study. Similarly, if your research is qualitative you may have to do a large-scale study using a survey. Such considerations need to be taken into account prior to topic selection. Our proficient writers help you conduct a feasibility analysis and understand the available options that offer you strong guidance on topic selection. With our writing services and consultation, you can be rest assured of the alignment of your topic with the research purposes, methodology, and data collection. All these assistance and guidance can help you set the right footstep and achieve success in your valued endeavors. |
As social housing providers – together with the charitable and not-for-profit sector, seek to optimise VAT supply chain efficiencies – the use of design, and build structures remains popular. But this means that there has been corresponding activity on the part of HMRC looking into the integrity of these structures. We have also identified that as HMRC personnel return from Covid or Brexit redeployment, the level of traditional HMRC VAT audit activity has increased exponentially. This HMRC “interest” can result in detailed investigations, with lengthy correspondence and in some cases the denial of VAT claims.
This article will explore the potential pitfalls of design and build arrangements alongside recommendations for preserving their integrity and protecting VAT recovery.
What is a design and build arrangement?
The construction of new homes is zero-rated for VAT purposes, as is the construction of new relevant residential buildings such as care homes and new relevant charitable buildings used for non-business purposes.
However, there are still circumstances where VAT is chargeable in the supply chain for these developments. As many of the building owners will not be able to recover this VAT, due to making exempt or non-business use of the property, this extra VAT represents a further financial burden.
In the case of new homes, only the supply and fit of building materials can be zero-rated. This means VAT may be incurred on the professional services of architects, surveyors, project managers etc. Where the building owner is a housing association making exempt supplies of residential letting this will be irrecoverable.
Similarly with new care homes or charitable buildings, the VAT on professional services will represent a sticking cost as the provision of residential care is a VAT exempt activity or in the case of a charity, the property may be used for non-business purposes, such as a place of worship.
To mitigate this, some organisations set up a separately VAT registered design and build company. This company is then interposed in the supply chain between the various suppliers and the property owner. Its remit is to provide a comprehensive design and build service. In order to do so it contracts directly with third party suppliers for the provision of professional and construction services and makes a single supply of zero-rated design and build services to the housing association/charity. The design and build company can recover VAT incurred on professional fees as relating to an onward taxable (albeit zero-rated) supply, thus the potentially irrecoverable VAT is “absorbed”.
Design and build arrangements are generally recognised and accepted by HMRC, provided they are implemented effectively and based on sound commercial practices. Unfortunately, this often falls by the wayside, particularly when supplies are being made between associated entities, and more often than not, when there is a loss of corporate memory. This can lead to HMRC to challenge arrangements which, in their opinion, fall short.
As well as agreements between the design and build company and third party providers. Key features which are often overlooked include:
- Ensuring that the contracts are in place. We would expect as a minimum for there to be:
- Design and build agreement between the design and build company and the registered provider.
- Funding agreement between the registered provider and the design and build company.
- Service level support agreement between the registered provider and the design and build company .
- That the design and build company has access to adequate funding.
- Invoices are issued and payment made.
- A percentage uplift is applied, so that a profit is realised in the hands of the D&B Co.
- The transactions are included in the statutory accounts.
- Any overheads or administration costs incurred by the main organisation are recharged back to the design and build company.
- Day to day governance procedures are in place.
In essence the design and build company is required to act as if it is a third party supplier to its associated entity. Failure to attend to the arms-length detail of the arrangements leave it open to challenge by HMRC as a “sham”. It cannot be simply a paper trail.
Why getting it right matters
If HMRC consider that a particular arrangement does not reflect commercial practices, they may seek to “unravel” the supply chain, effectively removing the design and build company from the equation with the result that VAT on the professional services becomes an irrecoverable cost to the property owner. Additionally, penalties and interest may be imposed on what HMRC consider overclaimed VAT by the design and build company.
We strongly encourage organisations considering these arrangements to ensure the aforementioned commercial elements are in place to maintain the operational integrity of the structure. Regular reviews and provision of training for the staff involved in implementation, so the rationale behind the structure is understood, should give optimal protection against HMRC scrutiny.
Please get in touch with the RSM team if you wish to check whether there are any risks with your arrangements. |
Researchers in Europe reported that treatment with modified-release sildenafil significantly reduced the frequency of attacks of Raynaud’s phenomenon in patients with limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis (lcSSc), also known as scleroderma. The double-blind, placebo-controlled trial found that sildenafil was well tolerated with only some subjects experiencing minor or moderate side effects. Full findings are available in the March issue of Arthritis & Rheumatism, a journal published by Wiley-Blackwell on behalf of the American College of Rheumatology (ACR).
Raynaud’s phenomenon (RP) is a major feature of systemic sclerosis and causes the blood vessels supplying the skin surface to spasm in response to cold temperatures or stress. These vasospasms can affect the fingers, toes, ears and other skin surfaces and can lead to serious complications in patients with systemic sclerosis such as digital ulceration, soft tissue or bone infection, or gangrene. According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS) this phenomenon occurs in 90% of all scleroderma cases.
The multicenter trial of sildenafil was conducted in 57 men and women (ages18-75) with Raynaud’s secondary to lcSSc between January and June 2003. For one to two weeks prior to the start of treatment, patients recorded the number of RP attacks. To be eligible for the study, subjects had to report at least 7 RP attacks per week. RP was defined as an episode where fingers or toes turned white (pallor) followed by blue (cyanosis) and/or red (erythema) in response to cold or emotion. At the onset of the treatment phase, participants were randomized in a one-to-one ratio, receiving either 100 mg of modified-release sildenafil for three days followed by a 200-mg modified-release dose daily for 25 days, or placebo for 28 days. Researchers used a two-step dosing to enhance tolerability, and a modified-release formulation to permit once daily dosing.
“Our findings indicate that modified-release sildenafil reduced the frequency of Raynaud’s attacks in patients with systemic sclerosis,” confirmed lead author, Ariane Herrick, M.D., from the University of Manchester in the U.K. Results showed a 44% reduction in attacks per week (from baseline to day 28) for subjects receiving sildenafil treatment compared with 18% in the placebo group. Researchers also reported that the mean number of attacks per week improved from 30.5 at baseline to 18.7 after sildenafil treatment, compared with 25.0 at baseline to 19.3 after placebo treatment.
Secondary endpoints, including Raynaud’s Condition Score, duration of attacks, and RP pain score, were not significantly different between the two groups. The most frequent adverse events reported were headache and indigestion with the majority of these events being mild or moderate. Researchers did not observe any serious adverse events. Dr. Herrick concluded, “Modified-release sildenafil was well tolerated and reduced the attack frequency in patients with Raynaud’s secondary to lcSSc. Our results, coupled with existing medical evidence of the favorable safety profile of sildenafil in non-SSc patient populations, may offer a beneficial treatment option in lcSSc patients with secondary Raynaud’s.”
Article: “Modified-Release Sildenafil Reduces Raynaud’s Phenomenon Attack Frequency in Limited Cutaneous Systemic Sclerosis.” Ariane L. Herrick, Frank van den Hoogen, Armando Gabrielli, Nihad Tamimi, Carol Reid, Damian O’Connell, Maria-Dolores Va´zquez-Abad, and Christopher P. Denton. Arthritis & Rheumatism; Published Online: February 25, 2011 (DOI: 10.1002/art.30195); Print Issue Date: March 2011. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/art.30195/abstract.
This study is published in Arthritis & Rheumatism. Media wishing to receive a PDF of the article may contact [email protected].
About the Journal
Arthritis & Rheumatism is an official journal of the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) and the Association of Rheumatology Health Professionals (ARHP), a division of the College, and covers all aspects of inflammatory disease. The American College of Rheumatology (www.rheumatology.org) is the professional organization who share a dedication to healing, preventing disability, and curing the more than 100 types of arthritis and related disabling and sometimes fatal disorders of the joints, muscles, and bones. Members include practicing physicians, research scientists, nurses, physical and occupational therapists, psychologists, and social workers. For details, please visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/10.1002/(ISSN)1529-0131.
Wiley-Blackwell is the international scientific, technical, medical, and scholarly publishing business of John Wiley & Sons, with strengths in every major academic and professional field and partnerships with many of the world’s leading societies. Wiley-Blackwell publishes nearly 1,500 peer-reviewed journals and 1,500+ new books annually in print and online, as well as databases, major reference works and laboratory protocols. For more information, please visit www.wileyblackwell.com or our new online platform, Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com), one of the world’s most extensive multidisciplinary collections of online resources, covering life, health, social and physical sciences, and humanities. |
Bridge housing is a temporary facility constructed on City-owned property to quickly provide housing to residents living on the street. All Bridge housing offers on-site services like case management, mental health care, substance abuse treatment and housing placement. All of these resources are designed to help residents stabilize their lives and transition to permanent housing. The Bridge Home at St. Andrews is one of the latest efforts by the City of Los Angeles to house homeless individuals while simultaneously providing wrap around services. This temporary facility was constructed in just 18 months and will house 100 South Los Angeles residents. The St. Andrews shelter includes a dining facility and features a world class art mural, outdoor communal space and a dog park. |
Oct 19, 2019
Have fun! Best tip I could ever give.
This week my husband Ryan (Good Karma Sportfishing) and I took a day to go fun fishing. This has always been very stressful for me mentally because I have a hard time taking a day off and relaxing. Being that we were both laid off at the same time, I always felt like if I wasn't working we were going to fail. I have had to work on this a lot over the years and Thursday was fun! Plus we caught 3 nice wahoo!
I also talk about setting intentions, being present and the "Keys Disease." Enjoy!
Thank you for listening! Please share with a friend.
Follow on IG or LI. Would love to hear from you!
Podcasters Paradise is a great course with full support not only from John Lee Dumas and Kate Erickson but also the community. It's how we got started. Feel free to reach out to me at [email protected] if you have any questions. Affiliate Link below to sign up for their free webinar. |
HA Motorsports ECU jumper harness for installing an 02-04 Acura RSX ECU into the 2005-2006 Acura RSX chassis. This can ONLY be used with a specially modified ECU that is prepared by Hondata for use in the 05-06 Acura RSX. You can NOT use a standard 02-04 RSX ECU or 02-04 RSX Kpro ECU in the 05-06 RSX, it must be specially modified by Hondata such as the ECU in our 05/06 RSX Kpro ECU package.
Uses all new OEM connectors for OE quality fitment. All HA Motorsports ECU jumper harnesses are constructed using cross-linked automotive TXL wire that exceeds OEM specifications and is extremely durable. Built right here at our facility in the USA!
All HA Motorsports ECU's, products, and services include a One Full-Year VIP Warranty
QUESTIONS & ANSWERSAsk a Question
Do you offer a harness to adapt the newer 05-06 ecu to the 02-04 rsx? |
March 17, 2018: This article is primarily about how to buy property in Costa Rica with a limited budget, which is a timeless topic. However, there are a few dated points regarding available properties as well as my referencing one of my Tico Times articles, which has been moved or removed.
I’ve just submitted an article to Tico Times about the time we are in right now that is favorable for spec home building. Now let’s add to this another factor that is not as obvious. Well… it is actually every bit as obvious. It’s just that it is hidden, which is a gracious way of saying: neglected. And by virtue of it being neglected, it is a bit unknown.
The Zone is in an expansion period. There is a strong market here for existing houses. Many of these homes are in the $400,000 – $1,000,000 market and beyond. The realtors here are doing well selling these properties. When I get an ocean view house listing in the $350,000 range, I view it as solid gold, because this price point is in high demand, and relative to our market here, is in the low side of the range. It will likely sell quickly.
There is little to no financing on the purchase of a house in Costa Rica. This means that the buyer of a house needs to be liquid starting at right around $350,000. What about those that aren’t packing this amount of ready cash?
The Hidden Market:
One of my sellers of a $60,000 property has consulted with me about how he can sell his property. This man knows his way around The Zone’s real estate market. He has been involved in millions of dollars worth of property business during his time here. Why did he feel the need to consult with me? Answer: Because I took his listing.
He can’t get any of the local real estate guys out to his property to take the listing. They are not interested. Despite being low priced, his property represents a considerable amount of listing work. The real estate guy’s perspective is that he can spend his time taking a listing for, say, a $750,000 house, or for this man’s property that pays less than a tenth of the house. Duh!
I recently took a listing on a small, 1 bedroom, 1 bath house nearby to where I live in Playa Hermosa, which is a small Tico (Costa Rican) pueblo just north of Uvita. It had been refurbished by an investor. He had found an older Tico house that he fortified, re-tiled throughout, put in a small pool and generally fixed it up. The resulting house offered what many are looking for but are having a very difficult time finding: “Ocean view home, with pool for $129,000, 7 minutes from the grocery store”. Yowza! This took me less than 3 months to sell (quick by Costa Rica standards), and I continue to receive inquiries on the property. I wish that I had another dozen of these. Alas, I don’t. But, the same (or similar) effect of this property can be achieved in other ways.
Cracking the Hidden Market Nut: Buy one of the available lots on the market, build a modest but nice home on it, and you are in it for less than $300,000. You can then live in this house, or you can put it on the market in the under $300,000 range.
In my Tico Times article, I spell out a scenario where the house is priced at $429,000. Getting a house on the market for under $300k and that is well designed and well built, will result in a line at the door.
Properties similar to the Little House I had at $129k are nearly non-existent. These are so extremely rare that, even with the buy-and-build approach, are difficult to duplicate – difficult but not impossible. And this is the Hidden Market here.
If you’re reading this and wondering how you can bring a limited budget to the table and still own a home here in The Zone, you are looking into the Hidden Market. It may be that you’ve done some searching, and perhaps you’ve even found some properties that look like they’ll work for your budget. But then when you inquire, or look a little deeper into it, you find out why the property is priced as it is. It may be way out in the sticks, or the property itself may have some problems that explain why it is priced so low.
The caveat to solving the Hidden Market problem is that currently, all of the solutions I know of require buying raw land and then building. This is beyond what many are looking for or are willing to do. However, if you’ve got a limited budget, and you really want to own a home here in The Zone, consider buying and building. Your possibilities are: 1) wait for another Little House option to come on the market, or 2) buy one of the low priced, but good, raw land options and then build on it. If you are one of those that say “I can’t build in a foreign land”, then you are going to need to go with option #1. It may be a long wait.
The purpose of this article is not to go into the ins and outs of building here. That is for another article (or post your question below). Suffice it to say that there are some good options for doing so, and that some have even had good experiences building in absentia. I’m hoping that this information will help what I feel to be a rather large segment of the buying population who are frustrated by their inability to find a property in their budget.
Let’s get started. Here are a few properties right now that I feel qualify for the Hidden Market handle:
All listings below are sold.
Ready to build, all services in, about 5 minutes to the grocery store and 10 to the beach. Ocean view, but in a very nice area.
Inquire about this property
|One half acre of nearly all usable land. Located about 4 minutes to the grocery store. Beautiful location. The services are in.
|South of Uvita:SOLD
Centrally located between Uvita & Ojochal. Looking straight out to the Roca Ballena configuration. This lot is ready to build. The water will need to be run from a neighbor’s well system. The electric is at the road the runs by the property. Ocean view including the Roca Ballena formation.
|A sort of companion article with links just posted: “Disappearing Breed: Under $100k Ocean View Lots”
If you haven’t read the Tico Times article that I reference at the start of this article, do so. You can scale down the costs outlined there for construction to calculate if you can buy one of these properties and then build on it. Ah what the heck, I’ll do some of it here. (I’ve hit my 1,000 word limit. As a blogger I’m told that you, dear reader, have a declining attention span for reading such length. Let’s prove ‘em wrong.)
Let’s find you a builder who can build your house for $85.00 per foot. Let’s say that you want to build a 1,200 sq. ft. home. Your building costs will be $102,000. If you want a pool, add $15,000. And then let’s add another $10,000 for permits, landscaping and incidentals. So your costs are right around $130,000. Add the price of your property and you’ve got your Hidden Market home.
Fiddle with these numbers. Keep in mind that we are in Costa Rica for a reason. And this reason isn’t to be sitting inside watching the tele. Build your house cheap. This isn’t to say “low quality”. Just enclose & secure the bedrooms, bathrooms and (if you like) a media room. Go ahead and have plenty of areas under roof, but who needs walls? Your kitchen can even be open-air here. What we need is a place to sit, do yoga, talk with friends etc… that is protected from the sun and the rain. That $85.00 per foot figure can be pushed down.
Or try this: buy that $60,000 property, build a decent abode on it for $70,000, and you’ve duplicated the Little House scenario, just without the ocean view. |
Millions of middle-aged men and women now feel like they have grown over the mountain peak. People sport lots of belly fat and look old, while their aging immune systems and memory skills are equally as beaten upward. It is only natural. After all, the brain releases fewer and fewer important hormones, like testosterone, over a while. The good news is that vehicle have to be left empty handed, since the best testosterone therapy can quickly and safely restore your fleeting youth.
Before deciding on a dating site, determine your dating preference and determine whether you wish to register to acquire specialty dating website. May find sites for several religions or ethnic groups, or hobbies and special interests.
This way, you should search through all the competing guys on there help. This is a good way to judge how much competition there is on the online market place Dating site you’ve chosen and which kind of men happen to be up to prevent.
Look in the Love Tests that you present in order to date. Envision that your date expected you prush out a the same Love Clinical tests and studies. How would you score on extremely Love Examines? Do you bring everything to rapport that you desire in get back? If not, why not? Why has sucralose so vital that ask yourself these queries?
Millions of great Single men and women seeking love online would disagree with you, discussing excuse isn’t true. Are you see the way your limiting belief is blocking you from meeting new single family and finding your ideal love match?
Speak within the heart even though it light and fun when you meet a match throughout a video chew the fat. 오피사이트 before you modify into your pjs for the night, so that you look and feel your day-to-day best. Question about qualities or strengths you offer or seek in rapport to help you choose really best Love match.
Next look at your profile and be sure its fun, flirty and interesting. Beware of too many sentences that using “I like this” or “I do that.” Your profile should be descriptive and interesting so some guy reading it wants to email you right incorrect.
I suggest you fake it unless you want to feel everything. Engage in daily acts of platonic love and verify that this sparks physical dreams. Through your loving actions you feel love doing his thing. |
The trailer behind the truck is something that you may never think about in great detail. As you pass a semi, you may take the time to see how long it is and wonder - will I ever get around this semi? At ground level, you can see the tires that are as tall as you and everything under the trailer, the hoses that are in front of the trailer wheels, the rail with the holes in them, the hanging turn signals on some of the trailers, the lights on the side, and then the connecting hoses to/from truck to trailer. You may also wonder "how do they hook that trailer to the truck?" Or maybe not.
When you back under the trailer, you line up the tractor wheels to the sides of the trailer and slowly back under it. If the trailer was properly parked, you will see it lift some and know that you can now back under it with out high hooking—having the trailer pin miss the 5th wheel completely and crash into the rear of your truck. That would not be a good thing. You hear it click into place and you do the tug test to make sure the trailer is fastened to the truck. You get out and look at the 5th wheel under the trailer to actually see that bar slide into place and lock the pin in. Now you can hook up the 3 hoses and raise the landing gear. Each trailer is also different with the landing gear. You either pull/push the handle in/out to get the pressure off the landing gear and then turn clockwise or counter clockwise till you feel the pressure leave. Now you can push/pull the lever in/out and crank at a fast speed to raise the landing gear up.
There are a lot of things a driver deals with when getting that trailer assigned to them. Is the trailer sealed up so you can't open the doors and check the load and see where the end pallets are? If the papers for the load say you weigh 44,000 pounds and you see the trailer wheels are almost in the center of the trailer or at the rear of the trailer, you know you get to slide the wheels to balance the weight on the axles. If you can take a look at the load to make sure the loader did not put all 44,000 pounds in the first six feet of the trailer, which has happened, you can check the location of the last pallets. You will see on the trailer that it is divided by panels on the outside via lots of rivets which of course match the inside. So now you count the panels from the door to the last pallets and see that they are four panels from the door. Now you check your tire position and see how far you need to move them forward/backwards to that specific panel. I put the rear tires (not the front tires) under that fourth or even fifth panel from the doors to have the extra weight on that rear axle.
To get this done, you need to pull the out the handle by the rear wheels - or if you get a newer trailer that has the new push buttons, that is even better and easier to deal with. We have the handle trailer. If all goes well for you to do this by yourself, you pull out the handle and drop it into the groove to lock it in. This will take the four pins that are about four holes apart on the newer trailers and not the six feet and push them out of the rail holes. You have already hooked up the hoses from the truck to the trailer. Now you get into the truck and leave the trailer brakes alone - the red knob. Push in the yellow brake knob for the tractor, and now you can back up to bring the trailer wheels forward, or you go forward to bring the trailer wheels backwards to the desired area. Get out and walk to the back to see if you are ready to push in that lever. Once you push in that lever you may have to slide a little bit more to get the pins back into the holes to lock the wheels into place. Each hole moved is 250 pounds taken off/added to another axle.
If you get a trailer where the mechanics refuse to grease/service this part of the trailer, you will need to get help by having someone pull that lever out and hold it while you rock the truck to get the pins to release to slide the wheels. You may even need your hammer to pound the pins out of the holes. When you get the wheels where needed, you can go to the nearest truck stop to weigh your load. Now your trip assignment begins to get the load safely to its destination.
Drivers go through this daily and our government thinks anyone can hop in a semi and drive one. There is so much more that we must know to be safe and professional. This is just a small part of it that I wanted to share with you. We are considered unclassified in the job section even though we are called professional drivers. |
A couple of years ago one of my kids gave me Andrew Roberts’ biography of Napoleon for Christmas. I read it, not too long after, and thought was terrific. I wrote about it on this site, and Andrew twitted me on Twitter for reviewing the book five years after it came out.
So when another of my kids gave me Andrew’s new biography of George III for Christmas last year, I thought I’d better get cracking and read it. Which takes a while, since it is around 700 pages long. I started The Last King of America in February, but we were traveling a lot then, and since the book weighs in at 10 or 15 pounds it can’t readily be stuffed into a briefcase. Also, you can’t take it to the gym. So along with George III, I interspersed books that I could download on my E-reader.
When I was a kid, Rex Stout’s Nero Wolfe books were everywhere. But they seemed déclassé to me, probably because my parents didn’t read them, so I had never tried one. In the last few years I have read a lot of Agatha Christie mysteries, which are generally good and offer a wonderful window into English life over a period of several decades, so I thought Stout could be a good change of pace. I went back and forth between George III and five or six Nero Wolfe books, which I enjoyed. Along with their crime plots, the Stout books offer a nice glimpse of life in New York during that city’s golden age.
When I was much younger I enjoyed Joseph Conrad, and thought I would try him again. So, along with George III and Nero, I read Victory, which I remembered as a favorite from long ago, and liked very much again. I never did read some of Conrad’s most famous works, like Lord Jim and Heart of Darkness, so I downloaded Lord Jim. It was good, but I didn’t enjoy it as much as Victory.
A couple of weeks ago I had an Achilles tendon reconstructed, which means I have been mostly laid up. Trying to make the best of the situation, I decided to read something that, without this unique opportunity, I would never get to. (At this point I was halfway through George III.) So I decided to re-read Ulysses. I know what you are thinking: reading it once is a mistake, reading it twice is wanton folly.
But, being now around 60 percent of the way through, I am actually enjoying Ulysses. Two observations strike me. First, one should read it quickly. Don’t worry about the fact that half the time you don’t understand what is going on. It doesn’t matter. The parts that are important to pick up are clearly flagged. Read it for fun. Second, I first read Ulysses when I was 18 or 19 years old. That is too young. There are many references, not to mention experiential resonances, that I understand today but couldn’t have gotten as a teenager. I think there is something to be said for focusing on objective studies that you can memorize when you are young, like math and physics, and saving literature and the arts for when you are older.
Of course, I can’t go for long on an exclusive diet of Joyce. So, as with George III, I need to digress occasionally. C.J. Box–Chuck to his friends–is the author of two of the best thriller series now in progress. He is best known for the Joe Pickett books, but his Cody Hoyt/Cassie Dewell series is also excellent. As it happens, the 22nd book in the Pickett series, Shadows Reel, was published a month or so ago, so I downloaded it and, as usual with Box’s books, finished it in less than 24 hours.
For those who are not aware, Joe Pickett is a Wyoming game warden. As with all thrillers, violence is not uncommon: Wyoming is seemingly in the midst of a long-term crime wave. The Pickett books, which always rocket to the top of the best-seller lists, are excellent thrillers with a couple of nice twists. Joe and his wife Marybeth and their three daughters age in real time (unlike, say, Nero Wolfe). So if you have been following from the beginning, you have seen them get close to 20 years older. And Box likes to work current issues into the Pickett books. Often the issues are environmental, but in Shadows Reel Antifa plays a significant (and appropriately villainous) part.
If you don’t know the Pickett books and are interested in checking them out, don’t start with #22. You should start at or close to the beginning. If you keep reading, you will come to the book (I forget the title) where Chuck introduced a character named Hinderaker. He is a used car dealer, a totally honorable profession if you ask me, and Box swears that he meant nothing derogatory. Unfortunately, this fascinating character has not reappeared in any subsequent volume. Maybe he will pop up again one of these days in a more significant role.
So now it is back to Ulysses, and when that book is done it will be back to The Last King of America, with, no doubt, some further frolics and detours. And don’t worry, Andrew: I like Last King a lot, and my review, such as it is, will appear way sooner than five years post-publication. |
Gatundu South MP Hon Moses Kuria has completely lost it, he is gone bananas, total crazy, he now claims President Uhuru is after his life and that the System wants to kill him the way it did during Mzee Jomo Kenyatta era.
“So what after you kill me? Am I the last one who will speak the truth to you and your power ?”- Hon Kuria says in another post.
Hon Kuria has taken to social media where he listed all politicians who were killed during Mzee Jomo Kenyatta era during parallels with the young Kenyatta (Uhuru). This is a direct attack on the president and not the system as it were, that is why he has only listed prominent personalities that were killed during Jomo Kenyatta’s reign and not during Moi and Kibaki.
Hon Kuria now says he will join the list of assassinations orchestrated by the Kenyattas, here is the list he gave on social media;
Dr Johnstone Muthiora
Pio Gama Pinto
The take-home message of the day
The sword never went back without meat |
While our 25-year guarantee against termites ensures your timber frame a lifespan of at least 25 years, they’re known for their longevity, being environmentally sustainable and generally last for much longer.
A home constructed with a Trueform timber frame is carefully designed with Mitek 2020 software and manufacturing equipment. The mechanically graded timber is then cut and assembled to perfection, exceeding Australian standards. Our timber frames come in two options: H2 termite proof treated pine, or renewable, reliable, natural, non-treated plantation radiata pine.
A Trueform timber frame’s lifespan is extended by the fact that they’re created using top construction techniques and with regular, ongoing post-construction maintenance. This enables them to have a lifespan of over 100 years.
Humans have been using timber frames in their homes for thousands of years. Here in Australia, we’re seeing timber frame lifespans exceed 100 years. In Europe, homes are still in use which were constructed using timber frames during the medieval times, while in India, buildings dating back to 200BC were constructed using teak timber with bamboo peg joinery and have stood the test of time. |
Beamsley Project Charitable Trust
What does it do?
At Beamsley we provide self-catering, group accommodation for everyone. We cater for all your needs, however complex, with our specialised facilities, allowing us to welcome schools, community groups and family gatherings. Over 20 years ago we lovingly converted Beamsley Methodist Church, which now offers you a base, so you can tailor your holiday or short break to suit the personal needs of your group. You will have sole use of the building which makes it perfect for rest and recuperation. There are 6 ground floor bedrooms, two of which have 4 beds and four have 2 beds, these bedrooms have independent heating and wash basins. They are close to toilets, bathroom and two wheel-in shower rooms. The bathroom has a ceiling hoist, adjustable changing table. On the second floor there are two further en-suite bedrooms one of which has a wet room. Our full catering kitchen has an adjustable height sink and hobs. There is a dishwasher, water boiler, hand wash and ample fridge and freezer space. Visitors also have use of the laundry room with commercial washing machine, dryer and drying racks. The dining room can seat 30 people and there is also a large hall for recreation with TV, DVD, piano, table tennis and pool table. There is a covered way at the rear with tables and chairs, floor draughts game and table tennis. We provide free WIFI throughout the building We also have a fully accessible self-catering cottage which sleeps between 2 and 6 people. It has a full kitchen with adjustable height sink and hob as well as fridge/freezer, washing machine and tumble dryer. Upstairs can be accessed by a lift from the lounge into one of 3 twin bedded rooms.
Who is it for?
Centre – Groups minimum of 12 people Cottage – between 2 – 6 Both are open to anyone and our aim is to provide a service that includes everyone
How do I access it?
Contact Sarah Siddons by telephone or email
Who to contact
Where to go
Harrogate Road, Hazelwood, Skipton, BD23 6JA
BD23 6JAView BD23 6JA on a map
- Needs Level
- Universal, With Support, With Specialist Support
- SEN Provision Type |
Body Rolling Dianne Glass
Body Rolling is a self-massage technique that uses a person’s body weight, moving and stretching atop balls of various sizes and firmnesses, to release muscle tension. Essentially the ball acts as a hands-on massage practitioner to dislodge tension, restore range of motion and increase flexibility while improving organ and system function. Dianne Glass, an advanced certified Yamuna® Body Rolling educator with a boutique private practice in Sarasota, Florida, needed a website that could provide subscriber-based video classes, e-commerce for scheduling, and online sales of trainings, retreats and balls.
My experience with Persimmon Creative surpassed my expectations. Their knowledge, creativity and professionalism are spot on. I would highly recommend Persimmon for any advertising, logo, social media or web-design work. A true pleasure to work with.
OWNER & CHIEF CREATOR OFFICER, METRO CABINET COMPANY |
Residential: Timeclock Configuration
The Timeclock functionality allows you to capture staff time and attendance in real time. OnTarget will record the location and device of the user clocking in/out, along with validating that the clock in/out’s are within acceptable range of the site where services are to be rendered. Reminders can be sent to staff if they forget to clock in/out of their shift. The clock in/out records can be tracked on each users’s Dashboard. Determine which services will be paid via timeclock records versus the shift note time in/out. Services with timeclock designations will place the timeclock records on the timesheet for payroll purposes. Note: Shift schedules are required for clock in/out at this time. This course will focus on the system configuration that is required for timeclocks in OnTarget.
First, you’ll need to grant access to the pertinent staff that will be using this functionality. To Configure Admin/Supervisor Security Permissions: Go to Configure→
Security→Configure Roles. Select roles accordingly to set the following permissions in the Desktop Security tab: For users responsible for creating rules around timeclock features such as sending task reminders when staff haven’t clocked in, configuring the number of minutes before and after shift staff are allowed to clock in/out (typically super-users only): Select role and expand Configure section. Expand List Configuration folder. Check Timeclocks.
For users responsible for adding manual timeclock records (typically supervisors/managers only): Select role and check/expand Timeclocks desktop. Check Add Manual Timeclocks. Check Edit Manual Timeclocks
For users responsible for approving and/or voiding clock-in/out records that are outside of acceptable distance from scheduled site (typically supervisors/managers only): Select role and check Timeclocks desktop. Check Approve Clock In. Check Approve Clock Out. Check Void Timeclock. Check Approve No Pay Type.
Next, we’ll walk through the typical role settings of a direct support staff whose main focus will be to clock-in and clock-out per shift.
Under Configure Roles. Select each role with users that will be clocking in and out:
Check My Timeclocks.
Check Clock in from Desktop and it is recommended to also Check Clock in from Mobile in order to give them options to use either device. Mobile will most likely be the most efficient means for the staff to easily clock in and out.
Now that the security setup is done, there are a few other critical setup steps.
First, is to create timeclock rules. These are optional, but recommended for best use of the system. Go to ConfigureàList ConfigurationàTimeclocksàRules. Set the number of minutes before start of shift to allow clock-in. Note: This prevents staff from being able to clock in a certain amount of time prior to shift start time. Set the number of minute start of shift to allow clock-out. Note: This prevents staff from being able to clock out a certain amount of time after the shift has ended. Check to Send Reminders if staff forget to clock-in 15 minutes after shift starts or clock-out 15 minutes after shift ends.
Next, go to Sites Go to Billing à Sites Search for a site that will use shift scheduling. Ensure the “Eligible for Shift Scheduling” checkbox. plug in a # of feet within radius of the site that is acceptable for a clock-in/clock-out. Additionally, you will want to verify that the address of the site is correct. This is how the system will validate they are “in range” , based on the granted distance from the home that is acceptable when clocking in/out. This prevents staff from clocking -in when they are down the street at McDonalds lets say – or the minimum if not preventing then audits that they were out of range and even tracking where they were. And lastly, configure the Services that will Capture time by clock-in and clock-out for Timesheets and/or Payroll purposes. Go to Billing → Services. Search for service(s) that will be paid from timeclock (versus note start/end time). Check Require Timeclock for Payroll. Note: “Eligible for Payroll” and “Require Timeclock for Payroll” are mutually exclusive. |
Only 22 percent of the companies in the world are satisfied with their current conversion rate. Did you know that a mere second of delay in page load can lead to a 7 percent reduction in conversion rates? This is because user experience matters a lot in conversion rates.
As a designer, you must think about both these factors as well. It has been advised by many that designers should use user journey when making a website design to help the company achieve high conversion rates.
Table of Contents
User Journey Defined:
A user journey refers to the visualization of the entire process that a user experiences once they access a website. A designer can use a user journey by presenting the user journey in the form of steps that a user takes when interacting with the product.
You might confuse this with the customer journey. While customer journey begins right when a customer gets product awareness, user journey starts when the user accesses the website in question. Here, decision points refer to the pages the user visit and in what pattern they do so.
Why must designers think about the user journey?
When creating a website design, designers need to consider user journey and conversion rates due to the following reasons:
1: You need to know “why” to answer the “how.”
As a designer, you need to create a user interface and website design that helps customers. At the end of the day, websites are not just supposed to be about aesthetics. Instead, they serve the purpose of facilitating customers.
This is especially true if you are working on an ecommerce website design. To create a design that is effective in converting visitors into customers, you must know what motivates the said users to avail themselves services on a website. A user journey can help you in getting the insight you need to know the “why.”
2: It helps you prioritize features and functions
There is a lot that goes into a website. There are various tabs and functions that you might have to work on as a website designer. You must decide which of the features and functions you must prioritize.
User journey aids in identifying which of the many features you use to give more importance to when designing the website. For instance, if most of your users go to a given section of the eCommerce, this is an indication for you that you must focus on the given category first.
3. Conversion rates can help you know which colors to choose
Gone are the days when choosing a color for a website was only based on aesthetics and the expertise of designers. Now, this crucial decision is also dependent on what effect each color may have on conversion rates.
Understanding the impact design templates and colors have on conversion rates allow designers to create a website that boosts sales turnover.
This is a closed-loop cycle every company wishes to achieve, whereby their design aids conversion rates and the latter helps in improving the former.
Rather than going with your “gut feeling,” use user journey and conversion statistics to create a site that is impactful.
4: It helps to communicate with your client
Mapping out the user journey through a thorough document that lists down user touch points and behaviour can be an excellent way to communicate why you are opting for specific designs.
Remember, your client might be interested in knowing why you are giving certain design-related suggestions over others. Seldom is the case that designers are given a free hand over the process.
By mapping out the user journey, you can conclusively tell your client your rationale behind focusing on certain elements or choosing specific templates.
You can also deliver insight into the strengths and weaknesses of the current user interface to help make your argument.
All in all, thinking about user journey and relaying the findings to your client can help you get better autonomy over the designing process.
5: You will only end up focusing on what matters
Let’s say you invest most of your time in perfecting the FAQ section of the website. This is because you are a firm believer that FAQs are one of the most visited aspects of a website.
However, as per the user journey, you find that only a few visitors access this part of the site. This means, all this time, you were expending your energy over something that the user doesn’t even care much about!
Had you used the user journey map, to begin with, you would have saved a lot of time and energy. Therefore, if you want to focus on aspects that matter, it is better to use insights generated from user journey reports and conversion rates.
6: It promotes collaboration
A user journey is more than just the concern of the designing department. Instead, the marketing, sales, and finance department have just as much to learn from the findings a user journey as a designer has. This is why it has been found that a user journey helps in promoting collaboration across departments in a company.
You might wonder, as a designer, why should you care about cross-functional collaboration? This is because, by engaging stakeholders from all over the company, you can end up creating a website that is truly impactful and cost-effective for the company.
And since the individual goals of all employees are linked with the organizational goal of better sales turnover, this helps designers and marketers alike.
7: Your concern is not the company but the users
As a designer, you must understand who the real consumer of your service is. Yes, you might be hired by a company to design their website. However, the end consumer is the site visitor. He/she is the one you must please to be successful at your job indeed.
Therefore, you should think about how to design best an experience that aligns with their needs. And this is something only a user journey can help you figure out.
Look beyond your intuitions and expertise. Take user experience and journey into account. Watch as your website design helps the company in getting a high conversion rate.
- Can Brain Games Make You Smarter? Try These 3 Games to Know - January 22, 2020
- The Ultimate Guide to Online Reputation Management in 2020 - January 4, 2020
- 20 Essential Mobile Apps for Business Professionals in 2020 - December 31, 2019 |
So at the end of my last post, I said that although 3 years ago I was gung-ho about arranging marriages, I’m now more hesitant. This post goes into why.
For starters, and to get a bit personal, my parents had one of the worst arranged marriages in history. They separated and divorced when I was very young. A significant fraction of my childhood memories are filled with their marital strife. Trust me when I say it was some ugly stuff.
Yes, anecdotes aren’t data. And the data we have suggest that arranged marriages “succeed” (i.e. divorce less) more than the usual fall-in-love-first marriages.
But then again…there’s no real data on what fraction of traditional arranged marriages are happy and thriving. Especially if the couple is from a culture that ostracizes divorce, we may never know. Again based on anecdata within my extended family, I think many South Asian arranged marriages are not what most would call “good.”
As an aside, it wasn’t until college I got over my discomfort at telling other Desis that my parents were divorced. I had no problem telling white people because, well, all white people get divorced. It’s really not a big deal among the whites. Now, I’m at peace with my it. I even wear a ‘My parents are divorced’ shirt when I go to Indian functions. But I digress.
Anyway…even in my parents generation, people weren’t necessarily “told” who to marry. I believe it was presented as: “Here’s someone we think is a good match for you.” My parent met several times before getting engaged.
There was of course implicit pressure to agree to the proposal. But at least in theory they could have said no. And as I described in my last post, among South Asian Americans there’s definitely a period of dating. It’s common to not go with your first proposed match.
So even for people who grew up around arranged marriages, it’s a big ask to present someone who they haven’t met before and say: “This is your future spouse.” A really big ask. I think it would be even harder for people who are less familiar with it.
And even if enough Americans agree to an arranged marriage to make the endeavor profitable, I wonder if Justin’s strict requirements will lead to happy marriages. Justin laments (as I do) our lost capacity for faith. But I think he’s guilty of too much faith in believing that an algorithm alone, however sophisticated, can predict marital bliss
One of my core beliefs is that people say ‘no’ too easily to potential relationships, and especially when they meet online. They get distracted by potential options and overoptimize. We’re all more compatible with more people than we think.
But it’s also possible to say ‘yes’ too easily. Solid relationships take time and learning from both parties. I’ve been reading Scott Stanley’s blog a lot the past couple days, and his ‘take it slow’ advice sounds like the right move to me.
So how do we square this circle? How do we foster marriage without dictating a spouse while also while not creating too many options? Here’s the You’re Good Enough (YGE) solution:
- Sign people up to to my relationship service. When they sign up, they promise to deactivate all other dating accounts.
- Use data to determine which couples are more or less likely to have a long-term relationship
- Match two people. You don’t get to see pictures of other people on the site. You don’t need to wink, poke, wave, smile, punch, or message anyone. You get a match.
- That match will be active for 3 months, and both of you agree to go on at least 6 dates over that time.
- If one insists on ending before the 3 months are up, he doesn’t get another match. He has to wait. So there’s an incentive to go on more dates and get to know your match.
- My site would “guide” the dates. Or rather, provide questions to ask / things to look out for to help people decide if they’re with someone who they could marry. Finding a spouse would be the stated end goal.
- After 3 months, the couple can decide to enter into a more committed relationship that (hopefully) leads to marriage, or decide it won’t work out. But they have to stick with it for at least 3 months.
I think some variation of the above would, on average, lead to more successful marriages. The couple has to be given some time to explore and learn for themselves. An algorithm can’t do that. |
Kitchen with dining room
- Dining table for 6-8 people
- Fully equipped kitchen with branded appliances
- Oven with four ceramic cooking rings
- Modern kitchen hood
- Dish washer
- Extra electric appliances (i.e. electric kettle, filtered coffee maker, toaster, etc.)
- Large Refrigerator / freezer
- Smoke detectors and fire extinguishers
Living room and full view dining room
- Comfortable living room with bamboo furniture and extra large windows offering magnificent sea views
- Dining table for up to 11 persons
- Modern fireplace
- Audio - DVD player - Home cinema sound system
- Satellite LED TV 42"
- Collection of music CDs
- Guest’s WC
Bedrooms and bathrooms
Five (5) bedrooms, four (4) bathrooms and one (1) WC for guests
One bedroom with dome style roof (called Santorini style), with a super-king size bed, spacious wardrobes, bedside tables, and a luxury private bathroom with bathtub. Private extra-large terrace in front of the bedroom with breathtaking panoramic view of the sea and mountains.
One bedroom with king size bed, bedside tables, wardrobe and dressing mirrored table. Terrace with spectacular mountain views, overlooking the garden and sea.
One bedroom with two single beds with bedside tables, wardrobe and dressing mirrored table. Balcony with amazing sea view. Bathroom with shower cabin, with luxury marble and mosaic surface.
On the ground floor from the east side of the house, there is a bedroom with panoramic sea view, with a double bed, bedside tables, wardrobe and dressing mirrored table. Beside this bedroom, there is also an industrial style bathroom with shower cabin.
All rooms are air conditioned, with free wi-fi, high-quality mattresses and high quality bed linen.
A bedroom with a romantic four-poster king size bed and a single bed, bedside tables. This room has a private bathroom with shower. All bathrooms include natural cosmetics, hairdryer and shaver outlet and other facilities. |
Rab make rugged, high performance mountain clothing and equipment that give you absolute protection, comfort and freedom on the hill, crag or peak. Rab use cutting edge materials as well as time-tested ones such as premium quality European down. Nothing fancy or over-engineered – just honest, hard-working pieces that you’d rather repair than replace. By climbers for climbers.
The Rab story began in 1981 in the attic of a small, terraced house in Sheffield where Rab Carrington made the first sleeping bag to bear his name. Hand-stitched and devised with his own ingenious eye, Rab’s experience from years spent in the mountains was apparent in his designs, and soon there was popular demand from Rab’s friends and the growing local climbing community.
But things didn’t stop there. Word soon spread, and the Sheffield attic became a factory floor, creating sleeping bags and jackets for customers far and wide. Now, decades later, those honest, hard-wearing designs can be found all over the world; wherever adventurous individuals face up to the elements. From Himalayan peaks to cold, crisp evenings around a camp fire. |
Black And Grey Statement Necklace
Jewelry, I'm telling you. It's a thing. And love. And maybe danger
This statement neckpiece is defined by minimalist geometry and sharp, clean lines. Style it with a white or red top! We do advice you to read our product care page when ordering.
- Chain Type: Link Chain
- Lockstyle: Lobster Claw
- Material: Resin
- Metal: Zinc Alloy
- Product Type: Geometric Necklace
- Style: Fashion
Tips and Tricks :
- Keep jewellery in soft-lined compartments and take care to close any fastenings so items don't catch or tangle.
- Avoid using silica gel in your jewellery box as they absorb moisture and sulphur in the air that can cause jewellery to lose its shine.
- Remove jewellery before doing any manual work including housework as it can be damaged by knocks and household cleaners.
Follow your jeweller's advice: if you are not sure how fragile a piece is, always err on the side of caution and use simple, non-abrasive materials like soap and water, with a soft toothbrush. |
Subsets and Splits