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by John Berry, Extension Educator, Lehigh County
Most farmers are on the lookout for ways to generate more net revenue. The question is something close to "What can we do to utilize our resources to their best advantage?" Many opportunities exist, but in order to be feasible they must match the values of the farm family. One common method is the move to identify farm crops as being sustainable. The challenge is how to verify claims and meet the documentation requirements to satisfy buyers. There are several competing verification systems in place that are trying to address this very concern. Some are driven by a singular philosophical mission and others are more inclusive of all those businesses along the chain from farm to fork.
As an example, individual farm operations within the specialty crop supply chain are experiencing increasing demands to demonstrate "sustainability" to their customers. These demands have resulted in a growing number of certification and/or supplier education programs and thus the potential for redundant or even conflicting requirements. Most of these programs focus on a niche market, a limited set of crops, and/or a specific link in the supply chain, and thus are not designed to provide the specialty crops industry as a whole with a comprehensive system for measuring sustainable performance. However, The Stewardship Index aims to provide such a system.
The StewardshipIndex for Specialty Crops project is a multi-stakeholder initiative developing a system for measuring sustainable performance throughout the specialty crop supply chain. The project offers a suite of outcomes-based metrics to enable operators at any point along the supply chain to benchmark, compare, and communicate their own performance. The Stewardship Index does not seek to provide standards, but instead provides a yardstick for measuring sustainable outcomes. In the future, the project may also provide tools and resources to help specialty crop companies advance sustainability goals.
For this project "specialty crops" is defined broadly to include fruits, vegetables, nuts, and horticulture. The founding members of the project regard sustainability as an ongoing process to advance environmental, socially responsible, and economic values. The project does not aim to identify a level of performance that is "sustainable," but instead to provide measures to help all participants implement sustainable values.
Quantitative sustainability metrics, developed collaboratively, can offer significant benefits to specialty crop industry participants, and the eventual consumer. As envisioned, this project will:
· Help operations across the supply chain (farms, distributors, processors, retailers, etc) identify opportunities for increasing efficiency and reducing costs;
· Provide a standardized system for measuring performance, thus reducing the potential for duplicate monitoring and reporting systems;
· Allow individual operators to engage in the sustainability journey starting at (and regardless of) their current level of performance;
· Address the unique needs of the specialty crop industry while demonstrably improving environmental and social impacts;
· Enable verifiable marketing claims backed by measurable performance data;
· Help reduce the likelihood of future industry regulation by solving problems and demonstrating improved performance to regulators.


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Find the best dealership for you.
Find good folks to fix your car.
Find the right car for you.
Make sure your car is safe to drive.
Repair - niadoj
Customer service was excellent, the staff was friendly and the repairs was spot on using the latest technology in the industry. I was very pleased with the work they put in and going the extra mile to ensure that my needs were met as to what I expected for the repairs. Respect to Mark, Jessie and the team at Foreman Collision Center! Yah Mon!
Repair to right rear side panel and tail light of my Honda - Rick
Birchwood Motors did a excellent on repairing my Honda CRV right rear side panel and rail light assembly. The estimator was very friendly and efficient, the front office were very helpful. They kept me informed as to the progress and it was ready when promised. The work was done to a high quality standard. .
I was very impressed by the service of everyone involved.
Awesome service - Army
Awesome service very kind all way keeps you updated tells a person what is to come in his way great great great place to go

subset: commoncrawl


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France Reserves Right to Intervene in STX Yard Sale
In an interview published Friday, French secretary of state for industry Christophe Sirugue said that the French government will use "all the levers it has at its disposal" to ensure its objectives are met for the upcoming sale of cruise ship and warship builder STX France.
STX France is a strategic facility for the French Navy, and to protect the national interest, the government holds the right to veto the sale of a controlling stake if it does not approve of the buyer. Italian conglomerate Fincantieri is the sole bidder for a 66 percent share in the naval and cruise ship yard, which is up for sale as part of the bankruptcy proceedings for South Korean shipbuilder STX. Sirugue told the paper Les Echos that the French government wants to see a "European solution" to the question of the yard's ownership, and that Fincantieri's bid is broadly in line with this goal.
Sirugue has twice suggested that France will not enter the bidding directly. However, on Friday he indicated that while his office intends to work with a private buyer to reach a suitable arrangement, he would not "dismiss any option on principle." He also indicated the possibility of a minority stake for naval defense firm DCNS, which is controlled by the French government, and said that DCNS has been in talks with Fincantieri about taking a share.
Fincantieri extends timeline to buy shares in Vard
Fincantieri is also looking to purchase all remaining equity in Singapore-listed shipbuilder Vard Holdings in a bid to take it private. The Italian shipbuilder already owns 55 percent of Vard's shares, and Vard says that integrating more fully with Fincantieri will give it better access to capital.
The offer was due to close on December 29, but Fincantieri postponed the deadline to January 12. The firm will have to reach the Singapore Exchange's 90 percent ownership threshold to begin a delisting.
Vard has five shipyards in Norway, plus two in Romania, one in Brazil and one in Vietnam. It has historically focused on offshore vessels, but with the downturn in the oil and gas market it has also begun taking orders for cruise ships – Fincantieri's main area of expertise.


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This weekend Uncle Roo Roo and Aunt Sara came to visit . . . and well except for one ridge of shingles the gazebo is finished! I have never been so happy to see Santa on the roof of that gazebo again WITH SCAFFOLDING . . . as I was this weekend. Thanks to Uncle Roo Roo for all his help!!
Some night time construction was required. It was 105 degrees this weekend where we live.
Santa digging a trench for the electricity.
Uncle Roo Roo is an electrician and helped Santa install electricity to the gazebo for a ceiling fan and lighting. I LOVE it!!!
After the gazebo construction was over and the fan and lights were installed, there was a terrific lightning storm. Santa and I sat outside and watched the storm move in, the breeze from that front was heavenly.
Santa did such a great job on this (even though he won't take credit for it). Just what I wanted. He's the best!!!
Here are some pretty cool lightning photos I was able to capture.
That was my weekend. So what did you do this weekend?


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April 7, 2010
Patrick Knowlton (Colorado Springs, CO) will serve as the captain of the 2010-11 Pioneer men's ice hockey team as announced today by head coach C.J. Marottolo. Evan Mladenoff (Leawood, KS) and Eric Delong (Oakville, MB) will also wear letters next season as assistant captains.
Knowlton was third on the team in scoring last season posting 13 goals and 26 assists for 39 total points. He also scored arguably the biggest goal in SHU history last year, propelling the Pioneers to the Atlantic Hockey championship game with a game winning goal against Air Force in the semifinals with just 42 seconds remaining in regulation. Knowlton played in 37 of Sacred Heart's 38 games last year and 95 so far in his collegiate career.
Delong, who will serve as one of two assistant captains, led all Atlantic Hockey rookies last season with 35 points on 15 goals and 20 assists. To conclude his freshman season he netted the Pioneers only goal in the AHA championship game. Mladenoff, the squads other assistant captain, posted six goals last season playing in 37 SHU games. Mladenoff has played in 107 contests in his career with 12 goals.


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Welcome to Old Time Players of Maine
Old Time Music Players of Maine celebrates American String band music and the
cultures that brought us those traditions. Unstructured, informal and entertaining, we
welcome all players to share in song, dance, story telling and great melodies from that old time music tradition.
Everyone is welcome to join in the fun this fall at the 2019 Old Time Music Campout on the oceanfront in Searsport, Maine.
The Old Time Music Camp Out and the Bluegrass Festival
This years Old Time Music Jam Campout will be held on the coast of Searsport, Maine, September 13-15th, 2019.
The OT Jam weekend will be held during the same weekend as the Vacationland Bluegrass Jam. Each Camp will take place in different areas in the park but are different ares of the park yet close enough to give all participants easy access to both jam camps.
Click Here for 2019 Campout Info!
OTMPM is sponsored by The Maker's Guild of Maine, 501 c3


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These and most other questions are dealt with during our induction but if you have any other specific queries in advance just get in touch – email@example.com – and we will aim to get back to you on the same day.
How do I know my dog will pass the assessment?
The suitability test will give you a very good indication of whether or not your dog will pass.
My dog sometimes pulls on the lead, will this be an automatic fail?
The dog doesn't have to be obedience standard and a slight tension on the lead may be acceptable provided the Assessor regards the dog be under the control of the handler.
My dog has arthritis which is under management by the vet. Is he suitable to visit?
Each case will be different but in general terms if the dog has a disability which is medicated and it doesn't bother him then it shouldn't have any effect on his behaviour that doesn't already show. If it is having an effect on his behaviour then the Assessment will show it up. If the Assessor had any concerns at all then we would need a letter from your vet confirming that he was sufficiently fit to operate as a Wag Friendship Dog.
Can I take 2 dogs to a visit?
No. Our policy is one handler with one dog. You can arrange to have two dogs assessed and alternate them but you will only ever visit with one dog at a time.
Can my partner accompany me to visits?
Yes if your partner has also been assessed as a second visiting dog handler and has been through our recruitment process.
How will our visiting placement be arranged?
We will liaise with you to confirm the right location and environment for you, whether in a home or medical establishment or at one of our "At Home" placements. We will liaise with the organisation and then introduce you to make the detailed visiting arrangements once you have completed our assessment process.
Can I visit a person or a nursing home of my choice?
Most probably. We would review each case in detail and make every effort to facilitate that for you. Unusually there may be particular reasons why that wouldn't be possible but every effort would be made.
How often do I need to visit?
Generally, visits should happen weekly but you will agree in advance an appropriate day and time for regular visits.
How long should the visit last?
This should be suitable for the comfort level of your dog, you will know whether that is one or two hours but two hours would be the maximum recommended.
What if my dog is sick?
The comfort and wellbeing of your dog is of paramount importance. If your dog is ill, you should cancel the visit until your dog is feeling well again.
Do I have to attend any training or an induction?
Induction is mandatory yes. It is really important that everyone understands our operating standards and requirements and the support that is available. It also provides a good opportunity to answer any questions and resolve any concerns.
Face to face would be lovely but if you can't fit that in then we can arrange it by telephone. Care or medical establishments will also offer a short induction on your first visit.
We will offer training at our Hexham office in Safeguarding Vulnerable Adults and in Dementia in support of Dementia Friends. These sessions are optional but help to develop your skills and confidence in visiting older people.
Do I or my dog have to wear a uniform?
It is important that you project a professional image, inspiring confidence, at every visit. You must wear your ID on the lanyard visibly around your neck and your dog must wear our bandana and tag; your dog must always be on a lead. If you would like to purchase branded clothing then this can be arranged.
Will I be insured by Wag & Company?
Yes Wag volunteers are insured by the Charity's insurance.
Do volunteers have to contribute financially?
No. In 2016 our insurance, plus the assessment administration, ID, tag and bandana are estimated at £18 per volunteer. If you would like to make a donation to help us deliver our operations then that would be great, but it is not a requirement – our volunteers are doing so much in return.
What if I can't make my scheduled visit? What about when I go on holiday?
Just let the home or the person you visit know with as much notice as possible. If you have a planned holiday make sure the people who look forward to your visits know the dates – maybe by leaving a note of it on their noticeboards or something similar – just to avoid people being disappointed.
What happens during a visit?
It depends on where you go. In a home or medical facility you will discuss options with the local team. We have teams who visit patients and residents in their rooms for a bedside chat and pat, while other teams will visit residents in a lounge. Generally volunteers and their dogs will visit and talk with residents and patients, offer a hug, and a paw to shake.
What if something happens during a visit?
If it is something minor that is discussed locally and everyone is content, then just note it on your visit report ticking the incident box.
If it is anything more serious, for instance your dog eats a patient's tablet or is hurt in some way or in the worst case one of the people we visit is hurt or upset, you should contact us on the emergency numbers once the situation is stabilised locally.


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|Rediff India Abroad Home | All the sections
Discuss | Email | Print | Get latest news on your desktop
India won't accept 'prescriptive conditionalities': Pranab
Achinta Borah | August 23, 2008 21:15 IST
As Foreign Secretary Shivshankar Menon headed for Washington to discuss amendments to the draft waiver being considered by the Nuclear Suppliers' Group, India on Saturday made it clear that it will not accept any 'prescriptive conditionalities' attached to the exemption.
A day after the 45-nation NSG ended the two-day meeting in Vienna [Images] inconclusively to enable amendments to the draft as sought by some countries, External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee said India will see what kind of changes are proposed to be made in the text of the waiver.
No NSG decision on India waiver, next meet in Sept
"We have to see what kind of amendments come. Then only we can decide. But we cannot accept prescriptive conditionalities," Mukherjee told PTI while accompanying President Pratibha Patil [Images] on her two-day visit to West Bengal.
He was asked about the government's future course of action in the face of reservations expressed by some countries, which could lead to a re-wording of the draft waiver before it is presented again before the NSG at the next meeting, expected on September 4-5.
'Clean waiver for nuclear deal is a fantasy'
Mukherjee said he was briefed by Foreign Secretary Menon about the developments in Vienna during the NSG meeting.
His comments came as the Foreign Secretary, changing his itinerary, headed for Washington to hold discussions with the US over the amendments proposed by some NSG members on Friday.
During the NSG meeting, some members raised non-proliferation issues and questioned why India should be given the exemption as it is not a signatory to the NPT.
Several of them wanted the draft waiver, moved by the US, to be amended to ensure a language that will satisfy the non-proliferation lobbies.
Experts ask NSG to reject India-specific exemption
Sources said differences between India and NSG countries have been narrowed down in a short span of time and New Delhi [Images] expected them to shrink further before the next meeting of the grouping.
Email | Print | Get latest news on your desktop


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Q1: Are you insured?
Yes, it's very important that anyone working in your home/office be insured. We are fully insured for up to £5m and a copy of our insurance certificate is available on request.
Your questions answered
Q2: Who will be in my home/office?
A uniformed and highly trained cleaning operative monitored by our supervisors who will carry out regular quality control checks of the work done in your home/office.
Q3: What time of day can you clean my home/office?
We are open 24 hours per day 7 days a week. You as the client can choose what time of day is convenient for you.
Q4: Does somebody need to be at the home/premises when the operatives are working?
Not at all. All our cleaning operatives are highly trained and know exactly what work they need to do. We also have keyholding sheets that the client and a manager sign to keep customers' keys in our safe at our offices that only get signed in and out when the client's cleaning is due. We also have client requirement forms that the customer can fill out and leave for the cleaning operative should they wish to do so.
Q5: Do I have to do anything before the clean?
Not at all. Leave the cleaning to us that is the service you as the client are paying for.
Q6: What about the cleaning materials and equipment?
All materials, products and equipment are supplied by Canonbury Cleaning Services Ltd.
Q7: Do I have to sign a contract?
Domestic clients do not have to sign any contract whatsoever. Commercial clients have to sign a contract that runs for 12 months and can be terminated at one month's notice by both parties.
Q8: How do I pay for my cleaning?
We email all of our invoices to clients on the 3rd week of every month for payment to be made into our company bank account on the last working day of the month.
Q9: Who do I contact if I want something extra done or if I change or cancel my cleaning?
You can contact our office at any time by email, phone or text.
Q10: What if something gets broken when my cleaning is taking place?
Should an accident or breakage occur we will contact you as soon as possible.
We will make every effort in the first instance to have the item satisfactorily repaired. If it cannot be repaired then it will be replaced. If it is not possible for it to be replaced, the case would be handed over to our insurers who would endeavour to calculate a replacement value.
If you have any item of sentimental/antique/irreplaceable value, please let the office know before your first clean.
For a Free No Obligation Quote
Call us now on 07712 115 635
Canonbury Services provide Building Work, Property Maintenance and Cleaning Services.
From smaller jobs to larger contracts Canonbury Services can provide an unrivalled service:
- Great value
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Building Services
From small projects to large, Canonbury Services provide a comprehensive building service.
Property Maintenance
From a one off job to long term contracts, Canonbury Services for all your property maintenance needs.
Cleaning Services
From household cleaning to office contracts, Canonbury services for all your cleaning needs.


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- We always hold ourselves accountable when it comes to design and quality.
- Our team is composed of experienced case builders and designers.
- We offer 3D drawings for definite accuracy.
- We can deliver on short notice.
Built to Last
5 Years Warranty on All Cases from Armor


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And as for sewing, this is what im planning for the next couple weeks:
-Advance 9209: I know I want blue fabric I just need to find some I like for this dress
- Find some cute 1940 summery dress patterns to make for summer time
- Finish my cream 1860 dress that I've been working on for months and still haven't finished!
- and I want to buy this adorable 1940 suit pattern I found. Its one of those patterns that the illustration on the front is so perfect you want to make it exactly like the one on the cover same color and all!
And on a side note I found this wonderful 1940 dress pattern but it was sold out:(
It's a gorgeous dress though, the short sleeves are so pretty. I love the detail of the collar and waist too.


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The easiest and quickest way to get in touch with me is via Twitter: @jthomasgriffin. You can also schedule a call with me on Clarity.fm to discuss things like WordPress performance or WordPress product development.
However, if you want to have a more in-depth chat, fill out the form below and I'd be happy to start a conversation with you. I am not currently available for WordPress consulting.


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Monthly Archives: August 2012
Back by Popular Demand: Another Possum Story!
(In the following story, picture the guy above, but in the road with a bloody eyeball hanging from his head.)
Crabby Possum
Mary and I go biking on Tuesday and Thursday mornings. We usually meet around seven and ride the narrow back roads of Scott and Harrison Counties until nine. Mary and I have gotten to know each other pretty well since we started biking together a year ago.
We chit-chat as we bike. While she rambles on about something, I listen patiently, giddy with anticipation of my turn to ramble. This is our time. We get to vent and decompress and after two hours of bike therapy, we are new women and ready to take on the day.
It took a few rides before she realized I was a little animal crazy.
On a ride last August, Mary and I were surprised to find a possum sitting in the middle of the road. With its teeth sneering at us, we didn't dare get near. As we passed, I could see it had been hit by a car and suffered head trauma. It had been circling in the middle of the road, with a little blood trail behind it. The animal rescuer in me panicked, Mary kept rambling as if there were no suffering possum in the center of the road.
I tried to make eye contact as we passed. I was hoping to see sweet lovie eyes, the kind of dark glossy innocent eyes a puppy has. But this guy only had angry eyes for me. He had a frothy grimace on his face that dared me to rescue him. Mary warned me to leave it alone. And we rode off.
On our way home, the thing was still there, alive, but now laying in the middle of the road. My heart ached. I simply could not leave the thing there, only to be hit again by another passing car. I had decided in my mind to come back with my car later, scoop it up and get it the care it needed (whether he liked it or not). I would never admit this to Mary, she is a good friend but she may draw the line at rescuing a half dead possum.
I had to get the thing to the side of the road however, if I wanted to have a live possum to come back to. I told Mary to stop and let me move the thing. She panicked at the risk. I maneuvered my bike so as to use my wheel as a shovel. I pushed it across the road, as it snarled and bit at my tire. Once safely on the side, I telepathically told him I would be back and not to worry.
After returning home, I loaded up my kids into the station wagon and set out to rescue the brain injured possum. I explained to my kids the situation, they knew the drill, they were not strangers to their mommy's animal antics. We arrived at the curve and rolled down our windows in search of the poor angry possum. Crunching along, tires turning slowly so as not to miss the thing, I spotted the telltale white hair…and then the entrails. The intestines and liver….yep …that's him. "Looks like the turkey vultures got to him first kids". Oh, well, can't save 'em all.
I never told Mary about returning to the angry possum. Had we known each other better then, I would have considered it. Had I returned to a live possum that was ultimately saved by my heroic efforts, I may have told her. But it was a half-baked effort to save a mostly baked possum and it was by far more embarrassing then brag worthy.
My Latest Creation
My Latest Creation
THE RESCUE (The Running Suspense Series #4)
Luke is a single widower with a pet cat. He is just shy of retirement and about to take the ride of a lifetime on a train headed west. He is prepared for two weeks of adventure. When a pause to take leak during a run turns into more than a quick stop, his plans change dramatically. Luke quickly discovers he doesn't have to venture far from home for the adventure of a lifetime.
The stories in The Running Suspense Series are all about 10,000 words, or 35 pages long.
I hope you all will find time to read it and let me know what you think. I am currently working on #5, and am very excited for you to meet Rick, the main character.
Writer interview: Taryn Raye, Romance Writer
Writer interview: Taryn Raye, Romance Writer
Thanks so much for having me today Diane, I'm so thrilled to be here.
I guess I'll start by telling a little about myself- I'm the daughter of a carpenter and a homemaker and I grew up in Central Kentucky. I spent the first 26 years of my life in the same small town of Lawrenceburg, but I now live much further south, almost at the Tennessee border. I live with my husband of 10 years, my 13 y/o stepson, our 9 y/o daughter and our 10 y/o female catbaby, Miscellaneous, aka Mizzy. Besides being a wife and mother and a writer, I also enjoy trying new recipes, photography and of course, reading whenever I get a chance.
I believe I've always wanted to write, at least as far back as I can remember that I loved books, reading, and the idea of sharing stories of my own. I'm not sure what inspired me. I know we had many books in our house, my grandmother was a librarian at a college, my aunt wrote short stories- books were all around me and I loved them- the smell, feel, weight of them in my hand and the worlds within those pages. It still makes me happy and I think that's what inspired me most, I knew I had something that really made me happy.
Though my debut is a historical romance, I generally write contemporary romance, though I have one finished manuscript—the first novel I ever finished—that I would categorize more as women's fiction, but something's missing and I'm trying to figure out what it is. I have another that I think of more as a family saga- that perhaps fall more into the category of general fiction and I have plenty of ideas for contemporary, historical, possibly paranormal, women's fiction and maybe someday young adult (which was what I started out writing as a teenager). I prefer to think I write "stories with heart." Categorizing them comes later.
Pinning down my favorite author is hard as I have several. My favorite authors are many and varied, but two of my favorites are Tanith Lee to V.C. Andrews. I think what most inspires me about these writers is that they have a special gift for taking written word and using it like paint on a canvas. Each one creates worlds that are so realistic and vivid to me that it's almost as if you could reach out and touch it with your hands, smell the odors in the air, feel the breeze against your face or rustling your hair against your shoulders. Whether in Tanith Lee's fantasy, and V.C. Andrews' tragic reality, they reveal their talent for being masters of the words they use. Anyone can throw sentences together, but when those sentences become a fiber in the fabric of the story, each intimate stroke of the artist's brush across the canvas, something magical happens. I want to create that kind of magic, that sense of awe and excitement. It inspires me to write like that, to weave the words together in a way that will bind them beautifully for someone else's enjoyment, as well as my own.
I'm honestly not sure whom I'd compare my writing style to. I'm not sure that I've modeled much of my writing after other authors, because I try to go into in my own head without outside influences. I've never "studied" other authors to mold myself after their writing patterns, though I do have my favorite reads though—D.H. Lawrence, Jane Austen, Tanith Lee. The most influential was when I wrote my family saga, I loosely used V.C. Andrews' children in peril method to build a story around a boy/young man as the hero rather than a girl/young woman as the lead- with a lot of mystery, grit and tragic family secrets woven into the story with betrayal and deception.
Currently, my historical romance, Castaway Hearts, is available at a variety of online retailers. I am working on edits regarding the books in my two connected series- the Love by Series and the Pryce of Love Series, preparing them for self-publication. I'm not sure yet when I'll be publishing them, but I'm working on getting them polished up and I still need to write the final, and 8th, book which will close out the 2nd series.
Thanks so much for having me Diane- here is information about my novel and where you can find it as well as links to where you can find me.
Castaway Hearts Blurb
Twice orphaned, Catherine Barrett arrives in Virginia a stranger to her closest kin and secretly engaged to the one man her family would disapprove of- her seafaring grandfather's apprentice. Add to her troubles, the rich and intriguing older brother of her secret betrothed, Dawson Randolph, a plantation owner who is as heartless as he is handsome. Heartbroken when her intended sets sail for his maiden voyage, Catherine finds it difficult to adjust to her new life, hoping to befriend the one man who is, undoubtedly, the match her grandparents wish for her. Dawson's distaste for her secret engagement to his brother makes it clear he has no designs for marriage to anyone.
Especially her.
Ten years since the tragic loss of his young wife and infant son, Dawson Randolph is convinced love and marriage is a fool's game and resents being pardon to his brother's hidden engagement. Damned by his instant attraction and his own growing desire, Dawson vows to befriend her against his better judgment. Determined to bring her happiness in a time of fear and uncertainty, Dawson puts aside his animosity to become her confidant, only to realize Catherine holds the key to his heart. When tragedy strikes at sea, Catherine's guilt pushes Dawson to the fringes of her life as madness consumes her.
Can his love save her before she drowns in her own grief? Or is he doomed to love her from a distance, always in the shadow of her love for his dead brother?
Castaway Hearts is available in eBook & print from my publisher-
Also available on Amazon for-
Various formats on
Here are just a few places you can find Taryn Raye-
Amish Erotica anyone? The Other Way (The
Amish Erotica anyone? The Other Way (The Running Suspense Series #3) By Diane Strong http://ow.ly/cNDJ8


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Call or send an email us anytime. We'll arrange an inspection to investigate your critter culprits or varmint vandals. After we check out the problem, we can give you a clear, concise estimate
for the job.


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Persona 4 The Animation Season 3 Release Date
What began as a triumphant success, both critically and commercially, in the gaming culture at large, even outside of the JRPG community, has now devolved into whoring itself out, Type-Moon style. That is not in of itself a negative connotation, as the spin-off games and the Vita port are great in their own right. However, the event that started the whole milking process started with the announcement of an entire adaptation of Persona 4 in anime form back in 2011. It would be of no surprise to anyone that it was a thing that, in the end, would be looked at as a project that could not be called anything but unnecessary.
Speaking as someone whose favorite game is Persona 4 and will cherish it til the day I die, I've also adored its Vita port Persona 4 Golden. With its different mechanics and new awesome scenes, it also brought a new character, which breathed all new life to it. Now, after much popular demand by absolutely no one, Aniplex thought to themselves, "Remember that Persona 4 anime we made a couple of years ago? Why don't we make another one for the port to cash in on the hype for Persona?" Atlus probably had a hand in the decision too, but nevertheless, Persona 4 the Golden Animation is nothing more than just decent fan service for fans to see; even with the inevitable cringe-worthy attempts at trying to adapt it fully.
For those who aren't aware of the concept of Persona 4 Golden, it is basically another version of the original game with a different side character that we get to know over the course of her own story. What the anime wants to do is solely focus on the new character, named Marie, and find out the mystery of who she is and why she is there to begin with. Suffice to say, this does not really bode well in how they handle the pacing and development. At one point, there are several parts where they skip over important development in order to fit 13 episodes in with Marie's development and animate the extra scenes; this includes the beach fanservice, the band practice, motorcycle licenses, etc.
Maybe after another successful game installment, a new era of persona will arise on the anime screens again! I vouch for this one, I really do. Season 3 is what the game fans and the anime fans will always look for.


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OK I am on a roll again and this is thanks to one of my brides booked for next August whom, it is emerging, is hugely creative and has got my brain ticking!
Sarah sent me her Save the Dates today and they are to die for :) I won´t publish them until she lets me, but honestly they really are fabulous, with a wonderful vintage spanish theme.
If I said vintage and postcards were out yesterday, Sarah has changed my mind :)!
With this wedding now in my thought process, I have been scouring the internet and have found this fantastic Spanish themed photoshoot on Green Wedding Shoes.
I just love all the details, the only thing I am not sure about is the succulents on the tables, they are different but perhaps not weddingy enough for me, given it is a Cinco de Mayo, Mexican style shoot though I can see the logic and the style behind it, but have fallen head over heels with the Dulce bags (next candy bar in mind now!), the papel picado flags and bunting that we have yet to use at a wedding here surprisingly, along with the Margarita cupcakes (Fi and Mark I hope you are reading this!) Unfortunately for me, I am completely allergic to anything tequila based, something I learnt many years ago twice!
You must head over to Green Wedding Shoes to see the talents behind this fantastic inspiration.


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Brubaker Guitars Celebrates 25th Anniversary
It's official, Brubaker Guitars will celebrate its 25th Anniversary at Chuck Levin's Washington Music Center on Saturday May 14th from 12p to 5p.
There will be assorted Brubaker endorsers on hand to share their experiences. Also Brubaker staff will be present to evaluate and/or tweak your Brubaker instruments.
There will special pricing on all Brubaker instruments in stock as well as on orders taken that day!
So come on down and join Kevin and the test of Team Brubaker on May 14th.
For more information visit: Brubaker Guitars


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Guide: A Basic Overview Of Serum Protein Manual Agarose Electrophoresis
June 25th, 2019
Study: Detection Of Benzodiazepines In Oral Fluid By Homogeneous Enzyme Immunoassay
June 20th, 2019
MEDICA 2019 - World Forum for Medicine
Düsseldorf, GermanyBooth No.: 3/D35-2
AACC Annual Scientific Meeting and Clinical Lab Expo
Anaheim Convention Center ~ Anaheim, CABooth No.: 2627
Thanks to Block Scientific, I was able to procure the re-certified Bayer DCA 2000+ without hassles and get the lab back in operation. The
device works perfectly and I look forward to doing more business with Block Scientific.
--- Mathew Anderson, New Jersey
The DRG DHEA ELISA is an enzyme immunoassay for the quantitative in vitro diagnostic measurement of Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) in serum.
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA; androstenolone; 3β-hydroxy-5-androsten-17-one) is a C19 steroid produced in the adrenal cortex and, to a lesser extent, gonads. DHEA serves as a precursor in testosterone and estrogen synthesis. Due to the presence of a 17-oxo (rather than hydroxyl) group, DHEA has relatively weak androgenic activity, which has been estimated at ~10% that of testosterone. However in neonates, peripubertal children and in adult women, circulating DHEA levels may be several-fold higher than testosterone concentrations, and rapid peripheral tissue conversion to more potent androgens (androstenedione and testosterone) and estrogens may occur. Moreover, DHEA has relatively low affinity for sex-hormone binding globulin.
These factors may enhance the physiologic biopotency of DHEA. The physiologic role of DHEA has not been conclusively defined. A variety of in vitro effects, including antiproliferative
effects in different cell lines and effects on enzyme-mediated cell metabolism, have been reported. In vivo studies suggest that DHEA may affect cholesterol and lipid metabolism, insulin sensitivity and secretion and immune function. Abnormal DHEA levels have been reported in schizophrenia and obesity. Therapeutic administration of DHEA has been proposed for several conditions, including obesity and cardiovascular disease.
Serum DHEA levels are relatively high in the fetus and neonate, low during childhood, and increase during puberty. Increased levels of DHEA during adrenarche may contribute to the development of secondary sexual hair. Serum DHEA levels progressively decline after the third decade of life. No consistent changes in serum DHEA levels occur during the menstrual cycle or pregnancy; however, parity may lower serum DHEA levels in premenopausal women.
DHEA has a rapid metabolic clearance rate as compared to its sulfated conjugate, DHEA-S. Because of this, serum DHEA levels are 100-1000 fold lower than DHEA-S levels. In addition, serum DHEA levels show significant diurnal variation which is dependent on adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH). Serum DHEA levels increase in response to exogenous ACTH administration.
Measurement of serum DHEA is a useful marker of adrenal androgen synthesis. Abnormally low levels may occur in hypoadrenalism, and elevated levels occur in several conditions; including virilizing adrenal adenoma and carcinoma, 21-hydroxylase and 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase deficiencies and in some cases of female hirsutism. Since very little DHEA is produced by the gonads, measurement of DHEA levels may aid in the localization of androgen source in virilizing


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Nick Barlow.
"Before this election, Duck Soup resonated in the United States through the ways it lampooned concepts like nationalism and political decorum. Because of Trump's ascension, however, Rufus T. Firefly no longer seems like an alien political figure. It's a notion that even Groucho Marx would've found absurd." Luke Epplin says the Marx Brothers can teach us about Donald Trump.
Matthew Green asks if central banks should raise their inflation targets.
"People are often surprised when I tell them that the Telegraph obituaries column has only been going since ... 1986. They assume it has been there forever." It does feel like that, and Andrew M. Brown helps us understand the column's appeal.
The magical rain forests of Britain need protection, says Paul Simons.
Londonist takes us to London's forgotten tube line.


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It will also let you reduce transportation expenses because the schools are simply a couple of distances apart from Amber Park Condo. Living within this region means your children are going to get to school in time and arrive home .
The serene environment that encircles the Amber Park Condo makes the place seem luxurious. Its plethora of food given by the local food stores and restaurants is rather attractive. You will never miss somewhere to hang out with your buddies or family. The places that are kid-friendly that are cool will guarantee children from Amber Park like their stay at District 15.
There are also many schools in near proximity of their development site such as Chatsworth International School, Tanjong Katong Girl's School, CHIJ, Tao Nan School and also Tanjong Katong Primary School.
Amber Park (Former Amber Park Condo) has been an upcoming condominium in the Katong vicinity along Amber Road. It is but one of the newest freehold homes in District 15 on a biggish piece of land with a land area of over 210,000 sq ft. There aren't a lot of sites of such a dimension readily available for growth from the popular Amber Road area.
Regarding facilities, inhabitants of Amber Park will never skip a destination. There are plenty of facilities at the in which you can visit walk your dog skate, run, and enjoy the sea breeze. East Coast Park is a excellent spot.
The place is really a sought-after and mature private enclave, famous for its high-rise towers and proximity to the shore. It's located a short five mins walk from the Tanjong Katong MRT Station about 300m. Close to the locale are a number of shopping malls such as 112 Katong, Katong Shopping Centre, Parkway Parade and Parkway Parade Shopping Centre.
We are inhabited by spaces as we occupy spaces. Our distances form the way we spend time, and our relationships, how we interact together. Locate your area for watching your little baby take his first step, catching up with your nearest and dearest, or studying a novel.
For shopaholics residing in Amber Park Condo, their pride is ensured by the plenty of stores around. You will miss somewhere to shop, Even though the region may have many malls like in other residential locations. There are many cafes, restaurants, and eateries in which the residents of the amber park may source food.
With terrific ease and a bunch of facilities nearby, Amber Park is one of the best places. You'll be able to enjoy access, by picking it has your house.
The living and dining areas have an open plan which gives better flexibility and practicality. A variety of unit types caters to families, couples, and individuals.
There is a selection of athletic activities which you may enjoy that you may try such as cable ski. Katong Swimming Complex, also chinese Swimming Club is also an option for those that are currently attempting to keep fit in a way that is straining.
When it comes to learning institutes and centers, residents at the East are spoiled for choice. Take your pick from such types of well-established schools that are Primary.
Exclusive Showroom viewing Amber park showflat. Amber Park is a house that encompasses everything you need, connected to anywhere you want to be. All the Advantages of an urban East lifestyle are all virtually at your doorstep
112 Katong Mall situated in the region offers for the requirements of the folks residing in Amber Park. The fashion mall provides various fashion F&B and lifestyle outlets. Other malls that you will find in the area include Paya Lebar Square, City Plaza, One KM Restaurant, along with Parkway Parade.
Among the things that the inhabitants of Amber Park will appreciate the most is that the proximity to popular schools. Amazing layuot for the Amber park site plan. This makes it among the greatest area to increase your children as you won't need to relocate to cities as soon as you settle.


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This is an excerpt, posted with permission and attribution, from Penny Sansevieri's newsletter. All pronouns are as written by Penny.
Featured Article - 10 Mistakes Authors Make That Can Cost Them a Fortune (and How to Avoid Them)
When it comes to books, promotion, and book production I know that it can sometimes feel like a minefield of choices. And while I can't address each of these in minutia, there are a number of areas that are keenly tied to a book's success (or lack thereof). Here are ten for you to consider:
1) Not understanding the importance of a book cover
I always find it interesting that an author will sometimes spend years writing their book and then leave the cover design to someone who either isn't a designer, or doesn't have a working knowledge of book design or the publishing industry. Or, worse, they create a design without having done the proper market research. Consider these facts for a minute: shoppers in a bookstore spend an average of 8 seconds looking at the front cover of a book and 15 seconds looking at the back before deciding whether to buy it. Further, a survey of booksellers showed that 75% of them found the book cover to be the most important element of the book. Also, sales teams at book distribution often only take the book cover with them when they shop titles to stores. And finally, please don't attempt to design your own book cover. Much like cutting your own hair, this is never a good idea.
2) Trusting someone who has limited or no track record
When you hire a team, make sure you ask the service provider for their track record. Often I see an author who successfully marketed their single title now feel they have all the marketing knowledge they need to help you market yours. Unless you are in similar markets, I would avoid this at all costs. You want people who have worked in the industry and know the needs of the market beyond just one title. You also want someone who has some history. Ask for referrals, and success stories. I give references all the time to potential new clients, but when I am the one interviewing a new service provider I will ask for them but never call them. I mean who's going to give you a bad referral? I want to see that they have some names they can give me, then I'll go online and Google them to gain some insight into their history and online reputation.
3) Listening to people who aren't experts
When you ask someone's opinion about your book, direction, or topic, make sure they are either working in your industry or know your consumer. If, for example, you have written a young adult (YA) book, don't give it to your co-workers to read and get feedback (yes, I know some YA books have adult market crossover appeal, but this is different). If you've written a book for teens, then give it to teens to read. Same is true for self-help, diet, romance. Align yourself with your market. You want the book to be right for the reader, in the end that's all that matters.
4) Trusting Oprah to solve all your problems
Getting on Oprah is an article in and of itself, but let me say this: the quickest way to turn off a publicist is to use the "O" word. Why? Because anyone worth their salt knows how tough a road the Oprah pitch can be. Not just that, but sometimes authors will become so myopic and obsessed about this show that they lose sight of other, maybe better opportunities. And trust me on another point: someone (friend, co-worker, family, spouse), somewhere will tell you, "You should go on Oprah," and while you might be 100% perfect Oprah material the only people who can determine if you should be on her show are her producers. Shoot for the stars, dream big, but be realistic about your campaign, otherwise you'll spend a lot of time and a lot of money chasing a potentially elusive target.
5) Planning for the short-term only
There's a real fallacy that exists in publishing and it's this: "instant bestseller." Anyone who has spent any amount of time in the industry knows there is no such thing as "instant," and certainly the words "overnight success" are generally not reserved for books. Book promotion should be viewed as a long runway. Meaning that you should plan for the long term. Don't spend all your marketing dollars in the first few months of a campaign. We find this especially true for self-published titles that need a little more TLC than their traditionally published counterparts. We offer campaigns that last 90-days, but that's not because we think 90 days is all it will take to make your book a success, it's because we find it's a reasonable time to get started, get a foothold and start your progress down the runway of success.
6) Not understanding timing
Timing is a funny issue. First, there's the timing that books follow to get reviewed, lead times as it were. Then there's production timing, and if you're lucky enough to get a distributor there's the time it will take for a distributor to get your book into the proper channels. A book launch should be planned carefully and then leave wiggle room for slipped dates and late deliveries (which will happen). I recommend that you sit down with someone who can help you strategize timing so you can plan appropriately for your book launch. A missed date is akin to a missed opportunity.
7) Hiring people who aren't in the book industry
Let's face it, even to those of us who have been in this industry for a while it still doesn't always make sense. So hiring someone who has no book or publishing experience isn't just a mistake, it could be a costly one. With some vendors like web designers you can get away with that. But someone who has only designed business cards can't, for example, design a book cover. Make sure you hire the right specialist for the right project. Also, you've likely spent years putting together this project, make sure you make choices based on what's right and not what's cheapest. If you shop right you can often find vendors who are perfect for your project and who fit your budget. There's an old saying that goes: You can find a good lawyer, and you can find a cheap lawyer, but it's hard or near impossible to find a good, cheap lawyer. The same applies in the book world.
8) Designing your own website
You should never cut your own hair or design your own site. Period. End of story. But ok, let me elaborate. Let's say you designed your own site and saved a few thousand dollars instead of paying a web designer. Now you're off promoting your book and suddenly you're getting a gazillion hits to your site. The problem is the site is not converting these visitors into sales. How much money did you lose by punting the web designer and doing it yourself? Hard to know. Scary, isn't it?
9) Becoming a media diva
Let's face it, you need the media more than they need you. I know. Ouch. But it's the unfortunate truth. So here's the thing: be grateful. Thank the interviewer, send a follow-up thank you note after the interview. Don't expect the interviewer to read your book and don't get upset if they get some facts wrong. Just gently, but professionally correct them in such a way that they don't look bad or stupid. Never ask for an interview to be done over. Most media people don't have the time. I mention this because it actually happened to a producer friend of mine who did an interview with a guy and he decided he didn't like it and wanted a second shot. Not gonna happen. The thing is, until you get a dressing room with specially designed purple M&M's, don't even think about becoming a diva. The best thing you can do is create relationships. Show up on time, show up prepared, and always, always, always be grateful.
10) Hiring the best and then not trusting their advice.
Here's the thing that's always confused me. You hire me, then don't listen to my advice. And it's not just me, I hear this all the time from other industry professionals. Look, it's not an ego thing, it really isn't. It's just this: if you're paying good money to your vendors, asking them for advice and then not taking it, you might have a disconnect. Perhaps a breakdown in communication, maybe you don't trust the person you hired. If you don't trust them, then you should part ways and find someone you have some chemistry with. Otherwise what's the point? Build your team with people you enjoy working with and respect. Then when they try and guide you or save you some money, take the time to listen.
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Thursday, August 20, 2009
10 Mistakes Authors Make
Posted by RowenaBCherry at 6:04 AM
Labels: Helping Authors, mistakes, penny sansevieri, Rowena Cherry
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Family Literacy Program celebrates Toyota's investment in Long Beach
2010-06-21 · By Editor
June 11, 2010 marked the end of the second year of Toyota's three-year investment in Long Beach, in family literacy, and in local families with children ages 5 – 8 attending King, Chavez, and McKinley Elementary Schools. "It is critical that parents understand and recognize the importance of family literacy and the research that supports this intergenerational learning program", shared Roberta Lanterman, Family Literacy Program Director. "When we take the time to stand back and provide the families with a chance to come together and learn, they grow together, creating the cohesiveness that lends strength to a community-based program. Although the program is operated on four District campuses, we are one program with one mission – to provide family literacy services that enrich and empower the lives of local families."
On Friday, June 11, 60 Long Beach families celebrated the end of year two of their three-year commitment to family literacy at King Elementary School located at 145 E. Artesia Blvd. Families enrolled in the Toyota Family Literacy Program got together to celebrate their accomplishments, watch student performances, and listened to student speakers about the gains they have made this year and the impact family literacy had on transforming two generations simultaneously. "For families participating in family literacy programs, the gains are tremendous – parents excel with their adult education endeavors, children are supported in their classrooms, and parents learn invaluable skills associated with supporting their child's language and literacy development – a key factor in long-term school success," stated Matt Saldaña, Long Beach School for Adults Principal.
About the Long Beach Family Literacy Program
The Long Beach Family Literacy Program has been providing family literacy services to Long Beach families since 1992. Funded by Toyota, the State of California Even Start Office, and First 5 Los Angeles, the Program is a collaborative partnership between the Long Beach Unified School District and the City of Long Beach/Pacific Gateway Workforce Investment Network. Through comprehensive and integrated services, the Program provides adults and their young children ages 1-8 with the skills and resources necessary to be successful in their education, financially secure, and productive members of their communities, as well as feel empowered to reach their full potential as life long learners. Head Start, the leader in early childhood development, provides the Program's youngest learners with their educational foundation. For more information about the Long Beach Family Literacy Program, please contact (562) 595-8893 x264.


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Terror arrives at the one place we all feel safest in this taut psychological thriller starring Natasha Henstridge. When a wealthy woman and her stepson are targeted by a trio of expert thieves in their remote mansion, her only form of help comes from a call with a security systems specialist. But as the intruders become increasingly hostile and the connection wavers, will she trust him to be her eyes and navigate her to safety?
Release notes:
Please help share and feel free to post it on other sites/forums and spread it to other networks if you want. Please don't remove or replace the tags. Add if you must, but keep the filenames as they are.
| Home Invasion (2016)
Código: Selecionar todos
Total Runtime...: 1:28:33
Language........: English
File Size............: 1.45 Gb (1/3 DVD)
Video Codec .........: XviD 1.3
Video Frame Size.....: 720 x 400
Video Bitrate........: 1901
Video Framerate......: 23.976
Audio Codec..........: AC3
Audio Bitrate........: 448 kb/s (5.1)
Audio Framerate......: 48000Hz
Interleaving.........: 96/96 aligned
Packed Bitstream.....: No
B-Vob/Qpel/GMC.......: Yes/No/No
ed2k: Home.Invasion.2016.DVDRip.XviD-Rogue.avi [1.46 Gb]
Subs: English, Chinese, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish, Thai
ed2k: Home.Invasion.2016.DVDRip.XviD-Rogue.Subs.rar [4.73 Mb]


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I had an absolutely amazing four days with my husband up in Maine where we took a voyage from Moosehead Lake, to Bar Harbor, and then to our final destination in Lincolnville/Camden, ME.
We started our week off heading up to our family's camp on Moosehead, stopping first in Greenville at Indian Hill where we braved an impressive thunderstorm that left us stranded in the store for a few minutes… until my husband went out and got the truck so I wouldn't have to get soaked in the pouring rain. Yeah, he's pretty much the man 🙂 After the storm, we made our way over to eat at Kelly's Landing. I probably should have taken a photo of my food, but we were in a hurry to get up to camp before dark. I have a little problem when I go to Maine; I feel like I have to eat Seafood for every meal, when we eat out, so I ordered seafood; the Maine Crab & Lobster Cakes with sun-dried tomato & rosemary butter and oh my, were they delicious! The crab/lobster cakes and the butter were a perfect pairing. My husband on the other hand, decided he would feed his inner child, and went with chicken tenders. I loved Kelly Landing's dining room, it was very rustic, made of knotty pine, with a large red brick fireplace, and we were able to get a window booth, so we ate and enjoyed the views of Moosehead out the window. They also have seating on their deck, but the rain killed any opportunity for us to sit out there, which is fine, we would be up at the camp in no time enjoying the view of the lake!
On our ride up to the cabin, we saw two moose: a cow (female) and a calf, both standing in the Golden Road. They were pretty dark, and the first one was standing under a tree, so we really didn't make her out until we got closer and saw her move. The little one decided to run down the road in front of us instead of just running away into the woods, which of course we didn't want it to do, so we had to stop to let it wander where it needed to go to feel comfortable that it had gotten away from us.
The temperature was perfect at the camp, but the water was FREEZING! It felt as cold as the spring water that falls into Moosehead. If you've never jumped under a spring and you find one while venturing up there, you need to jump under one just once. You will have the shock of your life, but you'll have a good laugh and a fun story to tell afterwards!
We did manage to get one of the boats in the water to cruise around on the lake. There were a lot of people up there fishing, but we were just up there for a few days of relaxation before heading over to Lincolnville, so there was no fishing for us this weekend. It was nice to get out on the lake and enjoy the gorgeous afternoon. After our ride, the wind arrived and the lake took a turn. We had a blast trying to get the boat out of the water when it was time to close up camp! We were fighting the waves and were waist deep in that FREEZING water… oh what fun! You have to do what you have to do sometimes to enjoy the little things in life, right?
The rest of the time at the camp were pretty much lazy days. I started reading this book while I was there, and I have to say I was addicted. I couldn't put it down. I felt it was the perfect book to read, being in the woods and all, and after being in the mountains the days after Moosehead, it really made me appreciate the book and the story so much more. I highly recommend it, and can't wait to watch the movie after I'm done with the book (less than 20 pages left!). On that note, have any of you read a good book about the Adirondack Trail? I would love for you to leave your recommendations in the comments below if you have!
Since I've been dying to see/photograph Mt. Katahdin and we were on our way to Acadia, we decided to make our way out of Moosehead via Millinocket instead of Greenville. On the way to Mt. Katahdin, we stopped by the river so I could get a few shots. It was so beautiful and peaceful. I honestly could have sat there the whole day watching the water run over the rocks… with bug spray in hand of course because the mosquitos were just terrible! I got swarmed by them really fast; I had about 30 of them biting my left arm while I was trying to setup my tripod. I called to my husband, who was at his truck, to bring me bug spray ASAP! It was pretty crazy. I don't think I've ever had that many mosquitos on me before!
Since it was overcast, we'll be making our way back there on a day when there's some sun and blue sky. Which brings me to Mt. Katahdin and the cloud that was circling its peak. Regardless of if it was overcast or not, it was still a beautiful site to see, just simply beautiful. I've always loved looking at the mountain from far away on Moosehead, but being close was even better. It's stunning, just stunning. I can't wait to go back there on clear day.
After Mt. Katahdin we made a pit stop and off we were to Acadia National Park. I'm honestly shocked I've never been to Acadia. I guess every time I've been to Maine it's always visiting the Portland/Freeport/Kennebunkport areas or it's "we need to hurry up and get up to the camp!" Because, as I'm sure you can tell, both my husband and I have a camp/Moosehead addiction. But, after going to Acadia, we will most definitely be back to see more of the park and explore the area more.
The drive up Cadillac Mountain was really intense. It reminded me of a few years ago when we were driving 8,000 ft up on a mountain in Wyoming in extremely foggy conditions, only this time, we could see what was over the edge. But once we hit the top, it was all worth it. I could not believe the views from Cadillac Mountain, they were incredible. On one side you have a view of mountains and woods and on the other side is the view of Bar Harbor.
We only had a few hours at Acadia because we needed to leave to drive to Lincolnville, so we pulled over in a parking lot at Acadia and ate some lunch that we had left over from the camp and started our drive down Route 1 to Lincolnville where we would be staying at Glenmoor by the Sea.
When we arrived at Glenmoor by the Sea, I couldn't believe how stunningly charming the resort was, and that was only the beginning of the amazing experience we had because Glenmoor isn't just a place to say, they provide you with an experience like no other. To see more from my stay at Glenmoor by the Sea, click here.
After arriving at our cottage, I spent some time on the rocking chair reading my book while my husband was off getting a carwash (because we ran through a ton of mud on our way into the camp). When he got back, we went out to grab a bite to eat – seafood of course 🙂
It was recommended that we try out McLaughlin's Lobster Shack, which was a great recommendation! Their batter was a lot different than many fried seafood places I have been to when it came to taste and lightness; it wasn't greasy and it had a very yummy, distinctive taste that must have come from a seasoning they use, which I couldn't put my finger on. I went with the shrimp and clams combo, and much to my delight, they were whole belly clams! It was served with fries, coleslaw, and corn bread, and I got a lemonade to round out my summer meal. The food was so good that I finished my whole meal, which is very unusual for me!
On the last day of our trip, we headed up the road to visit Mt. Battie – the mountain at Camden Hills State Park. Mt. Battie was another beautiful overlook over the bay. It was similar to Cadillac Mountain in Acadia in that you can also hike or drive up the mountain. We drove up the mountain, which isn't as steep as Cadillac, and there was a gorgeous view at the top, along with a tower that is a replica of the tower in Tuoro Park in Newport, RI. When you are done visiting the top of the mountain, you can go across the street for other water views. On the way out, I recommend stopping by Mt. Battie Takeout to grab some ice cream (Their Coffee Health Bar ice cream is rich and creamy… YUM).
Places Mentioned in this Post
Acadia National Park | Off Route 3 | 25 Visitor Center Rd, Mount Desert Island, ME 04644-3000
Glenmoor by the Sea | 2143 Atlantic Hwy, Lincolnville, ME 04849 | (207) 236-7905
Indian Hill Trading Post | 148 Moosehead Lake Rd, Greenville, ME 04441
Kelly's Landing | 13 Rockwood Rd, Greenville Junction, ME 04442
McLaughlin's Lobster Shack | 12 McKay Rd, Lincolnville, ME 04849
Mt. Battie | Camden Hills State Park | 280 Belfast Rd, Camden, ME 04843
Mount Battie Takeout | 247 Belfast Rd, Camden, ME 04843
*This post includes affiliate links. All opinions on the products listed are solely mine and are based on my personal experiences. Clicking on my affiliate links will help pay for the expenses incurred to provide the free content on my blog.
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Yes, six weeks are already over. In the beginning, time couldn't go fast enough. But then, after familiarizing myself with Eldoret, a totally new environment, I had the feeling time is running. I wanted to leave Kenya with a clear goal and future plan, but teaching and preparing for consultancy took most of the time available. And that's exactly one of the things I've learned in Kenya: things always take longer than expected, especially in Africa.
Right now, I'm sitting in my Berliner flat, trying to figure out my next steps. As mentioned in my very first post of this blog, I quit my secure job and left the company in October. That was even before I decided to join as a Social Enterprise Consultant. And even if the job as a photographer is a creative job, I wasn't happy. I had the feeling everything was revolving around profit. I was looking for something more meaningful. I wanted a job with purpose. I wanted to have a positive impact on people. The positive news is, I'm still very happy about that quitting decision. But as expected, after living in and traveling a bit of Kenya, my bank account looks pretty empty. As interesting as a voluntary position can be, it doesn't pay the bills.
However, working as a Social Enterprise Consultant was interesting and pretty much what I expected. Together, we worked with 5 unemployed youth and 2 other independent youth groups (registered as self-help groups) involved in waste management. We trained the VSO ICS youth by introducing them to the concept of Social Entrepreneurship, the entrepreneurial mindset (incl. traits of an entrepreneur), creativity, innovation and business planning. We also introduced them to the BMC (Business Model Canvas), the Experiment Board by Javelin and to the SWOT analysis.
During the 6 weeks, each of them came up with different business ideas and created different BMCs. Over time, we started to mentor each of them individually and supported them in their testing phase. The testing took place in different ways, depending on the business idea. Some of the VSO ICS youths created questionnaires and talked face-to-face to potential customers. Some others went straight into selling products, like bananas, maize or charcoal. Another once took pre-orders to create tailor-made bracelets. By the end of the programme, they all pitched for funding and we handed over certificates of completion at an evening ceremony at Poa Place in Eldoret.
But what is it that I learned during the programme?
1. Things take longer than anticipated
It is very difficult to estimate the time needed to train youth (and probably any other group). It all depends on the educational background of the participants, their motivation and language skills. Obviously, if participants are not familiar with the language (we taught in English) you will struggle to communicate the content properly. In our case, the level of English was alright, and improved over time, but it did slow down our process.
2. Know your programme participants
As mentioned above, it's difficult to teach something if people do not speak or understand the language properly. In addition to that, it is crucial to know your participants and know what they expect from the training to avoid disappointments. The better you know your participants, the better you can estimate the time needed for teaching.
3. Build a good relationship, create a personal atmosphere
You'll work with people you haven't met before. Be open-minded. Share some personal insights. This will relax the atmosphere and allows in particular quiet and shy people to feel good. The better you know each other, the easier it will be to start conversations and discussions and the less it will be a lecture-style teaching experience.
4. Make sure you have a proper teaching venue
To avoid long travel distances or noisy venues, make sure you have a proper teaching venue. Do you need a laptop for showing videos? Then make sure you got enough battery or have a room with power. Do you need a white- or blackboard? Make sure the room you use is equipped with that. If possible, have a Plan B for the case the venue won't be available for certain days or unexpectedly.
5. Communicate clearly
Just like in an ordinary workspace, it is important to communicate clearly. Explain things, if necessary, in different words and phrases. Reframe. In my view, it is also important to give an overview of the programme content and the goals and objectives of each week to course participants, so they know what to expect.
6. Combine different teaching methods
This isn't anything new. Everybody learns best in different ways and in their own pace. Therefore, it is best to include different teaching methods. Watch videos, have discussions, have practical tasks and let them do research on their own and present their findings. Again, who can concentrate and wants to listen to a lecture all day long? In our case it was very helpful to provide handouts by the end of each session.
7. Involve or consult experts
In case you don't have the right answer, seek advice from experts from the field. They simply know best. You can also introduce those two parties, so they stay in direct contact. Sometimes the best you can do is using your network. You really don't have to know everything.
8. Give room for feedback
Receiving feedback is very important. You want to be good at your job and you want the teaching be of value for your participants. There is always room for improvement, so listen to your participants and even team members. Ask for 'what went well' and 'what could have been better'. Let them give examples.
Have a look at the updated Kenya gallery, if you are interested to see some pictures of the 6 week pilot in Eldoret, Kenya: "Social Starters – Social Entrepreneurship Training & Consultancy".


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"Lisssn" released on the Mac Appstore20. November 2017.
Join us on an adventure unlike any others you may have played before.
"Lisssn" is a point-and-click adventure game for listeners in the style
of adventure classics such as "RHEM" with many puzzles and mysterious
machines to set in motion. But instead of having only to look and
combine, this one is especially about hearing and listening closely. The
player is thus carefully introduced into the basic ideas of music.
The riddles were arranged carefully: At the beginning it is easy to distinguish sounds from noises, later different pitches and finally notes and rhythms have to be recognized. "Lisssn" is a game that is suitable for both children and adults, where the player collects musical experiences while playing.
"Lisssn" has been released on the Mac Appstore today!
InfoRelease date: 10. December 2007.
Original developer: Deck 13
OSX: MacOS 10.6.6 or higher, 1,8 GHz Intel, 1 GB RAM, 3D GFX card with 128 MB RAM.


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How To Make A WordPress Website Load Faster in 3 Steps
"…speeding up your website isn't just something that can affect your search rankings–it's a fantastic idea for your users." ~ Matt Cutts of Google
I am done trying to get to make a WordPress website load faster using, Cache plugins, and CDN's. If you really want your site to load quickly you need to start from the beginning.
The average price for shared website hosting is $4.99 – $29.99 month.
When I start to work with clients I offer an option for both… and guess what the majority of my clients pick?
If you guessed $4.99 month you are correct!
Then I get done building their site and they ask how come my site does not load very quickly?
I have tried using Cloudflare, W3 Total Cache, MaxCDN, and on and on to try to get those types of hosting providers sites to run quick… but it just does not work. (I am NOT saying that these products don't work, they do help. You just can't take a weak shared hosting service and make it fast.)
What Does Work For Speeding Up WordPress?
1. Premium level hosting
That can come in a few different forms.
- Either a powerful self hosted option…. that is quite pricey for the average small business owner and requires time and skill tomaintain.
- or
- Shared Premium WordPress Hosting… like WP Engine, Websynthesis, or Get Fly Wheel
- I have not personally used Websynthesis or Get Fly Wheel, but I know people who have and really like them.
- I am an affiliate marketer for WP Engine and have built 100's of sites on their platform and love them.
There is a Sale! Sign up for an annual pre-pay self sign-up plan, and get 3 months free!
Sign Up Here: WP Engine
Just use the special offer code "HeatWave14" when signing up.
Code: HeatWave14
Valid Dates: Offer valid through 08/31/14
2. Optimized Images
There are many calls that your website makes when it is loading, and today designers are building image heavy WordPress Websites, those images are a load on your server.
In theory you want your page size to be <1MB in total size. 1 large image that is not optimized can be 3 to 5 MB!!
You can use Photoshop or Gimp to cut the size of images without taking away from how they look on your site.
Note: Generally speaking .jpg images are less dense than .png images.
You may also want to try using:
These tools compress the data in the image using a technology called Smart Lossy Compression. They are free and very simple to use.
3. Theme and Plugins
Both your theme and each plugin adds a certain amount of load on your site speed.
Use only trusted and well developed Themes. Period. Genesis, Thesis, Elegant Themes, Woo Themes are a few.
Many themes on Theme Forest are good themes… but if you don't know the difference it can really bite you in the butt.
Plugins can be a breath of fresh air or a slap across the face. The right plugins will give your WordPress website added functionality, the wrong plugin can bring your site to a screeching halt.
Plugins can affect speed in a couple of ways:
1: Hogging up to many resources
2. Having to many plugins on 1 site
WP Engine has a list of plugins that will not allow on their hosting environment including caching plugins and back up plugins because they do that for you.
In addition they list many "popular" plugins that they feel cause your site to slow down needlessly:
These plugins cause a high load on servers or create an unnatural number of MySQL queries:
- Broken Link Checker — Overwhelms even our robust caching layer with an inordinate amount of HTTP requests.
- MyReviewPlugin — Slams the database with a fairly significant amount of writes.
- LinkMan — Much like the MyReviewPlugin above, LinkMan utilizes an unscalable amount of database writes.
- Google XML Sitemaps — Recommend WordPress SEO and Google Sitemap Plugin for your Google XML Sitemap needs.
- Fuzzy SEO Booster — Causes MySQL issues as a site becomes more popular.
- WP PostViews — Inefficiently writes to the database on every page load.
- To track traffic in a more scalable manner, both the stats module in Automattic's Jetpack plugin and Google Analytics work wonderfully.
- Tweet Blender — Does not play nicely with our caching layer and can cause increased server load.
Related posts plugins:
- Dynamic Related Posts
- SEO Auto Links & Related Posts
- Yet Another Related Posts Plugin
- Similar Posts
- Contextual Related Posts
Just because you are able to send emails with WordPress, that doesn't always mean that you should:
- WP Mailing List
Other plugins:
- Hello Dolly! — Sorry, Matt.
- WP phpMyAdmin — Disallowed due to a fairly major security issue.
Some frequently used scripts are known to contain vulnerabilities:
- TimThumb — Older versions of TimThumb are known to contain vulnerabilities. When our system scan identifies an older version, it will automatically update the script. After the upgrade has been completed, the system will notify you by email.
- Uploadify — Access to this script is blocked due to known security threats. The reasoning behind this was largely informed by this blog post from our partners at Sucuri.
How I Increased My Load Speed to under 1 Second
I have tested "Premium WordPress Hosting" over the last few months and have put my site on:
- Bluehost's VPS – $29.99 month
- DreamHost's DreamPress – $19.95 month
- Siteground's Go Geek – $14.95 month
- WP Engine – $29 month
Changed My WordPress Website Host to WPEngine
I was on Siteground's Go Geek and this was my Pingdom Speed Test Results:
There are 4 problems with this speed test
1. Then number of requests — I want this to be under 100
2. The load time — I want this to be under 1 s
3. And the page size — I want this to be under 1.0 MB
4. My DNS waterfall
My domain DNS and Server were taking 1.63s to connect… not good.
After migrating my site to WP Engine:
My domain DNS and Server are taking 15 ms to connect… that is FAST!
Optimized My Images and deleted Unnecessary Plugins
My page size was 2.0 MB, that is just to big.
My total requests was 113 that is just to many.
It does not matter what host you are using to make a WordPress website load faster if you're trying to load too much information it just won't be fast.
After reducing image sizes and turning off a few plugins my speed test results:
My load time is under 1s!
Even with 102 requests and a page size of 1.5MB.
WP Engine Hosting
As I mentioned earlier I am an affiliate marketer for WP Engine and will make a small commission if you sign up for service using my link.
There is a Sale! Sign up for an annual pre-pay self sign-up plan, and get 3 months free!
Sign Up Here: WP Engine
Just use the special offer code "HeatWave14" when signing up.
Code: HeatWave14
Valid Dates: Offer valid through 08/31/14
If you run a WordPress website, want it to load fast and do not have an IT department, I just can't think of a reason you should not have your site hosted on WP Engine.
I use a service called Pingdom to track my Uptime / Downtime. The time that the site is live vs. showing a server error.
In all my years using shared hosting I have never seen this before:
100% Uptime!
In the past I have received 99.?% Uptime. Which seems like a big enough number. Until you get a message from a potential client that they can not view your services because your website is down.
WPEngine Features:
EverCache Technology
WP Engine hosting services custom-built our EverCache technology to deliver WordPress fast enough for Google, and at scale.
Insanely Fast. Robust Scalabilty
Never configure a caching plugin again. WPEngine hosting architecture is hand-tuned to deliver you the fastest WordPress hosting around.
WordPress Hacked? They will fix it free!
Automatically scanning for, and fixing, hacking attempts to secure your site.
Backed Up. Secured. Proactively.
No more wrestling with (or paying extra for) backups! Includes a one-click backup and restore option — at no extra charge. WordPress security updates installed proactively — so you can sleep easily at night.
Expert WordPress Support
A lot of hosting companies say they have "great support", but few can claim that a WordPress hosting expert will answer all your questions.
Sign Up For WPEngine


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A Word From Our Managing Director
"The Demolition Industry is changing all the time. With the introduction of the Landfill Tax the emphasis has swung more and more towards reclamation.
Wherever possible we will crush all suitable materials for reuse by the client. This saves time and money, what was once a cost is not a credit. Demolition Sites are now safer places to work.
Changes in legislation in recent years throughout the Construction Industry have without doubt benefited our profession.
We have our own in house safety advisor and also employ expert consultants when the need arise. Safety has always been our primary concern and we are proud to say we have never once had a reportable accident or dangerous occurrence. Our clients come back to us time and again because we work safely, professionally, complete on programme and within budget. We would like to demonstrate our capabilities to you, please contact us by any of the methods stated."
In Summary
Crushing Contractors
Site Clearance
Crusher Hire
Asbestos Removal
For more information or enquiries please feel free to contact usat A. Ward & Sons Ltd by telephone or email.


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These rain drops on the window are only part of the wild and crazy weather we had today. The wind blew wickedly for most of the morning. There was also a good down pour. By 2pm the sun was trying to come out. When the kids came home I found out the weather was even worse then I thought it had been. Meg said she had a two hour storm drill (with on bathroom break) due to the tornado warning this morning. What? I had no idea since I don't watch tv or listen to the radio during the day. I would hope I'd hear the storm sirens if they went off but I'm not too sure about that. The reds only had a short storm drill which Meg found to be totally unfair.
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
2 comments:
my kids said the same thing about the storm warnings. Im glad the schools are cautious I guess. but how boring. I did hear the tornado siren around 9:15. You kind of have to be outside to hear it...
Your chaise is awesome by the way!!! :)
- October 27, 2010 at 3:36 AM
- Standiford Family » Blog Archive » Busy Day Off said...
[...] Last week one of our hot water heaters started leaking and a few weeks ago, when we had all that rain, our basement started leaking. Ugh. Thank goodness for the homeowner's warrantee. They [...]
- November 8, 2010 at 4:39 PM
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Video Library
The LINX Reflux Management System is a small implant comprised of interlinked titanium beads with magnetic cores. The magnetic attraction between the beads augments the existing esophageal sphincter's barrier function to prevent reflux. The device is implanted using a standard minimally invasive laparoscopic procedure and is an alternative to the more anatomically disruptive fundoplication, commonly used in surgical anti-reflux procedures.
KCRA 3 interviewed Dr. Di Perna and a patient who recently had the LINX procedure, who says she feels like a new person since the surgery.
Mercy San Juan Medical Center is one of the first sites in Northern California to offer LINX.
Melissa Jue
[email protected]