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I hate 99% of advertisements. All businesses that rely on advertising dread me.
Google and Facebook hate guys like me. Apple and Amazon don't much care.
All companies should evolve to be less reliant on advertising. Micropayment are the best alternatives still, I think.
My online life is greatly enhanced with extensions that block advertising. Right now I have AdBlock installed on Safari. Adblock Plus installed in Chrome.
AdBlock vs. Adblock Plus: The Ultimate Comparison With Pros & Cons
I don't really have much of a preference between the two.


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I don't think peplum tops get enough credit. This fashion trend hit us big last spring and after seeing the S/S' 13 collections during New York Fashion Week, it looks as though we have a peplution on our hands people and you're either with the peplum or against it, but why against?
New Ways To Love The Colors In Your Life.
If you're just about to board onto the color-blocking train or have been working your way to those train steps, it would be best if you throw yourself off now or let this one go by. Cause this trend, has gone into overkill territory like the florals all day everyday trend.
I of all people shouldn't be saying such things, after all blocking those colors up down and all around has been a styling favorite of mine for years now. Years I say, so I know when it's time to let go of something for awhile, just to make space for something new, the technicolor way of dressing.
A Pair of Heels and A Happy Bag In Happy Colors.
Midi Meet Mid A Fashionable Encounter.
Not being model height nor fitting into the petite category has some disadvantages, especially if you work in fashion. They don't call it sample sale for nothing. This comes into play sometimes when I want to wear my favorite length in skirts and dresses, the midi. I don't want to always wear a pair of flats or outrageously high heels or platforms with every midi dress or skirt I plan on wearing this summer. I did have this question pop up a couple of time already, and since it's one I can relate to all to well, just wanted to share some options, and styling tips that may help those inquiring minds.

subset: commoncrawl


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(FreshAsFrankie) Viewers of Miami-Dade/ Broward ABC News affiliate Local 10 got an idea of the level of compassion some Nazi and Alt-Right sympathizers have for slain anti-racist activist Heather Heyer, during a recent interview with a self-proclaimed white nationalist.
Local 10 reporter Amy Viteri sat down with South Florida resident Kyle Hanophy, who drove up to Virginia to be part of the "Unite The Right" rally in Charlottesville. Hanophy would have a good idea of the violence that went down, as he was one of the many on hand to document the event via video. However, Hanophy wouldn't narrow down the experience to anything tragic or heinous to any degree at all. In fact, when asked to speak on his impression of the events that unfolded, Hanophy would say only, "It was beautiful."
Of course, the topic of 32-year-old Heather Heyer's murder would come up during the one on one conversation, but to Hanophy's determination, the incident, which injured dozens more wasn't enough to change what he thought about the day he had long-anticipated. While he never made an excuse for James Fields Jr.'s use of a vehicle to run over counter-protesters, Hanophy was quick to blame Heyer for her own death, posing that someone in the position she was in "shouldn't be standing out in traffic, I suppose."


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If I had to name my favourite place, it would probably be Rome. As a foodie, history lover, and someone who enjoys just wandering around taking photos, Rome has it all. I'm lucky enough to have been back a number of times now.
The first trip to any city typically involves checking off the main attractions, so I tend to find return trips more enjoyable.
Freed from the 'must-sees', I love uncovering a different side to the city, as well as revisiting previous favourites. In general, the more I go somewhere, the more I like it.
I checked off main attractions of Rome on my first visit as a teenager, but my main impression was of the steep costs and long queues.
But as a student, I took myself to Rome to research early Christian churches for a project. This was really just an excuse to visit some cool underground excavations that are closed to the public. I had a ball.
Since then, each trip has a theme. Another layer of Rome to unpeel.
Nomadic Matt touched upon this recently when he discussed travelling with a theme. My trips have always tended to revolve around something I want to learn— or, more often than not, eat.
One of my favourite memories of Rome is sitting with my BFF over morning coffee in the sunshine, marking out on a map where we wanted to eat and devising a walking plan around that. This involved obscure suburban gelato quests and a memorable offal adventure in Testaccio.
TIP: If you want to avoid mediocre tourist food in Rome, check out Katie Parla's blog. Diane Seed's Love Food Love Rome is also good if you don't mind carrying a hardback book.
So what should you do if you've already waited in line for the Sistine Chapel, waltzed down the Spanish Steps, thrown a coin in the Trevi Fountain, and had your photo taken wth gladiators at the Colosseum?
The Pantheon is one of Rome's significant sights and it never fails to amaze me. Built in 118-140AD in the reign of Hadrian, it was way ahead of its time.
Did you know the Romans were the first to use concrete on such a large scale? They included volcanic ash in the mix, making it very durable, and it paved (a-ha) the way for many architectural and engineering advances in the city such as the aqueducts. The Colosseum is concrete too.
The technique wasn't rediscovered until the 16th century, and the Pantheon still the largest unsupported dome in the world.
The natural light and perfect proportions are impressive enough, but for me, the magic is that in Roman times the dome would not have been visible from the outside, and the ceiling would have been gilded in bronze. Just imagine the awe felt by the average Roman citizen stepping inside for the first time!
If you're lucky you might catch a classical concert inside or the rainfall of rose petals on Pentecost. Oh, and it also contains the tomb of Raphael and many other important figures.
The dome theme continues, but this time a fake one.
Built in 1626s, Sant'Ignazio was supposed to have a dome but funds disappeared so artist Andrea Pozzo painted it as an illusion instead. Stand in the right spot marked out on the floor and the perspectives align; the ceiling appears to extend upwards to the heavens, with a tangle of cherubs tumbling down.
Forget the Sistine Chapel, this is my favourite ceiling in Rome.
Consistently ranked among the best gelato in Rome, Fatamorgana seems to divide people.
It's artisanal, so free of artificial ingredients and portions are on the small side. If you're expecting big pillowy scoops of pistachio then this is not the gelateria for you.
But if you love trying unusual flavours then this place is gelato nirvana. I had to keep returning until I'd tried them all. The raspberry, rose and hibiscus flavour remains one of top 5 best ice-creams I've ever eaten (and I don't say that lightly).
Other delights included: gorgonzola; fennel, honey, and liquorice; basil, honey, and nuts; vanilla and black rice; chocolate and tobacco.
Rome was built on seven hills, and the Aventine was the one where the emperors had their villas. It's still an elegant and quiet residential area with some beautiful churches; you're likely to be strolling around back streets with monks and nuns for company.
You'll notice crowds forming around a door leading to the Priory of the Knights of Malta. This is the Aventine Keyhole – take a look through the keyhole and you'll be rewarded with a perfectly framed view of the dome of St Peter's in the distance.
Whilst you're here enjoy the views across the city from the Orange Gardens at the nearby Church of Santa Sabina. It's a great escape from the bustle of the centre.
For a thoroughly lovely afternoon, walk from the Aventine down towards the Tiber, then on to:
Trastevere is the charming neighbourhood is where people head for a picturesque dinner and photographs of cobbled streets with laundry hanging from the balconies (I know it's not just me).
Walk up to the Gianicolo Hill for more glorious sweeping views, then after the sun has gone down head back to Trastevere for a tasty dinner.
So what will my next visit to Rome uncover? I'm considering a Baroque theme — although really this is just a dressed up excuse to take an Angels and Demons tour. Or perhaps I'll explore Rome's many underground secrets.
I'll have to keep throwing my pennies in the Trevi Fountain.
What's your favourite side of Rome? Do you travel with a theme? And how do you prefer your gelato?


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Striker Elliot Lee was a firm supporter of Luton Town doing their bit to raise awareness of prostate cancer on Tuesday night, writes Mike Simmonds.
The club renamed their Kenilworth Road ground as the Prostate Cancer UK Stadium for the day, with donation buckets on hand for the charity before kick off, raising over £1,500.
It had a particularly poignant meaning for Lee too as he said: "I think it's massive as on a personal level, my granddad had prostate cancer.
"He had the surgery to get it removed and I did Movember for him so it's really good to get involved in that.
"He's fully recovered now, he had the new surgery to remove the cancer and he's fighting fit now.
"He's actually in China at the minute, but he's been to every other game.
"It's a brilliant cause, should be highlighted and there's no better stage than on TV, a big game like Luton against Wycombe, so it was a really good gesture."Elliot Lee
"It hit the family hard, but we all stuck together and it was great to see him fighting fit now.
"He knew about it (stadium renaming) and was really proud. We should be aware of the cause and it's really good of the club to rename the stadium and I think it went down well with everyone.
"It's a brilliant cause, should be highlighted and there's no better stage than on TV, a big game like Luton against Wycombe, so it was a really good gesture."
Lee also paid his own personal tribute to former West Ham youngster Dylan Tombides when scoring his first of the evening.
The 20-year-old died of testicular cancer in April 2014, and Lee, who wears number 38 as a mark of respect, lifted his shirt to reveal a special message.
He continued: "I was delighted to do that for Dyl.
"Being on the Sky cameras, I thought it was a great stage to honour my good mate who sadly passed away almost a year ago to the day.
"I'm really happy to be able to do that for him."
On the pitch, it was another frustrating evening for Lee and his team-mates, as despite his brace, they were beaten 3-2.
The forward urged Hatters' fans to stick with their side though as he added: "All the performances haven't been terrible, we've played quite well, created chances, but if we're conceding three, it makes it an uphill task.
"Stick behind us though, it's going to change, we're playing well and your support means everything.
"We need that support in these down times and were going to turn it around."


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High Stakes Testing With Regard to No Child Left Behind
This content was COPIED from BrainMass.com - View the original, and get the already-completed solution here!
Research high stakes testing which is done as a result of the No Child Left Behind Act. What is required in your state? Does your state require any other testing? Have any districts or schools ever cheated to be able to report a higher score? Can teachers be fired for low student achievement scores of students? What are the issues surrounding this testing? For instance, is it possible that this could lead to student tracking? How accurate is the testing? Should other measures be used as well? What do you consider to be the top three issues in this testing and how can you deal with those issues in your classroom? What factors would influence your decisions? Does your school district have a policy regarding student achievement and the alignment of state standards with student achievement goals? What does the policy say about â??qualified personnelâ?? Has the need for qualified personnel affected schools in any way?
My State is Maryland.© BrainMass Inc. brainmass.com October 10, 2019, 1:12 am ad1c9bdddf
Solution Preview
I would begin the essay for the question by doing research on the No Child Left Behind from its inception to the changes that have been made recently. I did a little research prior to taking on this task. Your state of Maryland seems to have a fairly small class size average and performs well on the testing instrument used to satisfy the mandate. There is quite a bit of information on the internet about your state. Remember to reference it properly.
I teach in Missouri. I will share my views for you to use as a resource. No Child Left Behind allows each state to pick the testing instrument they will use. Therein lies the first issue for me. To say that your state scores better than we do would be a poor conclusion to draw unless both states took the same test. Our state's test is ranked number one in difficulty. Each year the number of schools who have not made adequate yearly progress ...
Solution Summary
This article contains a little background information on NCLB. It is also an editorial from one teachers point-of-view. This solution is 576 words.


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Sustainable financing for Universal Health Coverage in Nigeria
Universal Health Coverage: A healthier future for all
SPHPN was formed in 2012 as the all-comers in public health association of all disciplinary public health specialists as well as everyone else of the public health of the public health services in Nigeria! As the society admits members whether as corporate membership of an already existing and CAC-registered disciplinary public health association or as individuals in their own rights - everybody is welcome to join the association. One of the objectives of SPHPN is to assist any already existing disciplinary public health association to strive and succeed in fulfilling the objectives that they had set for themselves in founding such association as well as to help them to work cooperatively and successfully to pursue and achieve the corporate interests of the SPHPN in the specific. In this way, the inter-cadre rivalry and lack of productivity and genuine fulfilments in these disciplines will be drastically reduced.
Public health by its history and practice is a field that involves multidisciplinary approach. As such, its effective practice in any country calls for close collaboration among many professionals in this light that the world federation of public health association (WFPHA) is constituted by national multidisciplinary association concerned with public health generally as distinct from single or individual disciplines, subjects, professions, or occupations.More
For more than three decades, Nigeria had been grappling with the guinea worm menace earning the dubious title of the most endemic country at a time. Paul Obi writes on Nigeria's freedom from the disease Guinea worm, a disease, which is medically known as drucunculaisis is said to be caused by contaminated water that emanates from drucunlus larva parasite. It is more rampant in Asia and Africa, specifically, the western coast of the continent. Nigeria used to top the list of countries with the epidemic.More
The theme for the 14th World Congress on Public Health is "Healthy People – Healthy Environment".
The 2nd National Scientific Congress & Annual General Meeting holds between 12th and 15th November, 2014 in Abuja
The senate has passed the National Health Bill after several months of delays and postponements. The bill, which was first passed by the 6th National Assembly in 2011.


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DISCLOSURE: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. If you like reading legal jargon my disclosure policy is here.
If you are interested in creating digital downloads and selling them on Etsy, you will want to read this first. Passive income is not as easy as some bloggers make it seem. There is a lot of work that is involved in creating passive income. I'm going to teach you how to sell digital downloads on Etsy and be successful at it.
You might be saying, "Well once you create it, it's done, right? You just start making sales and there is no additional work."
No, that's not how passive income works. I spent a full year working on earning passive income through my Etsy shop. A full year where I spent the first 6 months thinking all I had to do was create it and they would come. For those first six months I made 3 sales. 3 sales of $3 a piece.
Lucky for you, you will not have to spend the first six months waiting for that first sale.
How To Sell Digital Downloads On Etsy
There is a lot of work that goes into building passive income. Especially on Etsy.
My husband and I both built passive income on RedBubble and TeePublic with designs. On our greatest month we made $600. So when I approached creating digital downloads for Etsy I thought this would be that easy. The fact is it is actually a lot harder than that.
When I started taking Etsy seriously as a business venture I decided to do a lot of research in what other people, and what the most successful sellers were doing.
I studied other people's shops who were creating the same types of products I create. The most successful shops have upwards of 200 items in their shops.
This is when I came to the realization that I would need to put a lot more work into my Etsy shop.
Realistically, on my best day, I created 3 new designs. That means if I had that same day every day I would need 67 of them to create 200 designs.
Let me tell you about that day. I was off from work, my toddler was actually well behaved, and my husband was busy working on his business. We ordered pizza and my phone was on silent for the entire day. That day was a 12 hour working day.
How often do you have a day like that? I get them maybe once a month. After working, taking care of my family, marketing, writing for this blog, and any other must do tasks I have going; I'm lucky if I can push one or two designs a week.
Even if you set a goal of one design a day (which I tried.) That's still 29 weeks before I have enough designs in my shop that I can see massive success. That's a lot of work.
Check out my post The Low Down Dirty Truths About Starting An Etsy Shop and Get Your Free Etsy Business Plan.
Creating Printables To Sell
If you are selling printable art or digital downloads of any kind, you need to have lots of products to choose from. In a marketplace like Etsy there are millions of products up for sale. This means there are hundreds if not thousands of products using the same keywords that you are using. This means there is a lot of competition. If you have only 40 digital products you do not have enough products to be competitive in this market.
There, that is as bad as it gets. If you want to earn substantial passive income you have to put in a LOT of work. Not so bad huh?
Of course you could take my route and start earning more money by offering a physical product of your digital work. There are plenty of manufactures that Etsy allows for you to work with who drop ship directly to your customers.
In my shop I offer digital art, printed art, and coffee cups. I plan to offer more products as I continue to build the shop. Though expansion is taking a bit of a back seat to other projects.
Whether you decide to stay completely passive or offer products the remainder of this post is helpful.
How can it be passive income if you have to work?
Here's how. You have 200 designs in your shop. You sell 2-3 items per day between Etsy searches and other marketing avenues. If your product is $5.00 that's an extra $300 a month. Ok so it's not replacing your job but it's money to pay off debt, pay for Christmas, or even just pay a bill or two.
It's a lower goal and there are others who are doing well above those estimates. It's easy math for those like me who don't do the math.
When you sell an item on Etsy and you have automatic renewal on, Etsy will renew that listing and you will show up at the top of the search results for your keywords again.
So in the beginning when you only have 40 products you'll be renewing listings every few days or once a week to get noticed. When you have 200 products the renewing happens on it's own. Less work for you, means you are one your way to making passive income.
What if I create 40 products and just renew them?
Been there, done that. It doesn't quite work. I was making maybe $20 a month doing it that way. Minus the etsy fees and Marmalead fees I was looking at a loss in my business.
With the high amount of competition that means you have to sell what your buyers want. This means you will need more items under more keywords getting in front of the eyes of your potential customers.
You have 40 products, your 40 listings show up under 80 keywords at best. That means you have 80 chances out of thousands of possibilities to get eyes on your product. Now if you have 200 listings and 400 keywords you now have 400 chances out of thousands of possibilities to get your listing in front of potential customers.
The key to really earning passive income on Etsy is really about having enough listings to get seen often.
Ok it's not so bad, how do I get started?
First, read my post on opening a successful Etsy shop here.
Second, open your shop with 40 free listings here.
After that, put in the work. Create templates and as many designs as you can. List regularly and you continue to create, research, and brainstorm.
Want to really make your product descriptions work? What if I told you you could get your products to show up in Etsy search results, Pinterest search results and even Google's search results? If you need affordable help with your descriptions contact Trinity at JCO E-Commerce. She is an SEO master and can get you into those search results and making money.
Sure creating a stream of passive income is work. Here's how I helped to justify the work I put into my "passive income." I have nothing to lose by doing it. It doesn't cost a lot to get started. It doesn't put my family at risk of being broke. Even at one point when it was just $20 a month, that was a tank of gas (with my rewards card.) That was pizza once a month. It's $20 that I didn't have before.
As long as you keep your eyes on your goals creating passive income is not difficult, it just takes time. So keep working at it and you will get there. Follow me on Pinterest and pin this to your business board. Please subscribe to stay updated on the blog.


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Utility Efficiency: Energy Usage + Lighting
The adoption of smart utilities and energy efficiency measures frequently represent the largest investment that a company will make in the process of getting the green|light. However, because of reduced operating costs due to energy savings, the measures in this section typically have a short return on investment.
See our Energy Preferred Providers here.
COMPLETE the first three CREDITS and at least SIX more FROM THE LIST BELOW AND LET US KNOW WHEN YOU'RE FINISHED:
Performing regular maintenance on HVAC can help save on energy cost and unexpected maintenance and repair cost. It may only be necessary to have your HVAC checked annually. Make sure to change filters according to manufacturer recommendations as well.
If your business has been in operation in the same building for at least one calendar year you are required to create an Energy Use Base Line and a Water Use Base Line for the most recent 1 – 3 years of operation. This entails obtaining the applicable year(s) worth of energy and water bills and using one of several tools to calculate your energy use intensity (EUI) and annual gallons of water used per square foot per utility meter in place. Energy Star's Portfolio Manager is a useful tool for determining both baselines. If you have bills for one or more years, you can compare your actual water and energy consumption to the estimated guidelines for a similar facility to gauge your building's performance. If you do not have metered data you can use energy modeling software such as EnergyStar's Target Finder. For water usage consider utilizing Energy Star's Portfolio Manager or Mazzetti's WaterMark! Programs.
Energy Audit
An audit can help you assess how much energy your facility uses and evaluate what measures you can take to improve efficiency. But remember, audits alone don't save energy; the audit's recommendations must be implemented to experience any energy savings. EPB will conduct an energy audit of your facility for free provided that you have service with them. Call William Young at EPB (423) 648-3250 or click here to schedule your audit. Participants who lease or rent are required by EPB to obtain permission from their building owner for the audit to be conducted. There are other local energy auditing companies that may be sourced, but their fee structures may vary. EES is a green|light preferred provider for energy audits and can provide implementation strategies beyond the free audit from EPB. Compass Commissioning & Design is a green|light preferred provider for energy audits and can provide implementation strategies beyond the free audit from EPB.
Complete six more tasks either from the options below or custom solutions for your business.
Enable Sleep Mode on Electronics
At minimum, this should be done to all computers, printers, and copiers. Use signage provided in tool kit.
Lighting Retrofits
Replace all conventional incandescent bulbs and/or fixtures with CFLs or LEDs. These bulbs cost slightly more up front but result in substantial energy savings and last significantly longer than incandescents. For facilities larger than 100,000 square feet, replacement of incandescents can be in phases. Replace all old T-12 fluorescent light fixtures or retrofit them to accommodate more efficient T-5 or T-8 lamps. Talk to your supplier about rebate programs that may be in place to help offset initial costs for this credit. Furthermore, make sure your installer will recycle your old light bulbs and ballasts.
Preferred Providers that can help you achieve this credit:
Maintenance Engineering, Tennessee Solar Solutions, EES, and Compass Commissioning & Design
Install Timers on Lights
Utilize a timer device where lights plug in and/or replace standard switches with timer-enabled switches. This does not need to be done for lights that have occupancy sensors or are part of a zone that is on a sensor. Verify this is done through the online certification application.
Preferred Providers that can help you achieve this credit:
Maintenance Engineering, EES, and Compass Commissioning & Design
Automated Plug-Load Management
Plug loads are one of the fastest growing sources of energy use in commercial buildings today. In offices, they account for 15-20% of office electricity use according to www.advancedbuildings.net. Adding a power strip with a timer or occupancy sensor in high plug load areas allows all the power to be cut off to all devices in one easy step. Automating the power supply to receptacles prevents ongoing plug loads. Click here for a timed power strip example.
Preferred Providers that can help you achieve this: EES, or Compass Commissioning & Design
Purchase RENEWABLE ENERGY Certificates, CARBON OFFSETS, OR Green Power from TVA's Green Power Switch
Renewable Energy Certificates (REC) represents the property rights to the environmental, social, and other nonpower qualities of renewable electricity generation. A REC, is generated when someone produces renewable energy and feeds it into the grid. This flexibility allows organizations to support renewable energy development and protect the environment when green power products are not locally available and are often substantially less expensive than installing renewable energy. RECs can be specific to certain renewable energy types, like solar or wind, or can be purchased generically.
Carbon offsets are similar to RECs in that they are credits generated by the actions of another individual in potentially a different geographic area to offset the generation of carbon by an organization. Rather than only renewable energy generation, which is still one way to generate carbon offsets, projects can also generate credits through capturing or destroying carbon dioxide or other greenhouse gases with projects like replanting a forest or a methane gas capture project at a landfill. Carbon offsets can be used to offset an organizations entire carbon footprint including the energy use of their building and the energy use from travel and other carbon intensive activities where RECs are usually used to simply offset energy use from buildings.
TVA's Green Power Switch program provides renewable energy to the regional utility grid reducing emissions and other negative environmental impacts associated with conventional energy production. Participants are required to buy blocks of green power with a minimum of five blocks. You can buy green power in 150-kilowatt-hour blocks. Each block you buy will add $4 to your monthly power bill. The green power you pay for will be added to TVA's electric system as part of the region's total power mix. By choosing Green Power Switch, you help advance the technology and increase the amount of electricity generated from cleaner sources.
Log on here to set up an auto draft on your monthly electricity bill.
Reduce Solar Heat Gain from Windows
Apply window film or other treatments, plant trees, or install exterior shading devices to help keep the air cooler in your workspaces by reducing the solar heat gain in the building. Cooler air means you can use the air conditioning less and save both energy and money. For companies that rent or lease their space, it may be possible to collaborate with the building owner to contribute to this upgrade.
Preferred Providers that can help you achieve this credit: All Star Tint & Alarms 423-899-8468, EES, and Compass Commissioning & Design
Use Task Lighting
It's important to provide the necessary amount of light for the specific task at hand but the general light level in these areas may not need to be as high. Task lighting allows for general overhead lights to be dimmed or turned off while still proving needed light levels. Offices with access to daylight and windows are good candidates for task lighting. Here are some LED task lighting options.
Maximize Daylighting
Examine workspaces and retail areas to determine an arrangement so that they receive maximum indirect daylight, but minimum direct sunlight. Direct sunlight can result in overheated, uncomfortable spaces and can strain the cooling system. Daylighting controls, such as view-preserving shades, daylight harvesting louvers, and light shelves can be installed and adjusted to admit daylight while avoiding direct heat gain and excessive glare. Occupants should turn off general overhead lights if natural lighting provides sufficient ambient light levels required. Daylight sensors can be installed to automate dimming or turning off of lights when optimal daylight levels are present.
Install Occupancy Sensors
Occupancy sensors ensure that when no electricity is wasted in rooms no one is occupying. Analyze your space usages and determine if an occupancy sensor could be beneficial. The California Energy Commission estimates that occupancy sensors savings typically range from 35% to 45% for the space they cover, and pay for themselves in less than five years.
Renewable Energy Production
New installations of renewable energy systems, such as photovoltaic panels or solar thermal, on your building or property should be designed to produce 3% of the buildings annual energy consumption by cost.
Preferred Provider that can help you: Tennessee Solar Solutions
Install Programmable or Smart Thermostats
A programmable thermostat can automatically adjust temperature settings on a time schedule. By programing your thermostat to reflect your typical workday and adequately heat and cool only when spaces are in use, you can save a significant amount on your annual heating and cooling bills. Visit www.energystar.gov to use the programmable thermostat calculator to see what you can save with pre determined set-back temperatures as well as how to install a programmable thermostat and when to call a professional for installation. Smart thermostats offer additional features such as remote access via internet and thermostats that can "learn" your behaviors and program themselves.
Preferred Providers that can help you achieve this: EES, and Compass Commissioning & Design
Applying caulk, weather stripping, or some other gap-filling insulation around old and drafty windows and doors will not only help reduce air infiltration, but it also deters bugs from entering your space. Doors and windows are obvious places to look for gaps, but you should also examine areas where different materials come together: between brick and wood siding, between foundation and walls, and between the chimney and siding. Cracks and gaps that cause air leaks can also be found around: mail chutes, electrical and gas service entrances, cable TV and phone lines, where dryer vents pass through walls, air conditioners and surrounding vents and fans.
Preferred Providers that can help you achieve this: EES
Commissioning for new construction, or retro-commissioning for existing buildings, aims to verify that the building's equipment, systems, and controls are functioning consistently with the owner's performance requirements and expectations. Errors in construction and maintenance can be identified and remedied through the commissioning process to improve performance and efficiency. Often times an Energy Audit is part of the commissioning process and can be provided by the same consulting company. Participants are required to hire a commissioning agent to perform this service and must submit the commissioning/retro-commissioning report and indicate which recommended improvements or repairs have been or will be completed and the anticipated time frame for doing so.
Note that retro-commissioning is sometimes referred to as a "facility audit."
Compass Commissioning & Design is a Preferred Provider that can help you achieve this credit.
Use Natural Ventilation
When the weather permits, using ceiling and/or personal fans is a good way keep comfortable while using less electricity. Open doors and windows for cross ventilation. When opening exterior windows, keep in mind that sunny and paved portions of the property will generate warmer air than shaded and grassy areas. If desired, control systems can be installed to alert occupants when it's a good time to open or close windows and doors.


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Today's golden children may be iOS 7 and all things software, but that doesn't mean the actual machines running that software are being tossed to the wayside. Confirming recent rumours and stock shortages, we are officially seeing Apple's super skinny MacBook Air get a much deserved refresh.
Perhaps most exciting, all MacBook Airs will now come packing Intel's kickass new Haswell processors. And that means better battery life, which has become a major issue these days. So instead of 6 hours of HD video playback, for instance, you can get away with a full 9. With just regular use, though, your laptop should supposedly last up to 50 per cent longer, although we'll soon see if Intel's claim actually holds up.
Matching its more power-hungry, Pro brother, the Air has also been updated with a dual built-in microphone design, making it all the easier for you and Siri to chat it up. Considering it's built for maximum portability, we're happy to see a Wi-Fi boost with 802.11ac along with new AirPort Extremes and Time Capsule updates to support the faster speeds.
Considering that MacBook Airs run almost entirely on Flash, the fact that the drive will be running up to 40 per cent faster is huge. And the price ain't bad. The 11-inch model comes at £849 for the 128GB model, and £1,029 for the 256GB. The 13-inch will set you back up £949 for the 128GB version and £1,129 for the 256GB. They start shipping today.
Catch up on all of Apple's WWDC announcements here


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So you wаnt tо host a bachelor party but rеally dоn't knоw where to start? No problеm. Bachelor party plannіng isn't that difficult if you keep the fоllоwing іnfоrmatіоn іn mіnd whіlе planning уоur party.
Thе bachеlor party іѕ traditiоnally organized by thе Best Man. {It} іs his responsibilitу to see thе party is onе thе groom wіll enjoу and wіll remember fоr a long tіmе but alѕo one that the bridе-to-bе is happy wіth. Just Rеmеmbеr: The bаchelor party iѕ fоr the grооm, not the perѕon giving the partу. {In} other wordѕ, rеmеmbеr the likes and diѕlikеѕ of thе groom when рlanning the pаrtу. Yоu ѕhould disсuss with him what he wоuld lіke and what he defіnіtely doesn't want before mаking any defіnіte plans.
Costa Rica Bachelor Party
You wіll аlso need tо dіscuss with the grооm what dаtes wоuld be good for him. The partу should be hosted аt lеast onе week, іf not more, before the wedding. Thе week of thе wedding is hectіc аnd besіdes, nо оne wаnts thе grооm and wedding раrty hung over fоr this sрecial occаsion. Onсе a few dateѕ havе bееn аgrееd uроn, уou ѕhould diѕcuѕѕ the dateѕ with the reѕt оf thе wedding party to fіnd the date thаt bеst fits intо everyone's sсhedule.
And lаѕt, but not least, discuss who ѕhоuld be іnvіtеd to the bachelor pаrty with the grооm. Obviously the mаle members of the weddіng party аre tо bе included {but} is thеrе anyonе whо is very special to the groom that shоuld be invited? Any mаlе member attеnding thе wеddіng іѕ a potentіal bachelor pаrty guеst. Usuаlly, if ѕomeone haѕ nоt been invited to thе wedding, they should not bе invited tо the bachelor pаrty. How many people tо invite depends on a number on thіngѕ such as where it іs being held оr what tуpe оf actіvіtіes arе planned. To keeр іt ѕimple, the guest list ѕhоuld not havе more than {20} peоple. Morе than that and the pаrty bеcomеs more difficult to orchеstratе.
It is up to the best man to mаke sure аll party expenѕeѕ are paid. Onсе a ѕоlid idea for the pаrtу haѕ been established, eѕtimate thе coѕtѕ for the party аnd let the wedding party know what their share іѕ. {If} it сauses any finanсial difficulty for аnyone, оthеr plans ѕhould be arranged ѕo that nо one feels bad about how ѕmаll or largе their contribution to the рarty was.
Once thе рlаns аre agreed upon, book the venue as sооn as possible to make sure it will be availablе. Send out іnvіtatіons well bеfоrе thе schedule dаte. Thіѕ will gіve everyone рlenty оf tіmе tо mаkе arrangementѕ tо join thе festivities. Invіtatіons should includе, bеsіdеs thе uѕuаl tіme, place and dаte, a telephone numbеr that a guеst cаn саll if thеrе іѕ a рroblem or he has anу questіons аbout the party.
A bachelоr partу wouldn't bе complete wіthout a lot of fооd and drіnk. Wherever уоu рlan to havе the party, bе ѕurе thеrе is plenty of both.
Music is a must fоr any pаrty, especially a baсhelor party {--} {IF} appropriate fоr the vеnuе. {If} you are рlanning a camping or a night at the bаsebаll park, music will nоt be a concern.
Plan some amusing gаmes. A "rоast the groom" оr "this iѕ the embarrassing moments of your lіfе" are always a hіt - mаybe nоt wіth the grооm {but} with the guests. Juѕt bе ѕurе not to carrу it ѕo far the groom becоmes very embarrassed. This саn be quite a fіne lіnе to walk, ѕo be сareful and notiсe how thе grооm is rеacting. If you see hе is becoming verу uncоmfоrtable, it is best tо switch to ѕomе other form of entertaining.
Yоu maу want to schеdulе a рarty that lаѕtѕ lоnger thаn juѕt a fеw еvеning hourѕ. Trу hosting a sports event such аs a basketball or baseball game іn the аfternoon and сarrу thе party into the evening with drіnkѕ, food and music. {If} you have the time and fіnances, thе party could bе sprеad ovеr a weekend. {If} this is thе casе, уоur bachelor party planning skills will bе tеstеd аs you hаvе much morе timе аnd activities to monitor and assume responsibilitу fоr.
{If} your party invоlves alcohol, аrrаngе transportation {--} whether a limousine, a cаb оr havіng desіgnated drіvers -- tо take any person who is unable to drivе safely, homе. These arrangements should be mаdе long before the day of thе party.
Aѕ the party orgаnizer, it іѕ up to you to kееp everything runnіng ѕmoothly. You arе in charge of taking сare of all situаtions, whether it іs sоmeоne whо hаs hаd too muсh to drink, someone who іѕ acting inappropriatеly, оr аny оthеr рrоblem that may happen. You will nееd to keep yоur еarѕ аnd eyes оpеn. {If} thіngs get оut of hand, you cаn be guаrаnteed you wіll bе blаmеd for іt. {If} you have сhosen your guests аnd your venue wisely, thіѕ will probаbly not be an іssuе for you.
Wіth careful planning аnd making ѕure you hаve соvered аll the detaіls, bоth large аnd small, уou will bе guaranteed a bachelor party that will be enjоуed аnd remembered by all thоse іn attеndanсе for a long tіmе.


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American Jewish Organizations Must Support Government Funding For Jewish Schools
by Ronn Torossian
Government provides aid to Jewish schools in Australia, Britain and Canada – and it is high time that the Jewish community in America demands the same. Undoubtedly, if implemented, the support would make a tremendous impact on Jewish continuity efforts.
American Jews intermarry at a rate of nearly 50%, assimilation is at an all-time high – and it appears that education is the primary path to ensure Jewish continuity. According to sociologist Steven Cohen, Jewish school attendance increases a Jewish child's likelihood of marrying another Jew by 14 percentage points. Naturally it also impacts other arenas of an individual's Jewish identity. What issue today poses a larger threat to the American Jewish community than the sweeping tide of assimilation? In years past, certain Jewish organizations argued about the importance of a separation of church and state. Clearly, this concern pales in comparison to the fact that American Jewry is voluntarily withering away.
Education isn't cheap – tuition at American Jewish schools averages $14,000 a year, and it's a heavy burden to pay for many parents. Lowering costs makes a big difference – an experiment last decade at a Cleveland Jewish day school showed that cutting tuition from roughly $10,000 to around $5,500 led to an enrollment increase of 20% over three years. And why should Jews be taxed to pay for public schools which don't provide a curriculum geared towards securing our people's future?
It appears that slowly Jewish organizations are rethinking their opposition to public support for religious schools. The Jewish Federation of Greater New Orleans recently became the first in the country to endorse private school vouchers. But more action needs to be taken much faster as every year we lose more and more Jews. Government aid for Jewish schools is a cause which anyone concerned about the future of American Jewry must universally advocate for.
Related coverage
For me, as a parent, owning my own business and living in New York City, I pay approximately 45% of my income in taxes – and on top of that I pay $20,000+ (in post-tax dollars) per child for yeshiva (Jewish education) for my children. Why shouldn't I receive tax credits for public school which my kids don't attend?
As Ze'ev Jabotinsky said in 1937, "Jewish religious tradition is not an archaic object of our history, but an active pulsating power which exists today and will continue for all eternity."
Ronn Torossian is CEO of 5WPR, and Author of PR book "For Immediate Release." He is also a passionate Jewish philanthropist.


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I've often wondered why some plants are weeds and some are considered perfect plants for potting or a garden. I can understand why some weeds aren't beloved because they show up like unwelcomed guests, and you can't get rid of them.
Those plants can be ragged and ugly and may even cause you to sneeze. Not wild violets. I must admit that I really love them even though they are considered an invasive weed.
I was trying to identify another plant and I really thought it was this pretty violet with heart shaped leaves and purple flowers. Wild violets are lacy with nice purple flowers on stems that rise up from the frilly leaves.
I was trying to remember where I had seen them and a couple days ago I went in search of the violets I had seen about a year ago in a ditch.
So I dug around in my car till I found a plastic fork and I dug some violets that are wild and invasive, but just may make a very nice plant for my yard since they obviously come back, year after year.
For me, they are not an invasive weed, but a flower that is perfect for me. Next time I will go to the ditch with a shovel and I will definitely not plant them around my nice lawn grass.


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The men's section played their February medal competition on Saturday in heavy rain.
But the bad weather could not stop Mick Whelan winning the Division One crown.
Going out in 39 and coming home in 37, Whelan hit a birdie and 11 pars for a fantastic net score of 66, beating runner-up Karl Burn by a single shot.
Ben Alford was third after a card playoff.
Division Two was won by Tom Wood, who went out in 41 and returned home in 39 with a birdie and 11 pars, for a gross 80 (net 66).
Trevor Sargent claimed second spot with a net 71 while Colin Staines was third with a net 74.
February's seniors' medal was played on a cold, windy day last Thursday.
Dennis Warren would go on to win his first competition of the year with an impressive net 69.
His front-nine of 46 was backed up with a back-nine of 41 with six pars and a birdie along the way.
Paul Whiter was second with a net 70 and Paul Mudd had to settle for third after a card playoff.


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September 7, 2001, Section C, Page 5Buy Reprints
If the Microsoft Corporation won at least a partial victory today, its corporate adversaries were quick to argue that the company's huge and far-reaching lobbying crusade of the last few years should receive a healthy share of the credit.
From a cold start just four years ago, Microsoft assembled a formidable lobbying apparatus that worked to touch anyone who could have any influence over the antitrust case against it -- particularly, during last year's election campaign, Republican candidates, including George W. Bush.
Microsoft and its employees donated $4.66 million last year to federal political candidates or parties, more than two-thirds of it to Republicans, according to an analysis by the Center for Responsive Politics. And the company paid at least $6 million more to lobbyists, who were charged with persuading politicians to accept Microsoft's point of view.
A Washington-area lobbying organization working for Microsoft's adversaries gathered donation reports from state candidates, political parties and political action committees as well as federal records and said it had found that Microsoft had donated $6.1 million overall, $3.2 million of that to Republicans.
Last year, Microsoft even hired Ralph Reed, the political consultant who was at the time a senior adviser to the Bush campaign. His job was to urge Mr. Bush to take a softer approach toward the company if elected president. Mr. Reed dropped the Microsoft campaign when it was publicly disclosed.
Many of Microsoft's adversaries, who had argued that only a breakup of the company would change its behavior, were dismayed by the Justice Department's decision today not to seek that remedy and saw the lobbying effort as an element in that shift.
''Microsoft has demonstrated time and again that through their sheer power and immense wealth, they can easily evade behavioral remedies designed to constrain their unlawful activity,'' said Edward J. Black, president of the Computer and Communications Industry Association, which backs Microsoft's corporate adversaries.
In an interview, he added: ''One would be hard pressed to say that all the money and the lobbying was not intended to get a positive result -- to get a huge back-off on the case. And they got a huge back-off on the case.''
Several other industry representatives, speaking on the condition of anonymity, echoed that view.
The Justice Department argued today that its action was anything but a capitulation. In fact, the department said that one of its goals in devising a remedy remained ''opening the operating system market to competition,'' which could break Microsoft's monopoly.
A senior department official insisted that lobbying had nothing to do with today's announcement, and a White House spokesman said that while President Bush was briefed on the case he played no role in the decision.
But the idea that the effectiveness of lobbying by Microsoft could even be a subject for discussion today shows how far the company has come in just a few short years.
When the Clinton administration's Justice Department filed its first suit against Microsoft, in the fall of 1997, the company had a one-man lobbying shop here with an office above a suburban-Washington shopping mall. The company's political donations of all types to federal candidates that year totaled less than $100,000.
Microsoft then, company executives said at the time, considered Washington a distant and largely irrelevant dot on the map, far removed both physically and spiritually from its headquarters just outside Seattle.
But in the spring of 1998, the Justice Department and 20 states filed their broad antitrust suit against Microsoft. The company came to believe that persistent lobbying by its competitors and adversaries, notably the Netscape Communications Corporation, Sun Microsystems and Oracle, had been behind the department's decision.
Microsoft quickly decided that it needed to be a major player here and, first thing, hired a phalanx of prominent lobbyists. In addition to Mr. Reed, former head of the Christian Coalition, they have included Haley Barbour, the former chairman of the Republican National Committee; Tom Downey, the former Democratic congressman from Long Island; Vin Weber, the former Republican congressman from Minnesota; Slade Gorton, the former senator from Washington; Jack Quinn, the former White House counsel; C. Boyden Gray, the White House counsel to former President George Bush and his law partner, Lloyd N. Cutler, counsel to former Presidents Jimmy Carter and Bill Clinton.
The lobbyists spread position papers around Washington and wrote op-ed page pieces, among many other tactics. They grew so numerous and prolific that they sometimes wound up quoting each other. In 1998, while the suit was in trial, Mr. Barbour wrote an opinion article for The Chronicle of Augusta, Ga., making the argument that the American people opposed the government's suit. To support that, he cited a national survey published by two other Microsoft-financed groups: Citizens Against Government Waste and the Technology Access Action Coalition.
But the company's efforts were not limited to Washington lobbyists. Attorneys general nationwide who were members of the states' coalition received visits from Microsoft executives who were often accompanied by close friends or local colleagues of the attorneys general. Microsoft had just put these people on the payroll.
Those visits and other lobbying tactics, which continue up to today, appeared to pay off. Texas, the state that started the multistate coalition, dropped out a few days before the suit was filed. At the end of 1998, the South Carolina attorney general dropped out, saying Microsoft faced plentiful competition in the market. That echoed the arguments Microsoft was making in court at the time. Last July, New Mexico dropped out as well, saying the state had settled with Microsoft.
Not all of Microsoft's efforts have been so effective. For example, a lobbying campaign in Congress in 1999 to cut the budget of the Justice Department's antitrust division failed -- and served to embarrass the company, Microsoft executives acknowledged at the time.
Still, the company does not appear to be letting up. The numbers from the Center for Responsive Politics show that through July of this year -- more than a year before the next national election -- Microsoft has already donated $700,000 to federal candidates or parties.


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From Like to Love
Photography field trip, workshop and retreat tickets.
Select the title and date of the weekend retreat you would like to attend.
The Curious Soul Photo School inspires photography lovers to take better photos of the beauty of life with any camera all the time. Love your photos!


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Tote Bag - ATOT11
Coming in multiple colors, this environmentally friendly grocery square tote bag measures 13" x 10" x 15". To hold even the heaviest of grocery items, this tote is made of super strong 80GSM non-woven polypropylene and features a large main compartment and an inner bottom board to prevent from any wear and tear. Not only is this bag reusable, it is recyclable. Add a silkscreen imprint to further promote your brand! Please note, the plastic inserts that come with each grocery bag will be packed loose at the bottom of each case.
Size: 13 " x 10 " x 15 "
Material: Non-Woven Polypropylene
Price Includes: One color, One Location Imprint
Price does not include shipping
1 Color Imprint Area - 5.00"W x 8.00"H
2 Colors Imprint Area - 4.50"W x 8.00"H
3+ Colors Imprint Area - 5.00"W x 8.00"H
$49.00 per color


text: Brandon and I had the wedding of our dreams at the Flying-R-Ranch. We wanted a rustic, homespun theme and we picked the perfect venue. It was a beautiful fall day, the Lodge was warm and inviting, and the Owners & Staff were AWESOME!!! The reception, music and dancing were all we could have ever dreamed of. Thank you Flying-R-Ranch.


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What is a 209A protective order?
A 209A protective order is a court order that protects you from being abused by a member or former member of your household or family or someone you have been dating. It is called a 209A protective order because the law that created it is Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 209A.
Is it the same thing as a "restraining order"?
Protective orders are also called "restraining orders," "abuse prevention orders," or "209A's." In this manual we use the term 209A protective order, because the order does more than just "restrain" your abuser. It protects you in other ways too. 209A protective orders say "Abuse Prevention Order" at the top of the order.
You may also hear about "Domestic Relations Protective Orders." These orders are like 209A protective orders but they are given as part of divorce, paternity and support cases in Probate and Family Court. Domestic Relations Protective Orders can give you the same protections as 209A protective orders. You should talk to a lawyer if you think you need a Domestic Relations Protective Order under one of these cases. You may qualify for free legal services. The information in this manual does not cover Domestic Relations Protective Orders.
There are other types of restraining orders that are not 209A protective orders. For example, you get a restraining order to stop harassment. You can get a restraining order to keep a neighbor from dumping garbage on their front lawn. Or one person can get a restraining order to keep another person from spending all the money in a joint bank account until the court says it is ok. But we do not talk about those types of orders in this manual. We will be talking only about the kind of order that protects you from abuse by a member or former member of your household or family or someone you have been dating.
What is the difference between criminal charges and a 209A protective order?
Criminal charges are cases handled by the district attorney. The district attorney is the one who files the complaint, or who goes forward with a complaint filed by the victim. Criminal cases are for breaking criminal laws like laws against assault and battery, stalking, or criminal harassment. If a person is found guilty in a criminal case, he can go to jail or prison, get probation, have to go to a counseling program, and/or have to pay a fine.
A 209A protective order case is a civil case. This means that it is filed by one person against another person. The district attorney does not get involved in civil cases. The person who abused you will not be arrested or fined just because you get a 209A protective order. Instead, the court orders him to do or not to do certain things.
If the court gives you a 209A protective order and the person abuses you again, the person may be violating your order. Violating a 209A order is a crime. 209A orders say so right at the top. The violation might be a crime. The police can arrest someone for violating a restraining order.
You can file for a 209A protective order even if there are already criminal charges against your abuser. The 209A protective order does different things than criminal charges.
You also can get a 209A protective order if you do not file criminal charges against the person who abused you. If you get a 209A protective order without filing criminal charges, you can still decide to file criminal charges later as long as you do not wait too long.


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Get the help you need, so you can focus on healing.
Order a gift online for a patient staying at St. Charles Bend.
We invite you to visit our full-service gift store conveniently located on the hospital's first floor.
You'll find a boutique experience with a wide selection of merchandise including fresh flowers, magazines, gourmet chocolates, jewelry, a selection of kid-friendly items and décor for home or office. We have a comprehensive Mom and Baby department including all the necessary gear to support breastfeeding.
To purchase a gift for a hospital patient by phone, call the store at 541-706-2788, and the staff will arrange the delivery. We do require the full name of the patient.
HoursMonday – Friday: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.Saturday: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.Closed on Holidays.
You can shop online for patients at St. Charles Bend. Visit our Online Gift Store.


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Arrest, charges in Md. 'preppy' burglary
Howard County police say they have the man they called the "Preppy Burglar."
Jeremy M. Hall, 30, of Silver Spring, was arrested Thursday and charged with burglary, theft and destruction of property.
Police had said they were looking for a man who broke into and robbed a Highland house on Sept. 14 while wearing a tie and dress pants.
Police received a tip about Hall from a citizen who had seen a television report about the theft, according to a press release.
It is not not yet known if Hall was involved in other cases.
-- David P. Marino-Nachison
Washington Post Editors
| September 24, 2010; 8:16 AM ET
Categories: Howard, Updates
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Next: Shootout, chase after Md. carjacking
He forgot his tennis racket and wanted to borrow one for his singles match with Muffy later.
Posted by: fluxgirl | September 24, 2010 8:49 AM | Report abuse
Why do police call him the preppy burglar? Do they call minorities 'ghetto burglars'(or worse)? Way to perpetuate racist stereotypes Howard County!
Posted by: nivreg | September 24, 2010 10:06 AM | Report abuse
Why do police call him the preppy burglar? Do they call minorities 'ghetto burglars'(or worse)? Way to perpetuate racist stereotypes Howard County!
Simply because of his attire, no more no less. And regarding minorities and crime, its an assumption that crimes occuring in P.G. or D.C. are committed by ghetto, ignorant and violent blacks. Whether spoken aloud or in the subtext stereotypes persist.
Posted by: eholmes27 | September 24, 2010 10:29 AM | Report abuse
He didn't look particularly preppy to me. More like cubicle chic.
Posted by: pundito | September 24, 2010 2:19 PM | Report abuse
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Tuscan White Beans w/ Sage and Garlic
Translation: Fagioli all'Olio
Cuisine: Italian
Region: Tuscany
Recipe Type: Main Dish
Average User Rating: 1.71 / 5
Vegetarian / Vegan: Vegan
This delicious Tuscan bean recipe is quite simple to make, yet packs an incredible amount of flavor. The savory flavors of fresh sage, roasted garlic, and high-quality olive oil combine to create a comforting, warm dish which embodies the rustic flavors of Tuscan cuisine.
2 cups dried white beans
6 cups vegetable stock
4 TB + 1 TB extra virgin olive oil
1 carrot, cut into strips and diced
6-8 leaves fresh sage, chiffonade
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 head garlic
Extra virgin olive oil, for garnish
Heat oven to 375°. Cut the top off the head of garlic, exposing the cloves, and coat with 1TB olive oil. Wrap in foil and roast in the oven for 35-45 minutes, until golden brown. Let cool, remove the cloves from the head of garlic, and set aside.
Place all remaining ingredients, along with roasted garlic, in a deep oven dish or dutch oven, stir to combine, and cover. Cook in 350° oven for about 1.5-2 hours until beans are cooked through and tender. Re-season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve in bowls and garnish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
Submitted By: Chris
Prep Time: 45 minutes
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Servings: 2-4
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Did you enjoy this recipe for Tuscan White Beans w/ Sage and Garlic? Would you change it somehow? Let us know your thoughts!
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DOWNLOAD PREsS KIT
Welcome to the Snowcastle Games Press Area! In the press kit you will find everything you need to know about our company and our current project, EARTHLOCK. We've also provided an assortment of product artwork and company logos that are at your disposal for blogs, magazines or any other form of press you desire.
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Earthlock Review: Enhancements and Additions Oh My!
The best part is, playing it on Switch allows you to take Earthlock with you on the go, or enjoy it on your TV. Either way, it looks stunning and allows you to see new cutscenes and story content that did not come in the original release.
This is truly a brand new game, despite it feeling familiar. There is so much to love, and aside from it being grindy in places (which, what RPG isn't really?) I think it is truly a fantastic game.
This is a game that needs to be experienced and is exactly what I look for in a classic style RPG. I was very surprised at the changes they made, and I look forward to the recently announced Earthlock sequel.
Rating: 10/10
EARTHLOCK: FESTIVAL OF MAGIC REVIEW (Wii U)
"...An incredible effort presented by Snow Castle easily nets this game a 9/10 and a high recommendation to anyone who enjoys JRPG and fantasy games."
"...Picking up my Wii U again to play on Earthlock was definitely one of the better gaming choices that I have made recently. Although the console may be fading into the background with the rise of the Nintendo Switch, Earthlock is making sure the Wii U gets an amazing send off with its addictive style of gameplay. With what can only be described as a beautiful artistic style of character design, environments and even enemies there is little room to doubt that Snow Castle games have created a truly immersive experience."
Rating: 9/10
The world of Umbra is colorful and filled with a unique cast of characters, all working together to provide a unique experience that only Earthlock: Festival of Magic can conjure up."
"...Earthlock: Festival of Magic is difficult. However, it is also wonderful, fun, and every bit as polished and charming as AAA developed JRPG's. I can't help but keep going back to comparing it to games like the Tales series, due to the mixture of strategy, puzzles, and polished yet challenging combat. Overall I think Earthlock: Festival of Magic is a must-buy for RPG fans. "
"...The mechanics are strange, quirky, and interesting (not to mention different than what most RPG fans are used to) but Earthlock: Festival of Magic is worth every hour you will spend farming, crafting, fighting, and unraveling the tale within the game."
Rating: 9/10
"...Earthlock: Festival of Magic is a turn-based RPG that's releasing on PlayStation 4 on 27th January. While its foundations lie in the classic stylings of the genre, it's been moulded to take advantage of modern trends to feel contemporary. Lead artist Fredrik Dahl from Snowcastle Games talked us through the juxtaposition of the revered and new that makes Earthlock an interesting proposition for RPG fans."
"...It's built by turn based RPG fans for fans: "When we sat down and had a round table after we finished up our previous production [interactive children's story app Hogworld: Gnart's Adventure], it quickly became clear that we all had fond memories of turn-based RPGs. "
"...Strategy is key to survival, not the grind: "In the traditional turn-based RPGs I don't think it's a big secret that there is a lot of grinding going on – to level up in order to beat a boss, for example. We've tried to limit that by focusing more on a tactical experience. Usually you can get through the bosses in Earthlock by choosing the right strategy, getting your talent board set up and having the right character pairings. Getting wiped out is more often than not a case of having set the party up wrong."
Like all great RPGs, relationships matter: "If you pair up two characters, their bond grows stronger as they do battle side by side, and this unlocks perks and passive abilities unique to that pair. So in addition to the Talent Board, the battle bonds are a great way of customising the party depending on what kind of enemies the player is up against..."
A New IP is Born!
"Earthlock: Festival of Magic is what a Kickstarter-funded game is meant to be. After years in development, Snowcastle Games delivered a quality RPG title to rival popular RPG games today. As a fan of RPG games but one who does not play them as often as I used to, Festival of Magic offered a variety of adventure, missions, & whimsical humor that reminded me so much of old school Squaresoft games. NOT SquareEnix but Square-SOFT! "
"...Snowcastle Games crafted a beautiful throw-back to old RPG favorites while updating the feel with crisp, clean graphics that handles quite a lot of action on-screen at times. Character & enemy details on good while the backgrounds, towns, battlegrounds, and overworld shine with nostalgic goodness."
"...Initially, a gamer could finish the game within 30 hours conceivably but after near 50 hours myself, I can attest there is just enough added in-game fun to extend the hours beyond 30 hours. For the price of the game, the quality & quantity ratio is very good."
"I love this game."
"...This is the first game that delivered on its promise to its backers and feels like the company and IP have a future in the gaming world. I have high hopes for a sequel as the original Kickstarter promised this to be only Chapter 1 of a 3-part series. If that is the case, this initial IP for Snowcastle Games is primed to grow larger and show more of the mysterious world of Umbra."
Review: A Glorious Classic JRPG
"Earthlock: Festival of Magic from Snowcastle Games is an absolute nostalgic joy to play. Feeling at once both reverential for classic 16-bit JRPGs and novel due to its western stylized setting and systems, Earthlock is a grand start to an RPG trilogy, and well worth the meager price of admission."
"...I will say that Earthlock's difficulty curve is just about right too. Most battles are simple "trash" fights aimed at leveling you up. But as soon as the first main boss in the Swamp you'll find out that the combat can be really trying but not punishing. The story's solid, the characters are likeable, and the pacing is just right."
"...If you like the gameplay of the 90s titles that made Final Fantasy, Breath of Fire, and more household names, but always wanted something with a more western aesthetic you'll find plenty to love in Earthlock: Festival of Magic."
"...Earthlock is a fantastic throwback to the JRPGs of the 90s. Its turn-based content is brusquely paced, strategic, and also novel with the stances and pairing mechanics. You get your own home island you can farm and build up, and each of the game's core six companions can be customized with talents to change how they play fundamentally. It all comes together exquisitely for JRPG fans, but with a western veneer."
"...Earthlock sits up there with some of the best JRPGs I've played in recent years."
Gameplay: 9/10 – Overall: 8/10
"This game has it all in my opinion. Good story, cool backdrops, towns, and dungeons a very good battle system and fully customisable players that you find along the way. "
"... it's a lot like FFVII in the layout of the game, just very polished compared to it."
"...the artwork, the gameplay, the battle system I love it all!
"...It's what Final Fantasy needs to get back to"
Bottom Line:
I love this game! I have missed these kinds of games and I would play them all the time if they were still about as much as they used to be, but every now and then a little gem like this appears and it's great. The last game I played like this was Child of Light.
Earthlock: Festival of Magic marks the glorious return of the heartfelt, story-driven, turn-based JRPG; The kind of game we haven't seen since the era of Lords of the Rings: The Third Age and Final Fantasy X.
"Whilst it is certainly less dark and more child-friendly than its predecessors, it nonetheless captures the spirit of danger, adventure and of burgeoning relationships which made those classic titles memorable."
"... As I played Earthlock… I realised there was something special about this game. 'Charm' is a good word for it; 'character' is another. It draws you into its world despite how much I wanted to write it off as another re-tread."
"... I think it is a tremendous achievement and one that you can easily lose yourself in for hours on end, and one that you will certainly feel a burning curiosity to get to the end of once you commit.
Perhaps the best way to put it, is developers Snowcastle Games have created a game I could get nostalgic about now."
Earthlock: Festival of Magic is a beautiful homage to classic JRPG style games like Final Fantasy and Chrono Trigger.
"... a must for anyone who has spent much of his gamer life playing the classic JRPGs. SnowCastle Games has made a very competent tribute, created endearing and well made characters...
"... [Snowcastle] has produced an incredible aesthetic that leaves us wanting to explore more and more."
If there's any game you're going to get this month, make it this.
"... Earthlock is a good game, everything feels polished, it has a well written story, it's pretty and plays really well."
"...This game has balanced its difficulty well, it's hard – if you don't know your enemy and just use the same move combination over and over you're not going to survive. Taking the time to vary your attacks and discovering each creature's weakness is key. This can turn an impossible boss battle into something strategic and enjoyable."
Earthlock: Festival of Magic – a tribute to the good old days
"... The first thing you notice when you start the game is how good it looks. ... Do not expect photorealistic graphics, but a beautiful, colorful world with an atmosphere reminiscent of Final Fantasy X."
"... An indie title that approaches the quality of a triple-A game."
Earthlock: Festival of MagiC
"... a compelling adventure that will stay with you long after completion. If you don't pick this up while it is free, you're looking to spend about $30 / £20, and even then, it will be worth every bit of cash you invest.
It's stunning, captivating, plays on its own strengths and despite not giving you many hints as to where you should be heading, it is utterly entertaining. Fans of JRPG should most certainly be adding this to the download queue."
The Games Armory
"... Earthlock uses the unity game engine to admirable effect, it's got the typical JRPG styling down to a tee, with subtle touches of Max and The Brotherhood it's a very eye pleasing combination..."
"If your an Xbox player there is absolutely no reason not to pick this up, it really is a rough diamond."
Earthlock: Festival of Magic Review
"... with a healthy dose of creativity and imagination you don't have to have a hundred million dollar budget to produce an amazing game. We spent countless hours engrossed in Earthlock: Festival of Magic and we're still convinced that we've only scratched the surface of this wonderful game.."
"Earthlock: Festival of Magic is an essential purchase. And the fact that it's a free game on Xbox Gold for September means there's absolutely no reason to miss out on this great game. Highly recommended."
Earthlock: Festival of Magic YouTube review by Kyokilla
"Looks like Torchlight, but sounds and plays like the Final Fantasy's of yore."
"The World is beautiful!"
"If you want a solid turn based game with enough depth to keep you satisfied but not overwhelmed, and if you want nostalgic references with some modern perks, I highly recommend checking this out."
Hands-On Preview -
Earthlock: Festival of Magic
"... it hits all the right notes and provides a wonderfully charming experience throughout. There are enough unique additions on top of all the classic staples that it didn't feel like a cheap imitation, but a true JRPG that can stand on its own. Earthlock: Festival of Magic is out tomorrow. Give it a try."


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South Ayrshire Provost Winifred Sloan has hosted the annual meeting of the Scottish Provosts' Association, the umbrella group for all 32 Provosts across Scotland.
[Provost Winifred Sloan (seated at centre) is pictured with: back row: (left to right) former Provost Drew Duncan, North Ayrshire Council, Pat Connolly, former Provost North Lanarkshire, Provosts Tom Kerr (West Lothian), Alasdair Hutton (Scottish Borders), Alex Cluness (Shetland), Eric Gotts (East Dumbarton) and William Petrie (Argyll & Bute). Front Row: Provosts Frances Melville (Fife), Stephanie Young (East Ayrshire), Sheena Richardson (East Lothian) and Pat McPhee (North Ayrshire).]
The Scottish Provosts' Association represents the interests of all Provosts in their capacity of Civic Heads of local government, and a key part of the meeting held in Ayr was to explore ways to improve the services and support offered to Provosts, as well as establishing an agreed framework for their roles.
It was attended by Provosts from East and North Ayrshire, Argyll and Bute, East Dumbarton, Shetland, Scottish Borders, West Lothian, North Lanarkshire and Fife.
Opening the meeting, President William Petrie, Provost of Argyll and Bute said: "On behalf of the Scottish Provosts' Association, I would like to express my thanks to Provost Sloan and her team for the very warm welcome we have received today.
"It is always a pleasure to come down to Ayr, and I'm sure the seaside location in the spectacular settings of County Buildings was an inspirational factor in our business for the day."
Provost Sheena Richardson, Secretary of the Association said: "We were delighted by the welcome and hospitality given to us by South Ayrshire Council and Provost Sloan.
"Provosts in Scotland are dealing with changing and often challenging times, and the meeting helped us clarify some of the issues we face.
"Our time in Ayr was very constructive, and has helped set down the foundations for the development of more formal guidelines and support systems for all Scottish Provosts."
The importance of the meeting was underlined by Provost Alex Cluness, who came all the way from Shetland, a distance of some 500 miles.
Provost Sloan concluded: "It was a privilege to host the Scottish Provosts' Association, and I hope all our guests had an enjoyable time in Ayr.
Provosts have the same responsibilities as other elected members to hold surgeries and attend meetings.
"We also chair the full Council meeting and act as the Council's civic head at ceremonial, formal and other important occasions, promoting the values and enhancing the reputations of the councils we serve.
"As nice as it is to network, I'm particularly pleased we were able to make real progress in defining some of the issues and difficulties Provosts face in current times, and I look forward to attending the next meeting to take these developments forward.
South Ayrshire Council is a founder member of the Elite Ayrshire Business Circle.
Friday, 24 June 2011
South Ayrshire Council welcomes Scottish Provosts' Association
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Tax & Business
Suntrust International Center
One SE Third Avenue
Suite 1100
Miami, FL 33131
Larry Blum is a Senior Advisor at Marcum LLP. He assumed his current position in 2011, upon completion of the merger of MarcumRachlin (formerly known as Rachlin) with Marcum LLP. For more than 18 years, Mr. Blum served as Rachlin's Managing Partner, directing the firm's growth to its position as Florida's largest independent accounting and business advisory firm.
Mr. Blum's experience includes stratigic planning, mergers and acquisitions, domestic and international taxation, which he extends to an array of clients, including foreign investors' manufacturers, retailers, and real estate concerns. He also provides tax strategies to corporations, partnerships and individuals. Additionally he spends a great deal of time in the areas of estate planning and trusts.
As an experienced litigation advisor and respected member of the Florida Bar and the New York Bar' Mr. Blum has served as an expert witness on a broad range of issues' including business valuations, proof of damages, contract violations, fraud and defalcation, business interruption damages, bankruptcy, and matrimonial matters.
Mr. Blum has been a long-term member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) Major Firms Group. He has also served as a member of "The Group 100", a national group formed by the AICPA to protect the public interest and position the accounting profession for the future.
- American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)Subcommittee on International Taxation
- Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants (FICPA)
- The Florida Bar
- The New York Bar
- Rachlin Foundation
- I Have a Dream Foundation
- American Association of Attorney -Certified Public Accountants
- Peace for the Children Foundation - Board Member
- University of Miami, Graduate School of Business - Former Adjunct Professor
- South Florida Business Journal Top 100 Power Leader for 2011
- South Florida Business Journal 2007 Ultimate CEO Honoree
- Published in several tax and accounting industry publications
- Television appearance, Interpretation and Analysis of New Federal Tax Legislation
- "Commitment to Excellence," - Profile in Smart Business Miami (April 2007)
Domestic Tax
International Taxation
Litigation Consulting
Tax Strategies
Foreign Investors
Manufacturing & Retail Companies
Partnerships & Individuals
Real Estate Companies
Master of Law, Taxation
New York University School of Law
Juris Doctor, Taxation
Brooklyn Law School
Bachelor of Science, Accounting
Long Island University
2013 Top CPA in Litigation Support, South Florida Legal Guide


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FDA Panel Backs Proposed Epilepsy Drug Derived From Cannabis
GW Pharmaceuticals drug could become first FDA-approved drug derived from marijuana plant
An advisory panel to the Food and Drug Administration recommended the agency approve what could become the first prescription drug in the U.S. derived from the marijuana plant, as a treatment for people with rare forms of epilepsy.
A committee on Thursday voted 13-0 that the risk-benefit profile was favorable for GW Pharmaceuticals PLC's drug, cannabidiol, to treat seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome or Dravet syndrome in patients 2 years of age and older. The rare disorders involve frequent or difficult-to-treat...


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Rebecca mcnutt
In Her Own Words:
"My fitness journey originally began as a child. I literally played every sport I could; I took dance, did gymnastics, played volleyball. But, like so many individuals, life caught up with me. College, marriage, and children led me astray from my fitness goals.
I am a registered nurse and I found myself being… well… a hypocrite. I was instructing my patients on the importance of diet & exercise, yet I wasn't heeding my own advice! I made a vow to myself that I was going to be a positive example and practice what I preached.
Because of my fantastic family, the inspiring instructors at Nampa Fit Studio, & my encouraging friends, I was able to get my booty back into shape so I could jump at the opportunity to teach BODYPUMP®. I am so excited to be able to share this amazing class with everyone and I hope to inspire people like me, who maybe let their fitness goals slip away for a while. It's never to late to start…or start again! "


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About MK Meredith
MK Meredith writes single title contemporary romance promising an emotional ride on heated sheets. She believes the best route to success is to never stop learning.
Her lifelong love affair with peanut butter continues. Only two things come close in the battle for her affections: gorgeous heels and maybe Gerard Butler…or was it David Gandy? Who is she kidding? Her true loves are her husband and two children who have survived her SEA's (spontaneous explosions of affection) and live to tell the tale. The Meredith's live in the D.C. area with their two large fur babies...until the next adventure calls.
Places to find MK Meredith
Site: http://www.mkmeredith.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MKMKMeredith
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MKMKMeredith
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mkmkmeredith/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14145610.M_K_Meredith
Newsletter: http://www.mkmeredith.com/mks-heat-sheet/
Book review
|Amazon USA Amazon UK
Review by Suze
Chase is an ambitious woman. Her family owns the Huntington House hotel chain and she dreams of having a glorious career at the company. She has to earn this spot and that is the difficult part. She only has a short time to prove herself. Chase travels to Ferrara in Italy to open their new hotel. She thinks there are just a few last jobs to do and her task is to make sure every last detail is correct and to organize a spectacular opening. However, when she arrives at the hotel she finds a huge mess and it's her job to make everything right again.
Drago is a proud businessman. He's rich and successful, but his grandmother won't accept his money. Nonna runs a traditional and welcoming inn in Ferrara. Unfortunately something went terribly wrong and she's on the verge of bankruptcy. The reopening of her inn is her only chance to make it survive and it's supposed to be on the same day as the opening of Chase's hotel. Drago's grandmother might not accept his money, but he can sabotage Chase's plans and make her stay as difficult as possible. One of his strategies is getting close to the woman he's working against. Drago seems like a kind man who's nothing but helpful, only behind the scenes he is messing up her dream. This might have felt like a great idea when he worked it out in his head, but when Drago gets to know Chase he sees the woman she really is and he might destroy everything she holds dear. How far is he prepared to go to save Nonna's inn and what will it cost both him and Chase if he succeeds?
Seducing the Tycoon is a wonderful romantic story. Chase is a sweetheart. She's kind and warm and she easily connects with people. I had tears in my eyes when I read about Drago's actions. He's too proud for his own good and sometimes he hurts himself more than others. There's a lot of good in him too, but he doesn't always choose to show it. He and Chase have working hard for what they want to achieve in common and there's definitely chemistry, but Drago can learn a lot from the smart and compassionate woman. I couldn't wait to find out what would happen to them. They are two interesting main characters and I loved reading their story.
MK Meredith has chosen a wonderful setting for her book. The descriptions of Ferrara are vivid and colorful and it was easy to picture the beautiful romantic town with its charming inhabitants. I really enjoyed reading about Nonna's inn and family life. The connections between the characters are all fascinating and I liked that Seducing the Tychoon is a great book because of every person that's in it. I loved this fun and sexy romantic story that's firmly based on strong morals, close friendships and family values.
"Come up with me."
His fingers flexed in hers. "Up?"
"To my room." If anything would ever convince her his nickname was true, it would be the look that flashed into his eyes: intense, possessive, and a little scary. She shivered as his gaze roamed over her face. He trailed his fingers up her arm and across the bare skin above her breasts. They lingered along the pulse at her neck, then he lowered his lips there.
"I thought you'd never ask." His hot breath sent shivers down her spine. "I'm starving."
In short time, Chase slammed her suite door closed, then grabbed the lapels of Drago's shirt. On a heady giggle, she pressed her lips and her body against his. He was hot and hard and felt oh so right. Without warning, she found herself against the door.
He shoved his hands through her hair, grabbing her head in a firm grip that left her legs shaking beneath her. He angled his head, his lips hot and his tongue insistent.
She kissed him back, matching his intensity. She yanked up the hem of her dress, then wrapped her arms around his neck and circled his hips with her legs.
He pressed into her harder, and she moaned into his mouth. "Che figa." His voice was deep and hoarse, sending her stomach into a slow, languorous roll.
"Kiss me harder."
He yanked her back from the door, and walking with her wrapped around him, found his way to her bed. "My pleasure."
"And mine. Thank God." She grabbed at his tie, then followed with his buttons. All the while, he found the little hidden side zipper of her dress and pulled it down her body until the garment ended up on the floor at the foot of the bed. "I have a secret," she whispered. He shoved his pants and briefs down past his knees, then kicked them off. "Tell me."
She had to untie her tongue first. She'd seen beautiful men, but Drago had the finest architecture she'd ever come across. His shoulders were massive, and his wide chest met with thickly muscled abs. Her eyes trailed lower, and she found it hard to swallow. "Hard" being the operative word here. Sweet Jesus.
Licking her lips, she watched his body tighten further and whispered, "I've had plans for you since the day I saw you lounging against the streetlamp in front of the hotel." Her confession released something wild in him.
His dark eyes narrowed and his fingers flexed, then he was covering her from head to toe. His weight was delicious, and his heat only increased her craving. "You were checking out my shoes." He took her mouth again, sweeping his tongue inside, sucking on her lower lip. Holding his weight partially on one arm, he ran his other large hand the length of her torso, then up and over her stomach until he gently cupped her breast.
She had enough to fill his hand, and nothing had ever felt so damn good. Her fingers found their way through his hair, then down his cheeks to his sharp jaw. His stubble tickled the pads of her fingertips and set off her senses further. Everything burned. Her lungs, her skin, her need. She spread her legs, encouraging him to settle between them. She wanted to feel him against her. There.
He pressed kisses against her mouth, then over her jaw, and said in a harsh whisper, "You've had plans? My plans would scare you straight back to America."
That got her attention. She loved a challenge. "Wanna bet, love?"
He'll play dirty to protect his assets—but falling for the competition was never the plan.
International tycoon Drago De Luca has the world at his feet and he knows it. But back home in Italy, his beloved grandmother's family inn is on the verge of closing down for good, thanks to hotshot American heiress, Chase Huntington, and her new hotel. Drago has to protect Nonna's inn, even if it means getting close enough to Chase to convince her she needs to leave. But the more time he spends with Chase, the more he's drawn to her passion, her love of his culture, and the way she looks in those Louis Vuitton heels.
Chase Huntington would give anything to enjoy her time with charming, sexy-as-hell Drago in the style capital of the world, but she has to make sure the new Huntington hotel opens successfully. How else can she prove she's not just fashionista with a fortune—she's an heiress savvy enough to take over the family's biggest hotel back in California? But somewhere between boutiques and business plans, she falls head over Louboutins for Drago. But when Drago's true motive for spending so much time with her comes to light, it could destroy everything Chase built and everything she thought she found in Italy.
Purchase links
Entangled: http://entangledpublishing.com/seducing-the-tycoon/
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Seducing-Tycoon-MK-Meredith-ebook/dp/B01L7BSMAU
B&N: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/seducing-the-tycoon-mk-meredith/1124486262
iTunes: https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/book/seducing-the-tycoon/id1148592693?mt=11&at=11lSbP
Kobo: https://store.kobobooks.com/en-us/ebook/seducing-the-tycoon
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/31522317-seducing-the-tycoon


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- Different groups of animals will have different nutritional requirements.
- Always ensure that there is enough grazing. If there is not, and especially in winter months, the animals should be offered hay or haylage.
- There must be a constant supply of fresh, clean drinking water.
- Heavily pregnant and lactating females and other animals also require a supplement concentrate feed during the winter months. When feeding concentrate, ensure that the food is suitable and offered in the correct quantities to meet your animals' nutritional requirements.
- Feeding of sugar beet in the winter is a good source of energy.
- Don't use haynets because animals could get their heads caught and hang.
- Be aware that a number of plants are poisonous to alpacas and steps should be taken to ensure that they are removed from paddocks. For details of the effects of various poisonous plants and a list of a number of common ones that can harm alpacas, click here.


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Press escape to close this window. Download this image of Hometown Boys from Arizona: Information and Statistics about WWI Service Members
Arizona provided 10,500 young men to the U.S. armed forces during World War I. More than 70 Arizonans are buried or memorialized in ABMC cemeteries overseas. The 40th Division (National Guard) drew units and fillers from Arizona. Draftees from Arizona provided much of the original manpower of the 89th Division. The 89th Division fought in the St. Mihiel and Meuse-Argonne Campaigns, overcoming particularly stubborn resistance when storming the Heights of Barricourt.
Arizonans fought at sea and in the air as well. Lt. Frank Luke, born in Phoenix, was a fighter ace with the 27th Aero Squadron who became the first airman to receive the Medal of Honor. He was killed during the Meuse-Argonne Offensive, and is buried at Meuse-Argonne American Cemetery. Arizonans planted victory gardens and participated in war bond drives. Arizona's mineral wealth contributed to the war effort, although newly admitted Arizona was in many ways still on the American Frontier. Indeed, continuing strife pitted U.S. soldiers against outlaws, smugglers and Mexican revolutionaries – most notably with the Battle of Ambos Nogales in August 1918.
Editor's Note: This ongoing series will feature information and statistics about World War I service members from every state. You can also find this information in our new Chateau-Thierry Visitor Center that will be opening later this year.


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While I tried the banana hair mask, I vowed not to resort to a home-made hair cleanser again. Because I had proper chunks of banana still in my hair (the recipe called for it, quit judging me). I had to wash my hair thrice and use a fine-toothed comb to get rid of all the banana in the hair. The end result was great, considering I used the mask only once. It de-frizzed my hair and softened it as well.
I also happened to try the banana face mask and of course, its moisturising properties kicked in with the first use. I was uber excited when I actually found a banana based face mask that I wouldn't have to concoct at home! Say hello to a new French brand I discovered- Kadalys's Musaclean Gentle Clarifying Mask. Can you say banana power?
The anti-ageing face mask's core ingredient is straight from the banana tree and helps replenish and soothe the skin whilst vacuuming out the impurities within the pores through clay. The product has a slight pleasant fragrance, but nothing too overwhelming.
The smooth and creamy consistency helped the mask glide onto my skin easily. I waited for 20mins before it started to dry and washed it off. My skin was softer and smooth with the first use. I've used this mask a total of 5 times ever since I got my hands on it and every time I use it, I notice the standard softness but also skin that subtly glows and is well moisturized. If you read my blog often, you'll realize I whine about the dry spots on my face I experience through different seasons. These spots have been kept at bay post using the mask.
I genuinely love this mask and more so because of bananas. I've witnessed the effect a banana and honey home-made mask has on the skin and can only anticipate what added clay and jojoba can do.
A little goes a long way so you won't end up with an empty tube any time soon (unless, you use this everyday which isn't really recommended).
Kadalys Musaclean Gentle Clarifying Mask has my seal of approval. I use it twice a week (at times thrice) and can't recommend it enough for anyone either looking for a new mask or wanting a squeaky clean, glowing complexion. It sits with my existing skin-care arsenal and is one of my favorite go-to masks!
You can find out more on www.kadalys.com
Let me know if you've discovered a mask you love!


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This wedding cake is simply beautiful, with cascading hydrangea falling down the side and multi-coloured ribbon. I've also made this cake with butterflies.
If you would like to discuss your wedding cake, help with a design and want to taste some samples, then please call me on 01483 429989 or complete the information below and I'll contact you to book a consultation.