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For those looking to get back to grips with nature, a holiday in Sri Lanka could be the perfect opportunity. Famous for its stunning beaches and ancient cities, Sri Lanka is also home to a vast range of national parks that give the public chance to witness exotic animals in their natural habitat.
Image Credit: Sri Lanka Frogmouth
From leopards to elephants, birds and rare plant life, there is something for everyone to visit and enjoy in this beautiful country. With the volume of sanctuaries and national parks being so large, they're the perfect way to plan a trip around the country.
Yala West
Based in the south-east, Yala West is the most predominant national park of Sri Lanka due in part to its sheer size, but primarily thanks to the range of rare wildlife that makes its flat plains their home.
Image Credit: The leopard, Panthera pardus, is a member of the Felidae family and the smallest of the four "big cats" in the genus Panthera
The Sri Lankan leopards are one of the biggest attractions to this area, especially given their bold behaviour, despite typically being quite shy mammals. Lucky visitors will also get the chance to catch site of the sloth bears, sambar, deer, buffalo and even wild pigs and mongoose.
When visiting the area, make sure to travel to Arugam Bay, one of the best places in Asia for water sports. Whether you prefer to stand and watch or actually take part, the area is famous for its world-class surfing talent, making quite a spectacular show.
Uda Walawe
While this particular national park was created in order to protect the expansive reservoir in the area, one of the biggest attractions comes in the form of the Asian elephants that roam the lands here.
Image Credit: Family of Elephants in Sri Lanka
You'll get the chance to trek through the vast jungles and forest in the park, while most will be almost guaranteed to see some of the 500 elephants that take residence in the area. It's also a great spot for lovers of birds and reptiles, with the serpent eagle flying around the area.
While visiting, you'll also get chance to catch another staple of Sri Lankan culture – the famous tea plantations. With the hillsides covered in the plants, you'll catch sight of the traditional work of the area. Check out the Ella hill area for great views of the tea plantations, lush mountains and beautiful waterfalls!
Besides all of the amazing wildlife in this tiny country, there are many other reasons why Sri Lanka is an amazing travel destination. We spent three weeks there and loved every minute of it. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and book your flight…now is the perfect time to visit Sri Lanka.
For more information on travelling to this diverse country, check out our Budget Guide To Backpacking Sri Lanka.
Disclaimer: Some links in this article are affiliate links, which means that if you purchase through them, we receive a small commission. This will never cost you extra and in many cases you receive a special discount. We appreciate your support!


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Adapting your brand to stay ahead of the competition.
Evolution of a brand is key to survival. Over time, a company's ethos changes, design styles adapt, new trends come in to play, old trends appear dated and the way you want to communicate with your target market changes.
We have great experience in evolving brands. We push our clients to the next level, and aim above their competitors to ensure their brand stands out in the modern design climate.
We work closely with our clients to ensure their brand identity is relevant to their business, whilst providing a solution that allows them to stand out.
See some of our brand evolutions:

subset: commoncrawl


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junkcollectorBemidji, MN, US
Member Since: 12/04/2008
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A "Junky Little Valentine"
What better way to celebrate Valentine's Day than with a little "Junk for you and your Sweetheart!
A little Christmas in "The Barn"
It's a wonderful time of year...yet sad as this will be the last occcasional sale of the year at "The Barn" in Bemidji, MN November 6th and 7th 10 am -4 pm. Hope to see you there, we will miss you...
Welcome Fall!
Barn Chics Sale Friday October 2nd and Saturday October 3rd at 5032 Irvine Ave. Bemidji, MN...Hope to see you there!
Fall Floral Arrangement
A fall floral put together with some vintage treasures and placed at our front door to greet our Fall guests.
New item for upcoming "Barn Chic" Sale August 21 & 22
The "Barn Chics" are having a sale August 21st from 9-6 and August 22nd from 9-1 at 5032 Irvine Ave. If you can't make it to "The Barn" to see our fun treasures we will be at the Bemidji Women's Expo...
Coffee time!
Recycle, recycle, recycle!! Just having a little fun with some recycled windows and coffee bean sacks. A fun and easy addition to any kitchen!
"Barn Chics" July Sale
"The Barn Chics" are having a sale! If you live in or happen to be visiting in beautiful northern Minnesota stop by and see "The Barn Chics" at 5032 Irvine Ave. Bemidji, MN. The sale is Friday...
The "Barn Chics"
The "Barn Chics" (Linda Larson and Diane Beste) held their first occasional sale June 5-6, 2009 at "The Barn" located at 5032 Irvine Ave. Bemidji, MN. The "Barn Chics" sell...
Wine cabinet
This project started out with a vintage radio cabinet. The center was removed along with the radio and a wine rack was built and inserted in it's place. The piece was painted black, distressed and...
What time is it?
I came across this vintage timer at the Goodwill and knew it had to come home with me. I was not sure why but knew it would find a home! With thoughts of spring I thought once again of the birds...
Waiting for spring!!
While doing some junking I came across this old potato/onion bin and thought it needed a new life! I gave it a fresh coat of paint stenciled some lettering on it distressed it a bit and now it...
Home, again!
Just a few more and that's all folks!!
Home for the Holidays!
Our home is ready for the holidays and waiting for guests. This is some of the decorating done from vintage pieces collected from family, flea markets and garage sales. It has been very fun to...
No mantle-no problem!
I made this project for my Son and his Wife for Christmas because they have no fireplace to hang their stockings on. An old window, some vinyl lettering, glass etching, hooks and some chain for...
Simple Treasures
Just a few treasures decorated for Christmas.
Northwoods Christmas tree
Living in northern Minnesota we decided to do a winter theme for our tree. It is so easy to decorate with most of the items being large it doesn't take much time at all. The garland is grapevine and...
My sunrrom at Christmas
Here are some photos of my sunroom decorated for Christmas/winter. As you can see I have been collecting junk/treasures and like to display them throughout my home. Through the window you can see the...
Christmas wash tub
This is my first post thanks to Krista at Snowman Hill who said I should join the rest of the junkers at Junkmaarket Style (went to her Christmas Sale the day after Thanksgiving-what a treat!). The...
Recent comments
Re: A "Junky Little Valentine"
Thank you so much for the great comments, it is so much fun to share on this site with such talented people. Santa Clause , I used E600 industrial glue on the candle holder and ceiling light. Dana, the "Barn Chics" are hibernating with the bears until spring as the barn has no heat...we'll keep you posted in the spring! Diane
Re: Hey, Hey, Hey . . . It's a Holiday Hay Rack!
Love this Lani...another great marriage and a wonderful inspiration! It was great to see you once again at Second Hand Rose, it was a great sale!
Re: Framing Up Vintage Bus Scrolls
Congratulations on making your true passion also your "day job" as we all know there will be many mores hours put into this than any day job, but oh so much more fun and good for the soul! The signs are awesome and we all look forward to future inpsiration from you Jenny, you truly have a knack and there is no doubt you will be going places...keep us posted on the journey!
Re: A Gift for the Music Teacher
Sue, The pictures are beautiful but not near as nice as they are in person. I was at Second Hand Rose on Thursday and picked up on of these lovelies for my Daughter in Law for Christmas. She has a player piano and did not have any music for it. This will make a wonderful Christmas gift for her...Thank you!
Re: Reel-ly Fun New Plant Stand...
Love your hose reel/plant stand! I am thinking you must have been at the Junk Bonanza this past weekend. I did not see the hose reel there but I had the ring bell for service sign in my hands set it down and when I came back later it was gone! Had a great time at the Bonanza hope you did too and Enjoy your sign it looks great!!
Re: Coffee time!
Lucky enough our local Dunn Bros. Coffee leaves them out for customers to have, check your local coffee houses most of them toss them out!!
Re: Junkin' is the "SPICE" of life!
Love this idea, it is sooo cute and useful besides!! It was great to visit with you at "The Barn Chics" sale on Saturday. Can't wait to hear when your fall sale will be, be sure to let us know! If you want to hook up the trailer and head down to Iowa give me a call!! Maybe we will see you in Oranoco or Shakopee. Be well and keep showing us those great ideas!!
Re: It's a Reel Lamp
This is quite a creation --I love it!! You come up with the most amazing combinations! Thanks for sharing your talents.
Re: Meat Slicer Book Rack
What a fun idea, it is just great!! Would love to see more or your great ideas!
Re: My Painted Furniture
Very nice painting-I can't decide if I would rather be a princess or a pilot!!!! Love them all.
Re: Ice Tongs Paper Towel Holder
Very clever idea--love it!
Re: Texas and Gatherings ... and Lightheartedness
Sounds like it's going to be an exciting time in Texas!! Would love to make it to Round Top this year but have other plans-darn. Your displays are really great, I especialy love the bird nest and oh the aquarium too!! Great job!
Re: Rusted light by Singer
This is great! I love the it!
Re: Spring spring wreath!
Very cooool!!! Love the use of the springs, you did an awesome job of pulling all the objects together and letting everyone know that spring is coming!!
Re: Play the Music, Not the Instrument
Jenny, Jenny, Jenny, you are amazing!!! Your talents are never ending and so are your resources for junk!! This piece is great, I long some day just to have the parts and pieces for a project like this, much less the brain to think of it!!
Great work.
Re: Suitcase Stack Plant Stand
Great display of some beautiful pieces!
Re: Vintage Leather Suitcase
Great display!! We keep getting little bits and pieces of your home and it's amazing!! You are an extremely talented man and I hope you continue to share your wonderful projects.Thank you for sharing.
Re: "Tools"
You are not only a junker, you are an amazing artist. This sculpture is soooo cool! Great Job!!!
Re: A project you can really hook your wagon to!
What a great idea, love the added clothes line, too, how cute!
Re: "Old School Argyle" Night/End/Occassional Table
This is great!! The argyle is amazing and you used such great colors, too!! thanks for sharing.
Re: From SCHOOL to "COOL"
Love it, love it, love it--you Junk Fest ladies do a great job!! Had never heard of you until you showed up on this site, my calender is marked for your next sale!!
Re: Big Giant Pulley Wreath...For Candy
Bigger is sometimes better!! Isn't it fun to see something you love and realize that you have the parts make it for yourself! love the giant wheel!! Happy holidays.
Re: Junk Built Wreaths
Great wreaths Candy!! They are all great but I really like the 49-cent wire wreath-simple elegants that doesn't block your wonderful view! Happy Holidays.
Re: More on "Etching"
What a great idea! I would like to see what you will do with it for other seasons-so many possibilies!! thanks for sharing the steps you used to make it.
Re: Going Green? I'm GONE!
Love your GREENhouse window! The greens are truely beautiful and the colander idea is awesome. Love it!
Re: Oh Christmas Tree! Oh Christmas Tree!
What a wonderful way to disply your vintage ornaments, the white trees really show them off! I also love how you have displayed multiple trees near each other-looks great!! When you fill that bicyle backet be sure to give us a peek, I'm sure it will be incredible. Happy holidays.
Re: Rustic candelier "dooded" up for Christmas
What great piece and I love your imagination-not many would of thought of the upside down thing or a chandelier for that matter!! It looks wonderful, great work.
Re: Vintage ornament display - better than Cake!
Your putzing paid off, it looks great and it's even better than cake--eye candy without the calories!Happy holidays!
Re: On Newsstands Now!
Congratulations on the new venture!! I can't wait to get my hands on this!! Probably a good thing it comes out after Christmas or I wouldn't get any Christmas decorating, shopping or baking done!
Happy holidays and best of luck with your ventures in the coming year.
Re: Northwoods Christmas tree
Thanks so much-the skis are also a favorite of mine a gift from my sister (the one whose husband went dumpster diving for me!). I love her-I think she loves me, too!!
Happy Holidays,
Re: Simple Treasures
Thanks for the support Ladies-it's always fun to share!
Re: What to Bring the Hostess
Sue, This project is great! So nice that it is personalized, any hostess would love it!! I don't think it would be the same if you didn't use the moss or the lime green rocks, they really are great with the paperwhite. Where did you find the rocks, they are awesome? I also noticed the stitching-is that hand painted?
I have used both the etching cream and frosted spray in a can, both work great but the etching cream is permenant and the spray can be removed with paint thinner or a razor blade for a small project. Just something to keep in mind if you are working on a piece that you may someday want to put back to it's orignal state.
Re: No Wonder this took so long -- It's three things in one!
This really is a great lamp and as you said three projects in one! The shade is awesome paired with the camera!
Re: Let's Go Skating!!
The skates look great with the stenciling and the ribbon for laces adds a very nice touch and I love the punches of red along with the greens. Nice work!
Re: Joy To The World
What a wonderful piece! I love everything about it. A great project to do with an old window.
Re: Gliding into Winter
What a great glider, love how you added the wreath and greens and also the snow! A great find and a bargain,too!
Re: Finally Got Those Skis Done!
The skis look great and I also love the door fronts hanging on the wall. The old screens are fun too, espeially because the old screens were actually metal and can be used to display anything with a magnet on it.
Re: My sunrrom at Christmas
Hello Ladies! I would like to say thanks for the comments, it has been very fun to hear from you. Lanette, I purchased the potting bench at a garage sale in Grand Forks, ND. I believe the gal is now part of Plain and Fancy Antique mall. And, if it is indeed picture #3 that Amy was asking about then you win the prize-it is a cream seperator! Amy if it's the third picture, the piece on the floor is bent pitch fork with a bird house attached, other that that I would need a little more direction as to what you are questioning.
Re: Oh There's No Place Like Home for the Holidays!
You are truely an inspiration!! I can't pick a favorite thing because each and every thing you have done is wonderful. I missed your open house (I was in Mpls, but the timing was wrong). Seeing your photos I can at least get a glimpse of what I missed. I have been to your blog and have enjoyed the photos there also.
Re: SCREEN DOOR ANYONE
Love them, wish I had a spot to use something as cool as this
in my home!
Re: Vintage Pennant Ornaments
Great idea, any more awesome trees to show us?
Re: Repurposed glass decanter bottle tops turned into Christmas ornaments.
What a georgious idea! Be sure to let us see them in the window after Christmas, I am sure they will be stunning!
Re: A vintage Christmas - just a peek...
Great ideas-keep 'em coming! So little time so many ideas--I find it hard to decorate with all of the great ideas here I continually want to start over!!
Re: A Junky Holiday Coaster Ornament
Simply adorable!!
Re: Fargo Road Trip!
If you haven't been there yet, trust me it is truly worth the trip! Kriss also did a house for the Christmas Tour of Homes and did a wonderful job-I drove to Fargo for the show just to see her work in a real home and it was even better than seeing her shop-great job Kriss!! And Kriss, if you're out there-Dave says "Hi".


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Quota System Boosts Irish; Doping Talk In Simple Terms; Top JTG Stories Of The Week
Funniest Moments in Athletics History From premature celebrations to drunken athletes, pole vault pandemonium to Carl Lewis singing, check out athletics' funniest moments. Part 1: Here Part 2: Here No more Chinese whispers – Setting the doping record straight It's been a torrid couple of weeks for athletics in the
"I'm gonna f***ing kill you"; Nike Athletics Director Capriotti allegedly issued death threats
John Capriotti, who is one of the most powerful figures in world athletics, threatened to kill a head coach of a rival brand at the USA Track and Field Championships in June, it has been alleged. Details of the death threat were made public today after Letsrun.com gained access to the police
Adidas Blocks Athletes From Representing USA
Athletes running forAdidas at the Monaco diamond league were told that they could not represent the USA in the 4x100m relay because it would mean wearing Nike kit. Mike Rodgers, who ran on the USA 'A' team, told Flotrack how the USA 'B' team couldn't race because Adidas athletes Trell
How doping stole my innocence
Joe Rafferty is a former junior international athlete who has worked within the athletics industry for over 14 years. Nike's re-signing of Justin Gatlin has left this athletics aficionado in a spin and he wrote us a blog to chart the process. Drugs and athletics, athletics and drugs. Like death
Ó Lionáird's blog: the fall is history, time to rise again
With the calendar now turned to a new year, and a surprisingly healthy appetite emerging out of my request for blog ideas on Twitter, it's time to get the finger out and kick off what I hope will be a satisfactory, if not mildly insightful, peek into my journey towards
American wunderkind Cain turns pro and signs with PACE
After a spectacular track season in which she became the youngest athlete to represent Team USA in the World T&F Championships, Mary Cain today announced that she will become a professional athlete. The American high school star had an exceptional year in 2013 setting three American Junior Records in the


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Bump Armor Stay-In Case
The Stay-In Case allows you to have quick access to your Chromebook, MacBook Air, or small laptop without having to remove it from the case. Simply open and work directly from this case. Because you do not need to remove your device, the chance of damage is minimized. This truly portable work station is durable, lightweight, and provides excellent protection. Grip risers elevate your device, ensuring optimum airflow during use, keeping your Chromebook or laptop cool. An exterior pocket provides space for basic accessories such as power cords, cables and more.
- Compact design with outstanding protection.
- Durable exterior ripstop nylon surface.
- High density foam provides great drop & bump protection.
- Rigid frame, foam padding throughout & reinforced corrugated plastic siding.
- Long lasting commercial quality zippers.
- Exterior pocket for power cords & accessories.
- Removable padded shoulder strap.
- Built in ID window.
- 12" case accommodates device up to 12.00" x 8.75" x 1.20"
- 13" case accommodates device up to 12.90" x 10" x 1.50"
- 15" case accommodates device up to 14.60" x 10.5" x 1.50"


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Are Patterns like Mummies?
I remember, that almost every software development magazine addressed patterns regularly and enthusiastically in the Nineties. The GoF became the Beatles of architects and developers. And most experts anticipated a myriad of new patterns rising at the horizon.
Actually, several pattern books have been published until now, but without the impact the GoF had. If you ask software engineers about the patterns they know, almost all will mention GoF patterns, many may illustrate some POSA patterns as well, and only a few will come up with other patterns such as those in Martin Fowlers book on Enterprise patterns.
This could suggest, that no other important patterns can be found in software habitats anymore, because GoF already got them all. But even if this were the case for general purpose design patterns, shouldn't there be some excellent patterns lurking in more specific domains? Pattern experts have tried to come up with complete pattern languages for their domains. In theory, such pattern languages are beneficial. In practice, it is impossible to cover a medium to large-sized domain with a pattern language because of the inherent complexity involved. Thus, it is not surprising that existing languages cover only tiny domains or fail to completely cover larger domains.
Does the whole universe only know the GoF patterns and that's it? In this case the seminal GoF book would be the holy grail of software development. If not, where do all the unknown patterns hide?
Let us assume we are asked to improve the GoF book, what exactly would we change. Patterns like the Null Object Pattern or the Extension Interface pattern (see POSA Vol. 2) could be added, the Singleton pattern removed and other patterns such as Abstract Factory improved. Patterns are not carved in stone but subject to future changes, albeit not with a high evolution speed.
If you look at patterns from 30000 feet, you'll recognize that there are some benefits of patterns not related to coding.
Pattern forms are a good mental tool to document design. For example, they comprise a name, a context, a problem with forces, and a solution. This helps document all kinds of architecture decisions in a structured way
Patterns are also applicable to document best practices for transformations, data representations, and many other topics. For example, each refactoring can be considered a transformation pattern. Best Practices are ideal candidates for patterns
Patterns introduce an idiomatic viewpoint, as they define a language. Effective usage of software platforms in terms of best practices for frameworks, libraries, APIs and protocols are idiomatic as well. Experience shows that idiomatic approaches help better understand structures and concepts. In software engineering all structures are idiomatic. Languages change and so do Patterns.
The value of patterns is not their content, but also their usage as good mental tools, with the capability of addressing all activities. Patterns help share best practices with others. They unfold a language of idioms that provide understandability, maintainability.
Patterns are dead. Long live patterns.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad


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June 8th Worker Forum
June 9, 2014|Posted in: Uncategorised
On Sunday June 8th Justicia for Migrant Workers (J4MW) in conjunction with the Windsor Workers' Education Centre held a worker forum. We brought together migrant workers and non-union, out of work or under-employed low wage workers in Windsor/Essex to discuss the system of exploitation that affects all workers in varying degrees.
Over food and after introductions, J4MW organizer Chris Ramsaroop led a discussion on the globalized workplace. Workers were from Mexico, Indonesia, St Lucia, Jamaica, Burundi, Ethiopia and Windsor/Essex. Truly, the workers of the world united for a couple of hours at the workers' centre!
The discussion began with a description of words used by politicians and corporations; words like austerity, tax cuts, restructuring, privatization, globalization, and streamlining. Workers discussed how labour and immigration policies are formulated using language meant to hide the damage done to social relationships in the workplace and society at large. For example, wealthy greenhouse growers give excess food away to food banks while they claim a healthy tax break.
Workers also reflected on the causes of migrant labour where local economies are subsumed to the needs of the global economy. Migrant workers, perhaps especially Mexican workers, are unable to find work in at home because of free trade agreements that sacrifice local farming for low wage manufacturing plants that feed consumer needs in North America. Mexican workers themselves become a commodity as cheap labour right in our backyard.
Workers also discussed the need for the complete overhaul of labour and immigration laws where the right to work for a living wage and other benefits should be extended to ALL workers, and a route to full citizenship should be guaranteed for all who want to immigrate and become full citizens of Canada.
What was exciting about this gathering was the mix of workers: temporary foreign workers in the country under the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP), and local workers either born in Canada or established immigrants with full citizenship. The workers discovered that the power imbalance in their workplaces, and their resulting struggles, were what they had in common. The workers with citizenship described the power imbalance they face in non-union manufacturing plants and having to hold down multiple minimum wage jobs that still leave them in poverty and precariousness. The foreign workers risk deportation if they try to challenge inequality, and Canadian workers risk being easily dismissed, a dire consequence in Windsor/Essex with high unemployment, if they speak out or try to organize in the workplace.
The SAWP workers described facing exploitation, isolation, and constant attacks on their dignity, both in their workplaces and in the communities in which they live. One Mexican worker described being subject to a racist attack when he was hit by a bottle in downtown Leamington thrown by locals. Racist attacks such as this are common occurances. A worker originally from St Lucia described his battle against racism and how he won a Human Rights complaint against his former employer.
The workers engaged in a frank discussion on how foreign workers are stereotyped, where if they are in agriculture the perception is that is all they are good for. The foreign workers are held in servitude to one employer and have no mobility or right to seek other employment. It is the constructed power imbalance that all non-union workers face that is the feature most common between Canadian and foreign workers.
Where Latin and Asian workers are held in servitude in agricultural work, Canadian workers of colour, and most common, female workers of colour, face hurdles in the workplace. A Windsor citizen, an established immigrant from Ethiopia, experienced bullying and harassment when she sought a promotion to a job that paid 50 cents per hour more. She observed this happening to others over almost 20 years on the job. Her dignity was assaulted simply because supervisors thought she was stepping out of place. She discovered he has little recourse under existing labour laws to challenge the employer.
An Essex area worker was dismissed from his job even as the employer hired temporary foreign workers from Tunisia – an allegation the employer denied in the media, yet the worker talked at length with the Tunisian workers. Even with his dismissal and that of several others, he knows the fault does not lie with the foreign workers, rather with policy makers and unscrupulous employers.
As the forum wound down the workers concluded that sharing stories was key to building understanding and solidarity. They were also aware that sharing stories more broadly would require speaking to the media which has its own logic in slanting stories in ways that continue the stereotyping of workers, and especially foreign workers, as passive victims powerless to change their circumstances.
But the workers revealed they are well aware of their circumstances and well aware that their circumstances are the result of policy – deliberate choices – by those in power. Resistance and the will to change policy is the ultimate goal of meetings like this, and the need to challenge the dominat theme of victimhood requires that workers get to tell their stories their way. The workers were determined to follow-up this successful meeting with a planned get together in Leamington on July 13th.
For a couple of hours over food and dialogue workers from around the world were on equal terms in the workers' centre, a space that is meant as a hub for education, advocacy, information sharing, safety, and relationship building. Such a hub can help workers counter the neo-liberal global economic framework of systemic inequality, injustice and the de-basement of social relationships created and maintained by corporate leaders and their political allies.
Workers can and must be the leaders of change by transcending structural inequality and finding common ground.
Dalam Solidaritas!
En solidaridad!
En solidarité !
In Solidarity !
Paul Chislett
Board president WWEC, member at large Social Justice Windsor District Labour Council. President, Global Resource Centre.
Leave a Reply


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Fourth quarter projections have the Russell 2000 (INDEXRUSSELL:RUT) staying flat with no annual growth this quarter, the Russell Mid-Cap (INDEXRUSSELL:RMCC) hitting 5% growth, and the Russell 2500 (INDEXRUSSELL:R25I) edging up with 2% growth, but those projections could be a conservative reaction to mixed news, leaving plenty of room for positive surprise.
Small and Mid-Cap indices growth
"Q3 actuals ended up higher than projected in that quarter's preview. At the same time, Q4's earnings growth is below that projected headed into Q3 results," writes Citi analyst Scott T. Chronert. "Analysts responded to solid positive surprise trends for Q3 by holding full-year expectations. But, we also suspect that a mixed holiday season and weather issues have influenced estimates. We view current expectations as setting up for solid positive surprise trends."
The 2014 consensus projections are for the Russell 2000 (INDEXRUSSELL:RUT) to grow 17%, the Russell Mid-Cap (INDEXRUSSELL:RMCC) to grow by 10%, and the R2500 by 15%. "As is typical, growth is back-half loaded," writes Chronert. "We view Russell 2000 and Russell 2500 (INDEXRUSSELL:R25I) projections as somewhat aggressive, with Russell Mid-Cap closer to being right-sized."
Watch out for earnings skew
But just knowing that the Russell 2000 (INDEXRUSSELL:RUT) is poised for a positive surprise this quarter or strong growth in 2014 isn't enough to tell you where to invest, because the disparity in earnings from company to company can be immense.
"As is typically the case, Russell 2000 (INDEXRUSSELL:RUT) earnings are defined by a smaller number of companies," writes Chronert. For this quarter it's projected that just 400 companies will account for two-thirds of earnings for the entire index. With such a big disparity in performance, Chronert advises to be careful when looking at any aggregate data for the Russell 2000 index.
Lowest Buy-rated PEs on the index
PennyMac Financial Services Inc (NYSE:PFSI), West Corp (NASDAQ:WSTC), and Medley Capital Corp (NYSE:MCC) are the only stocks that Citi rates as a Buy with less than 10x PE and a market cap under $6 billion, and PFSI is also one of the three cheapest Buy rated stocks as measured by price-to-book value (again with market cap under $6 billion), along with Triple-S Management Corp. (NYSE:GTS) and UCP Inc (NYSE:UCP). After a year of steady multiple expansions, Buy-rated stocks that haven't yet seen their valuation increase could be a good place to start looking for a deal.


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Parties: Seths and the Hollywood Supperclub
By Jeffrey Edward Peters
The Supperclub Los Angeles is one of Hollywood's hot new trendy venues (perhaps the first "trenue?"). Based on the original Supperclub in Amsterdam, the retrofitted Vogue Movie Theatre on Hollywood Boulevard has been transformed by its new owners into a blank canvas. Bars, couches, beds, floors, walls, and ceiling are pure white. In the words of the designer, "The color we add to it will shape it. This way, it can become anything!" And what a show it has become. At the opening night gala on December 2, 2010, the Carnivale/Mardi Gras/Cabaret atmosphere included a zebra, stilt walkers, midgets, sky dancers, performance artists, floor dancers, a pantomime tiger, strobe lights, and house music punctuated by celebrity sightings, hot pants, and cool cocktails.
The first bar has taken over the former concession stand and now serves specialty treats designed to showcase the sponsor of the night. Magnums of Belvedere Vodka and chilled Veuve Cliquot Champagne are the VIP package bottles of choice, but Grey Goose Vodka was on full display at the opening. The rest rooms and control tower are located upstairs on the second floor, the action being controlled from the old projection booth. High in the building's rafters are the catwalk and the winches for their aerial bottle service and sky dancers. Supper is served at the tables and beds in the main room, which later converts into a massive DJ-fueled dance floor following the dinner service.
The question on Hollywood hipster's lips is "how do I get in?" Cocktails start at 7pm followed promptly by a four-course dinner at 8pm served by Chef Guus Wickenhagen Wednesdays through Saturdays. Dinner and cocktails costs $75 per person, not including drinks and gratuity. Make reservations by calling 323-466-1900. If you want to book a bed in the main club for the evening packages run from $1,500 to $10,000, so a lot of hard cash or high cred helps. A bed and three bottles will run you and nine of your closest friends $2,500 at their upcoming New Year's Eve Party, Zero Gravity (http://zero-gravity-supperclubla.eventbrite.com/).
Right now, the Supperclub LA is THE happening PR party space for promoters and sponsors. Everyone is working this smoking-hot club. The soft-opening events leading up to the grand opening included parties for Ladytron and the Buzz Girls, as well as the launch of the club's Wednesday in-house party known as "Graffiti and Glamour."
Since the official opening, the Supperclub has been host to even more exclusive bashes like Diddy Dirty Money's private album-release party, Maxim X's "Call of Duty presents Maximum Warrior," and the Family Guy: It's A Trap! DVD and Blu-Ray release party.
The mish mash mosh pit was full of Christmas, "Star Wars," and "Family Guy" during my second visit to Supperclub LA on December 14 at the DVD release party for Fox's Family Guy: It's A Trap! (available Dec. 21). Christmas carolers, Rockettes, polar bears, photos with Brian Griffin as Santa with Mrs. Claus, Adult Chocolate Milk maids, and a chocolate-fountain fondue popped up in corners around the room. Luke, Leia, and "Star Wars" storm troopers flew across the sky and danced with light sabers. Dr. Drew Pinsky was in attendance for the Christmas stew (Stewie?) and said, "I'm a big fan of 'Family Guy,' and my kids really love it. I've seen the first two 'Star Wars' parodies and I can't wait to see the third!"
Seth Green made an appearance, enjoying his bed-edge perch while posing for pictures with fans. Seth MacFarlane himself held court at a corner bed while fans of "Family Guy," "The Cleveland Show," and "American Dad" surrounded him, snapping quick pics and peppering him with questions. In addition to the new Family Guy: It's A Trap! release, MacFarlane has just cut an album of Rat Pack standards and seemed overwhelmed at the Fellini-esque party.
"This is crazy," MacFarlane bellowed over the music, "who could believe that my entire career has led to this fantastic party?"
"Can I quote you on that?" I asked.
"I'm being totally sarcastic," he replied.
"I know. That's why I want to quote you."
Bill Maher seemed to agree with McFarlane. He stopped by and took a fast photo with the Coca-Cola polar bear, but then he and his date quickly made plans to catch a late movie. The party crowd danced on, mesmerized by eye candy and drunk on the spectacle, which is exactly what the Supperclub experience is all about.
To watch video coverage of the Family Guy: It's a Trap! DVD release party go to YouTube.
For further information on upcoming events or to make reservations at Supperclub LA visit their website.
Photos by Jeffrey Edward Peters/Supperclub LA.
[Jeffrey Edward Peters is an actor, director, producer, writer and artist, not necessarily in that order. He is the executive producer and host of Comicology TV. ]


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The Turbo Pot® FreshAir™ 8.1-quart Stock Pot is perfect for crafting generous portions of soups, stocks, pastas and beans, boiling seafood, stewing and even rendering bone broth. The FreshAir™ 8.1-quart Stock Pot is constructed of durable 304-grade stainless steel and is engineered to outperform the competition. Its intelligent design incorporates heat exchanger technology into the base of the cookware: dramatically improving heat transfer into the pot and optimizing fuel efficiency.
Turbo Pot® heats up quickly and evenly in 30% - 50% less time than standard stockpots. The patented aluminum heat exchanger at the base of the pot is highly conductive and offers superior heat distribution over the typical aluminum core design of traditional plied cookware. This improved heat transfer capability significantly reduces hot spots and scalding at the base of the pot and will achieve a vigorous boil even at low burner input rates
As the energy efficient fins channel more heat inside the pot, less escapes around the sides: intelligently minimizing unwanted heat gain to the handles (or into your kitchen!). The hollow design of the handles further aids in keeping them cooler to the touch while an impact-resistant tempered glass lid allows you to conveniently monitor cooking without lifting.
Turbo Pot® cookware saves an impressive amount of natural gas fuel and reduces cooking-related emissions of indoor air pollutants, like carbon monoxide (CO) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2). This is a smart way to keep your indoor air quality fresh and healthy. By reducing fossil fuel consumption with every meal made, the FreshAir™ Stock Pot helps to combat Climate Change and is a must-have for a sustainable lifestyle.
Have fun, experiment, and enjoy new culinary adventures with the Turbo Pot® FreshAir™ Stock Pot!
Model number RS3004
|RS3004 StockPotforHome
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6.1 lbs.
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12.5" x 11.5" x 9"
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Premium Content
Road Project May Be Delayed, but Silver Grove Pursues New Walking Trail
Silver Grove City Council got an update on projects related to Four Mile Road and Mary Ingles Highway (KY 8)
Justin Verst, of engineering firm Viox and Viox, told council that he wished that he had better news, but that the city still hadn't received the necessary right-of-way approval from Frankfort to move forward with the Four Mile project. He added that while all plans had been approved, Kentucky Transportation Secretary Greg Thomas hadn't formally signed off on the project.
Verst said it may come to the point that the Route 8 project gets completed before the Four Mile project depending on when approvals go through.
""It may get to the point where we say, Do we want to put them out to bid together, or do we want to get Route 8 out for bid, get the construction going and hopefully Four Mile can catch up to it,'" Verst said.
Verst said that they were out last week spray painting the path of the Route 8 sidewalk and getting feedback from citizens on the path of the sidewalk.
Their plan is to build the sidewalk 10 feet back from the road so that people are still able to park in their yards between the sidewalk and road if they wish.
Several council members brought up issues of drainage on previously constructed sidewalks along Route 8. They came to the conclusion after much discussion that it would have to be reconstructed to allow for proper drainage.
Verst said that the cost would likely range between $80,000 and $100,000. He will be drafting plans for the replacement to present to the council at next month's meeting.
Community and Economic Development Direct Robert Yoder presented a plan to the council and community members to create a walking trail behind Sayers Park.
""It's a nice, friendly little woods area," Yoder said.
Yoder made the presentation so that he will now be able to apply for a grant that will pay for 80 percent of the $68,000 project, meaning that the city would only be responsible for around $14,000 worth of the project.
The trail will encompass a small pond that many wondered if community members would be allowed to fish in. Yoder said they still need to do studies to see if there are fish in the pond or if it has the potential to be a small pay lake.
A vast majority of the proposed trail is already cleared from a city project decades ago, but the city would bring in clay dirt and gravel, to help build up the trail and assist with draining.
The grant proposal is due by March 31 and Yoder said the city should know if it received the grant in about 6 months. The project will take three to five weeks to complete and will be started in the fall or next spring depending on when they find out about the grant.
The council unanimously passed a resolution allowing Yoder to move forward with the grant process.
Mayor Neal Bedel informed council that the fire department is asking the city to annex a stretch of Four Mile Road near the Silver Grove city limit so that it can purchase a 23-acre plot to build a new firehouse.
According to Bedel, the fire department would only need a small portion of the land and the city would be able to sell the rest of the land to turn a profit for the city.
Other Notes:
Silver Grove code enforcement will be putting liens on up to four properties around town that have been in continued violation of various city ordinances, even after receiving warnings.
There is also an extensive list of homes that will be receiving warning letters to correct a variety of issues with their homes or they could also face liens against their property.


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|Following are examples of our work. These are all pdf files. If you need a copy of Adobe Acrobat click here.
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Well I am on holidays for a few weeks now to coincide with the school holidays, and I have been sitting back sipping a few sherberts with the family over the last few days and that will continue for the next few days. Because of this I have not looked at any modelling in the shed. It has been great catching up with one of my Brother-in-law and my nieces and nephews and their spouses and families. No doubt I will catch up with more in the next week. It is just a great time.
As mentioned above, although I did get my AMRM mag about 10 days back, and I was stirred onto doing some modelling because of some of the articles in that issue, but I have decided that I will just sit back and de-stress from work, at least this first week of my holidays. Plenty of things to do with the kids. Go to the beach, kick the football, have a swim in the pool, go for a run with Paige in the morning in preparation for the school cross country in 3 weeks. And I have a few railway related mags to catch up on.
So this morning the Easter Bunny delivered some chocolate to the kids and myself and the wife. It's amazing how that bugger gets inside the house! Well I suppose it is the same way that ants and other insects get in.
Happy Easter everyone.


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At eight years old, Ivan and his family moved to Oklahoma City, and it's the experiences here that have shaped who he is today. Ivan's artistic abilities truly began developing in grade school and high school. He won multiple art competitions, and as his talent and creativity flourished, so did his passion for expressing it. In high school, his graphic design teacher gave him the freedom to explore various design applications and even create his own assignments. This freedom led Ivan to discover what his career would one day be.
He began pursuing his newfound passion for graphic design at Oklahoma City Community College, where he got a deep dive into a variety of software programs. He later refined his skills and knowledge at the University of Central Oklahoma – a place that challenged him to think conceptually and constantly pushed him to explore new ideas and concepts. As he cultivated these skills, Ivan sought ways to incorporate his passion for illustration, fashion and photography into each project.
Now a full-time designer at Saxum, Ivan still pursues only the most creative ideas he can think up. Outside of work, he continues chasing creativity, collaborating with Blackout Co., a group of creative individuals who concept and execute fashion photography projects.


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7th Science – Bob Edgar
7th Grade Science
COURSE DESCRIPTION: The seventh grade science curriculum consists of an integrated study of science. The textbook focuses on many subject areas: Earth, space, physical and health sciences. The primary goal of this class is for students to recognize how these areas are related and how each fits into our daily lives.
I hold an Associate of Arts Degree from the Northern Oklahoma College in Tonkawa and a Bachelor of Science in Education from the University of Central Oklahoma in Edmond. I also hold endorsements in English, Mathematics, and Social Studies. I have worked in the Perry Public School System for eighteen years.
If you would like to reach me please email or click on my Daily Schedule in the menu to the right.
Thank You,
Bob E. Edgar


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Cybersecurity certifications are very often required for employment in cybersecurity jobs. Certifications benefit employers by identifying prospective employees with specific skill sets, and certifications help prospective employees stand out when applying for a job in the desirable and competitive cybersecurity job market.
Industry certifications are vendor-neutral (vendor certifications are for a vendor's specific products) and provide industry-recognized evidence of having a specific skill or specific experience in a particular subject area. Certifications generally are administered by independent accrediting organizations such as the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA), Global Information Assurance Certification (GIAC), the International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium, Inc. [(ISC)²], the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (now known solely as ISACA) and the EC Council.
There are cybersecurity certifications for a range of subjects (including network defense, ethical hacking, and forensics) at the basic (entry level), intermediate and expert levels.
- Entry level certifications provide knowledge of subjects such as industry principles and best practices, important tools, and the latest technologies.
- The intermediate and expert certifications are based on the premise that an employee already has extensive job experience and a thorough grasp of cybersecurity subject matter.
It is important to know that, regardless of the subject or level, industry-recognized cybersecurity certifications are valid across jobs and organizations and are independent of a specific vendor's products. Credentialing usually consists of training and a final exam. Renewing credentials generally must be done periodically after receiving additional education and passing a current exam.
The Importance and Value of Certification in the Cybersecurity Industry
As the nation's – and the world's – computer infrastructure systems and data systems come under increasing threats of cyberterrorism, there will continue to be a growing need for skilled and knowledgeable cybersecurity professionals. Experience and education in the field of cybersecurity are important considerations when an employer evaluates a potential employee, but employers also need documentation that verifies and quantifies a potential employee's skills and knowledge. They look for certification.
According to a recent CompTIA survey:
- 72 percent of employers prefer certifications for certain job roles
- 65 percent of employers use IT certifications to differentiate between equally qualified candidates
- 60 percent of organizations often use IT certifications to confirm a candidate's subject matter knowledge or expertise
- 66 percent of employers consider IT certifications to be very valuable
In its "Job Market Intelligence: Cybersecurity Jobs, 2015" report, burningglass.com found that cybersecurity positions are more likely to require certifications than other IT jobs. More specifically, 35 percent of cybersecurity jobs nationwide require an industry certification compared to 23 percent of IT jobs overall.
In the Baltimore-Washington market these figures have been found to be considerably higher, most likely because of:
- The area's deep involvement in government contracting
- The presence of the defense industry
- Advanced work in cybersecurity being carried out
- The high number of educational and other institutions in the area that offer certification training and accreditation.
As an illustration of employers' desire for certification, in 2014 there were nearly 50,000 postings for workers with a CISSP certification (the primary credential in cybersecurity – see Section III below). That amounts to three-quarters of all the people who hold that certification in the United States.
A definite indication of the value of certification can be found in the pay for cybersecurity positions. While it is impossible to determine with complete certainty how much of the pay for a specific position is dictated by the employee's certification status, actual and comparative salaries can be determined – and it's clear that employees with certifications are at the top of the pay scale.
Using data from the nationwide 2015 IT Skills and Salary Survey, John Hales of Global Knowledge found that five of the top-paying certifications across all IT areas were in the field of cybersecurity. Salaries for these five certifications are given below. The figures shown are averages based on nationwide figures; variations in the data were attributable to respondents' work location, years of experience and company type. Numbers like these serve to prove the value of certifications and their importance in the field of cybersecurity.
$119,227: Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC) certification
$118,348: Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
$110,603: Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
$106,181: Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
$95,155: Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
The Most Desired Cybersecurity Industry Certifications
The cybersecurity industry abounds with certifications, all of which are not equally useful or desirable. A recent survey by Semper Secure (a Commonwealth of Virginia private-public partnership formed to support the growth of the Commonwealth's cybersecurity industry) found that 85 percent of respondents, who were cybersecurity professionals, hold a professional certification. The most popular credentials in rank are:
- Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
- Cisco Certified Network Professional Security (CCNP Security) certification (a vendor certification)
- Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification.
There are many resources, surveys, and opinions on what are the best and/or most useful cybersecurity industry certifications. Except for the fact that CISSP (with its three concentrations of Architecture (CISSP-ISSAP), Engineering (CISSP-ISSEP) and Management (CISSP-ISSMP)) generally heads all lists, the rankings vary widely. SANS Global Information Assurance Certification Security Essentials Certification (GSEC) generally is ranked second and appears be rapidly catching up to CISSP. Other well-known and well-regarded certifications often mentioned by employers and cybersecurity consultants include Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), CompTIA Security+, and CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP).
Additional certifications that may be of interest to those in the cybersecurity industry include Certified Cyber Forensics Professional (CCFP), Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP), Certified Secure Software Lifecycle Professional (CSSLP), Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP), and Health Care Information Security and Privacy Practitioner (HCISPP).
Obtaining an Cybersecurity Industry Certification
Cybersecurity certification is necessary for security professionals seeking to develop their expertise, add to their credentials, broaden their skills and improve their job prospects. Cybersecurity professionals are, as a rule, highly educated; but a degree will only get you so far in this field. An IT security certification from a reputable third-party organization will almost certainly be required at some point to get the job you want.
Navigating the security certification landscape with its great number of available certifications can be a time-consuming experience. To simplify this experience, industry gurus suggest beginning your certification journey with a broad, level-entry security certification.
The following basic level certifications provide knowledge of computer security theory, operations, and practices and policies: Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP) certification, which will prepare you for the more-advanced CISSP, and CompTIA Security, a well-regarded entry-level certification.
After the basic certifications, it's time to pursue an advanced, senior-level certification. Most of these require three or more years of relevant, on-the-job experience. Many also require submitting papers or research results, passing exams, and taking specific classes. Three of the most highly sought-after advanced certifications are CISSP, SANS GSEC, and the Qualified Information Security Professional Certification. These generally require a significant commitment in terms of time and money, but they are required to an increasing degree by government agencies and cybersecurity industry heavy hitters.
The follow organizations (and private training firms and some universities) provide Cybersecurity Certifications:
- Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA)
- Global Information Assurance Certification (GIAC)
- International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium, [(ISC)²]
- Information Systems Audit and Control Association (now known solely as ISACA)
- EC Council.
- Certified Wireless Network Professional
- DRI International
- Information Assurance Certification Review Board
- International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium, Inc. (ISC²)
- Infotec Pro
- Learning Tree
- McAfee Institute
- Mile2
- Security University
- Logical Operations
- American Board for Certification in Homeland Security (ABCHS)
- Offensive Security
Of special interest to employees in the Baltimore-Washington area is the fact that the Federal Virtual Training Environment (FedVTE) offers free courses for government employees and veterans to prepare for certifications.
When you embark on obtaining certification, make sure that you thoroughly understand the qualifications and prerequisites required for the certification you are pursuing, the time commitment required for the study and hands-on work to be done during the certification process, the cost of the certification program, and how often re-certification must take place and how much re-certification will cost. That said, there's a lot to be gained from the certification process:
- Tested and verifiable proof of proficiency in your field.
- Higher salary and promotion potential.
- Entry into one of the largest communities of recognized information security professionals in the world.
- Access to unparalleled global resources, peer networking, mentoring, and a wealth of ongoing information security opportunities
Be sure to update your Cybrary profiles and resumes with a complete list of your certifications and skills. Then, see what companies are posting on the site or head over to Cybrary's Job Board to take the next step in your career.


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Debugging Android* OS running on Intel® AtomTM Processor via JTAG
JTAG Debugging
For true firmware, OS level system and device driver debug, using a JTAG interface is the most commonly used method in the embedded intelligent systems world. The Joint Test Action Group (JTAG) IEEE 1149.1 standard defines a "Standard Test Access Port and Boundary-Scan Architecture for test access ports used for testing printed circuit boards." This standard is commonly simply referred to as the JTAG debug interface. From its beginnings as a standard for circuit board testing it has developed into the de facto interface standard for OS independent and OS system level platform debug.
More background information on JTAG and its usage in modern system software stack debugging is available at in the article "JTAG 101; IEEE 1149.x and Software Debug".
From the OEM's perspective and that or their partner application and driver developers understanding the interaction between the driver and software stack components running on the different parts of the Systen-on-Chip (SoC) integrated intelligent system or smartphone form factor device is critical for determining platform stability, and from a silicon validator's perspective the low level software stack provides the test environment that exposes the ...
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Abbott Laboratories is preparing for the second-biggest off-label settlement in history with the U.S. Justice Department. The settlement would resolve an investigation into Depakote promotions after whistleblower lawsuits against Abbott were joined by the federal agency. The lawsuits allege that Abbott promoted the epilepsy drug Depakote, which is also approved for bipolar mania and as a migraine prevention treatment, for unapproved uses including as a treatment for autism, agitate and aggressive dementia, and sexual compulsions.
The whistleblowers claim the unapproved used were pushed in a variety of healthcare settings including assisted living facilities and long-term care facilities in the United States.
The Justice Department reported in court filings, that it has been involved in discussions with Abbott since June, to settle the investigation, the Wall Street Journal reported.
Recent off label drug settlements have been relatively small, however, a probe over allegations that Pfizer promoted Bextra and other drugs for unapproved uses resulted in a $2.3 billion settlement.
Currently, Abbott Laboratories is considering a full scale restructuring, including splitting the company into two separate companies, with the prescription drug and biologics side becoming one $18 billion in sales entity, while the remaining operations would stay under the Abbott name.


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Hamas Expects Half a Million at Gaza Rally Following Shalit Swap
Militant group closes Rafah crossing to civilian traffic; only television broadcast to cover the day's events will be Hamas' Al-Aqsa network.
Hamas is expecting a turnout of 500,000 people at the rally in Gaza City Tuesday, to welcome home prisoners being exchanged with Israel Defense Forces soldier Gilad Shalit.
During the rally, released prisoners will sit on a stage at the Al-Katiba square, along with senior Hamas officials. Construction of the stage has already been completed.
Despite the celebrations, there can also be found voices of criticism in Gaza about the prisoner exchange deal. A far greater number of Hamas-affiliated prisoners are to be released than those affiliated with Fatah, which is leading to a sense of discomfort among many citizens of Gaza. Although senior Fatah leader Abdallah Abu Samhadana will make a speech at today's rally, the absence of Marwan Barghouti from the list of prisoners being released overshadows Hamas' achievement.
Preparations for carrying out the deal were felt in almost every inch of the Gaza Strip Monday night. Dozens of members of the Hamas military force spread down Salah a-Din Street, which leads from the Rafah crossing to Gaza. Their job is to secure the convoy of buses transporting the released prisoners to the central rally in the middle of Gaza city.
Like Senior IDF Commander Tal Rosso, in charge of the Southern Command, who declared the passage areas to Gaza as a closed military zone, Hamas also announced Monday that it will close the Rafah crossing to civilians. The only television broadcast to cover the day's events will be Hamas' Al-Aqsa network. About one hundred senior officials will be permitted entry to the territory of the crossing where Hamas Prime Minister Ismail Haniyeh will welcome the prisoners.
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A man who has dedicated his career to improving the lives of children in care has been recognised with an OBE.
Robin Douglas, of Gaddesden Row, has been chairman of national charity The Who Cares? Trust for 15 years and he has worked for 35 years to ensure the voices of young people are heard.
In 1980, he joined the National Institute for Social Work to focus on improving residential care for children. He helped develop a complaints procedure in Westminster for children in care - only offered by one other London borough at the time.
From this work grew the Who Cares? magazine, which in 1985, was the first of its kind to be published. The Who Cares? Trust developed from the magazine, still published today.
Mr Douglas: "It is a great honour for the personal work of many years to be acknowledged, but much more importantly, it is the energy and commitment of many professionals, adults and children across the care system, who make the difference.
"These are the people who should really be recognised; and in particular the team at The Who Cares? Trust, and the young people in the care system, without whom progress would be much more limited.
"We call it 'the care system', but for many children in care or leaving care, we still have much to do to make this a reality."
Chief executive of The Who Cares? Trust Natasha Finlayson said:"We want to congratulate Robin on this thoroughly well-deserved honour.
"Chair of The Who Cares? Trust for 15 years, Robin is passionate about the need to respect the rights and listen to the voices of excluded young people and has infused the organisation with this perspective.
"We are delighted that his contribution to improving the lives of some of our most vulnerable children and young people, and the public services which support them, has been recognised in this way."


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Florida Drivers Love the New Subaru Outback SUV & We Have to Admit There's A Lot to Love!
The Outback gives you an efficient crossover option, able to attain excellent miles per gallon on the highway, which make it wallet and road trip friendly. Not only that, but you get a smooth ride thanks to the Subaru BOXER engine, and plenty of power and capability.
Inside, you'll find plenty of room for passengers and cargo, and technology is there to help you with your driving experience, and entertain. With the Outback, those in Lakeland, Brandon, Winter Haven, Plant City, and Lake Wales, FL can find a rear-vision camera, available navigation, Subaru STARLINK to integrate apps, Bluetooth for hands-free calling and texting, and the convenience of a power liftgate.
There's also safety available here at our new Subar dealership, as the Outback, like all other new Subaru vehicles, like Subaru EyeSight Driver Assistance Technology, which will automatically apply the brakes if it senses the danger of a frontal collision.
What's new for the 2017 Subaru Outback?
A number of new enhancements have been made for the 2017 model year, including the debut of Touring trim level with low-profile roof rails, leather upholstery, a heated steering wheel, and more. Alloy wheels are now standard on all trim levels, and the already impressive available EyeSight suite of driver assistance technologies now includes reverse automatic braking and automated high beam control.
Auto Loan & Lease Options for your New Subaru
Think the new Outback is the right car for you? You can get started on the financing process from the comfort of your own home. Simply visit our Finance Center page to fill out an application. By getting the ball rolling on paperwork before arriving at the dealership, you can spend less time in front of a desk and more time behind the wheel! And don't forget to check out our incentives page to view the latest special financing and lease deals.
If you want to learn more about the Subaru Outback, or any of the other models in our inventory, don't hesitate to contact us or come visit our conveniently located Lakeland dealership for a test drive. It will be our pleasure to assist you.