text:
Our teams are building an accessible website. In the meantime, you can continue your experience on our Accorhotels website or contact us through the web accessibility page by email or phone.
As we're now part of AccorHotels with a unique customer online account, the authentification process has changed. Therefore you'll need to reset your password with the email address linked to your Fairmont account.
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Our exclusive lifestyle hotel experience, designed to fulfill the needs of the discerning business executive and leisure traveler.
Our hotels offer a broad range of function rooms - from elegant boardrooms to banquet halls.
Whether on an epic journey or a weekend getaway, we make every child's stay magical.
These exquisite properties are the perfect vacation oasis for you and your loved ones.
Purchase a gift card or browse through our selection of quality bed linens, pillows and bathrobes or sample our premium teas.
After an invigorating day on the slopes, step into consummate luxury.
Our luxurious golf destinations include breathtaking mountains, stark deserts and warm tropical beaches.
Experience our growing collection of breathtakingly beautiful spas around the world.
View the latest issue of Fairmont Magazine.
Celebrate the beginning of your journey together at one of our landmark wedding resorts.
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Enjoy up to 25% off
Fairmont Peace Hotel is nestled on the bund. The peace hall with the fantastic bund view and it's Shanghai's most famous ballroom, and over the decades has been the scene of some of the city's most lavish receptions and parties. The stunning rooftop events space is one of the largest, highest and most historic roof terraces on The Bund. Peace Hall and The rooftop are unique places for celebrations and weddings.
The Peace Hall on the eighth floor reassumes its early 20th century status as Shanghai's most famous ballroom. The restored hall is adorned with art deco detailing, crystal chandeliers and a 6.5-metre-high ceiling. Its original sprung white maple dance floor has also been returned to a high polish. The 540-square-meter Peace Hall is a stunning venue for a wedding with 300 guests.
On the hotel's Mezzanine Level, the Fairmont Peace Hotel has re-opened the floor's largest function room, Chun Shen, which is the original name for the Huangpu River. The 215-square-metre space is flooded with natural light and has been immaculately designed to complement the Art Deco style of the Fairmont Peace Hotel, with wood panelling lining the walls and original cast-iron windows that offer a compelling view of the Bund that will lend any event a sense of excitement and prestige. The room comfortably sits up to 120 people if furnished with round tables for a mid scale wedding.
On the 8th floor of the hotel is the Shanghai Room, a stylish and sophisticated 90 square meter function room ideally suited for a witness ceremony or cocktail event for up to 40 guests. As with all the reception options available wihtin fairmont peace hotel, a comprehensive range of professional wedding and event services are available to ensure that your special celebration is as impressive as the reception space in which it is hosted. Also perfectly fit to an itimate wedding banquet of 5 tabels.
The Nine Heaven on the 11th floor embraces sweeping views across the stunning skyline of Pudong and the magnificence of Huangpu River. Also known as the "Banker's Club" in 1990s, the space creates a memorable setting for meetings and soirees. Covers 95 square meters and can be used for an intimate wedding for 3 tables at 30 persons.
The rooftop is the ideal area for exclusive wedding ceremonies . Following the Fairmont Peace Hotel's distinctive A-shape design, the eleventh-floor space has a total area of 695 square metres, making it suitable for a wedding at 20 round tables plus a grand ceromony with the backdrop of stunning view of The Bund, Pudong skyline and Huangpu river. The view is one of the finest in Shanghai, looking out on three sides over the Huangpu River and across the water to the incredible skyline of Pudong. The space can be catered with a full buffet or a cocktail bar, making it ideal for an awe-inspiring wedding and set against the most iconic sites of Shanghai.
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VoIP for SMBs
Is VoIP really a cost-effective solution for small and midsized companies? In this response, expert Tom Pisello explains what key factors these businesses must consider before implementing a VoIP solution.
As the owner of a small business myself, we purchased our telecommunication system three years ago. As we relocate our offices now, I regret not having purchased a VoIP solution at the time. It would make the move much easier. Our current system is already obsolete in supporting our growing business and needed applications. I am sure we are not alone in our assessment.
The core issue for many small and midsized businesses is that the up-front costs of VoIP are often higher than competitive small key-based or PBX solutions. Where capital is in short supply, it's all too common to make purchase decisions based on up-front costs. Our total cost of ownership (TCO) studies (which analyze the total costs of an asset over its useful life) clearly point out that up-front costs represent less than 20 percent of the overall total costs over the system's lifetime. These costs accrue as additional support, moves, adds and changes costs add up over time – particularly having to expand the system as we grow is costly. Having to replace the traditional phone system in half the lifetime as a comparable VoIP solution negates much of the up-front savings, and alone can justify the higher investment. Additionally, the VoIP solution can deliver additional features and benefits to enable precious productivity gains, such as "find me-follow me," enhanced voice mail services and teleconferencing – all important capabilies for small and midsized businesses trying to maximize the productivity of a thin staff.
On the flip side, SMBs are unable to achieve the savings possible by a larger company via interoffice call savings – or routing calls between locations over the network versus via the telephone exchange and avoiding toll charges in the process. Only if the SMB is less centralized will they reap these additional rewards.
Unfortunately, as was our case three years ago, SMBs continue to focus on the up-front solution costs-versus-lifecycle TCO and additional business benefit impacts of VoIP. It is important to assess TCO and benefits head-to-head when making a telecommunication purchase decision to expand the knowledge and break out of decision making that is focused in the short term, but may be more costly over the long haul.
Dig Deeper on IP Telephony ROI
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Learn how to calculate ROI for VoIP in the call center in this expert tip from CRM ROI expert Tom Pisello. Continue Reading
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subset: commoncrawl


text:
- I am trying to port some legacy Jenkins build jobs that used Linux shell scripts (to Jenkins Workflow scripts) to download and stage/deploy to multiple server nodes. I need to be able to save and manipulate files to the Workflow workspace (or to somewhere under /tmp) directory structure.
- When we use groovy library classes ( AntBuilder, File ) its working fine on Client-Master but its not working on Slave machines.
- CloudBees Jenkins Enterprise
- Pipeline plugin
The operation with File class are run on master,so only works if build is run on master, in this example I create a file and checks if I can access to it on a node with method exists, it does not exist because the "new File(file)" is executed on master, to check this I search for folder "Users" that exist on my master but not into node.
stage 'file move wrong way'
//it only works on master
node('slave') {
def ws = pwd()
def context = ws + "/testArtifact"
def file = ws + '/file'
sh 'touch ' + file
sh 'ls ' + ws
echo 'File on node : ' + new File(file).exists()
echo 'Users : ' + new File('/Users').exists()
sh 'mv ' + file + ' ' + context
sh 'ls ' + ws
To execute file manipulation command we recommend to use native commands.
This is a simple example of operations in shell
stage 'Init'
node {
stage 'Environment'
sh 'export'
stage 'Create file'
sh 'touch test.txt'
stage 'List relative Directory'
sh 'ls ../../../../../'
stage 'List / dir'
sh 'ls /'
stage 'List Home of user'
sh 'ls $HOME'
stage 'List Home of agent'
sh 'ls $JENKINS_HOME'
stage 'List temp'
sh 'ls $TMPDIR'
stage 'List job dir'
sh '''
echo $(pwd)
ls .
ls $(pwd)
stage 'download file'
def out='$(pwd)/download/maven.tgz'
sh 'mkdir -p ./download'
sh 'curl -L http://ftp.cixug.es/apache/maven/maven-3/3.3.9/binaries/apache-maven-3.3.9-bin.tar.gz -o ' + out
stage 'move/rename'
def newName = 'mvn.tgz'
sh 'mkdir -p $(pwd)/other'
sh 'mv ' + out + ' ' + newName
sh 'cp ' + newName + ' ' + out
- Pipeline as Code in Jenkins
- Also take a look to Pipeline Examples and Pipeline Utility Steps Plugin


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It's that time of year again when retailers brace for the Black Friday Sales Bonanza, officially starting 25th November, running into Cyber Monday 28th November.
Happy Thanksgiving.
Held the day after Thanksgiving, Black Friday comes to you as you've just digested your last Turkey based meal and started preparing yourself in earnest, to enter the pugilist playground of the shop floor.
With countless bargains to vy for, it's little wonder we see the scenes of carnage on the news bulletins, as everyday folk battle with each other over the TV screens and other electronic items.
I guess there are those who enjoy the process, the fight, the smell of sweat, the taste of blood, and the ultimate victory of defeating their competition and scoring a 'bitchin' 50in SmartTV for a fraction of its original price. But, equally, there are many others who join in the fun from a distance.
If you're more inclined to remain on the periphery of the action and still take advantage of the discounts, there are better ways for you to stay ahead of the crowd. With a few simple steps, you can watch from a distance and still bring home the goods without fear of injury. Try signing up to store email newsletter so they can send you details of all their offers. You can also follow your favorite stores on Facebook, Twitter, and any other social network they use for their marketing.
Another smart move could be signing up for Amazon Prime membership taking advantage of the exclusive 30-minute early access period to all its Lightning Deals. The good news is this is available to those still within their free 30-day trial.
If you really, really feel the need to physically go to the store then go with a plan. For example, if you are looking for a specific item it's a good idea to check out the reviews on that product and know it's precisely what you want. Them, as you already know, get to the store in good time. I think we are all fully aware of the queues that Black Friday can generate?
Whatever your particular preference or skill set in the onslaught, this is one of the biggest shopping days of the year, so clear your schedule, dust off your credit card, and join the organized chaos in time to bag those bargains in time for the holidays. And have fun!
Black Friday Is Not Friday
It's a funny thing but Black Friday isn't an accurate description but more of a phrase. You see, regardless of its name, this is no longer a one-day event. Many retailers kick-off their discounts days or somethings weeks ahead of the official day.
A perfect example is Amazon who planned a 12 day period of specials from midnight Monday, November 14 thru 23:59 Friday, November 25.
Where Does Black Friday Have To Offer?
Retailers are by nature very secretive about their offerings but it's never difficult to guess what kind of goods will be heavily discounted. Electronics are the most obvious products and the most popular with customers. The general rule when it comes to electronic goods with their built-in obsolescence, is that as new models come onto the market the old models are discounted just to move out the doors.
So you can always expect deals on Game consoles, Smartphones, TVs, and assorted gadgets. Products that don't seem to fit into this model are the Apple products and in general, laptops which tend to remain at a constant price regardless.
Games consoles: You will probably be able to snaffle good deals on PS4 and Xbox One, as well as other consoles, as both have new models coming out. Sometimes retailers offer deals with a game or two thrown in.
One area I have failed to mention so far is the watch market, and this is a BIG market that you shouldn't ignore it. Many stores will be offering discounts on fashion brands, and possibly some high-end luxury watches, but to be really sure of a bargain you can always check out my reviews of the best discount watch stores online.
The good news here is these discount stores are always offering great prices, but on top of these great prices, they'll always be offering additional discounts during holiday periods and Black Friday and Cyber Monday are no different.
The Black Friday Fun Facts
If you've ever wondered where Black Friday came from you're not alone. The name seems to predate the Black Friday we all know and love today, having its routes in financial crisis. One of the most appealing examples for the genesis of the phrase was the Black Friday 24 September 1869, when the price of gold plummeted after an attempt to manipulate the market failed.
Another idea that's been offered as the route of the expression was the Philadelphia Police Department using this phrase describing the traffic mayhem caused as people racing to the shops to bag a bargain. All this while at the same time, thousands were entering the city for the annual Army versus Navy American football match back in the1960s. Apparently, Philadelphia retailers attempted to re-brand it the "Big Friday" to no avail.
Final Thoughts
Everyone loves a bargain and we all like buying stuff we don't need sometimes, and that's fine because somethings it's just good fun to shop. Just remember to be careful. Just because it's a bargain don't forget to take precautions and always pay by credit card for purchases over £100 but under £30,000. This way you have insurance.
On a technical note, experts have predicted an increase in sales made using mobile devices so please take the time and download the store apps for a safe experience, and have your details set up in advance.
Above all. Have fun!
Read My Best Discount Watch Stores Reviews
Did you like this post? If you did, please share or like it so others know about it. If you don't like it please tell me why. I'd love to know what you think.


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- A sprawling campus with large and well ventilated classrooms.
- Five majestic and imposing school buildings interconnected by gardens and lawns.
- A well stocked Library
- Counselor's and Special educator's centre.
- Well equipped science and Mathematics Labs.
- Two Hi-Tech Computer Labs.
- DigiTally- Classrooms equipped with smart boards.
- Audio-Visual room to reinforce concepts learnt in classroom.
- Facilities for indoor physical activities like Table Tennis, Chess, and Carom and Traditional Board games.
- Three State-of-the-art Indoor Badminton Courts.
- 6 Table tennis courts.
- Out –door courts for Basket Ball , Foot Ball , Kabaddi , Throw ball , volleyball
- Two Music rooms well stocked with different musical instruments.
- Three mirror paneled dance rooms
- Two Yoga and meditation rooms
- Sanjeevani – An infirmary to provide first aid to the Shishyas in need.
- A theatre with proper seating and surround sound system for effective learning/presentation.
- A large auditorium with excellent acoustics and a capacity to seat 1000 people.
- A spacious Cafeteria with dining capacity for 840 individuals.
- A fleet of 72 buses for the transportation of students to and from various parts of Bangalore.
- Day Care facility.
Science Lab
Laboratory teaching assumes that first-hand experience in observation. The manipulation of the materials of science is superior to other methods of developing understanding and appreciation. The knowledge attained in classrooms would be ineffective unless actual observation and understanding is gained by the students. The gift of science has added greatly to the dignity and sublimity of human civilization and science is often acclaimed as an angel of creative ideas. Experiments at the science lab helps students develop a scientific temper. We believe in inculcating following objectives by giving each child hands on experience.
- Skills – manipulative, inquiry, investigative, organizational, communicative
- Cognitive abilities like critical thinking, problem solving, application, analysis and synthesis
- Understanding the nature of science through scientific enterprise, scientists and their methodology, existence of a multiplicity of scientific methods, interrelationships between science and technology.
- Attitudes such as curiosity, interest, risk taking, objectivity, precision, confidence, perseverance, satisfaction, responsibility, consensus, collaboration
Computer Labs
New Horizon Gurukul has two computer laboratories with 81 computers in both labs which are accessible to students. It has advanced infrastructure in terms of hardware and upgraded software to cater to the requirements of the students, teachers and the curriculum. The school is equipped with a dedicated broadband Internet connection for enterprising students to do comprehensive research for their projects and presentations.
The department has qualified and committed faculty members who with their continuous efforts see to it that the Shishyas get maximum experience in practical implementation of tools that they have in their curriculum.
Indoor Games
Gurukul has a vast indoor space for board games like chess, carom and traditional board games. 6 State of the art Table tennis courts and 3 Indoor Badminton courts inspire a keen interest in Shishyas to take up the game.
Our Playground
Play is a fundamental need of every child. The playground at NHG is used as a method for imbuing children with a sense of fair play and good manners . We have the following facilities offered to Shishyas of NHG.
- 1 Kabaddi court
- 1 Throwball court
- 2 Basket ball courts
- 1 volleyball court
- 1 football court
Yoga Centre
Our body is a temple and to maintain its sanctity the artistic science of yoga is practiced at Gurukul. Under the guidance of our well qualified and trained gurus our children practice yoga.
Gurukul has 2 spacious yoga rooms where the children meditate under the supervision of qualified teachers. We celebrate the International Yoga Day to take pride in the ancient science that preaches the secret of longevity and well being.
Sanjeevani – the magical herb is believed to cure any malady according to the ancient epic RAMAYANA. Our 'Sanjeevani' room has a qualified Nurse who provides students with first aid and medical attention whenever needed. Students are taken to SAKRA WORLD Hospital during emergencies. An ambulance is kept ready in the school solely for this purpose.
Chanakya Auditorium / Indoor Badminton Coats
New Horizon Gurukul does not believe in the term 'Stage Fear' as it provides a platform for a Shishya to showcase his/her talents. "Chanakya" the pride of Gurukul is equipped with effective modern amenities. With a large seating capacity it's a venue for numerous school events, such as Inter house Competitions, parental workshops and seminars. It also doubles up as an indoor badminton court where the students hone their talent in the game.
A library is the heart and soul of every institution. Gurukul has a spacious, well-furnished and well stacked library managed by qualified librarians. A variety of books are available for all age groups.
Reading habits are inculcated in Gurukulites right from the primary level where they are encouraged to read on their own using various reading techniques such as phonics and sight words with the continuous guidance and support of the teacher.
The library provides a collection of reference books like year books, encyclopedias, picture dictionaries etc. CBSE manuals are made available to teachers and they make use of the same.
E-library : Owing to the ever growing digital library which has been phenomenal, Gurukul has an E-Library for the students to access various educational websites recommended by the teachers.
Dance Rooms
The dance rooms at Gurukul have a state of the art facility where the students are taught various dance forms. Trained Instructors act as facilitators to Gurukulites to learn and gain knowledge of dance.
There are three separate, spacious and well equipped glass panelled dance rooms which nurture the creative, aesthetic and artistic sense in the students.
Music Rooms
Gurukul provides for an unlimited access to music and all the benefits that entail through its learning. By promoting traditional music education, our aim is to foster an appreciation for music, build self-esteem, teach critical social skills and engender creativity and innovation. Music education in the school includes both Indian Classical and Western music. By the end of a student's school life, he/she can take pride in the treasure trove of music that they have learnt. Gurukul has two well equipped music rooms to nurture the hidden talents of Gurukulites.
Cafeteria and Dining Hall
Good food preferences and habits are developed in childhood. Our school canteen serves a tasty, balanced and nutritious meal to the children. The quality of the food is monitored by our staff. Attached to it is a spacious dining hall with a seating capacity of 840 seats where students can enjoy their snacks or lunch with their friends. During lunch hour teachers ensure the child eats properly and follows discipline and cleanliness in the canteen area, thus gradually developing the qualities of a responsible citizen.
The theatre is equipped with excellent acoustics and a capacity to seat 100 people. Students and teachers make an optimal use of theatre from time to time for class presentation and seminars.
Digital Classrooms
Technology is entwined in almost every part of our lives. Integrating technology into the classroom is a great way to diversify learning styles. The plethora of information available online allows teachers to create customized materials for classes. Classrooms at New Horizon Gurukul are equipped with 'Smart Boards'.
DigiTally is a virtual platform that provides us with content in the form of slides, animation, interactive quiz and videos. This individualization and personalization of course content enables the teacher to work to her/his students' strengths and provide a more customized approach to curricular development and delivery of content that is beyond the textbook.
Mathematics Lab
A Math lab has been set up, to enrich the teaching of Mathematics at the school level. The "learning by doing" approach is practiced here to the fullest and students are made to work on projects and activities, to highlight the relevance of mathematics.
The lab also encourages group learning among children. It seeks to dispel the fear of Math and thus complements classroom learning. Gurukulites not only study the various concepts but they also get a glimpse of the life of a mathematician, learn about his background and learning strategies. It inspires the young mind to appreciate the contribution of these great mathematicians.


text:
Ava View Heights - Real Estate in Douglas County, Ava, MO
Let ADDvantage's skilled Realtors assist you in you real estate purchase in Ava View Heights.
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Current sales prices range from $149,900 to $149,900, with an average list price of $149,900.
Schools: Elementary: Ava Junior High: Ava High: Ava
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Types of Properties: Single Family
Current Average Days On Market: 298
Year Built: 1993
Why buy a home through GetMoreOffers.com?
Buyers and sellers throughout Missouri trust GetMoreOffers® and it's affiliated agents. We make finding a house in Missouri quick and trouble-free on our popular website GetMoreOffers.com. Our site contains homes for sale by owner and MLS listed properties from many areas of Missouri.
Our agents pay attention to every detail about your important purchase. The type of contract that you use to make an offer is important. Our agents will advise you on whether an "As-Is" contract is better way to make an offer versus a contract with repair limits. There is a vast difference. For example, an "As-Is" contract allows a buyer to escape the contract for any reason once inspected. Where a contract calls for repair limits of 1.5% of the sales price to discuss and negotiate inspection related "warranted" repair items. This type of contract is not as easy to escape. The term "warranted" opens the door for possible conversations that may not be in the best interest of a buyer. Your agent can best determine which type of contract best suits your needs.
Our number one priority is your purchase and getting the most for your money. Each agent that works with GetMoreOffers® has buyer skills that are exceptional, has demonstrated their professionalism through work ethic, real estate contract knowledge and excellent local knowledge. GetMoreOffers® authorized brokers hold MLS board memberships in most Missouri cities.
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ADDvantage® is an advocate of buyers and sellers. Our website, GetMoreOffers.com, is recognized as one of Missouri's most popular flat fee MLS listing services. Sellers throughout Missouri can list their homes by owner through our flat fee MLS listing plan or use our deeply discounted full-service MLS listing plans such as Professional ADDvantage™.
Call anytime for more assistance, 727-942-2929 or 1-877-232-9695
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|Jackson Mill
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Multiple Listing Service Boards servicing Ava View Heights in Ava, Missouri
|Ozark Trail Board of Realtors
Client Testimonials from Sellers in Missouri
-Glenn & Mindy Kirkland Springfield, MO Apr 3, 2009


text:
Sale: Be Nice
Receive 50% off due to an ink stain in the margin (that can be covered by framing) and a smudged signature.
This fine art print is created from a hand drawn & digitally colored illustration signed by Sarah Jane. Each illustration is printed with a giclée fine art printing process on archival museum quality paper.
All prints include a white border (approximately ½ in. / 1.27 cm on all sides) to allow for framing.
- Available in 8x10"
- Printed locally in the USA
- Ships flat
- We ship worldwide


text:
Report to the Congregation by Mark MacGougan, Warden
Sunday, June 15, 2014
Annual Meeting Sermon
God is good-
All the time!
All the time-
God is good!
Here's the deal. The doctor had you take some tests. Now the test results are back, and the doctor sits you down and tells you that you have five years to live. It's not an exact number. It could be four, it could be six. But the point is that you apparently don't have the decades and decades you thought you had.
What do you do now? What, if anything, are you going to do differently starting tomorrow?
This is a challenging question in the abstract, but by all accounts it is even harder in the moment. When we're under stress, the lizard part of our brain takes the controls and starts punching all the buttons and turning all the knobs. We lose our equilibrium and we're likely to end up going to one extreme or the other – denial or defeat. If we go to denial, we take no action because we don't see a problem. The doctor is wrong. Anyway, there's bound to be a cure by then. If we go to defeat, we take no action because we don't see any point. My life is over, excuse me while I close my eyes and curl into a ball.
I have some advice for each of us when we face a situation like this. Let me mention here that, although this is a sermon during an Episcopal service, this advice does not relate directly to any of today's Scripture readings. The best I can do is that there are three pieces of advice and today is Trinity Sunday.
Advice Number One: Assume the Doctor is Correct
By this, I mean that you plan and live your life taking very seriously whatever deadline you've been given.
Do you have a will? Is it up to date? Do you have advanced medical directives? Make sure you do.
Are there loose ends in your life? Get them taken care of.
Is there someplace you've been meaning to go or something you've been meaning to do? Don't put it off any longer.
Advice Number Two: Do Everything You Reasonably Can to Make the Doctor Wrong
By this I mean see if you can put some more time up on the board. Maybe you can turn that five years into ten years or more.
Take care of yourself. Eat right. Take your medications. Do your research. Talk to other doctors and other patients.
You will notice that there is a tension between advice one and advice two. The doctor is correct and you can make the doctor incorrect. I am asking you to hold two seemingly contradictory things in your head at the same time. You can do this.
Let me remind you that today is Trinity Sunday. One God, Three Persons. In addition to celebrating God today, we also celebrate the church's God-given ability to hold two contradictory ideas in our heads at the same time.
Advice Number Three: Surround Yourself with People You Love
Your family, your friends and neighbors, people you get a kick out of and people you'd like to get to know better. This is something that would be crystal clear to you if the doctor had said you have one month to live. When we're talking about years, though, it's something we can lose sight of, and we shouldn't.
Now, as we consider these three pieces of advice, one thing that you might notice is that these things are good advice whether or not you have five years to live.
We all should be living our lives with urgency. We all should take good care of ourselves and surround ourselves with people we love.
Somehow, when we think we have all the time in the world, we tend to lose focus. We lose sight of what is most important and valuable. And unfortunately, sometimes it takes a rude shock to serve as a wake-up call, reminding us to focus on the things that are important and valuable.
In fact, aside from possible malpractice issues, it would probably be a good thing for doctors to tell all their patients that they have five years to live.
So why am I talking about this? Let me say first of all that it isn't because I've been given a dire prognosis myself.
I'm talking about this partly because we all tend to live in denial of our own mortality, and I believe there is a spiritual value in facing our mortality and planning and living accordingly. But, like many sneaky preachers you've heard over the years, I'm also setting this up as a metaphor for something else.
Today is our parish annual meeting. As one of your wardens, I need to report to you on the health of this parish. So we've run some tests on the parish, and the test results are back. Are you sitting down?
According to the tests, Trinity Church has five years to live.
The number is not exact. It might be four. It might be six. The issue is not medical but financial. The money that you and I pledge and give to the church each year covers about half of our budget. The rest of the money we need we draw from the parish endowment funds. This actually worked pretty well when the parish had an endowment of six million dollars or more. Our current endowment is about one point two million dollars. We need to either boost our endowment up to where it used to be or else double our pledge income. If our pledge income stays the same and we spend our endowment down to zero, we would probably have to shut the doors.
This is a scary thing to say out loud, and I am hoping that I have prepared you to hear this news in a constructive way. This is threatening information, so beware the lizard brain. We need to steer clear of denial and defeatism.
We are going to avoid those extremes by remembering the advice. What was the advice? Hold on, it's Trinity Sunday, there were three pieces of advices.
Number One: Assume the Doctor is Correct
We need to take this seriously. What would we do as a church community if we knew absolutely that we only had five more years?
Such a situation does not need to limit or paralyze us. Think of the very first Christians. Many of them believed that their churches only had a few years because they expected Jesus to return and history to end. And they did not curl up in a ball, they went out and changed the world. Now it is our turn.
Here at Trinity Church, we are trying to live our church life with a sense of urgency. We will talk in the meeting about the Mission Discernment Initiative and also about Partners for Sacred Places. These are both efforts to think creatively about what God's mission for Trinity Church is right now.
Do you have your own thoughts about what is most important for Trinity Church right now? Please let me or Percy know your thoughts.
Advice Number Two: Do Everything You Reasonably Can to Make the Doctor Wrong
I believe that every one of us here can do something to help put some more time on the board for Trinity Church.
Do you give to the church? Do you pledge? Do you tithe? If more of us were tithing, we wouldn't be having this conversation.
Do you (1) have a will and (2) name Trinity Church in your will? Wills are not just for people who are so rich that they have estates that actually look like estates. Everybody should have a will. If you pledge to the church, it only makes sense to remember the church in your will. You don't have to leave the church all your assets. Let me even suggest a number: 10% - a tithe of your assets. That would leave 90% of whatever you have to your heirs.
There are plenty of other things each of us can also do to help. Invite a friend to church. Be hospitable to a visitor. Volunteer.
Advice Number Three: Surround Yourself with People You Love
We do a pretty good job of that here, but I think we can do better. With Father Don away on sabbatical, I'm struck by the extent to which he's been the glue that helps to hold us together, and we need to be more mindful of building our own connections with one another.
Let me mention a few opportunities. In fact, this being Trinity Sunday, let me mention three opportunities:
1. Foyer Groups
Long time parishioners will remember something we did years ago called Foyer Groups. These are groups of 8 or so people who meet every so often for dinner together in someone's home. Over the course of a year, these people get to know each other in a way beyond what's possible when we just see one another in church services. Make a resolution right now that when we roll this out, probably next fall, you will all sign up for Foyer Groups.
2. Photo Directory
The church really needs a new photo directory. We have some old photo directories, but they are very out of date. You can tell they're old because if you look me up, I'm young.
We have some good options for how to do this, but we need a couple of volunteers to help organize the process of getting people signed up and scheduled to get their pictures taken.
Is that something you could help with? Please let me know.
3. Try a New Activity
Every week we list activities that go on here. Try something new. Try drumming or the Bible study. Go to a book group meeting. I'm going to be leading a comedy workshop on Monday evenings in July and August. Come to that. There is no pre-requisite. Our primary goal will be to have some fun together.
When you participate in an activity you learn about whatever the activity is, but you also get to know the other people there in a new way.
So those are some of my thoughts as we approach our parish annual meeting later this morning. I have tried not to sugar-coat things. Hopefully I didn't go too far and scare everyone. I do believe that God will see us through our challenges in a good way. That doesn't mean I believe it will be easy. I can imagine a scenario where God does make it easy. You know, the mysterious stranger leaves a winning Powerball ticket in the collection plate. That sort of thing. I would take it.
But it seems much more likely to me that God will see us through our challenges by pushing us as a parish and each of us individually to change and grow in ways that are initially uncomfortable for us but ultimately help us to be better people and a better church.
God is good-
All the time!
All the time-
God is good!


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Warren Kronberger & Brian Torbik - Show and Smell
In this keynote presentation, Director of Research & Development, Warren Kronberger and Brian Torbik, Marketing & Communications Specialist will be showcasing emerging technologies and sensory marketing. Hands on crowd experience of leading edge technologies defines key tenets of making new technology work in marketing.
Live demos of prototypes/experiential tech – this session brings together physical and digital to harness sight, sound, smell, touch and taste.
Warren Kronberger, The Marketing Store Worldwide
Warren will be showcasing emerging technologies and sensory marketing.
Brian Torbik, The Marketing Store
Brian will present and show technologies to use in communication and marketing.


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Richburg Truck Driver Training
Find local Richburg, SC. area CDL license training schools with program options like CDL Class A and CDL Class B truck and bus driver. Get info about CDL license endorsements training too like school bus, tanker truck, HAZMAT, doubles and triples.
There are no all-online South Carolina CDL courses currently available but some schools have part-online programs. Use the application to pick a school and start training for your truck driving job.
All CDL Training Schools near Richburg
- Truck Driver Institute – Richburg, SC 29729
- Xtra Mile Driver Training – Bishopville, SC 29010
- Central Carolina Technical College – Sumter, SC 29150
- SAGE Truck Driving School – Lexington, SC 29073
- Orangeburg-Calhoun Technical College – Orangeburg, SC 29118
- York Technical College – Rock Hill, SC 29730
Learn about CDL training schools near Richburg with night and weekend classes, job placement, & financial aid assistance. Related types of skilled trade programs like diesel mechanic technician, HVAC technician training and electrician are also available in some locations.
Search South Carolina CDL job listings like local, long haul, delivery driver, HAZMAT, refrigerated and others.
Go to: South Carolina Trade Schools


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- A History Of Noble View
- Tracing The Past At Noble View: Archaeology
- Tracing The Past At Noble View: Images
- History Of The Town Of Russell, Massachusetts
- Geology Of The Area
A History Of Noble View
The Appalachian Mountain Club's Noble View is located on 358.5 acres on the southeast buttress of the Russell-Blandford massif, just six miles from Westfield, Massachusetts. Elevated around 1,100 feet above the Connecticut Valley, it overlooks seven hundred square miles of town and country, providing spectacular easterly views of the cities of Westfield and Springfield, with the Wilbraham hills in the far distance.
The land on which Noble View stands was designated as common land under a 1661 grant known as the "New Addition," made to George Colton, Robert Ashley, and Major John Pynchon (who helped establish a number of communities in the Connecticut Valley, including Northampton, Hadley, Deerfield, Suffield, and nearby Westfield).
In 1757 the unsettled common land was divided among Westfield citizens, including Dr. Israel Ashley and Captain John Moseley. The large tracts of land acquired by Ashley and Moseley lay west of a post road that had been cut down Glasgow Mountain (now known as Russell Mountain) three years earlier. Now the preferred route to Noble View, the road is named for General Henry Knox, who traveled it in 1776 on his mission to transport captured British cannon from Fort Ticonderoga to Boston. A marker at the corner of General Knox and South Quarter Roads commemorates Knox's expedition.
Title to 100 acres of the Moseley estate was acquired in 1801 by Alexander Gowdy, who built a homestead there. In 1825, the southern half of Gowdy's holdings was bought by a prosperous young farmer named Albert Noble. Noble replaced the homestead in 1831, setting the hearthstone and raising the timbers of a substantial farm house that still stands today. By 1844, Noble had expanded his original 50-acre holding to 245 acres, purchasing the remainder of Gowdy's property as well as two parcels from the Ashley estate. The farm was called Albert Noble's View, for its sweeping ridgetop view of the Pioneer Valley.
On the death of Noble's children, the farm passed out of the Noble family. Over the next few decades, it changed hands several times, and acquired additional acreage. In 1904, it was purchased by Frederick R. Knott as a vacation retreat. Knott added to the accommodations provided by the Farmhouse by building three cottages on the ridge--the North Cottage (currently under renovation) and two structures that were later joined by a covered breezeway into the Double Cottage (re-dedicated in 2006 after complete renovation and modernization).
Knott deeded Noble View to his daughter, Edith K. Prince, in 1914. The Prince family continued to summer there, employing a succession of tenant farmers to manage the farm. But the logistical and financial burdens of managing the large property eventually became too much for Mrs. Prince, and she began to look for a buyer.
Edwin W. Gantt, a friend of the Prince family and a member of the newly-formed Berkshire Chapter of the Appalachian Mountain Club, had spent much time at Noble View. He proposed to the Chapter that it purchase the farm on behalf of the AMC as a recreational center. Chapter members agreed, and Ganntt and Mrs. Prince negotiated a purchase price of $3,880. A committee consisting of Joseph E. Partenheimer, Edward K. Allen, and Horace E. Allen raised money for a downpayment of $1,080, with a mortgage of $2,800 taken out for the rest. On January 23, 1931, Noble View's title passed to the AMC. The mortgage was discharged on March 15, 1946, and a mortgage-burning ceremony held the weekend of June 15 of that year. The ceremony is commemorated with the annual Laurel Day Celebration.
A memorial fireplace built of native granite and serpentine was dedicated on November 3, 1940, to commemorate Edwin Gantt's contributions to Noble View and to the Berkshire Chapter. Its inscription reads, "To Edwin W. Gantt, who taught others to love these hills as he did."
Since its purchase, Noble View has been used by the Berkshire Chapter and others as a recreational property, offering the same range of outdoor activities as it does today. It has also served other purposes. From October 1943 through June 1944, Noble View was a military reservation, occupied by a detachment from an Air Force fighter control squadron, which camped under framed canvas in a field (and reportedly did quite a bit of damage, moving stone walls and pirating antique timbers for tent flooring). And until the mid-1950's, Noble View remained an active farm. Among the tenant farmers who worked the land was George P. Forish, grandfather of past Berkshire Chapter Chair, past Noble View Chair, and current Noble View Committee member Gary Forish, who in 1903 was granted a license to farm a limited section of the property, and to live in the farm house, for an annual rent of $5.00.
Land purchases in the second half of the twentieth century expanded Noble View to its present 358.5 acres. One of these purchases, a 30-acre tract of forest bought in 1959, was made in memory of former Noble View Chair Malcolm B. Ross, whose dream was to protect Noble View's unspoiled landscape by expanding its boundaries. The Malcolm B. Ross Memorial Forest was dedicated on June 21, 1959, and is marked by a cairn and a plaque.
Today's Noble View, with its modern accomodations and 17 miles of well-maintained trails, is very different from the uncharted land granted to Major John Pynchon in 1661, from the prosperous farm of the 1800's, and from the private vacation preserve of the early 1900's. But its pristine beauty and rural peace remain the same. As it was in 1931, the AMC and its Berkshire Chapter, and the Noble View Committee, are committed to preserving this unique resource, both for the present and for generations to come.
Compiled from original documents, Berkshire Chapter reports, back issues of the Berkshire Exchange, and articles from AMC's Appalachia, especially "Our Noble View" by Warner B. Sturtevant (Appalachia, June 1945).
Tracing The Past At Noble View: Archaeology
Noble View's pristine forest landscape seems now like unspoiled wilderness, but in fact the property was once a prosperous farm, part of a thriving agricultural community. In many places along the trails, hikers can find evidence of Noble View's past: a plow, a dish, a piece of glass, a cellar hole, a stone wall.
A county road once extended from South Quarter Road (below the current Noble View gate) up to Noble View, then down Laurel Lane to County Road Trail, ending on General Knox Road. Along this road in the early 1800's were a number of farms and homesteads.
The Gowdy cellar hole (No. 1 on the map) can be found near the bottom of the meadow that descends to the east from the Double Cottage, near where the Spring Trail enters the woods. The spring is about 60 yards south of the foundation and to the north of the Spring Trail. There has been much conjecture as to the whereabouts of the entrance road to this property, but there seems to be evidence that it may have crossed the Spring Trail and continued to the south and east, perhaps along a portion of what is now known as the Circuit Trail. The barn was at the top of the hill, just north of the Link Trail trailhead. (When Albert Noble purchased the southern half of the Gowdy property in 1825, these buildings were still standing.)
A second cellar hole (No. 2 on the map) can be found to the west of Laurel Lane, between the intersections of the Border Trail and County Road Trail with Laurel Lane. This is a large and ancient foundation. The barn foundations stand across the County Road Trail. The names of these buildings' owners are unknown, although as this land belonged to the Ashley family before it was bought by Albert Noble, it is likely that the cellar hole was an Ashley homestead.
Farther south on Laurel Lane, and close to the Charcoal Kiln Trail intersection, there is another cellar hole to the north of Laurel Lane (No. 3 on the map). The Beers Hampden County Atlas of 1870 shows it as the Cotee property; later names associated with it are Pendleton and Snow. There are two wells to search for, one at the northeast corner of the house site, the other across the trail, where the barns once stood.
Returning to the County Road Trail, follow it east until you reach a brook crossing. Just before the brook, look to the north for the traces of a laneway that runs off into the woods for a couple of hundred feet to the foundations of another house (No. 4 on the map). This old cellar hole does not appear on any of the county maps published since the middle of the nineteenth century, so the owners' names are unknown.
The last known cellar hole on County Road Trail is situated near the Sodom Brook crossing down in the valley (No. 5 on the map). It appears on Richard's Standard Atlas of Hampden County, published in 1912, with house and barn on opposite sides of the road just before the brook crossing. Tradition calls it the Reuben Noble cellar hole, but no name is given on the Atlas.
Cellar holes are not the only points of historical interest to be found along Noble View's trails. Along Laurel Lane Trail, watch for the remains of stone walls that once marked out the borders of fields and yards.
On Charcoal Kiln Trail are the remains of a brick beehive charcoal kiln, made with bricks manufactured by Walkley Brick Co. of Westfield, Mass (taken over in 1915 by Westfield Clay Products Co.). The Dam Brook Trail leads directly down to the kiln.
The 1912 Atlas indicated another kiln (possibly a lime kiln) in the vicinity of the Pendleton-Snow cellar hole (No. 3 on the map). Some strange circular formations exist in the hollow to the east of the barn foundations at this cellar hole, but since there are no signs of charcoal or lime burning, it is impossible to guess what they might be.
A gravestone with eroded markings is located on the east side of Noble View's barn. This is the grave of William Blakeslee, one of Albert Noble's grandsons.
Adapted from an account written by Laura Saunders, published in 1997 in the Berkshire Exchange.
Tracing The Past At Noble View: Images
Coming Soon!
History Of The Town Of Russell, Massachusetts
The town of Russell is nestled at the foothills of the Berkshire Mountains in Hampden County, bordered by the towns of Westfield to the east, Granville to the south, Blandford to the west, Montgomery to the north, and Huntington to the northwest. Covering approximately 17.9 square miles, Russell's bucolic landscape of rolling hills is mostly forested, with some open fields used for agriculture. Though only 20 miles from Springfield and 8 miles from Westfield, two of western Massachusetts' major commercial centers, Russell has maintained its quiet, rural character. Russell's current population is below 2,000.
The Town of Russell was incorporated in 1792 in response to a petition by residents of "New Addition", a piece of land belonging to Westfield and valued because of its marble quarry and excellent building stone. The earliest settlers were located on Glasgow Mountain, now known as Russell Mountain--farmers and loggers who utilized the heavy growth of timber on Glasgow Mountain to supply building operations in fast-growing neighborhoods.
The railroad came to Russell in the late 1830's, and the center of town moved to the river valley at the foot of the mountains (Russell's downtown has recently been designated a National Historic District). Streams flowing into the Westfield River, and the Westfield itself, were harnessed to power sawmills and grist mills. The Town continued to grow, with brick and tile works, a tannery, charcoal kilns, stores, and taverns.
A major paper industry also developed along the Westfield River, beginning with Chapin and Gould in 1858, followed by Salmon Falls and Fairfield in 1872, and the Westfield River Paper Company in 1902. Russell became a bustling hub of paper manufacturing, known as "The Paper Town". The three distinct villages within Russell developed around the three paper mills, which were built on the sites of former gristmills, charcoal kilns, and brick and tile companies. Traditionally, most citizens of the town were employed by the mills, and the paper companies constructed the villages of Woronoco, Crescent Mills, and The Grove in Russell as housing for their workers. Today, the only remaining paper manufacturer in Russell is USM Texon Materials, Inc., on the former Chapin and Gould site in Crescent Mills.
Although Russell was originally a self-sufficient entity, state requirements have led to collaboration in several areas. In 1965, Russell voted to join the Gateway Regional School District, which comprises seven Hilltowns. Russell also partners with other towns in sharing and supporting the Huntington Ambulance, as well as regional finance and select board sub-committees. In the area of recreation, the Town of Blandford shares the recreation facilities of Russell Pond, and all sports teams are now under the auspices of the Gateway Youth Athletic Association.
Although some parts of Russell might be considered "bedroom" communities, with workers commuting to larger commercial centers such as Springfield, the majority of residents work either in town or in neighboring Westfield. New business has been brought to the area, notably by the Mennonites, who have opened a large furniture factory and a bakery. There is also the possibility that a large biomass-generating plant may be built on the former Westfield River Paper Company site.
Adapted from a history written by Ann Lucy Strickland Merritt
Geology Of The Area
The bedrock of Russell is part of the eroded core of an ancient chain of mountains that is approximately 400-500 million years old, and extends from Long Island Sound through western Massachusetts and Vermont into Quebec. There are three known geologic formations in Russell: the Russell Formation, with light gray to dark gray schists and phyllites (lustrous slatey rocks); the Wiats River Formation, with dark gray schists and occasional thin beds of black marble and feldspar; and the Williamsburg Granodiorite, with crystalline granite-like intrusives containing coarse crystalline veins of quartz.
Like almost all of New England, Russell was covered by great ice sheets thousands of feet thick in the recent geologic past. The ice sheets melted about 12,000 years ago, leaving extensive surface deposits that cover most of the land and dominate the New England landscape.
The two basic types of deposit in Russell are lodgment till and stratified drift. Lodgment till, which formed when glaciers overrode and compressed the earth, is an unsorted mixture of sand, clay, pebbles and boulders, no more than three feet thick. Stratified drift refers to deposits of sand and gravel that formed during the final days of the Ice Age. The melting ice sheets gave rise to torrential streams that carried large loads of sand and gravel formerly trapped in ice. When the velocity of the stream diminished upon entering a lake or flat area, its load settled and formed deposits of sand and gravel.
The soils in Russell are dominated by three major types: Lyman soils, which are loamy and shallow, and Marlow and Peru soils, which are loamy and slowly permeable. All soil types existing in Russell present limitations, many severe, to septic systems and building construction. There are 208 acres of Prime or Significant Agricultural Soils in Russell scattered in small pockets in valleys around town.


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Help With Childcare Costs
Get £1,000s in tax credits & Tax-Free Childcare
Whether you have a wee tot or big teen, the costs of childcare can be huge. Yet 100,000s of working parents are missing out on £1,000s of help with these costs. This guide to boosting your childcare budget includes tax credits, Tax-Free Childcare, free school schemes and more.
In this guide
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Childcare isn't just for little 'uns
The term childcare may conjure up an image of a baby in swaddling clothes being doted over by a kindly nanny.
But childcare and its eye-watering cost doesn't stop when kids go to school...far from it.
The good news is that many of the schemes offering help with childcare costs cover older kids too.
For tax credits, you're able to claim child tax credit until the 31 August after your child turns 16. You may also claim if they are under 20 and in non-advanced approved education. But note that this only applies to those who are already claiming tax credits, as they are now closed for new applicants - unless you're receiving the severe disability premium. See our Tax Credits guide for more info.
With Tax-Free Childcare, you can claim up to £2,000 per child up to the age of 11 (or 17 for children with disabilities - and for them you can claim up to £4,000).
You must use a registered provider
Whether you're paying with childcare vouchers, tax credits or tax-free childcare cash, the key is that the childcare provision is registered and regulated. This includes after school and summer clubs, nurseries, playgroups, nanny, childminder or au pairs.
If you ask, most providers will simply tell you if they're registered but you can find out from your local authority's children's services department or search for your nearest Family Information Service on the Family & Childcare Trust website which should be able to tell you about the provision available in your area.
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Step 1: Free childcare for three or four-year-olds
There is free early education and childcare available for all three or four-year-olds across the UK (starting from the term after your child's third birthday).
Currently, in England, you're entitled to 570 hours of free childcare per year (see below for rest of the UK). This is usually taken at up to 15 hours per week for 38 weeks of the year. You can stretch it out longer by using fewer hours a week, but many councils want your child to attend for at least 2.5 hours per week.
You can either use this allowance in school term time, or you can usually use it over the entire year. To get it, simply ask your local nursery or childcare provider if it has space. You must tell it that you want to take advantage of the free 15 hours when you sign up.
Families with a low income may also get free classes for two-year-olds.
In practice, the free childcare provision for three and four-year-olds is offered at a range of places including Sure Start children's centres, nurseries, pre-schools and childminders – and covers those run by the state and run privately. So if you're paying for childcare, you can swap it for this free provision.
Watch out for extra add-ons and potential price rises
You may need to pay for add-ons such as nappies and meals, so in reality your childcare will unlikely be completely free. And many providers have said they have raised prices (or will do so) for paid-for childcare as they look to recoup some of their costs, which they claim is down to the scheme being underfunded.
Free childcare doubled to 30 hours in England for working parents
Parents of children between the ages of three and four can get a total of up to 30 hours free childcare per week (1,140 per year) – if they work and meet certain conditions.
Councils should have their own cut-off points for application on their websites – typically these are 31 December for the spring term, 31 March for the summer term and 31 August for the autumn term.
To qualify for the extra 15 hours of free nursery, you must earn a minimum of the equivalent of 16 hours per week at the national living or minimum wage (£131.36/week in the 2019/20 tax year), and less than £100,000 a year.
This applies to both parents in a couple – so, a pair each earning £99,999 would still get the extended 30-hour allowance. But, if one parent doesn't work, your child would only get 15 free nursery hours.
However, a growing number of providers have voiced concern that a lack of Government funding towards the cost of providing the 30 hours' childcare could mean it won't be delivered. Four in 10 childcare providers say they may have to close in the next year, a half have raised fees, a third are planning to do so and a fifth will introduce extra charges, according to the latest research from the Pre-school Learning Alliance and Mumsnet.
This means what's available to you will likely depend on local factors including: council funding; nursery costs; number of children at the nursery; and how the nursery adapts.
How to get the 30 hours of free childcare
To get the free 15 hours, you just contact the provider, but for the extra 15 hours, you need to apply for the extra hours free childcare through the Gov.uk website. If you're approved, you'll receive a code to give to your childcare provider. You'll get the extra hours once the next term starts.
If you're not currently using a childcare provider, you can usually find a list on your council's website.
All three and four-year-olds are entitled to 600 hours of free childcare a year. The Scottish Government plans to increase this to 1,140 hours/year by 2020, though some places are already phasing the extra hours in. What type of provider is eligible, and when and where you can take your hours, varies by local authority. You can also get help with childcare for your two-year-old if you receive one of the qualifying benefits.
To get it, speak to your local authority, or you can contact your childcare provider to see if you can use your free allowance with it. You can also ask another provider if you wish. If you need more help, contact your local authority. You can also use the Scottish Government's Parent Club.
The Welsh Government offers at least 10 hours per week of free early education. This is usually available from the start of the term after the child turns three, until they enter full-time education. Some local authorities do have different cut off dates so speak to your local authority about their application process.
Parents of three-year-olds and four-year-olds can get up to 30 hours of combined early education and childcare. You can divide them up, but at least 10 hours must be used on free early education. The 30 hours are currently available in most local authorities, but may not be available throughout their catchment areas, so check first.
To get it, contact your childcare provider of choice first. You can use your local authority's Family Information Service to find one.
Three and four-year-olds get a funded pre-school education place through the Pre-School Education Programme, available term-time either on a full-time or part-time basis. Full time amounts to 4.5 hours per day (22.5 hrs/wk), and part-time 2.5 hours of free childcare per day (12.5 hrs/wk) for 38 weeks of the year.
To get it, apply through the Education Authority's website to get an application form. You can apply to any number of providers, but it's best to select more than one, as your chosen provider might not have enough spaces available.
You have to supply the form and your child's birth certificate to your first preference childcare provider by the deadline. You can find all application deadlines on the Education Authority's website.
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Step 2: You can still use tax credits if you're getting them
Working tax credit, which used to offer a childcare element, is no longer available to new claimants as its been replaced by universal credit. Meanwhile, child tax credit is only available to claimants who receive the severe disability premium, or have received it in the month before applying.
We've left this section of the guide as a reference for those still getting tax credits.
I already claim tax credits - will universal credit affect my claim?
If you're already claiming tax credits, you can continue to do so until you need to make a new claim or you've a change of circumstance. You'll then have to apply for universal credit.
If you don't need to make a new claim, and you don't have a change of circumstance, you'll be moved over to universal credit as part of the 'managed migration' currently getting underway and expected to finish in Dec 2023. You can read more about this in our Universal Credit guide.
You can apply for universal credit before then if you will be better off on it - use our benefits calculator to see what you could get.
What are tax credits?
It's a common misconception that tax credits are for the unemployed. Actually, for help with childcare it's the opposite – you have to be in work. The childcare element of working tax credit is designed to help working parents cover some of the cost, so that they still gain by being employed.
Note that the childcare element of working tax credit is NOT the same as child tax credit.
To be eligible for the childcare element of working tax credit, you need to:
Be a single parent working 16+ hours a week, or
be in a couple working at least 24 hours a week between you (with one of you working 16+ hours a week).
You will not be able to make a new working tax credit claim as this has now been replaced by universal credit.
For a full and detailed guide to tax credits see the Tax Credits guide.
It's no longer possible to make new working tax credit claims.
You may be eligible for other benefits. Use our/Entitledto's benefits check to see what you're entitled to.
You can currently get help for up to 70% of eligible childcare costs, but there's a limit to the total cost. The weekly limit is £175 for one child, or £300 for two or more. However, you can only get up to 70% of this maximum, though what you actually get depends on your income.
If you pay more than this per week, you don't get any more help.
It's paid directly into your bank or building society account each week or month.
If you're married or living with someone, then you must put in a joint, rather than single, application for tax credits. You can only put in a single claim if you don't have a partner. If you're a permanently separated couple, then you are counted as a single parent and the payment is made to the child's main carer.
It's any money earned from paid work (or self-employed profits) plus any extra income above £300 you (or a partner) receive from a pension, savings, renting out a property, or things such as a trust or interest in the estate of a person who has died. Overtime only counts if you work the hours regularly.
You don't need to include maintenance money (payment from an ex-partner to help cover the costs of raising your children) or your children's income.
You can claim childcare costs as soon as you start paying for childcare, or up to seven days before the childcare starts.
If your childcare costs go up, call the tax credits helpline and tell them about it, as you may be able to get more money and if you're late you can only backdate it for one month.
If the costs go down, do the same as you're then being overpaid and will have to give the money back, never easy if you've already spent it.
Yes. If you pay more in the summer, your assessment's based on your average year-round childcare costs and that includes summer and other holidays. So add up the total cost for the year and that's what you say. This means you need to try to budget over 12 months. Use the free Budget Planner to help.
If you just pay for care in the summer, you'll only get a payment during that time so contact the tax credit office to tell them as soon as you can.
This benefit is for parents who work over 16 hours a week, so you won't be eligible anymore (unless you get new work). You do need to inform the tax credit office or you could have the money reclaimed at a later date, really hitting your cash flow. The tax credit won't be cut off immediately though, you should get a four-week grace period.
The premise of this policy is that if you're not working, you don't need childcare. If you have lost a job or had hours cut, see the Redundancy and Mortgage Arrears Help guides.
For a generalised check-up of whether you're getting all the help you're due, read the Benefits Check-Up guide
Step 3: Do you qualify for Tax-Free Childcare?
Tax-Free Childcare is a Government-backed scheme which helps parents with the cost of childcare. The scheme, which launched in 2017, gives eligible families an extra 20% towards childcare costs. It's slowly replacing the outgoing Childcare Vouchers scheme, which closed to new entrants in October 2018.
Tax-Free Childcare is designed so that for every 80p you put in, the state will add 20p – so it effectively gives you basic-rate tax back on what you pay, hence the scheme's name.
In total you'll be able to use the scheme to pay for up to £10,000 of childcare per child each year (meaning you'd pay £8,000) – so you could get an extra £2,000 per child (up to £4,000 if your child is disabled) each year. Once your childcare bill exceeds the Government maximum, there's no more financial support for that year. You can still pay for your childcare through the scheme but you won't get a top-up so it might be easier just to pay your child's nursery etc directly.
It's open to all qualifying parents. This includes anyone who's self-employed. However, you (and your partner, if you have one) will need to be in work to qualify – so if you work and your partner doesn't, you won't be able to take advantage. Tax-Free Childcare is also available to single parents.
The scheme's available to parents of children up to and including the age of 11 (or 16 for children with disabilities). See full info in our Tax-Free Childcare guide.
Tax-Free Childcare won't win for everyone, and many could be better off sticking with Childcare Vouchers (if you're already a member, if not see the box below) - or the other way round. It all depends on your personal circumstances. But you have to settle for one as you can't apply for both. See full help in our Childcare Vouchers vs Tax-Free Childcare analysis.
The Childcare Vouchers scheme is now closed for new applicants
The Childcare Vouchers scheme was replaced by the Tax-Free Childcare scheme on 4 Oct 2018.
Those who had received their first vouchers by 11.59pm on 3 October will still get vouchers as long as they stay with the same employer, and their employer continues to offer them.
If you're considering switching onto the Tax-Free Childcare scheme, read the Tax-Free Childcare guide.
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Step 4. Help with childcare costs through universal credit
You can get help with your childcare costs if you're claiming universal credit. You can get back up to 85% of your costs, to a maximum of £646 a month for one child, and a maximum of £1,108 monthly for two or more children.
The money is given to you after you've paid for the childcare and it has been provided for you.
You can apply through your universal credit account on the Gov.uk website. You will need to provide evidence of your costs. This includes a letter from your registered childcare provider, a bank statement proving you've paid your provider, or a cash payment receipt.
How does claiming childcare costs back through universal credit work?
You will be reimbursed through your regular universal credit payments.
You'll need to upload your evidence every month. If you've uploaded all your documents and verification has taken place (if necessary) before the last day of your assessment period, you should be reimbursed on your next universal credit payment date.
You can make a claim up to three months in advance, but you will only get the money after the childcare has been provided.
To read more about eligibility and how universal credit works, see our Universal Credit guide.
Step 5. Free summer holiday activities
Provision of holiday childcare for school-age children is often a real hit to the finances. Parents either need to lose earning power by taking time off work, or pay for professional childcare.
Here's a few ideas to find what's local to you and get you started in finding affordable and entertaining activities for your kids over the holidays:
Find your nearest family information service (FIS): Check the Family & Childcare Trust website (use this link for Scotland, Wales & Northern Ireland) for your nearest FIS who'll give you info on what's going on locally.
Check what's available out of school hours: Use the Gov.UK site (for England & Wales) to find out contact details for your local council and call to find out if they offer anything (go here for contact details for Scotland & Northern Ireland).
Contact schools, community centres & youth groups: Usually over the summer, and sometimes during Easter and Christmas, thousands of schemes across the UK offer a range of activities for children, from sports coaching to dance and music sessions. Get in touch with them to find out what's on offer.
Is there a school holiday day camp near you? SuperCamps run school holiday day camps for 4-14 year olds (England only) and have some interesting activities on offer. Or you could try Activate Sport summer camps for children aged 5-16 (also England only). For Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, try Netmums to see what's on near you.
Can I pay for summer care with tax credits or vouchers/Tax-Free Childcare?
Researching the above is a safe and cheap way to resolve holiday childcare needs and if you need to pay for it, then often you'll be able to use the schemes to help:
Childcare tax credits
You may be able to use your tax credits to help pay for your child's summer activities. If you pay for them to attend, whether it's tennis lessons or camp, if the activity provider is Ofsted-registered, you can claim as you would for an after-school club or childminder.
If you ONLY use childcare during the summer holidays, then you will only be able to claim tax credits for the weeks that you're actually paying for childcare. If you use it throughout the year, but costs go up in summer, then you'll need to estimate the average cost during the year, and then use this with the tax credit helpline when claiming (so spreading the cost).
Childcare Vouchers/Tax-Free Childcare
You can often pay for summer holiday childcare provision with vouchers or Tax-Free Childcare, although it's best to check before booking that the activity you've picked accepts them – again, it'll need to be Ofsted-registered to do so.
More ways to entertain kids:
For more ideas on how to keep your little ones busy, see the following related guides:
Get Our Free Money Tips Email!
Can grandparents benefit from childcare?
It's estimated grandparents provide 1.7 billion hours of childcare every year for more than 1.5 million grandchildren. However, they can't be paid for it using Childcare Vouchers, Tax-Free Childcare or childcare tax credits, as they don't provide regulated childcare.
However, there is a way for some grandparents (and others) to gain. If you care for grandchildren aged under 12, this can qualify for class 3 national insurance credits (known as specified adult childcare credits). These count towards your qualifying years for a full state pension.
If you retired before April 2016, you need 30 qualifying working years to get the full state pension. If you're retiring after April 2016, that's raised to 35 years. (Read our State Pensions guide to find out more about qualifying NI years.)
If you're looking after grandchildren, and you need extra qualifying years, it's worth getting recognition for the childcare you provide. But, it's not quite that simple. You need to claim these credits – they won't be automatically added to your NI record.
For grandparents to be eligible for the national insurance credits, working parents need to give up the NI credits they receive when they claim child benefit and transfer them to the grandparent doing the caring – they're transferable credits.
You also need to time your claims. If you cared for a grandchild in the last tax year, you need to apply in the October after the end of the tax year for the credit to be transferred.
You need to fill in the catchily titled form CA9176 and send it off to HMRC. Both you and the parent transferring the credit need to sign the form.
Join the MSE Forum Discussion


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Known for its quirky timepieces, Nooka continues to create accessories of innovative and futuristic designs we all love. So we teamed up with discount hunter, JungleCents to offer you an exclusive $65 deal for $130 worth of Nooka gear. Yup, that means half off one of their futuristic watches, belts, or whatever suits your fancy.
Hours are marked with blocks/dots and minutes and seconds fill up bars so if you know how to count, then you'll definitely know how to tell time on this badboy. Check out JungleCents for the exclusive deal, time is running out on this one (you have to buy it by next week).


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Welcome to the 34th episode of the Right Chord Music, Lost On Radio Podcast. Presented by Andy Mort and curated by Mark Knight and Andy Mort, Lost On Radio is a weekly showcase of incredible undiscovered music overlooked by radio, or pushed to the late night fringes.
This week's featured artists:
1. Dig The Kid – Ring In The Dead
2. Stacks – Set To A Timer
3. Right Chord Music 'First Signs Of Love' Eliot Grace – Rebekka
4. Andrea – Your Morning
5. RCM Interview – Houses
6. Right Chord Music 'Band Of The Week' Houses – Beginnings
The podcast will be available to download each week from this website. Alternatively you can subscribe for free and automatically receive new episodes via iTunes
We set up this podcast to bring these wonderful artists to a wider audience. So we'd love you to share this podcast by clicking on the share button at the bottom of this article. Let's give these artists the audience their music deserves!


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1987 Catalina 22 for sale. Includes swing keel with new cable and includes Trailer, Sails (main and jib) and 4hp Mariner Motor.
The Catalina 22 is a popular sailboat produced by Catalina Yachts. First produced in 1968, it is one of the longest continuously produced sailboats in the world.
Length Overall: 21'6″
Beam: 7'6″
Length Waterline: 19'4″
Wing Keel: 2'6″
Ballast: 2490 lbs. Wing Keel
Mast to Waterline: 29.1′


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What is Chiropractic?
Chiropractic is a health care profession that focuses on disorders of the musculoskeletal system and the nervous system, and the effects of these disorders on general health. Chiropractic care is used most often to treat neuromusculoskeletal complaints, including but not limited to back pain, neck pain, pain in the joints of the arms or legs, and headaches.
What type of education and training do chiropractors have?
Chiropractors are educated as primary contact health care practitioners, with an emphasis on musculoskeletal diagnosis and treatment. Educational requirements for doctors of chiropractic are among the most stringent of any of the health care professions. The typical applicant at a chiropractic college has already acquired nearly four years of pre-medical undergraduate college education, including courses in biology, inorganic and organic chemistry, physics, psychology and related lab work. Once accepted into an accredited chiropractic college, the requirements become even more demanding – four to five academic years of professional study are the standard. Because of the hands-on nature of chiropractic, and the intricate adjusting techniques, a significant portion of time is spent in clinical training. In total, the chiropractic curriculum includes a minimum of 4,200 hours of classroom, laboratory and clinical experience. The course of study is approved by an accrediting agency which is fully recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
What is the Chiropractic Adjustment?
The most common therapeutic procedure performed by doctors of chiropractic is known as "spinal manipulation", also called "chiropractic adjustment". The purpose of manipulation is to restore joint mobility by manually applying a controlled force into joints that have become hypomobile – or restricted in their movement – as a result of a tissue injury. Tissue injury can be caused by a single traumatic event, such as improper lifting of a heavy object, or through repetitive stresses, such as sitting in an awkward position with poor spinal posture for an extended period of time. In either case, injured tissues undergo physical and chemical changes that can cause inflammation, pain, and diminished function for the sufferer. Manipulation, or adjustment of the affected joint and tissues, restores mobility, thereby alleviating pain and muscle tightness, and allowing tissues to heal.
How is a chiropractic adjustment performed?
Chiropractic adjustment or manipulation is a manual procedure that utilizes the highly refined skills developed during the intensive years of chiropractic education. The chiropractor typically uses his/her hands to manipulate the joints of the body, particularly the spine, in order to reduce pain, and restore or enhance joint function. Chiropractic manipulation is a highly controlled procedure that rarely causes discomfort. The chiropractor adapts the procedure to meet the specific needs of each patient. Patients often note positive changes in their symptoms immediately following treatment.
Will the Adjustment hurt?
Chiropractic adjustment rarely causes discomfort. However, patients may sometimes experience mild soreness or aching following treatment (as with some forms of exercise) that usually resolves within 12 to 48 hours.
Are Chiropractic adjustments safe?
Yes. A New Zealand government study found that adjustments are "remarkably safe". By avoiding drugs and risky surgery, chiropractic care enjoys an excellent track record. A thorough exam can identify the rare person for whom chiropractic care might be unsuited. Compare the statistics. Adjustments are about 100 times safer than taking an over-the-counter pain reliever.
What makes the sound during an adjustment?
Lubricating fluids separate the bones of each spinal joint. Some adjusting methods can produce a sound when the gas and fluids in the joint shift. It's much like opening a bottle of champagne or removing a suction cup. The sound is interesting, but it isn't a guide to the quality or value of the adjustment.
Are all patients adjusted the same way?
No. Each patient's spine and care plan is unique. Each patient's care is custom-tailored for their age, condition and health goals.
Can I adjust myself?
No. Some people can make their joints "pop", but that's not an adjustment! Worse, damage can occur by mobilizing a joint with weakened muscles and ligaments. Adjustments are specific and take years to master. Even your chiropractic doctor must consult a colleague to benefit from chiropractic care.
How many adjustments will I need?
The number of adjustments varies with each patient and their individual health goals. Many patients sense progress within a week or two of frequent visits. Visits become less often as your spine stabilizes. In chronic cases, complete healing can take months or even years.
Is chiropractic treatment appropriate for children?
Yes, children can benefit from chiropractic care. Children are very physically active and experience many types of falls and blows from activities of daily living as well as from participating in sports. Injuries such as these may cause many symptoms including back and neck pain, stiffness, soreness or discomfort. Chiropractic care is always adapted to the individual patient. It is a highly skilled treatment, and in the case of children, very gentle.
Can patients with Osteoporosis get chiropractic care?
Of course. When developing a care plan, your chiropractic doctor considers the unique circumstances of each patient. There are many ways to adjust the spine. The method selected will be best suited to your age, size and condition.
How long until I'll feel better?
Some patients experience almost instant relief. Others discover it can take many weeks or months. Many factors can affect the healing process. How long have you had your problem? Are you keeping your appointments? Are you getting proper rest, exercise and nutrition? Do you smoke? Are you in otherwise good condition? Within a short period of time, most patients sense enough progress to fully carry out their doctor's recommendations.
How long will I need chiropractic care?
After patients get the relief they want, many choose to continue with some type of chiropractic care. These patients show up for their visits feeling great. These visits can help support the final stages of healing and help detect and resolve new problems before they become serious. Our job is to offer the very best care and your job is to decide how much of it you want.
Will I ever be normal again?
Patient results vary. Many report improved spinal curves and the total resumption of their normal lifestyle. Those who neglected or delayed seeking care often see slower progress. After improvement, many patients discover that periodic chiropractic checkups can help avoid a relapse.
What if Chiropractic doesn't work?
If we're unable to find and correct the cause of your particular health problem, we will refer you to other specialists who may be able to help. Your health is our primary goal.
If you have questions we haven't answered here, please call us at (203) 661-3444. We know that the more you learn about chiropractic, the more confidence you'll have that it will work for you. It's safe. It's natural. And it works. It's a simple idea that has stood the test of time and helped millions enjoy relief and better health.
Sources: Patient Media, Inc. & American Chiropractic Association


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马来西亚来信(二) / Letter from Malaysia -- Part Two
开车从新加坡出发,你会路过喧闹的马来西亚小城新山(Johor Bahru),那儿与新加坡的关系就如同深圳和香港。在新山的居民中,有15,000人需要每天乘车前往新加坡从事薪水较高的工作,所以过境时最好选择避开交通高峰时段。
在新山,我发现一个非常特别的卖咖喱粉和其他香料的地方:一家名叫Shariffs Grinding Mills的印度家族老店。那里前店后厂,一边是生产香料的磨坊,一边是摆满香料展示木匣的店面,气味辛香扑鼻,让你立时觉得饥肠辘辘。
Letter from Malaysia -- Part Two
Choosing a destination for a holiday is a bit like selecting a pair of shoes. It involves a very personal mix of preferences with regard to style, taste and comfort, and additional factors such as affordability, seasonal weather, and safety.
Although the Malaysian Tourism Authority has a very attractive series of TV and print advertisements, these reinforced rather than prompted my selection of Malaysia as a destination for the recent golden week holiday.
As I wrote last week, as a second-time visitor to Rompin, I knew what to expect. Apart from great fishing, it's a small, quiet place with great food including good fresh seafood. People are friendly, and the surrounding natural environment is filled with interesting plant and animal life.
Importantly, it's relatively easy to get to from Hong Kong: less than four hours' flight to Singapore, with very efficient airports at both ends of the trip, and a four-hour drive from Singapore to Rompin on good roads.
Once you exit Singapore by car, you drive through the bustling Malaysian city of Johor Bahru, which is to Singapore a bit like Shenzhen is to Hong Kong. Some 15,000 people live in JB and commute every day, mainly by road, to higher-paying jobs in Singapore, so it's best to avoid the rush hour traffic jams at the border crossing.
In Johor Bahru I found an exceptional place to buy curry powder and other fresh spices: a long-established, Indian family-owned shop named Shariffs Grinding Mills. On one side of the premises are the grinding mills where the spices are processed. On the other side, the spices are on display and for sale in wooden boxes. The aroma is pungent. Guaranteed to make you hungry on the spot.
我的心水咖喱店,不知为何还很受鸽子欢迎,所以千万不要站在正下方。 / My favorite curry shop, also very popular with the pigeons for some reason. Best not to stand directly underneath.
Further north, the suburban sprawl soon gives way to huge palm oil plantations on both sides of the road. Palm oil is big business here, as it is in Indonesia, and large expanses of rainforest have been felled for its cultivation.
About two hours north of Singapore you come to the first road sign I have seen which cautions drivers to be on the lookout for wild elephants crossing the road. (This reminded me of warning signs around bridges in Queensland, Australia, with images of large saltwater crocodiles: in other words, "No swimming here, folks.")
小心野象穿行。 / Watch out for wild elephants crossing the road.
The fields on both sides of the road are also dotted with windowless concrete structures, 3 to 4 stories tall. With no visible doors or windows, these clearly do not look like peoples' homes. As I found out, they have been a great source of wealth creation, by supplying a high-price commodity in hot demand in China and among Chinese communities elsewhere: bird's nests.
Among the communities along this road live many bird's nest millionaires. The key is to build these simple box-like buildings, which the wild swallows nest in, and to constantly play recordings of the mating calls of the birds. This keeps the birds in a state of high excitement, which in turn spurs them to produce more of the saliva which they use to make their prized nests.
This looks like a fairly straightforward business: very low upfront and operating costs, few HR issues, high profit margins, etc. Sounds like a business where the birds work much harder than the bird-keepers.
Some locals told me that due to oversupply and quality issues, the price of local birds nests have plummeted from their recent years' high of nearly US$3,000 per kg. All markets -- even bird nests -- have their cycles.
In small towns throughout Malaysia, many shops, businesses and restaurants are run by ethnic Chinese. Because many early Chinese immigrants were from South China, the native dialects still spoken by Malaysian Chinese are mainly from Fujian and Guangdong. Most also speak Putonghua. Younger Chinese today are also studying Hanyu Pinyin in school.
During my visit, the arrival of a sportfishing tour group from Fujian caused quite a bit of notice. Locals obviously hope this is the start of a growing trend, and it probably is.
Malaysia, with its beautiful scenery, great beaches and water sports, wild animal and plant life, fresh seafood, and rich variety of fresh fruits (some in Rompin claim their durian and watermelons to be the tastiest anywhere), holds tremendous potential as a tourist destination for the new generation of outbound mainland tourists.
Malaysia's largest state, Pahang -- where Rompin is located -- would benefit from studying what China's Yunnan Province has done to develop tourism infrastructure.
Tapping into China's outbound tourism potential will require better infrastructure in Pahang, which can be done in an eco-friendly manner. Investment in new small regional airports, higher quality hotels and resorts, and restaurants with cleaner and better toilet facilities will be needed, but the economic returns on this could be substantial.
The question is whether local and national authorities are really interested in developing this business.


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Corelli's Mandolin is one of my favorite novels to pick up and get lost in. Set in World War 2 era Greece, it tells the story of a young Greek woman named Pelagia who falls in love with an Italian soldier and mandolinist.
I was a little slow to get into the novel, because it's written in a somewhat rambly and discursive style that tends to wander off on tangents a lot and change styles at random. You'll see what I mean immediately, with the charming third person first chapter and the second chapter that's essentially a monologue in print (and ends with a dead cat, which almost made me put the book down right there). However, once you get past the initial chaos, the charming wins out. When there are no dead cats and crazy Duces involved, de Bernieres writes beautiful prose, with a lot of vividness and wit (often to the point of laughing out loud) that sucks you into the story and makes it come alive.
The ending was disappointing compared to the rest of the book, but not to the point of ruining it. However, you will want to skip the beautifully shot but horribly miscast (and, frankly, just all around butchered) film version of the book.
My rating: (4.5 / 5)


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NYMag states that Gillette's new ProGlide Flex Ball razor is "everything wrong with American Innovation."
A new razor is now a testament to the state of American manufacturing and business. The article leads you to believe that people are going to be willfully swindled into buying it – that we solved the shaving problem decades ago.
I'm not so sure. Between electric razors, r/wicked_edge,1 and razors with balls, there are still people out there doing everything "right" and dealing with irritation from shaving.
Sure, Gillette is cashing in on a market still looking for a solution to their problems short of laser hair removal, but I thought that's what the point of innovation was anyway. People are asking where the flying cars are – like it's going to be less expensive and get us where we need to go any faster.
r/wicked_edge has its own feeling of commercialism – people selling books on how to shave (which I bought, read, and still had isuses), people recommending razor packs to sample, creams and lotions to put on your face…yet people still have problems, cuts, and irritated necks. This is not a solved problem and there are plenty of threads (warm water didn't work? I guess try cold water) and product recommendations to prove it. ↩


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FLORIDA CONTAINS 6,000 time bombs in the form of underground gasoline storage tanks with the potential to contaminate drinking water supplies for many of the state's residents.
To respond to that threat, House Natural Resources Chairman James Ward, D- Fort Walton Beach, and Sen. Karen Thurman, D-Inverness, sensibly have proposed that Florida put money in the bank in order to cope with the expected trouble. Funds would be raised by levying a tax of 10 cents per barrel of petroleum products brought into the state. The two legislators have filed virtually identical bills that carry the endorsement of House and Senate leadership.
Efforts to protect groundwater from gasoline began two years ago, when the Legislature passed the Water Quality Assurance Act. It required tank owners to register with the state, keep strict inventory records, report spills and leaks and routinely upgrade tanks.
Information gleaned from that measure led to the discovery of 406 suspected and known gasoline pollution sites across the state, including 42 in Broward County and 19 in Palm Beach County, and led to the well-founded belief that many more such sites will be discovered.
The gas-tax proposal sets up a $50 million "SUPER Account" that would be used to investigate possible contamination sites, restore or replace contaminated residential drinking water supplies and clean up the spills.
The tax would be lifted when the account reaches $50 million, but would be reactivated if the account dips below $25 million.
Supporters of the bill estimate that gasoline would cost drivers about one- fourth of a penny more per gallon. But it must be remembered that the fund would be used for cleanup only if the company responsible for a leaky gasoline tank did not voluntarily clean up the mess or could not be forced to do so through court action.
Voluntary cleanup already is underway at many of the 406 suspected or known pollution sites, proof that many oil companies have an enlightened attitude toward environmental protection, or at the very least a heightened awareness of the potential for bad publicity if they refuse to clean up their own gasoline spills.
Yet, many spills are going unreported because small, independent station owners are afraid of being pushed into bankruptcy. These pose the greatest danger to Florida's drinking water supply.
The bills would provide an incentive for dealers to report leaking tanks. During a 15-month amnesty period, the state fund would bear the cost of cleanup.
There appears to be no better alternative, if Florida residents want to keep their drinking water free of petroleum contamination.


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By Ellen Galinsky
President and Co-Founder of Families and Work Institute
We are starting an exciting new endeavor, and want you to join us!
In our studies at Families and Work Institute (FWI), we often ask people to come up with a word that describes life today. Again and again, the words that people select reflect feelings of too much to do and not enough time—words like "busy," "overwhelmed," "complex," and "rushed." Even in our studies of children, we find that almost one in two children feel rushed much of the time.
As the world continues to move faster, museums and libraries have taken on a new role that can best be described by the word "hub." They are places where families come to be together and to do things with each other. They are sanctuaries—albeit ones that are filled with exciting things to do—that connect children and parents and community members from across neighborhoods. They are also hubs that translate research on "the science of learning" into practice in ways that bring joy and engagement to all involved, young and old.
The report, Growing Young Minds: How Museums and Libraries Create Lifelong Learners captures many of the innovative approaches and programs currently in place. Now, libraries and museums are being recognized for the important roles they play, and they are part of an exciting new initiative that we are launching at the Families and Work Institute.
Following the publication of my book, Mind in the Making: The Seven Essential Life Skills Every Child Needs, we began building a network of experts in communities across the country to increase understanding of these Seven Life Skills, also called Executive Function (EF) skills, and the science of brain development that supports it. The book has served as a catalyst for bringing together professionals working across multiple child- and family-serving institutions who are now incorporating these skills into their daily work with families and children.
With this new project, we intend to tap the knowledge, expertise, and resources of libraries and museums. Our goal is to engage museums and libraries as key partners in the work to disseminate information and build capacity for children, families, and practitioners. An understanding of the science of brain development is something that parents and families are hungry for, and museums and libraries provide a unique opportunity to provide that information.
We believe many are already developing innovative approaches to increasing understanding of brain development and how to build life skills in children. With support from School Readiness Consulting, we are now in the process of gathering information on best practices and innovative approaches being used in libraries and museums across the country. Results will be used to create a national report on how museums and libraries are engaged and contributing to the work.
The report will be released in early 2015 and will include examples and case studies of innovative and effective programs and approaches.
If you work in a museum or library, please visit our website (MindInTheMaking.org) to learn more about this initiative, and share information on work you are doing in this area by filling out a brief survey by November 28, 2014.
UPDATE: The survey deadline has been extended to December 22, 2014
Ellen Galinsky, President and Co-Founder of Families and Work Institute, helped establish the field of work and family life at Bank Street College of Education, where she was on the faculty for twenty-five years. Her more than forty books and reports include Ask The Children, the now-classic The Six Stages of Parenthood, and the bestselling Mind in the Making, published by HarperStudio in April 2010.