text:
Verbosity Online - Play together and Learn anything
We are building an experience that bridges people together socially and academically in the form of a casual game. Verbosity Rules!!!
Verbosity Online - Play together and Learn anything
We are building an experience that bridges people together socially and academically in the form of a casual game. Verbosity Rules!!!
More Demonstration
More perspective
Verbosity Online is a Platform that is analogous to cable TV. The platform will be driven by countless channels (called subjects) provided by us and also by third parties. The game play is designed to be casual and simple, yet timeless. Everybody or anybody will be able to sit down at a PC or Mac and play or they can pick up their mobile device and play anytime anywhere while on the go! Verbosity Online boasts that an 8 year-old can compete in the same gaming environment as a 28 year-old while everyone learns and has fun.
It is important to note that the educational aspect of Verbosity Online is secondary so that the intent and true nature of Verbosity Online is clearly understood. This platform provides unification where none seems possible. Our efforts are to ensure that people of all ages, races, or cultures will be able to connect, play, compete and learn together.
Our focus is unification. In every scenario, situation and environment. Whether it's in the home, amongst friends, in a classroom, in our cities and states throughout the country or every country on the planet! Unification through technologies like games connects people together. Our push for international unification is the Holy Grail of Connectivity that we seek. Our primary goal is to make rich, detailed and relevant content available to anyone seeking to learn anything while combining this endeavor with a healthy, competitive gaming environment accessible among friends and neighbors, international and domestic.
I showed my Kickstarter Video to some friends and neighbors.
Here are some common questions they asked.
What do you want from me?
- Donate and Share of course. Donate if you believe my project is worthy.
- But please Share this message regardless. We sure would appreciated it. Sharing is Caring.
How does the contribution work?
- Just click on the DONATE button, and follow the instructions.
- You're donation is actually a pledge.
- The actual contribution is made, at the very end of the campaign, and only if we reach our funding goal.
- So, there is actually NO donation made if our project goal isn't met.
From where can I download the playable demo?
- You can download the playable demo for your PC, Mac and Android at www.VerbosityOnline.com
I can't figure out how to play?
- This will be fixed upon completion of main funding goal.
- The rules on how to play are under the "HOW TO PLAY" area of the in-game options menu, but describing all the minutiae involves an in-game tutorial.
Have you thought of putting Verbosity Online in schools?
- There will be a commercial version just for the schools.
- But for now, we need to finish the family version all the way.
- Short answer: Yes, Later.
Are you doing more tournaments?
- The Tournament software was built as a one-off for our focus group testing.
- We plan on rebuilding it after building the commercial version.
- The short answer is yes. Later.
Will the game support Windows Phones?
- Windows Phone support is included in our main kickstarter funding goal
- Again short answer is yes.
Why not investors, why Kickstarter?
- Kickstarter is a platform that helps me complete my project. Investors are primarily interested in my business model. Of course I do have what I believe is a solid business model to properly monetize Verbosity Online to its maximum potential. But, you can't beat having a fully completed game ready for the world to play.
- The short answer is: Because Kickstarter is Awesome!!! LOL
Spin the Spinner
Move your Token
Find the Coins
and WIN the GAME!
Verbosity Online the game, is a combination Easter Egg Hunt and Mother May I games children play but with coins. The player must locate and collect the 5 hidden coins and return them to the redemption area.
Now the twist...
For each coin collected, that player is assigned a fact to remember. In order for a player to gain ACCESS to the SPINNER and take his or her turn, the player must answer a permission query associated with the coin fact. Correctly answering the permission query earns the player an Energy ring. The more Energy rings a player has, the greater the choice of spaces to which a player can move in a single turn. Sometimes the player must recall a second fact from a previous game called a review query If the player answers the query correctly, the number of Energy rings the player will receive doubles. Next the player Spins the Spinner, Moves the selected game Token (up to the maximum spaces the Energy ring(s) allow), Finds all the coins, and goes to the Redemption cell to win the game!
The Official Game rules are here
Verbosity Online is a collection of many applications and utilities.
Utility Applications
Font Maker • Font Viewer • Image Converter • Music Player • Level Editor • Sprite Editors • Data Collectors • Sprite Compiler • Installers • Web Updaters
Game Server
Scaling Server Application Suite • Data Center Applications
Customer Applications
Verbosity Application for Windows, Macintosh, Android & IOS
Website Applications
Customer • Staff • Backend status • Payment Billing
Supported Platforms
- Microsoft Windows XP or better (Vista,7 and 8)
- Macintosh OSX Lion or Better
- Android Version 2.3 or better, iPhone 3gs, 4, 4s, 5, iPad
- Windows Phone - Coming soon
- Web Browser Version - Coming soon
Percent Complete Per Major Component
- SQL Database design and implementation - 80% Complete
- Scalable Game Server - 100% Complete
- Game Client - 80% Complete
- Web Services - 80% Complete
- Staff Services - 30% Complete
- Game Services - 90% Complete
- Public Website - 70% Complete
Verbosity Online is beyond the prototype level, but not quite a full featured, ready for release product. The game is missing certain fundamental elements that make games acceptable by most casual and social game players. The current user interface must be updated to remain competitive with the interfaces contained in the latest technologies along with user expectations commonly known as LOOK and FEEL.
Some features to add or improve upon include but are not excluded to:
- User interface - The user interface has to captivate the player
- More visual contrast - New players cannot easily see certain things
- Faster game comprehension - More intuitive for new players so no one asks how to play
- In-game real-time tutorials - tips that highlight special features of the game
- More visual highlights - More pizzazz, shine, sparkle, "bling", etc...
- Avatar-based game tokens – making the users' game tokens avatars further personalizes the game
- Better social network integration - Twitter, Facebook, Etc...
- Browser plugin – allows players to play the game directly within their favorite web browser
- etc...
- International Localization – allows players worldwide to play
- Content - Can't have enough content
- Multimedia content learning engine – improves the learning experience by allowing players to be taught using visual facts in conjunction with textual facts
These are some of the key missing features that are not only required, but are table stakes in the world of game design expected by anyone who's played any casual/social game in the last 2 years.
And with your help and the help of Kickstarter community at large, we can make meaning as well as make a great game.
- A - Verbosity Coins - need to be more majestic. They're not obvious enough for the player to know that they are object of the players's desire!
- B - Verbosity Stars - need to have more sparkle and pizzazz!
- C - Player Tokens – need to be converted to an avatar-based token system. The current player tokens don't form a strong enough bond so that the players can personally identify with them.
- D - Player Status Buttons - are too subtle.
- E - VERBOSITY Letter Cage - needs to be more visually appealing.
- F - Access Button - needs to be more obvious to signify that clicking this button keeps the game moving and is important to game pacing.
- G - Game cell honeycomb design - needs modernized look.
- H - Rings and Ring Cage (along with entire lower interface) - needs to be more organic. An ergonomic design would provide more character.
- I – Fact and Definitions – need to be improved to include multimedia elements.
Step 1
Prove Verbosity Online works - DONE
Step 2
Build a campaign to help complete project - IN PROGRESS
Step 3
Achieve coolness - (Pending step #2)
- Achieving our $50,000 goal allows us to complete Verbosity Online and unleash it on the English Speaking population.
- For worldwide release see 1st stretch goal.
Achieving our $500,000 stretch goal (if we should be so lucky), will enable us to include:
Foreign Language Support - a.k.a. Localization
This transforms the Verbosity Online platform into an International social bridge for the world to Experience.
We will start with the top most influential languages:French, Spanish, Arabic, Mandarin, Russian, Portuguese, German, Japanese, Hindustani, Malay, Farsi, Swahili, Tamil, Italian, Dutch/Africaans, Bengali, Turkish, Vietnamese, Polish, Javanese, Punjabi, Thai, Cantonese, and Korean. We will then correlate this list with the list of online mobile and desktop game players by country and language.
Add more content
The more academic subjects that are available, the more in-depth and expansive knowledge players can attain, including learning the newly supported foreign languages.
Achieving our $750,000 stretch goal will enable us to develop multimedia elements that will be included in our Learning Environment. In other words, along with learning words and what they mean, there can be an associated image, movie clip and/or sound for each fact learned.
Our subject lineup will expand to include more visually based facts like geography, physics, biology etc. Verbosity Online will be able to teach anyone anything while everyone is having fun!!!
Achieving our $1,000,000 stretch goal will enable us to develop more content.
Verbosity Online shares the unique burden that it will be defined by how much content it supports, just like other platforms (cable TV, operating systems, mobile phones and video game consoles). It can't be overstated how every extra penny will be devoted to the expansion of more content.
ALUMINUM SPONSOR - Pledge $9 or more
1. Your name will appear in a special Honorable Mention section on our website.
2. You will also receive a 10 year subscription to Verbosity Online. All content is unlocked for 10 years for these sponsors.
LOYALTY SPONSOR - Pledge $29 or more
Receive a custom digital loyalty badge in our trophy case.
Includes the ALUMINUM Sponsor Award plus you receive the Custom Loyalty Award badge offered exclusively to Kickstarter contributors. Viewable via Facebook, Internet and in-game leader boards.
AFFICHE SPONSOR - Pledge $39 or more (Limit 50)
Receive a custom digital poster.
Includes the ALUMINUM and LOYALTY SPONSOR Awards plus you receive the Downloadable Verbosity Digital Poster signed by Team Members and Personalized with your name on it.
CONGENIAL SPONSOR - Pledge $49 or more
Your name in the Credits!!!
Includes the ALUMINUM and LOYALTY SPONSOR Awards plus your name will appear in a special section within the in-game credits thanking you for your generous support for Verbosity Online.
NUMISMATIST SPONSOR - Pledge $69 or more
Receive an actual, real life, full color, 3 inch Verbosity Coin!!!
Includes the ALUMINUM, LOYALTY, and CONGENIAL SPONSOR Awards plus you will receive a 3 inch, Authentic, Verbosity Online minted coin commemorating the game's theme: "Spin the Spinner, Move your Token, Finds the Coins & Win the Game!"
BENEVOLENT SPONSOR - Pledge $99 or more
Receive a Verbosity Online Polo Shirt.
Includes the ALUMINUM, LOYALTY, CONGENIAL and NUMISMATIST SPONSOR Awards plus you receive the Verbosity Online Polo shirt (similar to the shirts we are wearing in our video except they will be white with red highlights with the Verbosity Online Logo).
ENCOMIUM SPONSOR - Pledge $499 or more
The Expression of High Praise Award.
Your name in the Opening Game Credits.
Includes the ALUMINUM, LOYALTY, CONGENIAL, NUMISMATIST and BENEVOLENT SPONSOR Awards plus you will get an Executive Producer credit acknowledgement in the opening loading screen for the game. Each time the game is started, the loading screen will show the revolving credits of the Executive Producers. Your name will appear in this list.
EPONYMOUS SPONSOR - Pledge $4,999 or more (Limit 17)
The Name Giver Award.
A Game Level is named after you.
Includes the ALUMINUM, LOYALTY, CONGENIAL, NUMISMATIST, BENEVOLENT and ENCOMIUM SPONSOR Awards plus members pledging this amount will have the distinguished honor of having a game level personally named after them or named after a selected family member.
And again, Thank You for helping our team and helping our team make Verbosity Online reach its full potential.
Feel free to ask questions, leave comments, and engage with us here or through one of our associated social media networks. We want to hear from you!
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ExperienceVerbosityOnline
Twitter: @VerbosityOnline
Risks and challenges
Developing a video game is an extremely challenging task. That being said, volunteers, including children and adults, play and test Verbosity Online every day. We have since grown to believe that we can produce a quality product, resolve issues, debug and get updates out in a timely manner.
Our main risk is deadline slippage. Because the architecture is stable across many platforms, the added engineering involved will be more time consuming than difficult.
The overall development is led by Rudy Mathieu, software engineering veteran with over 25 years of design, development and production experience.
Last but not least, we always welcome feedback from all supporters to help us make this great game awesome!Learn about accountability on Kickstarter
Funding period
- (30 days)


text:
Coach Justin is in the house! We will be adding two more classes starting next week, drum roll please…..at much request we will be adding a 6:30pm regular crossfit class Monday and Tuesday nights! This is very exciting and a much needed class, coach Justin will be taking the lead in these classes. Again the new class times start next week so spread the word or post your comments here, we would love to hear from you.
Now it's getting colder and colder outside and this seems to be the weather when most of us want something warm to drink! But let's not forget to keep up our water intake. Liquid math is your body weight x 0.5= the number ounces of water you should be drinking per day! Hydration levels affect how fast you run, how much you lift and how you recover. Spend the time to dial in your formula and make a conscience effort to get the right amount of ounces of H2o in. Tomorrow's PR starts with today's water intake!

subset: commoncrawl


text:
CLAREMONT, CA. – The No. 20 Pomona-Pitzer Men's Water Polo team finished the Southern California Intercollegiate Athletic Conference unbeaten with a 9-6 win over Sixth Street Rival CMS on Saturday night at Axelrood Pool.
Season Impact: With the win, the Sagehens finish conference play unbeaten with a 22-8 overall record and a perfect 14-0 in SCIAC play. That also sets the record for most conference wins in a single season.
The Sagehens were led by Jacob Niskey who netted three goals for his second hat-trick of the season.
CMS jumped out to an early lead in the first period as the Sagehens failed to find the back of the net. The Stags netted the only goal of the first to take a quick 1-0 lead. Pomona-Pitzer found its offense in the second as they outscored the Stags 4-2 in the period to take the lead heading into halftime. Niskey tallied three goals alone in the third while Adam Ward added the fourth as the Sagehens lead 4-3 at the break.
The Sagehens came out of the half and put another crooked number on the scoreboard with three goals in the third. Adam Gross got the scoring going followed by Dylan Elliott and Cade Curry to extend the lead to 7-4 heading into the fourth.
The Stags slowed down the Sagehens in the fourth but could not get their offense going with both teams netting two goals in the fourth. CMS struck first in the fourth to cut the lead down to 7-5 but the Sagehens answered just 30 seconds later with a goal by Sam Sasaki to extend the lead back up to three goals at 8-5. Joseph Schafer ended the night with a goal with 14 seconds left to play as the Sagehens put an exclamation point on their perfect conference season with a road win over their Sixth Street Rival.
Up Next: The Sagehens earned the No. 1 seed in the SCIAC Tournament and will host California Lutheran University on Friday, November 16th at 7:00 p.m.


text:
Please make sure that your license file supports borrowing. To do this, open the license file in a text editor and search for the keyword Borrowable. If you have Borrowable="true", it means you can borrow features from the license server. If you do not have borrowing enabled, please contact Coventor Technical Support to request a license file with borrow feature enabled. Please note, license borrowing is supported in CoventorWare Designer and Analyzer, SEMulator3D, MEMulator and Etch3D. Architect currently does not support borrowing.
To use license borrowing, follow the 3 steps below:
1) Set the environment variable MTI_SPECIAL=licenseBorrow. To do this, close the software and go to Control Panel ->System-> Advanced ->Environment Variables. In the window that opens up, click on New and enter the Variable Name and Variable Value as shown below:
MTI_SPECIAL licenseBorrow
2) Run Start->Coventor->CoventorWare2008->License Manager and click on the last tab named Borrowing.
Enter the required information in that tab, before running CoventorWare to check out the necessary features. Before disconnecting from the network, you must "checkout" those features you wish to borrow once you have disconnected from the license server . For example, if you want to borrow a license to run CoSolve you must run a CoSolve simulation whilst still connected to the license server to initiate the borrowing. Remember to also run the PreProcessor and PostProcessor etc if you expect to run these modules in a borrowed state.


text:
Anthropology (literally, 'the study of humankind') is born of a fascination with what it means to be human – in every dimension. Among the multitude of themes involving human thought and action, it is concerned with: human origins and evolutionary processes; how humans organise and regulate their social lives based on sex/gender, ethnicity and race, age, kinship, marriage alliances and other forms of group membership; spiritual/religious beliefs, rituals and symbols; aesthetic, expressive and embodied practices; politics, legal and judicial systems; ethics and morality; conflict and its resolution; economics, the distribution of resources, how resources and technologies are utilised and regulated; human-nature relations and global environmental integrity; human migration (forced or voluntary) and adaptation; illness and healing; knowledge, communications and media; material culture and other forms of heritage; work and leisure (including tourism); food and its preparation ......and much more.
While contemporary small-scale societies and social groups are the main focus in anthropology, wider, more complex and even 'imagined' communities receive attention, and historical factors are regarded as essential for understanding people's present realities. Anthropology also seeks to compare and identify similarities between cultures, across space and time, to explain differences and to understand socio-cultural change. What makes anthropology unique is its insistence on long-term intimate participation in the lives of the peoples it studies in order to understand their life-worlds, as much as possible, from within.
The Department of Anthropology at Rhodes University embraces these broad dimensions of social, cultural and physical (biological) anthropology. First year modules provide an introduction to the broad scope of anthropology, while selected themes and topics are offered in the second and third years of study depending on areas of staff interest and fields of expertise. Current interests and expertise in the department include Indian Ocean and Western Pacific Ocean Island peoples and ethnographies; multiculturalism and ethnic politics; environmental anthropology including maritime communities, marine common-property resource use, and bio-cultural diversity; indigenous peoples and their knowledge; transnational migration, the African Diaspora, and immigrant communities; resettlement and refugees; urban anthropology; medical anthropology including HIV/AIDs in Africa; altered states of consciousness and the anthropology of extraordinary experience (especially relating to dreams and healing); the anthropology of childhood; the anthropology of performance.
The anthropology department has a proud history and has been home to a number of staff members who were internationally renowned anthropologists. These include A.R. Radcliffe Brown, Monica Wilson (nee Hunter), Jack and Eileen Krige, Philip and Iona Mayer, and David Hammond-Tooke.
Our Physical Home – Selwyn Castle
Anthropology is housed in the historic 'Selwyn castle', a Gothic style mansion built in 1836 by Captain Selwyn who was commandant of the British Royal Engineers. It served as the government house and was once the official residence of the Lieutenant General of the Eastern Cape, Sir Andries Stockenstrom.


text:
Manitobans Deserve More than A Part-time Premier: Marcelino
February 28, 2017
Today, Interim NDP Leader Flor Marcelino called on the Pallister government to reverse an austerity agenda that will hit families hard while the premier takes a 20 per cent pay raise and spends two months a year in Costa Rica.
"Premier Brian Pallister took a 20 per cent pay raise and says he deserves to take two months off a year in Costa Rica without using email, and then he imposes cuts on the rest of Manitoba," Marcelino said. "It's distressing that the premier asks families to tighten their belts while he spends two months a year out of touch at his vacation home in the tropics."
The Pallister government has already:
- Scrapped $1 billion in investments for Cancer Care, personal-care homes and community clinics for seniors and families;
- Refused to increase the minimum wage and threatened to bring back unpaid days off, known as "Filmon Fridays";
- Threatened to tear up labour contracts and legislate wage freezes;
- Vowed to cut thousands of jobs at Manitoba Hydro, Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries and MPI, as well as others across the province; and
- Cut back investments in roads and bridges by more than $120 million.
"Manitobans deserve more than a part-time premier," Marcelino said. "They deserve a premier who understands the needs of Manitobans."
Manitobans are encouraged to provide their opinions about Manitoba's part-time premier to the NDP Caucus at: www.costarica.yourmanitoba.ca.
Do you think it's right that Brian Pallister took a 20 per cent pay raise while asking others to accept cuts and job losses; and do you think he can work effectively for Manitoba families from his vacation home in Costa Rica two months a year?
Go to www.costarica.yourmanitoba.ca to let us know what you think.


text:
This cheesy corn dip is pure comfort food and ridiculously easy to make! Perfect for get togethers or a Cinco de Mayo party!
Paul and I used to own a little house right next door to a hole-in-the-wall Mexican restaurant (the best kind, right?) I mean, we literally could step outside our front door and walk about 300 feet and Bam! the best authentic Mexican food. Needless to say, we ate there A LOT. We've lived in a few places since those days and were so excited to take the kids back there when they were old enough.
They hated it.
They don't like enchiladas, or tacos, or burritos, or quesadillas. Who doesn't like quesadillas??? After many years, I've decided they just don't care for flour or corn tortillas. And beans. And cumin…. and certainly those things put together. So, you know, Mexican food.
It's killing me a little.
They do love tortilla chips with salsa, guacamole, or Queso dip, though. Go figure. So I made this Cheesy Corn Dip the other day when we had friends over, thinking this would surely be a hit! Nope. Sigh.
But everyone else loved it! Because DUH. It's delicious and our friends aren't weirdos.
Seriously make this. It's really really good. And so easy. Perfect for Cinco de Mayo!
Other Mexican recipes we love!
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped pickled Jalapeño peppers
- 4 ounce can diced green chiles
- 11 ounce can sweet corn and diced peppers , drained
- 8 ounces shredded Mexican blend cheese
- tortilla chips , for serving
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Coat an 8x8 casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray; set aside.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, and black pepper until combined. Add in the Jalapeño peppers, diced chiles, sweet corn, and cheese; stir to combine until incorporated. Transfer to the prepared dish.
Place in the oven and cook for 20-25 minutes until warm throughout and cheese is nice and bubbly.
Serve right away with tortilla chips and enjoy!


text:
Listeners Club
Sign In
Becky Shock
A radio veteran of over 20 years, Becky lives for the great outdoors. Hiking, canoeing, cycling, or even an adventure in Yellowstone with her latest hobby, photography. Becky's a big animal lover and currently has a rescued cat and would have many more pets if she had the space. She likes experimental baking and subjecting her coworkers at the station to her creations. Becky's taste in music is across the board. If you looked in her iPod you'd find everything from Eric Clapton to Kings of Leon, the Black Keys to some Motown, a little classical, lots of old school Blues, and a good amount of Frank Sinatra.
Home | FCC Public File | EEO | Employment Opportunities | Advertising Information | Contests | Contest Rules | Contact WVIN
Visit Our Sister Stations
Tower Broadcasting, LLC
Built on Envisionwise Technology. Administrator Login


text:
Forgot password?
Privacy and cookies
Corby Town is a town and borough located in the county of Northamptonshire. CorbyTown is 23 miles north-east of the county town, Northampton. The borough had a population of 53,174 at the 2001 Census; the town on its own accounted for 49,222 of this figure. Figures released in March 2010 revealed that Corby has the fastest growing population in both Northamptonshire and the whole of England. The Borough of Corby borders onto the Borough of Kettering, the District of East Northamptonshire, the District of Harborough and the unitary authority county of Rutland. The town was at one time known locally as "Little Scotland" due to the large number of Scottish migrant workers who came to Corby for its steelworks.
Free counters
Pictures at an Exhibition
corby New Town 1965
Corby New Town 1965
If you're already a registered user of this site, please login using the form on the left-hand side of this page.
Email address (See our privacy statement):
I consent to my name and e-mail address being stored along with this comment, and to the website editors communicating with me by e-mail about the comment if necessary. My name may be published alongside the comment on the website, but my e-mail address will not be published. My information will not be shared with any third party (see our privacy statement).
Our Corby > http://www.ourcorby.org.uk/


text:
Association Equipment - Order team sport accessories for football and handball associations: Sports clubs and schools may order team sport accessories for football and handball associations at the association supplier b+d-Allzweck Sportartikel mail-order.
Order team sport association equipmentAllzweck Sportartikel Shop is the online shop for professional team sport association equipment. We supply handball and football clubs with corner poles, exchange and report panels as well as favourably-priced security equipment. Such association supplies is vital on the football pitch or handball playing field in order for matches to take place at all. To participate in a match, the teams must practice and exercise their sport. Thus, Allzweck team sport needs encompass training assistance and aids, theoretical and practical teaching material, training shirts, stopwatches and team sport armbands for captains and security guards.
* All prices include VAT and do not include shipping costs.
** This price concerns our formerly valid price.
[*] This is a mandatory field.
** This price concerns our formerly valid price.
[*] This is a mandatory field.


text: Human Rights Observatory Wikileaks: Assange's Internet Link 'Severed' by State Actor WikiLeaks says that founder Julian Assange's internet access has been cut by an unidentified state actor. Few other details were immediately available. Assange has been up holed up at the Ecuadorean Embassy in London for more than four years after skipping bail to avoid being extradited over sex crimes allegations. The cramped quarters haven't prevented the Australian transparency activist from working and WikiLeaks continues to deliver scoops, including revelations...Read complete article© Voice of America - Monday, October 17, 2016


text:
When ATMs were introduced more than 40 years ago, they were considered advanced technology. Today, not so much.
Inside every ATM casing is a computer, and like all such devices, each one runs on an OS. Microsoft's 12-year-old Windows XP dominates the ATM market, powering more than 95 percent of the world's machines and a similar percentage in the U.S., according to Robert Johnston, a marketing director at NCR (NCR), the largest ATM supplier in the U.S.
For banks, investing into a massive upgrade of an old computer system would be a waste of money because customers are switching to mobile payments. We can deposit checks, pay bills, and invest with a smartphone. The only thing we can't get from the smartphone is
If the banks don't invest in a rigorous new security system, old ATM networks will become a juicy target for hackers. Like any other parasites, hackers love weak targets: newborns and elderly, a legacy ATM system being the latter. A computer security disaster with a major ATM network will speed up the adoption of digital currencies immensely. A great financial play would be to buy a lot of bitcoins, then hack an ATM system just to scare people into using the new technology.
tags: innovation, deontic, payload, system, money, business


text:
- Quick Links
- Academics
- Admissions
- Academic
- Student
- Centers and
- Global
- Alumni
- Find Us on Facebook
- Find Us on LinkedIn
Distinguished Lecturer and Faculty Director of the Executive MPA
Nicole A. Gordon is the Faculty Director of the CUNY Baruch College Executive M.P.A. program and Distinguished Lecturer of Public Affairs. She has served for over twenty-five years in government and not-for-profit leadership positions. She was the founding Executive Director of New York City's pioneer Campaign Finance Board, building this reform agency into a nationally and internationally recognized model. At the Board she was responsible for the disbursement of tens of millions of dollars in public funding to candidates for New York City elective offices, enforcement of the New York City Campaign Finance Act, creation of sophisticated databases for public disclosure of campaign finances, distribution of New York City's multi-lingual Voter Guide to millions of households, crafting of legislative initiatives and agency regulations, and evaluation of the impact of the Campaign Finance Program. After serving for 18 years at the Campaign Finance Board, she was the Vice President of the JEHT Foundation, which focused on criminal justice, international justice, elections, and juvenile justice. There she was in charge of all program areas and grants administration, working closely with government officials, academics, not-for-profit institutions, and other foundations to effect change in governmental policy and practice. She later was Chair of New York State's Task Force on Public Safety Accountability, which was created to integrate evidence-based policy and practice in New York's eight public safety (primarily criminal justice) agencies. She was the Executive Director of the Marshall Project, a not-for-profit, non-partisan news organization dedicated to covering America's criminal justice system.
Before joining the Campaign Finance Board, Ms. Gordon served as Counsel to the Chairman of the New York State Commission on Government Integrity and as an Assistant Corporation Counsel in New York City's Law Department, handling a wide range of cases including cases involving environmental, education, civil rights, and employment law. She was also a litigator in private practice as an associate at the firm of Debevoise and Plimpton. She is a past president of the Council on Governmental Ethics Laws ("COGEL") and has served on numerous committees of the New York City and New York State Bar Associations. She has taught at the Fordham University School of Law and Cardozo Law School and has written law review and political science articles on subjects relating to law, public policy, and public administration.
She also teaches a course on law and public policy at the NYU-Wagner School of Public Service as an Adjunct Professor of Public Policy.
Ms. Gordon holds an A. B. degree from Barnard College with Honors in Classical Greek and a J.D. from Columbia Law School, where she was the recipient of the Convers Prize for best original writing on a legal subject. She was a law clerk to the Hon. Harold R. Medina of the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit.
Curriculum Vitae
Curriculum Vita (cont.)


text:
How many times have you found an old crumpled up receipt hidden somewhere deep beneath the passenger seat of your car or jammed into your wallet? Regardless of how insignificant you think these pieces of paper may be, as a business owner, you must keep your receipts for bookkeeping and tax purposes. Keeping receipts for all of your business expenses will not only keep your bookkeeper sane, it will also assist you and your CPA at tax time in getting an accurate number for your business deductions.
Many of you may be thinking, "Why should we keep our receipts? We're living in a digital age" or "Why keep a paper trail, if it will only create more clutter? Right?" Wrong. We've compiled a list of tips to help you keep accurate, organized records for your business.
1. Keep Every. Single. Receipt.
This point cannot be overstated. It is just as important to keep the $2.38 receipt from Staples for pencils, as it is to keep the $1022.54 receipt for the new laptop you purchased for your business. If you were ever subject to an IRS audit, the auditor will want to see receipts for every expense for which you have claimed a deduction.
2. Make notes on receipts about their business purposes.
This is an especially great idea for dining and entertainment expenses. It can be easy to remember why you bought a copier, but it could be a lot harder to remember who you went to dinner with at that fancy steakhouse three years ago and what the business purpose was.
3. Scan receipts and keep them for at least six years.
The IRS can come looking for documentation to support expenses up to six years back in some cases. Purchasing a scanner and storing them on an external hard drive ensures that you will have adequate documentation in the case of an audit. You can't count on the ink from a receipt not fading in the next 6 years, so it's better to be safe than sorry.
4. Take a picture with your Smartphone.
With today's technology, it's easy to say "Forget the receipt, I'll just make a note on the receipt and then take a picture of it." This is a great idea and there are a whole host of apps for the iPhone and Android that can help you better track your expenses. As long as you save all of these pictures in a safe place (external hard drive, Google Drive, Dropbox, etc.) you will have no problem reproducing these receipts when tax time comes or in the case of an IRS audit.
5. Don't rely on credit card statements and canceled checks.
Credit card statements and canceled checks are important documents but are insufficient without a receipt to detail the expense. The IRS may see on the statement that you spent $85 at Lowe's but they don't know what was purchased on this shopping trip. Statements may be sufficient for your bookkeeper but the detail of the expense is critical for an IRS auditor.
6. Try to avoid using cash for business purchases.
Dave Ramsey may be adamant about using cash for purchases to stay within your budget, but using cash makes it difficult to keep good records for bookkeeping and adequate documentation for an audit. Cash is hard to track, easy to spend and nearly impossible to reconcile with receipts. Stick to debit and credit cards for business purchases to better track your expenses and leave you with adequate documentation to support the expense.
All small business owners know that it can be burdensome to keep track of all those receipts. However, for accounting and tax purposes, you will have to prove that everything expensed to your business is correct and necessary. The extra time and effort it takes to keep accurate records will be worth the extra burden if you were ever subject to an IRS audit.
Need help tracking receipts? Our bookkeeping services will integrate with your business, allowing you to snap a picture of your receipts and email them to us for safe keeping. We can even get you caught up if you've been putting off this important task. Contact us today for help.
Deciding whether to deduct an expense in full or capitalize and amortize it over its useful life is usually a difficult question for small business owners. The accounting treatment of a major purchase can sometimes make the difference between a year-end income statement that shows a profit and one that shows a loss. Business owners don't often understand how each method affects your income statement as well as the tax ramifications of the decision. Here's a breakdown when to expense and when to capitalize.
Capitalizing a purchase
This is an accounting method that delays the recognition of expenses by recording the expense as a long-term asset. Instead of expensing the full cost in the year of purchase, you will spread the cost over an extended period of time, which provides a more accurate picture of your profitability. For example, you decide to capitalize a $20,000 expense and amortize it over a five-year period. Instead of taking all of this expense in 2017, you will record $4,000 per year over the next five years as amortization expense. In order to capitalize an asset, it must have a useful life that extends beyond the current year and you must use the asset to conduct your business. Assets may be fixed assets, such as equipment and furniture, or even intangible assets, such as copyrights and patents.
Expensing a purchase
Deciding to expense a large purchase in the current year can be both beneficial and detrimental to your business. Incurring a large expense will lower your taxable income and therefore reduce the tax liability of your business and its owners. Everyone loves to avoid paying taxes but beware that expensing all of an asset in a single year may prevent you from receiving the benefit of depreciation or amortization expense in the future. You may get a huge tax break in the year of purchase, but could end up owing more money over the next three to five years. Expensing an asset in a single year can also skew your income to expense ratios and provide an inaccurate picture of your company's profitability.
Deciding to expense or capitalize doesn't have to be a difficult decision for small business owners. Some companies set a purchasing limit and anything below this amount will be expensed and anything above that amount will be amortized (capitalized). This is a quick and effective way to simplify the decision. Just remember that the item must also have a useful life beyond the current year in order to be capitalized.
Not sure what to do? Contact a reputable bookkeeper, like The Bean Counters Bookkeeping who can not only keep track of your expenses, but advise on the best way to handle large purchases come tax time.
Marketing your business online inexpensively is not hard to do. Many business owners avoid spending money on marketing because they think it's not affordable or worse, a waste of time. The beauty of online marketing is that you can practically market your business for free if you know what to do. That's why online marketing is so affordable and fun. The barriers to entry are low, and even the learning curve is small. So before you know it, you will bring your business to profit with free or very affordable marketing.
1. List Your Business
There are many directories that are either free or inexpensive that you can join to help market your business. Ensure that the directory you pick is niche oriented, and that it is run by a reputable person so that you are listed with other reputable business owners. You don't want to be on a list that is associated with spam. Your local chamber of commerce is one such list that you can get on for the price of your membership.
2. Use Social Media Liberally
Social media sites like LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram all have a place in your online marketing endeavors. Well, they might. You have to determine which social media networks will work for you and it will depend on your niche and your target customer. Where do they hang out? Be there.
3. Content Marketing
This is one of your most important marketing weapons in your arsenal. In fact, you'll use content for all types of marketing including every inexpensive way listed in this article. Content is needed that sells, educates, engages, informs, solves problems, and excites. You need content for all aspects of marketing - up to and including customer relations.
4. Blog Frequently and Consistently
Blogging is a big source of traffic, and in some instances the only source of traffic for many website owners. Not only that, it boosts your SEO which means more people will find your site when they search for your product or service. It's a great way to get the message out to your customers while not spending much money. You can write the posts yourself or you can outsource blogging. Most people write them themselves when starting out. It can take time to get used to doing it, but writing a post a week can help gain momentum. You'll also want to consider doing longer blog posts, less often, to get results.
5. Remember SEO
If you are not familiar with SEO (search engine optimization), it's important to learn. SEO changes constantly and is how you optimize your website for search engines. There is both on-page and off-page SEO that you can do for your business. Learn all you can about it. Or hire an expert to provide an SEO audit and strategy.
6. Send Out a Press Release
The good, old-fashioned press release is still a thing, believe it or not. You can still get a lot of value out of sending out free press rereleases if you know how to do it. The trick is to have contacts to which you send the press release directly and not just out to never-never land.
7. Hone and Perfect Your Small Business Website
Your website is your store front, and even if you have a bricks and mortar store front, your website is the store front your customers will likely see first. If it doesn't look great, why would anyone purchase from you? Spending time on beautiful design, compelling copy, and making sure everything works (don't forget to put your social media links in a prominent spot), is key to giving a great first impression.
8. Join Relevant Communities
Communities are a great way to get your name out there. There are groups you can join on Facebook and LinkedIn, as well as self-hosted and owned "inner circles" and mastermind clubs that you can join. They can help you get known as an expert, as well as help you get more links to your website.
Finding inexpensive ways to market your business online is a great way to get started. But even after you have a profitable business, you'll want to keep using these inexpensive ways to market your business. If you're wondering if you're business can afford these marketing investments, ask your bookkeeper to find areas that aren't providing a good ROI and where you can cut the fat in your current expenses.
Sometimes the legalities of doing business as an independent contractor can seem daunting. But don't be overwhelmed. It's not hard to make a contract at all. A contract can be very simple or very complicated (it's up to you), but the important point is that you do have one. Many of the reasons you need a contract as an independent contractor are listed below, but take note that this list is not exhaustive. You can likely think of some additional reasons on your own.
To Avoid Misunderstandings
Having a contract to look at when a gray area comes to light about what is expected, can help you avoid costly misunderstandings of what is supposed to be accomplished during the relationship.
To Define the Relationship
While you can't make a contract stating someone is an independent contractor then treat them like an employee, this can help both parties understand more their roles and place within the work.
To Institute a Description of Responsibilities
If both parties have a good description of what each is to do, when they are to do it, how the deliverables should look and who is going to do what, this can help create a well-oiled machine for your business processes.
To Bind Each Party to Their Particular Duties
If everyone knows what they are supposed to do, the work will go much more smoothly. Define deadlines, the work, and more in this part of your contract to ensure that everyone is on the same page.
To Establish a Time Frame for the Work
Avoiding scope creep is an important part of a contractor's job. Giving all work a time frame will help avoid problems. You may want a contract for a year for ongoing work, or even an unlimited contract that gives information about what to do if you go over the specified work.
To Help to Secure Payments
Contracts can set in stone the payment you're expecting and give you recourse if something goes wrong with the payment or work.
To Provide Recourse If Problems Develop
When anything goes wrong, each party can go back to the contract to identify the issue and find the solution to resolve it.
To Establish Professionalism
When you set up a contract and have procedures identified and processes established, you look more professional and people will take your business more seriously.
Contracts are an important part of doing business and can help protect both parties from issues that may arise during the course of the relationship. Not only will the contract help, but the process of creating the contract between the parties can help establish the relationship better. Developing clear, collaborative contracts helps ensure compliance and a great relationship today and in the future. Independent contractors can also benefit by having a bookkeeper. If books are not your specialty, or you simply don't want to deal with the hassles of filing taxes and keeping on top of the paperwork for your 1099 job(s), give The Bean Counters Bookkeeping team a call at 912-376-9918. We'd LOVE to help you sort through your tax liabilities!
When interest rates are fairly low, bank fees usually make up the main source of revenue for banks. In the United States, banks are required to disclose fees and other associated costs for accounts and loans up front. These fees are usually "hidden" in the fine print, which most business owners fail to read in entirety. Not only that, but especially with loans and credit cards, fees are often subject to change depending on various factors. Reading the fine print in detail, and consulting with an accountant or even your lawyer, can illuminate a potential problem down the road and save you quite a lot in the long run.
Common reasons for fees associated with checking and savings accounts include:
It's critical, especially for the small business owner, to be fully aware of any changes or charges associated with their bank. The first step is to review all accounts and make yourself aware of the various fees. The second step is to understand that not all fees are normal, or even the same across various institutions! The best way to find out if you're being unfairly penalized by fees is to ask questions. By not asking questions or obtaining clarification, bank fees continue to increase while your wallet continues to decrease. Don't just look up your questions online; ask a real person.
It may sound like common knowledge, but with today's fast paced society many of us skim through documents and sign on the dotted line. Instead, take the time to read and understand all rules both in print and online. To further avoid those unpleasant surprises, mix and match accounts. It may seem like a hassle, but in the long run it's well worth it. One bank may have a convenience that the other bank doesn't. For instance, 'bank A' may provide free checking and 'bank B' may have beneficial small business services.
If you find a better deal at another bank, go to your bank(s) in person and request to close your accounts. Chances are, they'll at least match, or even provide a better offer rather than risk losing your business. This will save you a lot of hassle from having to switch banks.
Kaylin Leland
February 2019


text:
On December 15, 2016, New York City Gay Men's Chorus and Youth Pride Chorus performed a holiday concert at the Music Hall at Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden. The concert featured select songs from upcoming concert Xmas & Chill, and the recent YPC concert RISE.
The concert was co-produced by the Pride Center of Staten Island, Community Health Action of Staten Island, and New York State Assemblyman Matthew Titone.
NYCGMC Conductor Charlie Beale said,
"Nothing puts you in the holiday spirit like choral music, and our holiday concert in Manhattan has become an annual tradition for many people in the New York area. We're delighted to bring our particular brand of comfort and joy to Staten Island this year."


text:
The Ethnic Wear Coupons 2017
The Ethnic Wear is an online shopping store featuring traditional ethnic wear for men, women & kids including jewellery & fashion accessories. They ensure that the products are delivered to your doorstep on time because they are here to build up longstanding relationship with customers. Use latest The Ethnic Wear coupons and deals to save money while shopping.
Active Coupons
Extra 10% off on women's ethnic wear
Click to copy & open site
Use the above coupon and get extra 10% off on women's ethnic wear like salwar kameez, sarees, kurtis, and more.
- November 18, 2014
Extra 5% off on ethnic wear
Click to copy & open site
Get upto 50% off + extra 5% off on ethnic wear. No minimum purchase is required.
- September 15, 2014


text:
The finest young golfers from Europe and the United States are relishing contesting the Junior Ryder Cup later this month at one of the world's great golfing destinations.
The Gleneagles® Hotel, on the wish list of courses to play of many a golf fan around the globe, recently hosted the hugely successful Johnnie Walker Championship, won by Edoardo Molinari and after which Colin Montgomerie made the eagerly anticipated announcement of his European Ryder Cup Team.
It was the latest in a long line of top class tournaments held at Gleneagles, and the most recent example of EventScotland's investment in golf. As well as The Open Championship at St Andrews, where Louis Oosthuizen clinched his first Major with a magnificent victory, EventScotland has in recent years given financial support to the Scottish Hydro Challenge on the European Challenge Tour, the Senior Open Championship presented by Mastercard, the Cleveland Golf / Srixon Scottish Seniors Open and the Aberdeen Asset Management Ladies Scottish Open.
Paul Bush OBE, Chief Operating Officer for EventScotland, said: "We have all enjoyed a busy and exciting golf calendar this year with some of the world's best events taking place on our shores. Golf is a huge driving force in Scotland's economy and the next few years are extremely exciting as we continue to support a host of events in the run up to Scotland hosting The Ryder Cup in 2014."
Next up is the Junior Ryder Cup, which is very similar to The Ryder Cup in that it is a contest between Europe and the United States, except it is for boys and girls under 16 and under 18 and takes place over two days rather than three. It gives young golfers a taste of the sport's greatest team competition and provides a chance to showcase the fine young talent in Europe and the United States.


text:
Retrieve Password
If you have forgotten your password, please enter your e-mail address below and your password will automatically be sent to you:
E-mail address:
to return to the login page
The Secretary-General aims to create a more versatile, multi-skilled and experienced international civil service capable of fulfilling complex mandates. He envisages an organizational culture in which mobility would be encouraged, valued and rewarded.
Human Resources Management Reform,
Report of the Secretary-General to the 55th General Assembly


text:
ENCINITAS — Stellar Solar commercial and residential solar integrators was the first Solar Installer to receive a no-fee solar permit from the city of Encinitas. The permit will be used to install a 4.6kW system on Santa Fe Drive in Encinitas. In an effort to promote sustainability, the city of Encinitas has rolled out a one-year pilot program that waives or reduces permit fees for energy-efficient projects, including:— Solar Photovoltaic (PV) systems
— Solar water heating systems
— Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE)
— Clean Natural Gas (CNG) home refueling systems
"We have already seen Encinitas homeowners becoming more interested in going solar and that's usually all it takes for us to demonstrate the benefits of going solar for most homeowners," said Michael Powers, vice president of Sales and Marketing for Stellar Solar. "There are so many affordable solar financing options available now, any opportunity to sit down and explain the program will convince most homeowners of the benefits. Once homeowners get the facts, they see it actually costs less to produce your own power using solar panels, compared to buying it from the power company."
Encinitas Senior Planner Kerry Kusiak said, "The city of Encinitas is very excited to see this program get off to such a fast start. The primary goal of the program is to speed up the adoption of renewable energy among Encinitas residents. If our program makes more people take a look at solar or electric vehicles, we trust that companies like Stellar Solar will take it from there and educate them further on their options."


text:
Team Harmony was the name chosen by His Majesty the late King Hussein of Jordan for the international string of horses that would tour and compete with HRH Princess Haya in pursuit of her Olympic dream.
HRH Princess Haya first became aware of this dream when her father gave her a filly for her 6th birthday, which she named Bint Al Reeh (Daughter of the Wind). That same year, after watching the 1980 Moscow Olympics, HRH Princess Haya knew that she would one day represent her country and compete in the Olympics. From that moment on, the late King Hussein nicknamed HRH Princess Haya his 'Olympic Daughter'.
HRH Princess Haya competed regionally through the 1980's and early 1990's. She set up the National Jordanian Equestrian Federation, and registered it as a member of the International Equestrian Federation (FEI). She became the first female member of the Equestrian Team in Jordan, and the first
Arab woman to win an individual Pan Arab medal in Equestrianism in Damascus, Syria.
In 1994, while studying at Oxford University in England, HRH Princess Haya and the late King Hussein set out a plan for her to train abroad as an international athlete. His hope was that she would become the first Arab woman to compete in equestrian sport at Olympic and world championship levels after which she would return to Jordan to set up and structure the field of sport and youth across the country and eventually, the region.
Team Harmony, established in 1994, was set up with this ambition in mind. It was very much a family project. The colors originally chosen were burgundy and royal blue on a gray background however, the late King Hussein suggested his daughter draw her own logo that combined a crown with a jumping horse. That same year, it was also decided that the string of horses would not only be used to compete internationally, but also be brought on the criterion that after their careers ended, they would be incorporated in to a breeding program to produce Harmony Sport Horses.
In 1995, HRH Princess Haya set up a training base with Alain Storme and the late Paul Darragh in
Ireland upon the suggestion of the late Basil Al Assad. HRH Princess Haya made her international debut in Monte Carlo CSI-A. After Team Harmony's first season in 1996, which finished in Olympia London CSI-W, the late King Hussein was leading owner on the European circuit, with his Harmony horses winning: 36 International classes, 2 national Grand Prix (Cavan, Dùn Laoghaire IRE) and 7 International Grand Prix's (CSI-A) and one Volvo World Cup Qualifier (Seville, Spain).
In 1997, HRH Princess Haya moved to Germany to train with the famous Paul Schockemöhle, who produced riders like the world number one four-time Olympic medalist, Ludger Beerbaum. Tragically, in February 1999, HRH Princess Haya's father passed away after an eight month battle with cancer. That same year, HRH Princess Haya moved to Holland for six months with Dutch team Trainer Hans Horn. He and his family helped set up her final move to train with Katie Monahan Prudent and Alice Debany Clero in Paris to prepare her for the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney, Australia.
HRH Princess Haya signed a commercial sponsorship contract with Loro Piana and competed under their colors with the Loro Piana team 1999-2001. The team then consisted of Rodrigo Pessoa (BRA), Lars Nieberg (GER), and Roberto Arioldi (ITA). When her contract ceased, HRH Princess Haya decided not to return to the old colors she had chosen with her father, but chose instead black and gold as the team livery, in his memory. HRH Princess Haya continued to train with Alice Debany Clero until the end of 2001, but trained for the World Equestrian Games in Jerez 2002, with her first trainer, Paul Darragh.
After competing in Jerez in 2002, HRH Princess Haya decided to move back to Jordan as the late King Hussein had wished, to set up and structure sports nationally.
To concentrate on her young family and a wide range of other commitments and duties HRH Princess Haya had to interrupt her competitive career. She recruited Abdel Kader Said (EGY) a young rider she believed to be the most talented in the region at the time, to carry the team colors. Abdel Said, now based in Belgium, continues to fly Team Harmony's colors with great success.. At the World Equestrian Games in 2006, Princess Haya was impressed by the riding of Ibrahim Bisharat from Jordan. She offered him the support of Team Harmony to help develop his career, as the ethos of Team Harmony is to support talented young riders from the Middle East and to provide a platform for them to compete at international level.
A further step was made in 2008 when World Champion Jos Lansink joined the Team (2008-2014).
Abdel Said and Ibrahim Bisharat went to train and stay at the World Champion's stables. In that same year François Mathy Jr. also joined the Team. Jos Lansink, François Mathy, Abdel Said and Ibrahim Bisharat made sure that Team Harmony was fully visable, with winnings and high rankings at numerous Grand Prix events around the world. Jos Lansink won the Grand Prix in La Baule, Paris, Beijing, Mechelen, Amman and Abu Dhabi and was frequently placed in the top three of various Grand Prix like in Calgary, Aachen, Bordeaux, Falsterbo, Rotterdam, Paris, Valencia, Monte Carlo, Estoril, Mechelen and 2nd in the Final of the GCT circuit in Doha. At the end of 2011, Ibrahim Bisharat and Abdel Said showed that the training and coaching of Jos Lansink had paid off, and in Qatar Ibrahim sensationally won the Olympic Qualification to London for the Arab League. The wider aims of Team Harmony became visible. Ibrahim and Abdel developed further and they won several competitions at the top events in the Arab League as well as in the European League.
Between 2012-2014 Francois Mathy jr. has been most visible at the very top international level with a series of impressive results. In 2012, Raad Nasser from Jordan joined Team Harmony.
More recently in 2014 John Whitaker one of the most admired and respected riders in the world, joined Team Harmony.
John had great success in 2015 riding Team Harmony's mare Ornellaia. In 2016, he won the Global Champions League after several good results with " Nellie". The couple also competed at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio.


text:
I spent more time than usual in front of my computer today and as a reward left my more enjoyable and interesting e-mail for the end of the day. I was struck by the juxtaposition of two articles. The first was from the May 17, 2017 Task & Purpose, "5 Maps that Show The Military Hotspots The US Military is Deployed Right Now" (see: http://bit.ly/2raCZjY; which is also a photo source. As an analyst I tend to look for things that are unusual.
Top of the 'unusual' list is the deployment of 300 Marines to Norway. The Army's list showed a deployment of 3,500 in Poland. These two deployments are clearly meant to counter a perceived Russian threat and/or to make a statement about one. Given the headlines of actions in Afghanistan, Iraq and Syria – these two stood out.
On the Navy list I was somewhat surprised to see that the USS Carney Ross is deployed to South Sudan. I thought South Sudan was land locked which would make it a bit difficult to deploy an Arliegh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer inland.
As it turns out, this potential anomaly tied into the second article from Task & Purpose on May 18, 2017 "Report: SOCOM Has More Troops in Africa Than Anywhere Except the Middle East" (see: http://bit.ly/2qOKJaf; which is also a photo source.)
One could view the non-SOCOM Deployments as actions that are in play. Meaning that these conflict areas have enough going-on that it is necessary to station conventional forces. The Marines and the Navy, generally viewed as more mobile can be shifted to other locations more quickly.
However, the biggest takeaway is that SOCOM forces are a 'preview to coming attractions' and portend where the next major deployments can be expected to take place. BG Donald Bolduc, head of SOCAFRICA's thoughts were summarized as ""Africa's challenges could create a threat that surpasses the threat that the United States currently faces from conflict in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Syria," Bolduc warned. He went on to cite a laundry list of challenges with which he and his personnel must contend: ever-expanding illicit networks, terrorist safe havens, attempts to subvert government authority, a steady stream of new recruits and resources."
Reader comments, as always are encouraged and I'm especially curious as to feedback on the Carney Ross.


text:
MPD/F.B.I. Task Force rounds up gang members during morning sweep
Posted: Jun 17, 2014 1:26 PM CDT | Updated: Nov 5, 2014 2:48 PM CDT
MILWAUKEE -- The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Milwaukee Police Department arrested several members of a Milwaukee street gang known as the 29 Taliban during the early morning hours of June 17. Police say nearly 200 members of the Milwaukee Police Department and F.B.I. agents took part in the early morning arrests.
Search warrants were executed at seven north side homes resulting in the seizure of guns, narcotics and a ballistic vest. 15 people believed to be responsible for armed robbery, drug, gun offenses, and homicide were arrested during the June 17 sweep.
Police say another sweep is already in the works.
Save with
0 Comments
Post a comment
Newest | Oldest | Top Comments


text:
Polar Bear Visor Clip Car Fragrance Holder
In Stock
A cute polar bear & incredible fragrance for every arctic adventure. Pair this visor clip with a car fragrance refill, sold separately, to radiate fragrance into your car without a plug, battery or flame. The built-in clip base attaches to your visor or seat pocket for a scent-sational driving experience.
Customers Also Viewed
- bvseo_sdk, dw_cartridge, 17.1.0, p_sdk_3.2.0
- CLOUD, getReviews, 6ms
- reviews, product
- bvseo-msg: Unsuccessful GET. status = '{0}', msg = {1};


text:
- 超訳【ちょうやく】 Inflection
noun / ~する noun:
- super-liberal interpretation; making understandable, readable through free interpretation
© Based on JMdict, KANJIDIC2, and JMnedict, property of the Electronic Dictionary Research and Development Group, used in conformance with the Group's licence. Example sentences from the Tatoeba project (CC BY 2.0). Kanji stroke order data from the KanjiVG project by Ulrich Apel (CC BY-SA 3.0). See comprehensive list of data sources for more info.
Search other dictionaries for 超訳:
Yahoo!辞書 / goo辞書 / alc.co.jp / Weblio / Wiktionary
We're trying to keep Tangorin free and ad-free. If you like this dictionary, help us out with a donation so we can keep making it better.Donate


text:
2018 Kia Rio 5-door Mount Hope WV
We've already touched on the fact that the Kia Rio sedan was completely redesigned for the 2018 model year, but what we forgot to mention is that the 5-door hatchback version of the subcompact sedan is entering its fourth generation right alongside it. For the most part, the 2018 Kia Rio 5-door in Mount Hope WV has undergone the exact same changes as the regular sedan version.
That means the Rio 5-door is more stylish, comfortable and refined than ever before, just like its sibling vehicle. It offers a more aggressive front end featuring the new tiger-nose grille. It features a wider rear end that accentuates its stability. Et cetera, et cetera. The new Rio 5-door will be everything the Rio sedan is, with the added bonus of more cargo capacity and utility than its smaller sibling.
Cargo Capacity & Utility
The Rio 5-door offers a passenger volume of 90.5 cubic feet, which is just slightly more than the sedan offers. Thanks to the door trims being reprofiled among other small changes to the cabin, everyone in the vehicle will benefit from improved leg room and shoulder room. But these bonuses might not be enough for a hatchback shopper, as they're generally looking for additional cargo capacity rather than extra space for passengers.
Well they have nothing to fear, as the Rio 5-door offers 17.4 cubic feet of cargo capacity behind the rear seats, which is nearly 4 full cubic feet more than the sedan offers. Fold down those seats, and drivers will have a whopping 32.8 cu. ft. of space to play with. That's plenty of space for some extra luggage, gear for a weekend excursion or even to bring home a new piece of small furniture.
Interested shoppers can get in contact with us at the sales desk, or simply fill out a form right here on this page. We'll make sure you have all the information you need and can even get you behind the wheel of one for a test drive at your earliest convenience. We look forward to hearing from you!


text:
|Municipal non-discrimination services act
Obliges all local governments to provide for independent and accessible local anti-discrimination bureaus. As regards the obligations under the EU anti-discrimination directives, these Bureaus are part of the system of equality bodies in The Netherlands.
|Local law
|EU, Local, National
|Coordination, Getting expert advice, Legal frameworks
|Barcelona for Human Rights -The Observatory on Human Rights in the City of Barcelona
Overview of the monitoring of human rights observance in the international and European sphere, in Spain, Catalonia and Barcelona. It is a descriptive and illustrative tour of human rights that includes an examination of existing monitoring tools at all the territorial levels mentioned above.
|Barcelona City Council
|Local, Regional
|Legal frameworks, Monitoring and evaluation
|Guide to build and apply local plans on raising-awareness
The Guide is a tool in the hands of the professional teams of the City Councils, the Provincial Governments, and other type of local governments. The goals of the project are fostering a public thinking on the profits of diversity and integration promoting the creation, launching local Awareness Plans in the field of equal treatment and non-discrimination because of ethnic or racial discrimination.
|Local Government of the province of Barcelona
|Local, National
|Communication strategy, Education and training
|Barcelona Social Inclusion Plan for 2012-2015
The 2012-2015 Barcelona Social Inclusion Plan is the result of the joint work of Barcelona City Council and the organizations of Barcelona civil society, coming together in the framework of the Citizens' Agreement for an Inclusive Barcelona (ACBI), together with the Municipal Social Welfare Council and its working groups. The plan was drawn up with the participation of citizens, organizations, municipal technical staff and representatives of all the political groups of Barcelona City Council, under the leadership of the office of the Deputy Mayor and the Department of Quality of Life, Equality and Sport of Barcelona City Council.
|Barcelona City Council
|Local, National
|Coordination, Facilitating participation, Leadership, Planning
|Madrid's Plan Against Racism and Intolerance: An Example of the Implementation of the 10 Points Plan of Action
A tool presenting useful recommendations in raising awareness educating and implementing sufficient policies on the grounds of racism and intolerance.
|City of Madrid
|Local, National
|Communication strategy, Legal frameworks
|Institute de Drets Humans de Catalunya
IHRC advises and accompanies the Ayuntamiento de Barcelona, as a promoting city of the Charter, in its attendance and preparation of different European conferences.
|Institute de Drets Humans de Catalunya (IHRC)
|Local, Regional
|Education and training, Getting expert advice
|Conseil Nantais pour la Citoyenneté des Etrangers – a council created by the City in 2003 to promote the citizenship of foreigne
The Council is concretely pursuing that objective starting with the welcoming process in itself through to ensuring the foreigners' access to citizens' rights and fighting against discrimination with regard to work and racism.
|City of Nantes
|Local, National
|Engaging the community
|Law reforming the child protection system (loi n 2007-293, 5 mars).
The 2007 law reforming the child protection system in France required all departments to develop a centralised system for the collection, evaluation and analysis of "information that raises concern" on children in danger or at risk.
|National law
|Legal frameworks, Monitoring and evaluation
|Scotland Business Plan 2010-2011
The 2010-2011 Business Plan underpins the strategic priorities, which aim at securing and implementing an effective legislative and regulatory framework for equality and human rights.
|Equality and Human Rights Commission, Scotland
|United Kingdom
|Local, Regional
|Coordination, Engaging the community , Leadership, Legal frameworks, Monitoring and evaluation, Planning
|Human Rights: improving public service delivery
Describes the impact of Human Rights Act on service delivery and provides the available law updates on the topic and how they affect service delivery.
|Audit Commission for Local Authorities and the National Health Service in England & Wales
|United Kingdom
|Local, National, Regional
|Coordination, Legal frameworks


text: We are proud to say that all of our cottages have been again awarded the Wyndham Green Award for Sustainability. We encourage birds & bees and wildlife, recycle whatever we can and have our own water supply. To keep our guests comfy and warm we have efficient heating and well insulated cottages.


text:
Thomson of Duddingston, Pastor and Painter
Chapter I
Introduction—Birth and
Parentage—Early Training—The Parish School—The Minister's Family—The Manse
of Dailly—Early Aspirations for Art— First Efforts—Thomas Thomson and Lord
IT is now over half a
century since the quiet little parish of Duddingston lost its Artist
Minister, and Scotland one of her most distinguished sons. The fame of
John Thomson is not, like that of Scott, Burns, or Allan Ramsay, on the
surface. There are thousands of educated Scotsmen who, perhaps, have never
heard his name mentioned—who may never have seen or heard of his works;
and yet while he lived, and long years after his death, the man was, nay,
he still is, an influence and power in the growth of Scottish art, more
than is generally supposed.
His life, like that of most men of genius, was a dual
one. By profession a minister of the gospel, he is better known to us now
as a painter of landscapes, as Burns the ploughman, and Scott the clerk of
session are better known as their country's song-writer and novelist.
In his day John Thomson was distinguished among his
contemporaries; and if of late years, amid the crowd of literary,
artistic, and scientific talent which has made the nineteenth century
famous, his name has in some measure fallen out of sight, it is our
purpose, if possible, to rectify this, and to place before our readers
some adequate estimate of the life and work of this great artist.
John Thomson's life cannot be said to have been an
eventful one in the sense of exhibiting striking vicissitudes or romantic
episodes; but neither can it be said to be a 'humdrum' life, devoid of
interest. On the contrary, we shall find that it is a centre round which
there gathers much that is of deepest interest in our national life,
arising largely from his close intimacy and correspondence with the bright
circle of literary and artistic society which, during the first half of
last century, adorned the Scottish Capital. If, on the one hand, we find
in him a man inclined to be retiring and modest, with no desire to shine
as a star of the first, or indeed of any, magnitude, but only wishing to
be allowed to pursue in peace the bent of his genius, we shall on the
other hand find in him a man with a purpose, and with a quiet
unobtrusiveness doing successfully what that genius prompted, leaving the
world all the richer and better for his work.
Few human lives are without some interest, and if
properly viewed, will fail to yield some lessons for guidance, or warning,
or encouragement. In that of the Rev. John Thomson of Duddingston we hope
to present the salient features of one who deserves well of his country,
who by his artistic genius exercised no small influence over Scottish art
in its infancy, and whose merit deserves more recognition than it has
hitherto received.
It has been said that the history of Scottish art has
yet to be written. In the following pages we do not impose upon ourselves
any task so ambitious, but we shall be enabled, we think, to trace in some
measure the beginnings of the National School of Art which within the past
century has been so remarkably developed, which has
produced some notable painters, and which has been
recognised all over the world for the remarkable force, vigour, and
truthfulness to Nature which have characterised its work.
In John Thomson we will find a pioneer in the founding
of Scottish landscape art. Love of Nature does not make an artist; but
love of Nature must be in the heart of the painter who seeks to imitate
Nature. Nature is the perfection of art, the ideal to which all true art
aspires, and there can be no just imitation of Nature without art. It is
the combination of the poetic sense with the manipulative power which
constitutes the true artist, and enables him to represent to the senses of
other men the secrets he has learned by patient waiting, for as Wordsworth
truly says :—
'Nature never did betray
The heart that loved her; 'tis her privilege,
Through all the years of this our life, to lead
From joy to joy: for she can so inform
The mind that is within us, so impress
With quietness and beauty, and so feed
With lofty thoughts, that neither evil tongues,
Rash judgments, nor the sneers of selfish men,
Nor greetings where no kindness is, nor all
The dreary intercourse of daily life,
Shall e'er prevail against us, or disturb
Our cheerful faith, that all which we behold
Is full of blessings.'
Nature had been sadly neglected in this country, and
the imitation of Nature in art had practically no existence at the
beginning of last century. There were certainly plenty pictures scattered
about in the mansions of our nobility, but these were mostly all the work
of Continental artists. Portraits and figure pieces, battle-scenes and
sea-fights, formed the staple of these, landscape being treated for the
most part as merely an accessory to some scene of human action or mythical
Thomson developed for himself a consciousness of the
beauty of Nature, in her many moods and aspects of sunshine and shade, of
gloom and grandeur, which he combined with a happy infusion of objects of
historical or human interest, and was able to stimulate the public fancy
by his poetic rendering of these as it had never before been touched by
his countrymen.
The story of his life—and it is a comparatively simple
one—is overshadowed by his work; but his surroundings were not
commonplace, neither were his associates ordinary men. Born in the manse
of the secluded Ayrshire village of Dailly, on the 1st September 1778,
John Thomson was pre-eminently a son of the manse; his father, his
grandfather, and possibly his great-grandfather before him having been
ministers of the Church of Scotland.'
John Thomson never seems to have had the option of
choosing his own career in life. That appears to have been settled for him
without his being consulted in the matter. We are told he was destined
from the cradle to follow his father's profession as a minister, and,
notwithstanding his own often-expressed desire when a boy that he would
like to be an artist, he dutifully allowed his father's predilection for
the Church to influence his destiny so far that, while not giving up his
love of art, he zealously—or perhaps as zealously as his tastes would
permit, prosecuted his studies in divinity.
In the old Parish School of Daily he received the first
elements of his education under douce old Dominie Welsh; and if
architecturally it was little better than a shed, with a thatched roof and
the plainest of furniture, and bad none of the appliances so much
desiderated nowadays under School Board Acts and Privy Council
regulations, yet it is to such schools most of Scotland's ablest and best
sons in the past were indebted for their early education. Knowing flO
distinctions of rank, the Sons of the laird, as well as the sons of the
manse, found themselves competing on the same form with the ploughman's
boys, or the labourer's boys from the clachan. In the pursuit of
knowledge, all alike started from the same level. The teacher might be,
and indeed was undoubtedly, badly paid for his efforts; but as a rule he
was content, and frequently had the satisfaction of finding some one or
other of his old pupils returning, after years of absence, perhaps, in a
foreign land, where he had possibly acquired wealth and influence, to
thank him for the sound instruction he had received at the Parish School.
The old Parochial School system was, as Lord Macaulay has said, 'the
foundation of Scotland's proudest distinction, and proved the great source
of her prosperity; and it is owing, not indeed solely, but principally to
it, that in spite of the barrenness of her soil and the severity of her
climate, her people have made such progress in agriculture, in
manufactures, in commerce, in letters, in science, in all that constitutes
civilisation as the Old World has never seen equalled, and as even the New
World has scarcely seen surpassed.'
The minister's four sons attended Mr. Welsh's school in
turn, John the youngest in all likelihood going as a little boy of seven
years, a year or two after his elder brother Thomas had been sent to
college; and that the reverence and respect for their first teacher was
carried through life is evidenced by some kind messages communicating to
him any step or success in after life, which they thought would give him
satisfaction. Mr. Welsh had a salary of only £8, 6s. 8d.; and his whole
emoluments, including perquisites as session-clerk, did not amount to £30
a year! On this scanty allowance he taught English, French, Latin,
writing, arithmetic, and book-keeping; and he did one part of his duty so
well that, as the Statistical Account states,
'there was scarcely an individual in the parish who had not been taught to
read and write English.'
John Thomson's early years at the Parish School of
Daifly came in time to be supplemented by attention to the Latin and Greek
verbs in his father's study, under the special tuition of his elder
brother Thomas, who was then in the latter years of his college
curriculum. Thomas, who at the age of fourteen had been sent to Glasgow
University, in 1782, distinguished himself from the first, especially in
Greek, in which class he carried off four prizes. Having gained in 1785
one of the bursaries founded by the first Earl of Dundonald, he continued
a 'gown' student for the unusual period of seven years, taking his degree
of M.A. in 1789. During the two latter years of his course he was partly
attending the Theological and Law Classes at Glasgow, and partly directing
the education of his brothers at the manse. He was still in much
uncertainty as to his future. The claims of the Church, counterbalanced by
his predilection for law, made him hesitate before making up his mind, and
so he read on at both subjects, hoping that some way would be opened up
whereby the money difficulty of entering the latter profession would be
This was the height of Thomas's ambition. But the
minister's stipend was small, while his family was large; and the heavy
fees required to pass as an advocate meant privation and self-denial for
all. In the meantime, therefore, Thomas became the family tutor, and he so
fixed himself in this respect that John used to say, half a century
afterwards, that he had never quite shaken off the feeling of awe for his
elder brother and master.
The value of the living of Dailly at that time,
including manse and glebe, amounted at an average to £105 a year—not a
very large sum, it must be said, on which to bring up a family
comfortably. It is not known that the minister or his wife had any private
fortune, yet for all that they lived socially with their neighbours, by
all of whom they were much respected, exercised some hospitality, and gave
their family the best education which the country afforded. The wonder is
how it could be done; but the thing is so common in the manses of Scotland
that it would be impertinent to praise the virtuous economy and the rigid
self-denial required to accomplish such a feat.
The home influence of our Scottish manses has
undoubtedly been a potent factor in the country's well-being. From them
example as well as precept have not only radiated to sweeten the lives of
many hard-wrought sons and daughters of toil, but from them has flowed a
perpetual stream of youth to take their places in the world's work as
leaders of thought, pioneers in science, ministers of religion, judges and
lawyers, statesmen and merchant princes. As has been well said, 'the manse
is perhaps the most potent and typical institution in rural Scotland.' The
'big house,' or whatever the place may be that corresponds to the English
manor or hail, is much less important and characteristic.
The clergy of Scotland have been for the past three
hundred years the real aristocracy, the true leaders and heroes of the
people, interpreting and educating the national mind, possessing the
popular imagination, filling the common heart. The lords and gentry, on
the other hand—though it must be admitted there are many splendid
exceptions—largely educated in England, and living there a great portion
of the year, with their own social and political ambitions, have too
frequently grown alien in mind and feeling towards their dependants, and
as frequently fail to understand or to influence the people. But the
clergy have been the most distinctive products of Scottish Education,
which, so far from separating them from the people, has really qualified
them to be their representatives and teachers. Much of the national love
of learning has owed its existence to the way in which scholarship is to
be found embodied in the manse, and the dignity it often gives to him who
is esteemed as the father even more than the pastor of his people. 'The
opportunities to a young man trained under a manse roof are boundless. To
him all things may well seem possible. He may come to occupy a wider and a
richer world; he may live in cities and universities where learning is
cultivated and culture professed; but the happiest place for the student,
and the kindliest to the studies that really cultivate and refine, is the
inside of a Scotch manse.'
And such was John Thomson's early home. Among his
father's books ho had abundance of material for reading and reflection,
while his study of science developed his habits of observation, so that
astronomy, geology, optics, chemistry, and other cognate subjects
constantly occupied his thoughts. He not only, it is said, eagerly read
all the books he could procure on these subjects, but he early devoted
much of his time to the study of their practical bearings.
Over and above all this leaning of his mind to occult
problems, he in early boyhood evinced a strong love for the contemplation
of Nature, especially in her more romantic and picturesque moods, and a
desire to reproduce scenes and effects which struck his fancy. He would
often, it is said, stroll to great distances from home to get glimpses of
scenery under various aspects. His fancy outstripping the command of
suitable material wherewith to realise his conceptions, he was frequently
driven to record his impressions on the walls of the house, on pasteboard,
paper, or any sort of material that could be operated upon. In this
respect he, like Guido Reni, found in the commonest materials an' outlet
through his fingers for the struggling art-sense within; thus he was known
to use charred wood and even candle-snuffings for pencils, while the
smooth walls of some of the manse rooms, no doubt to his mother's
annoyance, were frequently appropriated and utilised instead of canvas.
Long years after, Robert Scott Lauder, his son-in-law,
used to relate a story of an Edinburgh gentleman who happened to be
travelling in the neighbourhood of Thomson's birthplace. He got into
conversation with an old country wight on the roadside. Being told where
the stranger came from, the countryman said, 'Ye'll ken ane John Thamson,
a minister?' 'Oh,' said the gentleman, 'you mean Mr. Thomson of
Duddingston, the celebrated painter; do you know him?' 'Me ken him?' said
the man, 'I should think sae; it was me that first teached him to pent!'
Whether Thomson was ever sufficiently grateful to this
gifted individual, and acknowledged his obligations, we have never been
able to discover. Acquisition of knowledge, like blazes of genius, may
sometimes be fortuitous; but it is equally true that the most stupendous
results frequently follow from contemptible causes. The real facts of the
case, we believe, are somewhat as follows:
Old Thomas M'Murtrie, the village carpenter, whose snug
little cottage, which he called 'The Rone,' stood near to the manse gate,
had completed a large chest for a parishioner preparing to emigrate to
America. This he was desirous of having suitably embellished for so
important a destination, where Art was supposed at that time to be at a
discount. Who so able to give it the requisite finishing touches as Johnny
Thomson, the minister's young son? Johnny, or 'Jock,' as he was sometimes
called by his brothers and sisters, was a great favourite with old Thomas
the carpenter, and would spend many an hour in the old man's workshop on
his way to and from school. Thomas confided to Jock his wishes in regard
to the decoration of the box, and persuaded him, without much difficulty,
to paint the picture of a yellow bunting, or bobolink, on the lid. This
was done to the evident satisfaction of all concerned, and being probably
one of the earliest commissions which that young gentleman had yet
executed, it is not surprising if his employer should have taken some
little credit for his after success, and claimed the honour of teaching
him to 'pent'!
When young Thomson was told for the first time of his
father's intentions as to his future, it seems to have distressed him not
a little. In his own unexpressed imagination he had formed the idea that
the pursuit of Art was his proper vocation, and we are told the embryo
artist actually went on his knees, and with tears in his eyes besought his
father to make him a painter rather than a minister. The old gentleman,
not thinking much of the prospect which Art held out as a respectable or
lucrative employment, but as more a recreation for an idle hour,
good-naturedly patted John on the head, and told him to go to his room and
study his verbs.
But though endowed with warm affections and a deep
veneration for parental authority, the bent of John's genius was more
powerful than either. He might study his verbs, but he could not abandon
the study of Nature, nor could he deny himself the pleasure of reproducing
with the crude materials within his reach such features of the Girvan
valley as were daily disclosed to his eye.
"The Parish of Dailly has long been celebrated for its
pastoral beauty, as well as for the hills and dales with which it is
interspersed. Its little glens, with their babbling brooks, their winding
paths, and lonely cottages, or the ancient castles and towers that from
rock or meadow give point and character to the landscape, combine to make
the district a fitting abode for a lover of Nature. It may very fittingly
be described in those lines of 'Delta,' written upon the birthplace of
James Thomson, the poet of the Seasons :—
'A rural church—some scatter'd cottage roofs
From whose secluded hearths the thin blue smoke
Silently wreathing through the breezeless air
Ascended, mingling with the summer sky—
A rustic bridge, mossy and weather-stained—
A fairy streamlet, singing to itself—
And here and there a venerable tree
In foliaged beauty: of these elements,
And only these, the simple scene was formed.'
Nor is it without poetical associations. It has given
birth to one of the sweetest of Scotland's minor poets—Hew Ainslie being
born at Bargany, the seat of the Earl of Stair; while another, the
poet-painter, William Bell Scott, has found a last resting-place within
the precincts of its old churchyard.
Born and brought up amidst scenery which appealed
strongly to the imagination, it is no wonder that a spirit so deeply
imbued with artistic feeling as that of young Thomson should have been
easily impressed with its influence, and should have sought to give
expression to the inspiration of the art-sense within.
As a striking proof of the earnestness with which he courted
Nature, it is said he frequently rose as early as two o'clock in the
morning, and would travel many miles in order that he might witness the
sun rise from the top of Hadyard or Kirkhill, or study some peculiar
effect as its rays penetrated the foliage of a wood. He would gradually
retire deeper into the wood, and as he retreated would note and
contemplate the change of effect, recalling and studying at home the
various aspects of light and shade these presented, until he had mastered
their expression.
The study of physical science soon inured young
Thomson's mind to look at everything in Nature through the medium of Law.
He already regarded with interest every object around him that was
individually striking or picturesque, but he was not
satisfied until be had mastered all the elements of its constitution. He
rightly looked upon the material universe as subject to a code of laws
which it required the profoundest intellect to penetrate and the largest
capacity to comprehend. Proceeding from this standpoint, his progress as a
student of Nature was as certain as it was rapid.
He not only examined with an artist's eye the running
stream, its depths and shallows, its banks, with the trees and sedges that
clothed them; but he studied especially the laws in virtue of which they
were thus and not otherwise. He speedily recognised the fact that the mere
mannerist does not represent Nature as she actually
is, but builds up a garish piece of effect, with the sole view of striking
the fancy of the ignorant and vulgar—not, certainly, to instruct them in
the laws of the universe. Thus, having no opportunity of studying and
criticising the works of other masters, he was led
imperceptibly to fall back on Nature as his teacher and guide. Mere grace
of outline and sensuous beauty of expression did not satisfy the demands
of his rigidly truthful imagination. He sought a high ideal: he sought
after truth, for as one has well said of him, 'without truth, he regarded
the most elaborately executed landscape as but a fantastic and idle
Thus young Thomson, working away in such method and
with such materials as the limited facilities of his father's parish
supplied, cultivated, in addition to his English and Latin lessons, that
artistic 'taste which afterwards developed into such rare excellence as to
charm thousands of his countrymen when he afterwards came to take up his
abode in the Manse of Duddingston.
At the age of fourteen he was a tall, wiry, active lad,
well endowed with what the old divines called 'pregnant parts.'
His brother Thomas had at length, through the kind
assistance of friends, been put on the way of passing for the Bar, and had
gone, in the latter part of 1792, to Edinburgh as a law student. Sir David
Dalrymple, Lord Hailes—a son-in-law of Lord Kilkerran, his father's
parishioner and near neighbour—took a warm interest in his welfare, and
must have discovered in the eldest son of the minister of Dailly the
qualities which were one day to elucidate the legal and constitutional
antiquities of Scotland. But unfortunately Thomas Thomson did not long
benefit by his counsels and friendship, as his Lordship died in the winter
of the same year. The warm friendship of Lady Hailes and the family was,
however, extended through many long years after not only to Thomas but to
his younger brother, the subject of our memoir.
Return to Book Contents Page
This comment system
requires you to be logged in through either a Disqus account
or an account you already have with Google, Twitter,
Facebook or Yahoo. In the event you don't have an account
with any of these companies then you can create an account
with Disqus. All comments are moderated so they won't
display until the moderator has approved your comment.
comments powered by Disqus.
powered by Disqus


text:
I know I haven't posted in a while. I just had surgery, so I've been recovering and all that fun stuff. But I started reading my Readers Digest sewing book again. I'm halfway through!
I picked up a couple of other books at the half price bookstore. One is on fitting, and the other one is about fixing sewing screwups.
Oh, and I've been doing a lot of research on the hobbit costumes. Frame-by-frame DVD screenshots. Fun! I know there's a lot of stuff on alleycatscratch.com, but I like doing my own research, too. I don't just want to copy work that other people did!


text:
Revolutionize your teeth with the Gemini Teeth Whitening System in just 1 hour!
Developed by BEYOND Dental & Health Inc., global leaders in teeth whitening products, the new Gemini home whitening system guarantees fresh, safe, and brilliant results in just ONE HOUR! With over 10 years of experience, BEYOND has generated an advanced system that is designed for you and defined for your smile in the comfort of your home.
The whitening gel is applied to a flexible bite-on tray and is simple to use. Using embedded magnets, the Gemini LED light unit will attach to the tray and activate the gel to where you will have amazing results in just three – twenty minute sessions. No Sensitivity!
• Next generation LED light for maximum acceleration
• Removes years of stains caused by coffee, red wine and smoking. 6 to 8 shade improvements!
• Embedded magnets align light to tray for a perfect fit every time
• Simply rechargeable via USB or outlet
• Clinically proven to kill germs
• Refill kits available for continued maintenance
Gemini Teeth Whitening Accelerator. Includes: Whitening gel for five – twenty-minute sessions, Gemini LED light unit, Gemini tray, rechargeable lithium battery, charge cord and USB adaptor, and bleaching shade guide.
• Next generation LED for maximum acceleration.
• No sensitivity.
• Removes years of stains caused by coffee, red wine and smoking. 6 to 8 shade improvements!
• Embedded magnets line light to tray for a perfect fit every time.
• Simply rechargeable via USB or outlet.
• Clinically proven to kill germs.
• Refill kits available for continued maintenance!
|1.5 lbs
|7 × 4 × 7 in
There are no reviews yet.


text:
You have 0 product(s) in your cart.
Gear Rental
There is a 10% saving for booking dive equipment hire online.
Scuba Gear Hire
We offer a large range of quality scuba diving gear and equipment for hire/rental
Please note
- These rates apply only to bookings made and paid for online (not for bookings made online and paid for on pick-up at the dive shop).
- The diver is required to pick up and return their rental equipment to the dive shop. Divemasters will not take it to the site or return it to the dive centre after your dive.
- For all cancellations, there is a $25 administration fee.
- No refund will be given once the equipment leaves the dive shop!
- When any scuba gear (BCD, regulators, tanks) is collected we require proof that the person using the scuba gear is a certified diver.
- The gear can be picked up at 8 am on the day it is booked for and returned by 5 pm. If not returned by 5 pm then an extra days hire will be charged.
Choose Your Day: