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They're no strangers to the port, but this Friday's Live @ The Steamer gig will feature a new face with Company Of Strangers.
The Greater Manchester band will be joined for their latest Fleetwood appearance by vocalist Sarah Jane, from Blackburn-based band Reloaded, while their usual frontman Anthony Hammond is away.
Promoter Dave Mann said: "Company Of Strangers are a band of experienced musicians who were well-received by The Steamer audience when they appeared here last June.
"This Friday promises something special with Reloaded's Sarah Jane fronting the band."
The date will be the band's seventh gig in Fleetwood, following their debut in April 2016 and it will be their final appearance there for 2018.
Three of the band's five members have appeared in Fleetwood regularly before with Oldham band Sly Fox who have ceased gigging while guitarist/vocalist Dave Bridge sets up his new business.
Company Of Strangers comprises Ian Fletcher on drums, Tony Cooper on bass, Mick Walsh on lead guitar, Steve Taylor on guitar, and Sarah Jane on vocals - for this Friday only.
Taking their name from a line in the Simon And Garfunkel song The Boxer, the band performs classic rock covers with U2, Thin Lizzy, AC/DC, Led Zeppelin and Metallica all in the setlist.
Music from 9.30pm.


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Sabin Metal Adds Electric Arc Furnace and Baghouse at Metals Refining Facility
Sabin Metal Corp. has added a second electric arc furnace (EAF) and baghouse at its Williston, ND precious metals recovery and refining processing plant (Sabin Metal West Corp.). The addition of the second EAF doubles the company's capacity to process spent precious metal-bearing hydrocarbon/petrochemical catalysts.
The new EAF uses Sabin's exclusive Pyro-Re™ technology to recover maximum possible remaining precious metals from spent process catalysts, including rhenium, another high value precious metal. The baghouse incorporates sophisticated, state-of-the-art filtration systems that enable the company to recover particulates of precious metals that would otherwise be lost in the atmosphere, while also assuring compliance with appropriate pollution abatement standards. Sabin Metal recovers and refines precious metals including platinum, palladium, ruthenium, rhodium, rhenium, gold, silver, and others from a variety of industrial sources.
According to the announcement from Brad Cook, General Manager of Sales, the additional electric arc furnace will not only provide higher throughput rates and fast, efficient processing, and it also enhances the company's ability to recover high levels of rhenium from those spent catalysts. Pyrometallurgical processing of spent precious metals-bearing catalysts typically captures a higher percentage of remaining rhenium vs. more commonly used hydrometallurgical recovery technology.
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subset: commoncrawl


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Lost ... and found
* Does anyone know the whereabouts of Thomas Randes (last heard of at Magnusson Wahlin Qvist Stanbrook, of Sweden?). If so, please let the IPKat know here since he'd like to contact him.
* Ms Elmarie de Bruin invites all her intellectual property friends to contact her at firstname.lastname@example.com.
* IPKat co-blogmeister Jeremy has received some attractive promotional literature for a publication called Brand Strategy, published by Centaur.
Having tried a couple of times to make contact with anyone there, alas in vain, he wonders whether any readers of this blog get to see Brand Strategy. If so, can they tell him if it's any good? Just drop the IPKat a line here and let him know.


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5 tips for scoring college scholarships
FORT MYERS, Fla. (CONSUMER REPORTS) If you're a high school senior or a college student looking for scholarships to help fund the cost of school next year, now is the perfect time to begin your search.
Local private scholarship deadlines tend to be in the spring, but applications for some of the biggest national scholarships are due in the next few months.
In fact, November is National Scholarship Month, designated by the nonprofit National Scholarship Providers Association to help raise awareness that fall is the time to start applying.
Unlike financial aid, these scholarships are based on merit, not financial need, though family income can be a factor in some cases.
For some scholarships, you'll have to move quickly if you want to have a chance. The Elks National Foundation Most Valuable Student Competition, for example, awards up to $50,000 to students who demonstrate leadership. But applications are due Nov. 27.
Applications for the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Scholarship Program—which gives up to $40,000 per year—must be submitted by Nov. 14, and the James W. McLamore Whopper Scholarship, from the co-founder of Burger King, gives $50,000 awards to students, but you have to apply by Dec. 15.
How likely is it that you'll win scholarship dough? Fairly decent, actually.
According to the 2017 Sallie Mae How America Funds College survey, almost half of families use scholarships for college. And, according to the survey, scholarships and grants covered 35 percent of college costs on average.
Though less than 1 percent (PDF) of students get scholarships that cover the entire cost of tuition and room and board, according to financial aid expert Mark Kantrowitz, there are thousands of scholarships that go beyond academic or athletic performance.
Among them are music performance, community service, and entrepreneurial experiences, says Kathy Ruby, director of college finance for College Coach, a college admission and financing consulting service.
Smart Strategies
Here are five ways to maximize your chances of getting money that can make a meaningful dent in your college bills:
Target merit aid. Colleges are one of the largest providers of grants and scholarships, Ruby says. Eager to get a diverse student body, colleges use merit aid to recruit students based on specific characteristics, such as your GPA, your field of study, and where you grew up.
Generally, private colleges offer more merit aid than public universities because they have endowments and don't rely on state funding. But many state schools, especially in the South and West, offer generous scholarships to out-of-staters with solid academic records.
For example, the University of Arkansas' New Arkansan Non-Resident Tuition Award scholarship gives up to 90 percent of the difference between in-state and out-of-state tuition for students from neighboring states who have a GPA of 3.2 or higher.
You can increase your chances of getting merit aid by applying to schools where your test scores and grades place you in the top 10 percent of the class.
Go to the College Board's website, Big Future, to see how your academic record compares with students accepted at the schools you want to attend.
As you research and visit schools, ask admissions officers whether you are a good candidate for merit aid and what kind of profile students who get merit aid typically have.
"The criteria colleges look for shifts every year," Ruby says.
Find your fit. Be strategic about applying. Scholarships with few or very broad criteria will have a lot more competition.
Spend your time searching for scholarships that really match your experience and interests. Use free online scholarship search services that can help you find those that fit: Cappex, the College Board, Fastweb, and Scholarships.com.
You fill out a profile to identify what's unique about you, and the services match you with potential scholarships.
Go big and small. National scholarships are often more lucrative than those in your community, so targeting a few large scholarships is a good way to start.
But your odds of snagging a local one may be better because you're likely to be competing against fewer students. Talk to the guidance counselors at your school to see which organizations they work with.
Churches, civic organizations such as Rotary Clubs, and local businesses are common sources. Go the extra mile by looking up the winners or going to awards ceremonies to see who scores the awards.
Focus on your career. Some professional organizations offer scholarships to entice people to enter the field, especially in hard-to-fill professions.
Check out the Department of Labor's CareerOneStop tool, which lists more than 5,000 scholarships for undergraduate and graduate school programs. These include $2,500 from the American Association of Equine Practitioners for people studying veterinary medicine and $3,000 to $5,000 from the American Concrete Institute to support students whose studies relate to concrete (really).
Then there's the $5,000 John Kitt Memorial Scholarship from the American Association of Candy Technologists, for college students with a demonstrated interest in confectionary technology.
Start early. You don't need to wait until senior year to start thinking about scholarships. Begin researching potential scholarships when you first enter high school.
"Then you can start taking steps to meet the criteria rather wait and try to find what box you fit in," Ruby says.


text: I just got an iPad 3 and I perhaps too hurriedly attached my MBP to it to get my iTunes onto the iPad. It started syncing before I could go through the options about what I wanted to actually be put on the iPad, so I stopped it mid-sync. I decided I didn't want to sync my iTunes in any way onto my iPad and I was able to delete any music that was actually fully transferred. However, I have hundreds of of "empty" artist/album files (the song titles are all greyed out) now sitting in the Music app on the iPad and I want to get rid of them. Please advise! I apologize if this has been addressed elsewhere. A search of the forums did not bring any results. Thank you for any help!


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Located on the green hill of Tiberio, in the eastern part of the island, Villa Carolina in a classic Mediterranean style and farmhouse of the late nineteenth century, overlooks the entire Gulf of Naples, the awesome Vesuvius and the Sorrento Peninsula. Totally restored in late 2010, has preserved its characteristic Capri style without disdaining the comfort, the leisure and the relax offered by the modern technology.
Villa Carolina is surrounded by agaves, prickly pears and olive trees typical of Mediterranean vegetation. A piece of paradise just few minutes from the sparkling and fashionable life in Capri. Nature, relax and fun in a unique solution.
350 sq.m.
2.500 sq.m.
6 + 1 external
Tennis and Football tables
with changing room and restroom
for 4 people
for 2 people
in all rooms
Floors with majolica, high ceilings, white walls, columns, patios and huge terraces, followed by surrounding gardens. Villa Carolina reflects 100% the typical architecture of Capri
Some modern structural solutions as the swimming pool (quite rare in Capri ) and the wellness area, have made the Villa even more exclusive and comfortable.
The large windows make the light one of the key-elements of the house and welcome in a single embrace the surrounding nature, as a charming painting.
The characteristic well for collecting water, the lemon, olive and fig trees cheerfully invade the garden exploding in this way in a perfect Capri style.
The swimming pool is surrounded by a terracotta terrace, facing towards the Vesuvius and the Bay of Naples. Nearby an outside kitchen ideal for light entertainment and BBQ'S.
An external changing room and a restroom keeps you separate from the rest of the house. This is very spacious and ideal for ceremonies and parties.
On the rooftop you can enjoy the most magical views of the Gulf of Naples and Amalfi Coast. There you can appreciate a romantic dinner under the starry sky.
Please contact us for any need, we will be happy to answer to your questions.
You can also contact us via WhatsApp at +39 339 65 77 331
From the famous Piazzetta, walking along the picturesque "Via Le Botteghe", you can reach by foot Villa Carolina in about 18 minutes. Breathtaking view, little shops and streets typical of Capri will accompany you in this beautiful walk to the Villa.
Capri, the well-known pedestrian island
We are 18 min walking from the Piazzetta
We recommend the luggage service


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Graphic Design
At Alpha Design, we believe in quality design for all our work, which is why we think our work speaks for itself. So don't let us keep talking about it, you be the judge. Check out some of the work we have completed for previous clients.
Kelly's Classics Flyer
A5 Flyer design for Kelly's Classics in Tramore.[Details]
My Waterford - Map Design
Map Design of the South East for the My Waterford Magazine.[Details]
Pat McKee A4 Leaflet
Pat McKee is a Fianna Fail candidate in Kilkenny for the Local Elections. We were asked to design an A4 leaflet to highlight local GAA fixtures.[Details]
Nails by Adriana Business Card
Based in Tramore in Co. Waterford, Nails by Adriana is a new local nail salon. We were asked to design a multi purpose business and apointment card.[Details]
The Little Salon Loyalty Card
The Little Salon is a hair salon based in Co. Kilkenny. We were asked to create a loyalty card for the salon customers.[Details]


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I'm willing to bet that lots of you grab one of those fizzy energy drinks when you're looking for a boost in the gym or at work. Well, lots of them just offer a quick fix with an injection of caffeine. There are much better ways to ensure you can perform at your peak. So, try a few of these simple tricks instead:
THREE-HOUR RULE — if you go without eating for longer than three hours, your energy level slumps. Instead, try eating smaller meals every two to three hours to keep those levels topped up.


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The SOLD OUT show is BACK!!
Ketamine: The Musical is an immersive, participatory, psychoactive and dissociative spectacle. You will not be able to unsee, unhear or unfeel the things that you will see, hear and feel. Profound and numbing, time will stand still as circus, dance, balloons, horses, clowns, sugar and music, so much music swallow you hole. You will be educated and entertained. You will leave a changed human being.
Starring: EVERYONE at the House of Yes
Musical Direction by David Kiss and Sir KN8 with collaboration from the cast.
Justin Ketchner, Melissa Augerre, Anya Sapozhnikova, Lola Carter, Katie Drackert, Sir KN8, Hannah Mac, Eric Coolidge, Becky Neil, Justin Ketchner, Kae Burke, Melissa Augerre, Joshua Oates, Daisy Press, Indigo Nai + special guests
Lighting Design:
Dan ('Nasty Dan') Alaimo
Sound: Leo Leite


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After doing my yoga teacher training, I wanted to share some of what I learned with my wife. We decided to go on the Costa Rica Power Yoga Retreat last May with Teri and Krista. It was amazing! It helped us get on the same page and understand how yoga could enhance our relationship, we also got to renew our vows on the beach at sunset! This retreat was definitely a life changer for us.~ CherylRegistered Nurse & Yoga Instructor
Krista and Teri – Thank you for leading an amazing experience in Costa Rica with Power Yoga Retreats. I signed up for the trip not really knowing what to expect (I'd never been on a yoga retreat before!), but knowing that I was feeling restless, tired and ready to change up the daily routine of my life. I almost didn't do it, I really wasn't in the best financial place, but I went for it at the last minute and it was one of the best decisions of my life. I got what I expected – yoga and relaxation time – and so much more. I walked away refreshed, empowered and with a true sense of purpose in my life. It was a perfect blend of yoga, self-reflection, fun and relaxation time. I especially loved how flexible you were to the needs of the group and adjusted the scheduled based on what we needed – sometimes what we needed was more yoga or meditation, sometimes what we needed was a zip-lining or surfing trip! I appreciate how you made space for authentic connection with group dinners, nights out on the town and relaxation at the beach – I left with more than just a refreshment of myself, I left with new life-long friends and beautiful memories. One of the highlights of my trip was during one of the group lessons. This statement will always stick with me and remains one of my gut checks when I start to get caught up in the day to day stresses of life, "the degree to which you resist is the degree to which you will suffer". For me, it was an awakening to all the areas of my life that I was working too hard at the wrong things, struggling with expectations of others and going against the grain of what I really wanted from my life. I was so focused on doing what I thought others wanted me to do or what I should be doing, that I had sacrificed my own happiness and wasn't able to be there for the most important people in my life. Thank you again for helping me to see what is truly important and re-focus my priorities. At the end of the day I walked away with powerful tools for my life, wonderful friendships from our trip and more gratitude than you could ever imagine. I can't wait to join you on another retreat! #YogaFunLove #loveyouguys~ JessAsst. Manager, Lululemon
Going on the first Power Yoga Retreat to Mexico rocked my world! I learned through yoga and discussion how much my thoughts about a certain situation was limiting me. On that trip, I learned what it meant to give myself permission to live freely and authentically.~ JenASL Interpreter


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Build your self-confidence and skin back to its original state before your acne affliction. Meanwhile, some cases of acne require serious attention from doctors; you can still do your share by following some simple day to day tasks and tips. The article below will provide you with some tips that you can choose to follow.
When you have an acne problem you should limit the number of cosmetics you use on your skin. If you do decide to wear cosmetics make sure that it is completely removed from your skin by the time you go to bed. This ensures that your skin can breathe and your pores do not clog.
If you suffer from rosacea, select cosmetics that reduce both the irritation and the appearance of the redness. Yellow-toned mineral makeup will irritate the skin less than most other types of cosmetics. Also, avoid using red lipsticks that draw attention to redness in other areas of the face. Foundations with a mild green tint will also help combat redness.
How To Apply Makeup
A great way to make use of makeup with acne prone skin is to focus on areas you want to show off, such as your eyes or lips. Having a dramatic eyeshadow or a beautiful lipstick will draw attention to other areas of your skin. Learn how to apply makeup to the eyes with a dramatic flair and try not to worry about the pimples.
If you have a big event coming up, it is a good idea that you use foundation to cover-up your pimples. While using too much heavy makeup can cause acne to form, a little bit of makeup is not going to cause you to break-out.
If you feel you must use makeup and you have acne, choose products that are not oil-based. Look for water-based makeup formulas and items with more natural ingredients. Avoid all harsh chemicals. Ultimately you want to save your skin from additional breakouts.
Skin Care
Sometimes natural skin care remedies can be used in the place of strong ointments for skin care. Lemons are a great natural acne treatment. Lemons act as an astringent that can shrink acne due to its high acid level. It can also reduce oil levels in the skin. Just apply lemon juice to the skin and let it work for 15 minutes, then wash off, and you'll see effective results.
Avoid abrasive skin-care products when you are fighting an acne problem. Regardless of their supposed benefits, these products damage the skin by stripping away its outer layers. Acne is caused by bacteria taking root inside vulnerable pores. Harsh, abrasive cleaning products merely make your skin more susceptible to acne infection by exposing surrounding pores to the bacteria present in pimples.
This article may not fully help cure your acne, but it will set you on the right track and give you ideas of where you need to further research. Some cures do require medical assistance, but a good portion requires your commitment. Commit yourself to do all you can for your acne and you will see some positive results.


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Happiness comes of the capacity to feel deeply, to enjoy simply, to think freely, to risk life, to be needed.
Hope is a talent like any other
Language is memory and metaphor
The only way to live is to accept each minute as an unrepeatable miracle, which is exactly what it is: a miracle and unrepeatable.
Could anything be absurder than a man? The animal who knows everything about himself - except why he was born and the meaning of his unique existence
Think of all the really successful men and women you know. Do you know a single one who didn't learn very young the trick of calling attention to himself in the right quarters?
For what I have received may the Lord make me truly thankful. And more truly for what I have not received.
We need the slower and more lasting stimulus of solitary reading as a relief from the pressure on eye, ear and nerves of the torrent of information and entertainment pouring from ever-open electronic jaws. It could end by stupefying us.
Mere human beings can't afford to be fanatical about anything. Not even about justice or loyalty. The fanatic for justice ends by murdering a million helpless people to clear a space for his law-courts. If we are to survive on this planet, there must be compromises.
The impossible talked of is less impossible from the moment words are laid to it
There is only one world the world pressing against you this minute.


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If you think that Coca-Cola is just focused on selling beverages and snacks, think again! Take a look at the video above to get a better idea of Coke's content marketing vision for today and beyond.
What is content excellence?
The main takeaway from this video is that Coca-Cola is working hard to transfer their achievements in creative excellence to content excellence. The main idea behind this term is to create liquid content (viral) that is linked (relevant to customer interest, business objectives and brands).
In the end, Coke's changing their method of storytelling in order to provoke conversation and they plan to continue the growth of their brands by promoting content in the community, as well as acting and reacting with their audience.
A change in storytelling
The one thing that small businesses can take away from this video is that Coke is changing the way that they're telling their story, in short… marketing their goods. Nowadays, with social media and new technology, successful companies can no longer just expect to get by with one-way storytelling. You can't just shout at potential customers and expect them to be engaged – it's a two way street. This is where Coca-Cola introduces the idea of dynamic storytelling:
"The development of incremental elements of a brand idea that get dispersed systematically across multiple channels of conversation for the purposes of creating a unified and coordinated brand experience"
Leveraging user-generated content
Coke's success can be seen in the amount of positive, user-generated stories. Coca-Cola, the drink and other snacks have become such a staple in our history that people can't help but share their own personal connections to the products. In fact, Coke says that the amount of user-generated stories exceed those that they put out themselves for most of their brands! Call it what you want – going viral, word-of-mouth advertising, buzz… To achieve this level of positive feedback requires focusing on content excellence by engaging the community. Coke shows that you can't do it alone and expect success.
Tweet us @emarketed or comment on our Facebook Page to let us know what you think about Coca-Cola's innovative content marketing strategy!


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Many of us look forward to spring as a time when we can shed our winter coats and don those long-forgotten sunglasses once again.
But for runners like Anne Halaby of New York, spring is just the start of another race season.
Halaby, part of PowerBar Team Elite, has completed more than 35 marathons and participated in races in 20 different states. This April, she will travel to Paris with more than 40,000 others to participate in the Marathon de Paris, a 26-mile race through the heart of the city.
And lie under the Eiffel Tower at night.
Don't miss these Travel stories
Lords of the gourd compete for Punkin Chunkin honors
With teams using more than 100 unique apparatuses to launch globular projectiles a half-mile or more, the 27th annual World Championship Punkin Chunkin event is our pick as November's Weird Festival of the Month.
- Airports, airlines work hard to return your lost items
- Expert: Tourist hordes threaten Sistine Chapel's art
- MGM Grand wants Las Vegas guests to Stay Well
- Report: Airlines collecting $36.1B in fees this year
- Lords of the gourd compete for Punkin Chunkin honors
Halaby and thousands of runners like her are combining a vacation with a destination race in a scenic locale.Story: Shhhh ... Here are the best secret hotels in Paris
According to Ryan Lamppa, media director for RunningUSA.org, "In 2010 there were more than 500,000 finishers and more than 600 marathons," which is the largest increase in U.S. marathoners in more than 25 years. And of these estimated 500,000 finishers, "17.8 percent participated for the promise of a unique event," such as a destination race.
The allure
"If it's a true destination race, you're not going there just to run a marathon," said Bart Yasso, chief running officer for Runner's World Magazine. "The allure brings you there."
Don't miss these Travel stories
Lords of the gourd compete for Punkin Chunkin honors
With teams using more than 100 unique apparatuses to launch globular projectiles a half-mile or more, the 27th annual World Championship Punkin Chunkin event is our pick as November's Weird Festival of the Month.
- Airports, airlines work hard to return your lost items
- Expert: Tourist hordes threaten Sistine Chapel's art
- MGM Grand wants Las Vegas guests to Stay Well
- Report: Airlines collecting $36.1B in fees this year
- Lords of the gourd compete for Punkin Chunkin honors
From running the highest marathon in the world — the Everest Marathon — to braving the July heat of the Badwater Ultramarathon in California's Death Valley, Yasso has run the gamut.
Destination races are sometimes less about competition, Yasso said, and more about the location. "It's fun to do the big race, to live off of that energy from the crowds along the New York City streets, but there is a very nice feeling to running through a smaller-scale, off-the-beaten path destination, too."
Kelly Allen of Marathon Tours and Travel, a Boston travel agency specializing in travel to destination marathons, agreed. "The marathon is the catalyst, but it's about the travel and the experience in the place or the country, so the runner can customize the trip around the marathon," she said.
Among the races highlighted on MarathonTours.com are the Great Wall Marathon in China and the Safaricom Marathon in Kenya, where participants run through an African game park alongside hundreds of local Kenyan runners and within close proximity to wild animals.
The actual race also can serve as a tour of a destination. "The Rome Marathon really ties in the city so well," said Yasso. "When else can you run through the streets of Rome, through the piazzas, past the Trevi Fountain and the Vatican, without huge crowds of tourists?"Vote: Would you participate in a destination race? (on this page)
Tips for transporting gear
A destination race can be a good opportunity to combine a competition and a family vacation, said triathlete Robert Stefanik of New York. But the experience sometimes comes at a high cost.
"During the weeks of marathons or triathlons, in smaller, less-traveled cities like Lake Placid, hotels may require that you book four- or five-day minimums at increased rates," said Stefanik.
And for triathletes, especially, extra costs can easily add up.
When traveling with large equipment such bikes, triathletes must accommodate their gear. Stefanik and Halaby agree that checking your bike on the plane is the most cost-effective means of transport for long distances, but prices are increasing substantially.
"When I traveled to San Francisco, the airline raised the rates to $75 each way for oversized luggage," said Stefanik. He also had to take apart the bike for the trip and reassemble it for the race, which can add unneeded stress before an event.
To avoid problems, companies such as TriBike Transport provide hassle-free shipping, with round-trip rates starting at $290. But depending on distance, this can get pricey. Yasso recommends paying to ship the bike directly to a nearby bike store, where it can be reassembled by store employees. "Extra costs are definitely worth it. I choose to ship by mail. It's less hassle and they are in the business of handling freight, whereas on a plane it may get thrown around," said Yasso.
Top 10 spring marathons
March 20 — Rome Marathon
April 9 — Moab Marathon, Utah
April 10 — Paris Marathon
April 17 — Virgin London Marathon
April 18 — Boston Marathon
April 23 — Two Oceans 56K, South Africa
May 1 — Avenue of Giants Marathon, northern California
May 1 —Big Sur International Marathon
May 21 — Great Wall Marathon
May 29 — Everest Marathon
Don't forget your shoes!
When preparing for a race vacation, be sure to pack everything you need — or carry essential items on the plane with you.
"Always make sure you wear your running sneakers on the plane or put them in your carry-on," said Allen of Marathon Tours and Travel. If luggage gets lost, especially when traveling internationally, replacing sneakers or any other gear can be very difficult.
She also recommends bringing Gatorade powder mix on the plane — to avoid carrying liquids onboard — and any other food that you like to eat before a race.
If you're traveling internationally or have a long flight before the race, it also helps to move around on the plane as much as possible and stay hydrated.
As for Halaby, what does she plan to do in Paris other than run 26 miles?
"After the race, I plan on seeing some sights," she said. "Tops on my list is laying under the Eiffel Tower at night, visiting the Spanish Quarter, maybe taking a train ride to Versailles, and hitting a few flea markets before I leave."
© 2013 msnbc.com. Reprints


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In myth, Prometheus stole fire from the gods to bring to the people. In comics, a rocket from Krypton crash-landed in Smallville, Kansas to start a new heroic age. And in our own reality, a somewhat less dramatic but hopefully equally seismic event happens this week: the first full-length prose book from comics writing superstar Grant Morrison.
On sale this week is "Supergods" - Morrison's over 400-page meditation on the history of superheroes, their humanistic underpinnings and his own personal history writing characters from Superman to the X-Men and beyond from Random House's Spiegel & Grau imprint. Subtitled "What Masked Vigilantes, Miraculous Mutants And A Sun God From Smallville Can Teach Us About Being Human," the book took nearly two years for the Scottish scribe to research and writer, and to celebrate his release, Morrison has been making rare appearances for readings in UK comic and book stores. "It's always fun to meet the public," the writer told CBR News. "It's nice to see people actually standing in line and meet them face to face. I haven't really done much of that. I usually do San Diego every year, but because of 'Supergods' I've done a run of store appearances and talks, which has been a lot of fun."
In advance of another San Diego convention and the release of the book on store shelves this week, Morrison gave CBR a look into how he went from comics writer to comics scholar, what the original "Action Comics" changed about his approach to superheroes in general, which '70s Marvel epic heavily influenced recent works like "Final Crisis" and much, much more.
CBR News: With "Supergods," you'd originally been approached about participating in a book reprinting interviews with you, and somehow that morphed into your mission statement on the superhero as a whole. What was it about this project that hooked you in for such a big undertaking?
Grant Morrison: Basically, I did an introduction which was meant to be an introduction to a book of interviews, and I kind of enjoyed it so much that I set out on this lunatic task. It just seemed like I kind of had to do it. I felt I was in the position to do it as someone who's still working in the proper side of the comics business as it is today. There's been a lot of academic books and a lot of good historical books, but I felt that what I could add was that personal touch of someone who's sold their life to comic books. This is what happens to you.
You do a history of superheroes from "Action Comics" #1 on to launch the book. What were the pieces you learned for the first time researching this, and what was the challenge like trying to synthesize so much history down to easily digestible chapters?
It wasn't so much a challenge. It was a lot of fun because I sat around with a lot of old comic books and book collections and sort of worked my way through stuff. The real exciting thing for me was the fact that I kept discovering new things. "Action Comics" #1 has been the biggest revelation for me because I really took that story apart to understand what the first superhero story really was. I was discovering things all the time, and it really refreshed my comic book collection. [Laughs] A lot of things suddenly were more interesting and exciting, and it also gives me more ideas for where we can go in the future.
One thread in the book is the idea that something has made the superhero last -Â that there's a reason we still don't see as many big, new stories with The Shadow or any of the other pulp characters. Something about superheroes is very prescient and present. Was that an idea you had come upon before writing the book, and what is it about the superhero that makes it constantly reinvent itself?
I don't know. I kind of always knew, but writing the book crystalized it down and made me think about it more clearly. And what makes the superhero more current is the performance aspect. That's what The Shadow and those other guys don't really have. Their costumes are not bright, and they don't have their initials on their chest, and everything isn't out front and popping like the superheroes. I think we can relate to that about them because in the world we live in, everyone has a constant need to be a star. Everyone's got their own pages, and they all present themselves as these Rock N Roll people or whatever. So I think superheroes are keyed into that parallelism. They're performers. They're rock stars, and they always have been. That's what separates them from the mystery men - the grimy, shadowy figure in the darkness.
From Siegel and Shuster through later chapters on Kirby or Jim Starlin, you cover a lot of the creative life of the people behind comics and how one informs the other, and you make some particular observations about Siegel and Shuster's desires as artists as well as professionals. There's so much chatter over the lawsuits over Superman and what not, but for you, did you feel like the characters transcend some of those debates on their own terms, or is that creative personality something that informs how our whole industry works even to today?
Well, to me it's never been honestly what's interesting about this stuff. I think the stories outlast all of those complications. You look at the people who created those characters, and they're all dead. But the characters will still be around in 50 years probably -Â at least the best of them will. So I try not to concern myself with that. These are deals made in times before I was even born. I can say from experience that young creative people tend to sell rights to things because they want to get noticed. They want to sell their work and to be commercial. Then when they grow up and get a bit smarter, they suddenly realize it maybe wasn't so good and that the adults have it real nice. [Laughs] But still, it's kind of the world. I wouldn't want to comment on that because it was something I wasn't around for. I can't tell why they decided to do what they did. Obviously Bob Kane came in at the same age and got a very different deal and profited hugely from Batman's success. So who knows? They were boys of the same age, but maybe some of them were more keen to sell the rights than others. It all just takes a different business head.
I remember seeing you speak at an event a few years back with Tim Kring from "Heroes" and Jonathan Lethem and Mike Mignola, and you were speaking about Superman's constant evolution: in the '30s he was a rebel, in the '50s he was a dad, in the '90s he had a mullet and so on. What do you make of the superhero as a mirror? Is the form particularly suited to comment on modern times?
Yeah. It's been really good for that because the frequency of comics is so fast. There's a turnover every month, so lots of stories are being told, and the comics are able to keep pace with culture and fashion in a way that movies and TV are too slow to do. It's kind of always been a really reliable barometer of what we're thinking at any given time -Â of what we aspire to. I think these things are kind of like nerves. They travel alongside - the stories we tell with the times we live in. Comics are quite direct with no middle man with very little editorial interference, so you're getting direct impressions from the artist straight in the comic. And not only did it run with it. A lot of the Silver Age stuff was predictive of what would happen with the kids who were soon taking acid in 1960s America. In the same way, there were some very strange pre-9/11 comics that had themes which very much resembled that disaster.
We hear superheroes referred to as "modern myths" often, but again, I get the feeling you view it as distinct from Greek myths or American folk myths even when people try to put them in the same box. In what ways do superheroes work against the expectations of those more classical stories?
Well, the comics are very different because they exist in our time perpetually. That's why they're a bit like myths, because the characters never really grow old and die. But while you have the origin of Batman, and then you've seen the death of Batman, most superhero adventures are happening at a constant peak in the prime of the character's life.
The book takes your study through from the Golden Age and '60s Marvels through to your contemporaries like Frank Miller. Were there any comics you had to reevaluate as a reader because you read them here? Anything that you changed your opinion on?
Definitely. The Roy Thomas "Kree/Skrull War" was the one that really got to me -Â the kind of musical quality of it. Thomas ran so many different voices through it and was constantly changing senses and the sounds of the book in a way that was very musically weaved through it. It was a real revelation to me. I just thought that in that comic and the way the artists approached it, it made me think about the potential for how we can develop comics in the future beyond the current movie storyboard thing.
That idea of music immediately draws your own "Final Crisis" to mind. What were you writing yourself in comics parallel to the creation of this book, and how did the latter inform the former?
God, I guess it would be the end of "Final Crisis" plus the Batman stuff that I've been doing, and then I finished the book off when I was preparing to write the new "Action Comics" #1, which was a nice, circular kind of ending to the whole thing. It was pretty much everything I did over the last 16 months like "Return of Bruce Wayne." Obviously, I'd been studying things like reading up on the histories of the characters, and in that history I'd find propulsion for the story. Particularly in that Batman stuff, I learned a lot from the reading I did specifically.
Who do you see as the audience for this book? Certainly, your hardcore comic fans will be interested, but it seems like there's a bit of a responsibility to try and open a book like this up for the general reading public.
It's all in that focus. I wrote it to be commercial, and I incorporated so much of my own person history in there with the hopes that even people who weren't interested in the history of comics could find that personal dimension in the story.
Check back to CBR later this week for a chat with Grant Morrison on his upcoming DC Comics work including "Action Comics" #1 and the final fate of "Batman Incorporated."


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Schott Zwiesel Pure Highball Glasses, Set of 6
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- Summary
With their distinctive angular design, Pure glasses from Schott Zweisel make a sophisticated showcase for cocktails, juices, lemonade and iced tea. Both beautiful and durable, Schott Zwiesel Tritan® crystal glass maintains its sparkling clarity through years of daily use and entertaining.
- Sculptural tall tumblers highlight the beauty of crystal without sacrificing durability.
- Patented Tritan® titanium technology creates break-, chip- and scratch-resistant stemware.
- Dishwasher safe.
- Made in Germany by Schott Zwiesel, famous for fine glassware innovations since 1872.
- Set of six.
- Sculptural tall tumblers highlight the beauty of crystal without sacrificing durability.
- Dimensions & More Info
- 18.3-oz. cap., 6 1/2" high.
- Made in Germany.
- Use & Care
- Dishwasher safe.
- Shipping
Shipping Information
UPS can deliver most in-stock items within 3–5 business days. UPS is unable to deliver to P.O. boxes.
Shipping Rates
The shipping rate varies depending on your order total and shipping destination. View Shipping Options and Charges.
Next Day Delivery
For an additional charge of $26 per address, we can expedite delivery to most destinations. This service is not available for some oversize items, items shipped directly from the supplier (including perishable and custom-manufactured items), out-of-stock items and items to be shipped outside the contiguous 48 states.
Orders received by 9:00 p.m. ET Monday through Thursday will arrive the next business day; orders placed Friday through Sunday will arrive on the following Tuesday.
Return Policy
At Williams Sonoma, we take great pride in the quality and craftsmanship of our products. Attention to design, materials, safety and construction are our priority. Upon receipt, please inspect your purchase and notify us of any damage; we will arrange for a prompt replacement.
If within 30 days, you are dissatisfied for any reason, you may return your purchase for a refund of the merchandise value. An original receipt or gift receipt is required for all returns and exchanges. Returns with a gift receipt will be refunded in the form of a Merchandise Credit for the amount indicated on the gift receipt. Returns with original receipt will be refunded in the original form of payment, cash and check refunds over $100 will be issued as a company check (may take 14 business days from time of request).
For all cutlery returns (knife sets, single knives, cutting boards, knife sharpeners and knife storage), please contact us at 888.922.4108 to initiate the return.
We cannot accept returns on monogrammed, personalized, special-order items, custom upholstery, food, items shipped direct from the vendor or on items damaged through normal wear and tear. Final sale items ending in .97 or .99 cannot be returned.
Made to Order and Final Sale Furniture items are non-returnable and cannot be cancelled once the order is placed.
For returns of items purchased from your Williams Sonoma Gift Registry, we will gladly provide a refund or exchange for the merchandise within 90 days of your event or within 90 days of purchase, whichever date is later. View Full Returns Policy.
Pairs Well With
Schott Zwiesel Pure White Wine Glasses
Schott Zwiesel Pure Cabernet Glasses
Schott Zwiesel Pure Pinot Noir Glasses
Schott Zwiesel Pure Champagne Flutes
Schott Zwiesel Pure Double Old-Fashioned Glasses, Set of 6
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Schott Zwiesel Pure Stemless Cabernet Wine Glasses, Set of 6
Schott Zwiesel Pure Stemless Pinot Noir Wine Glasses, Set of 6
Schott Zwiesel Pure Stemless Champagne Glasses, Set of 6
Champagne Glasses, Set of 6
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Schott Zwiesel Pure Decanter
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Rated 5 out of 5 by CaitlinKW from Beautiful glass We use these as an elevated everyday water glass and we love them. They make for a beautiful table top when hosting dinners or parties. They are heavy enough, easy to clean, and not too narrow to put a regular sponge inside while washing. Buying more! My only complaint is that they don't sell singles!Date published: 2019-01-12Rated 1 out of 5 by janet from Already chipped after one wash Unfortunately we just got these as a wedding present and one already chipped in the dishwasher! Just with one wash. We love our wine glasses but sometimes wonder if the quality is different where we buy them single instead of in a set (at a boutique vs. WS). BummedDate published: 2017-06-08Rated 5 out of 5 by PalmSpringsBaker from Schott Zwiesel Pure Highball Glasses, Set of 6 We bought several sets to match our other double old fashioned glasses - the shorter version of this. Upon opening they appeared delicate, but they are sturdy glasses. Hold up very well in the dishwasher and always streak free. The design is very modern and compliments our better dinner well as well as our everyday dinner wear.Date published: 2015-12-26Rated 5 out of 5 by maliahugs from Wanted an everyday water glass I wanted an everyday water glass that was classic but not too fancy. I love the feel of this glass, the rim is NOT too narrow. Perfect, and very happy with my purchase. I will purchase more. Holds 16oz. of liquid I can use this glass for parties and everyday.Date published: 2015-01-27


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Shawn P. Conley, Soybean and Wheat Extension Specialist, Department of Agronomy, University of Wisconsin, Madison
As soybeans finally begin to add trifoliates and begin rapid develop growers will look to get across their fields to apply inputs. Here are a few points to ponder for Midwestern farmers based on our USB funded High Yield Project.
1. V4 applications of nitrogen to soybean provided a +3.9% relative yield change, but a 0 to 5% chance of ROI based on yield levels from 45-75 bu per acre and $9 beans….. i.e. additional nitrogen to soybean does not pay!
2. Lactofen has efficacy on many broadleaf weeds and on white mold….it is not a yield enhancer for Midwestern farmers. We measured a 0% probability of ROI when lactofen was intentionally used to defoliate soybeans and promote branching in Northern and Midwestern soybean fields.
For additional information please review: Using High-Input Systems for Soybean Management Increases Yield but Not Profitability


text: The innovative Keybowl orbiTouch keyless keyboard transforms the sometimes painful act of typing into a comfortable exercise. Using your palms to make short, synchronized movements of two orbs, you can comfortably type sentences and move the mouse pointer without relying on your fingers. The orbs fit nicely into your hands, and the movements feel natural. Adjusting to the new typing technique isn't easy, but those with typing-related injuries could benefit from the design. Just be prepared to shell out some serious bucks.


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my Jesus - Bible Study
Books & Reference | 4.8MB
Books & Reference | 4.8MB
The Bible speaks of wars and rumors of wars; our economy is unstable, society has weakening morality. What does the Bible tell us about these things?
This 30 lesson Bible course will help you understand God's plan for your life! Topics of study range from the second coming of Jesus Christ, the mystery of death, facts about diet and health to the major end-time prophecies of Daniel and Revelation. These are relational in nature. They speak not of what but of Whom. Jesus said in John 12:32, "But I, when I am lifted up will draw all men unto myself."
These lessons are designed to do just that. To draw you to the One who will change and transform you giving your life purpose, meaning and most of all...peace. As you continue through these lessons you will find yourself being discipled by the truths that you will discover.
In-depth solid Bible Studies
Bible Questions Answered
Prayer Request Link


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New Delhi: A minor accused in a hit-and-run case which killed a business consultant on Thursday challenged a Juvenile Justice Board order that he will be tried as an adult.
The minor offender moved a plea before a Sessions Court challenging the Board's order and said the alleged offence does not fall under the category of heinous crime.
His counsel, Rajiv Mohan and Abhimanyu Kampani, said the juvenile should be tried under section 304-A (causing death by negligence) instead of section 304 (culpable homicide not amounting to murder) of the Indian Penal Code.
The Sessions Court will hear the matter on Friday.
In the first prosecution under the amended Juvenile Justice Act, the Board on Saturday ordered that the minor will be tried as an adult while allowing the Delhi Police plea seeking to try the offender — who was 17 in April — as an adult as the offence was defined as heinous crime.
The juvenile turned a major — 18-years-old — just four days after the Mercedes he was driving at high speed mowed down Siddharth Sharma in Civil Lines in north Delhi on the evening of 4 April.
The Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Amendment Act 2015 allows for juveniles 16 years or older to be tried as adults for heinous offences like rape and murder.
The Act was amended following public outrage after one of the offenders in the 16 December, 2012 gang rape case escaped being tried in court as he was a few months short of turning 18.
The police, in its chargesheet filed on 26 May, had charged the juvenile with culpable homicide not amounting to murder, which entails a maximum of 10 years in jail.
Police apprehended the minor on 5 April, a day after he knocked down Sharma.
The minor was freed on bail as he was booked for causing death by negligence. Later, police charged him with culpable homicide not amounting to murder.
In the final investigation report, police charged the juvenile with offences under sections 304 (culpable homicide not amounting to murder), 279 (driving on a public way so rashly or negligently as to endanger human life) and 337 (causing hurt by an act which endangers human life).
The juvenile's father was arrested under Section 304 (abetting culpable homicide not amounting to murder) for letting his minor son drive despite knowing he had caused an accident earlier. The father later got bail.
Police earlier told the court that CCTV footage showed that the teenager was driving his car at a high speed in a residential area.
Find latest and upcoming tech gadgets online on Tech2 Gadgets. Get technology news, gadgets reviews & ratings. Popular gadgets including laptop, tablet and mobile specifications, features, prices, comparison.
Updated Date: Jun 09, 2016 18:53:45 IST


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Central Heating Derby
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When it comes to replacement jobs, the type of system you're currently using matters immensely. With the boiler for example, it's far easier to replace a conventional one with another conventional design. Switching over to another model will add more work and time to the schedule.
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Regular servicing is always a good idea, and we'd be happy to service your boiler annually to keep it ticking over. Remember, regular servicing can prolong your boiler's life too, so that's even more reason to give us a call. We're happy to cater to new customers as well as those who always call on us for a service.
Gas Safe-registered and here to help
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Our team has fixed issues with virtually every make and model of boiler you can think of. When they're unable to fix a boiler (usually because of its age or because it has reached the end of its life), they can provide full installation services for a new boiler if required.
If your boiler has let you down, we'll make sure you can rely on us. We won't let you down – we always show up when we say we will. We believe great customer service is non-negotiable, don't you? So contact us to arrange the best central heating and boiler installation Derby residents can ask for.
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So, to book your annual service or to ask for a call-out for a boiler problem, call our team today. We'll be with you as soon as possible, no matter where you are in Derby.
So whatever your boiler is doing and whatever odd noise it might be making, you know there is just one free phone call you need to make. Save our number for when you need it or call now to find a boiler service in Derby you can trust. We work across the area as well as in towns like Alfreton.


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Because I died...
... at Bunker Hill. Grapeshot tore through my body at New Orleans. Crushing hooves with riders as swirls of blue and grey ... and red ... crashed down on me in strange sounding places like Chickamauga, Antietam, and Shiloh.
The heat and swamp sucked at my last moments in the wilds of Cuba. A green fog of poisonous gas slithered over the side and into my trench, where water stood mixed with slime and blood.
I lay face down in fetid pools clogged with jungle vines, felt the hot sands of Africa burning through my back, lay with cold cheek against wet beach sand, and fell from gingerbread doorways into cobblestone streets. I gaped for air and breathed fire and oily water.
Snow clung to my lashes and ice formed at the corners of my mouth as a tiny wisp of seam wafted from the crimson flow of life out of my ears and stomach.
As I fell forward, I felt the jagged pain of bamboo beneath the water tearing at my flesh.
I fought and died when I didn't know why. I was killed before I was old enough to vote. I never knew the pleasure of savoring the memories that come with old age. I left mothers, fathers, husbands, wives, children, and sweethearts to weep after me. I lay where names and landscapes and faces were all foreign to me. To this day, no one knows where the earth swallowed me.
I was called wop, nigger, dago, spic, kike, honky, and mick. I was tall and short and thin and heavy and young and old and cheerful and sad. I was a shop steward, an insurance agent, a writer, an orange picker, and the head of a grocery chain stretching from Baltimore to St. Louis.
I lived around the corner, up the street, next door, over the garage, across the tracks, on the hill and out of a suitcase. I came from a family farm, a college campus, a factory, a new-car agency, and from Broadway.
I died that we would remain free, that liberty would not perish, that women and children would be safe from terror, that my home would be protected, that an idea would be proven right, that my friend might live, that people back home could make overtime in the plants, and that a sagging economy might be helped.
Sometimes I served my country, sometimes my ideals and sometimes my own ego.
But I served.
On Memorial Day, I hope you pause for a few moments to think on these things. You are still free to think ... and speak ... and publish whatever you wish because I gave the most I had ... my all.
Some of you have known some of my pain, my tears, and the sickness of soul for the waste of human life.
Yet, the giving of my life was not wasted. For perhaps somehow, in some way, people will do something to end my dying.
My death has extended the time given you to do that something.
After the next war, there may be no one left to honor the dead.
— Author Anonymous


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"Here comes TTTTTTTTT-racer!" Take a break from those Loot Boxes and look at this sweet Nendoroid Tracer: Classic Skin Edition. From the popluar game Overwatch, the figure comes with a variety of optional parts including effect parts for her abilities, interchangeable legs and even hair that can cover up her eyes to recreate various different poses from the game! Of course What will Tracer do with out her trusty pulse pistols. Open hand parts to look like she just used her recall ability and her pulse bomb her ultimate ability! Fully articulated so you and I can spend hours and days getting that perfect pose.
Higlight Intro
*(Preorder)Orders can be placed between the 15th February 2017 (Wed) from 9:00JST until 30th March 2017 (Thu) at 12:00JST.
*Shipment only 1000JPY for customers residing in the United States. (*Limit 6 units per person, cannot be combined with other products.
All images and videos here are property of their respective owners and used for reference purpose only. We claim no rights to it unless otherwise stated.
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Sean Carberry appears in the following:
With Elections Days Away, Suicide Bombs Sow Fear In Kabul
Wednesday, March 26, 2014
Afghanistan's Election Heats Up — And So Do The Attacks
Tuesday, March 25, 2014
Afghanistan's election for a new president is less than two weeks away. That means the candidates are busy campaigning — and the Taliban are busy attacking.
The latest attack came Tuesday morning in Kabul when two suicide bombers detonated themselves outside one of the offices of the Independent Election Commission. ...
For Afghans In Camps, A Harsh Life With No End In Sight
Tuesday, March 18, 2014
As Afghan Tajiks Lay Leader To Rest, Eyes Turn To Political Future
Thursday, March 13, 2014
NATO Pressures Karzai To Sign Troop Pact With U.S.
Thursday, February 27, 2014
Who's Going To Be Afghanistan's Next President?
Tuesday, February 11, 2014
The United States is winding down more than 12 years of military involvement in Afghanistan, and for most Americans, the country is rapidly fading into the background.
At the same time, Afghans are entering uncharted territory. President Hamid Karzai, who has led Afghanistan since shortly after the Taliban were ousted ...
UN: Civilian Casualities Rise In Afghanistan
Saturday, February 08, 2014
Race Toward Afghan Election Starts, With Skepticism In The Lead
Sunday, February 02, 2014
With the campaign for Afghanistan's April 5 presidential election officially underway, three questions are commonly asked around Kabul: Do you think the presidential election will be held on April 5? Will the election be held at all this year? Who do you think will win?
Right now, 11 men are ...
Kabul Suicide Attack Kills 21 At Downtown Restaurant
Saturday, January 18, 2014
Texas Man Becomes Unlikely CFO Of Ragged Kabul Orphanage
Saturday, January 04, 2014
On Saturday afternoons, sometimes with a coworker or two, Siavash Rahbari drives up a rutted side street in Kabul to visit the Window of Hope orphanage.
In the living room, there are a dozen boys and two girls. Some are playing, while others lie around on mats on the floor, ...
There And Back Again: One Afghan's Journey To Find Home
Wednesday, December 04, 2013
In 2000, Auliya Atrafi paid thousands of dollars and risked his life to escape Taliban-controlled Afghanistan. He spent 12 years in England getting educated and becoming a documentary filmmaker.
Last year, he gave up life in the West and returned home to southern Helmand province. Now, he's the father of ...
In Afghanistan, Tribal Elders Get A Say In Security Pact With U.S.
Saturday, November 23, 2013
Will US Forces Withdraw from Afghanistan?
Friday, November 22, 2013
This week, John Kerry announced that a security pact between the US and Afghanistan had been agreed upon. But in a surprise announcement just a day later, Afghan President Hamid Karzai announced the pact would not be signed until after Afghanistan's presidential elections in April 2014, leaving the US military's future presence in the country unclear. NPR's international correspondent Sean Carberry in Kabul, and David Sanger, New York Times chief Washington correspondent and author of Confront and Conceal: Obama's Secret Wars and Surprising Use of American Power discuss the possible deal, which allowed troops to stay in Afghanistan until 2024 -- although the President has long promised 2014 would be the deadline.
How NATO Is Trying To Change The Narrative In Afghanistan
Wednesday, October 30, 2013
As he prepared to deploy earlier this year, Lt. Gen. Mark Milley, the No. 2 commander of U.S. forces in Afghanistan, found that people seemed to have forgotten about Afghanistan.
"The opinion that he gathered was nobody was interested anymore," explains Col. Chris Garver, a spokesman for ISAF Joint Command ...
Are Afghanistan's Schools Doing As Well As Touted?
Thursday, October 24, 2013
It's one of the most touted "positive statistics" about Afghanistan: Today, there are 10 million Afghans enrolled in school, 40 percent of them female.
Under the Taliban, about 1 million boys and almost no girls were attending schools. Western officials routinely point to the revived education system as a sign ...
How To Build An Afghan Army, In A Million Difficult Steps
Monday, September 09, 2013
It's 8 a.m. on a recent day at Forward Operating Base Nolay, a small Marine outpost in Taliban-infested Sangin District of southern Afghanistan's Helmand province. The Marines are in the process of caffeinating and preparing for the day.
Suddenly, explosions and gunfire ring out. The Marines don't run for their ...
For Pakistan And Afghanistan, Soccer As Reconciliation
Monday, August 26, 2013
Afghanistan and Pakistan are better known for their verbal fights and occasional border clashes, but for the first time since 1976, they battled on a soccer field in Kabul.
Some 6,000 rabid Afghan fans cheered on their team, clad in red uniforms. There were horns, flags, and face paint. It ...
Some Afghans Already Cynical About Next Year's Election
Thursday, August 22, 2013
In Kabul, A Juggling Act That Offers Joy For Afghan Kids
Monday, August 19, 2013
Morning traffic in Kabul can be punishing enough as it is. But on a recent day, there's an extra element clogging up the streets, a scene you don't see on a typical day in the Afghan capital.
It's a parade of about 100 young boys and girls, dressed in colorful ...
Regimental Combat Team 7 Rolls Up Its Flag In Afghanistan
Sunday, August 04, 2013
At the peak of fighting in Afghanistan's Helmand Province, there were 20,000 Marines battling the Taliban. Now there are 8,000 — and more are heading home every month.
Among the latest to pack up was Regimental Combat Team 7.
At their mission's recent closing ceremony, several hundred Marines gathered in ...


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De ESL kwaliteit
Lange termijn cursussen een volledige taalonderdompeling: De ESL kwaliteit
A performance-based academic structure allowing to offer a wide range of courses at all levels. Whatever your language knowledge, you can therefore take a course corresponding to your level, in all of the ESL partner schools.
Motivating classes, in small groups, combining dynamism with seriousness, allow , by means of a modern methodical and didactic approach, to obtain a stimulating class atmosphere which is favourable to fast progress. It is a new way of learning a language, which is effective and attractive.
Teachers who are qualified and experienced in the teaching of their mother tongue as a foreign language attach particular importance to actively making the most of the international make-up of the classes in order to create a motivating work environment.
Various accommodation options and a wide range of leisure activities offer you a dense and appealing extra-curricular life. The quality of the cultural discoveries and of human relations abroad is the other indispensable aspect of the success of a language study stay. For this reason, our partner schools carefully select the various accommodation types and develop attractive activities programmes.
Quality institutes
Kwaliteitslabel voor Toerisme in Zwitserland (niveau 1)
IALC Partneragentschap
British Council
English UK Partneragentschap
De voorwaarden voor lidmaatschap zijn de volgende:
- Kwalitatief hoogstaand onderwijs
- Bevoegde leerkrachten
- Gedetailleerde programma's
- Zorgvuldig geselecteerde gastgezinnen
- Studenten met diverse achtergronden
Quality English Partneragentschap
English New Zealand
International House
This association has been in existence for 50 years and is the largest and most influential organisation in the domain of youth travel. FIYTO counts approximately 350 members, spread throughout 60 countries.


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"Man City Will Win At Old Trafford"- Balotelli
Controversial Italian striker Mario Balotelli says he is sure Manchester United Football Club will crumble to defeat in tonight's derby at Old Trafford.
The enigmatic AC Milan player has been in fantastic form for the Serie A side since his January move from Manchester City and has fond memories of his time in England.
Balotelli is also backing his former club to win silverware this season, and says that City will win the clash under Mancini's stewardship.
"I am sure me and Nigel [de Jong] will watch the game - perhaps not together - but we will both supporting our ex-team-mates, the boss and the supporters big time: we want a win," Balotelli told the club's official website.
"I am sure Roberto Mancini will find the right way to win the derby. I really hope City win.
"The goal I scored at Old Trafford was a great moment in my career, like the goal I scored for Italy against Germany in the last Euros.
"As soon as I arrived at City, everyone talked to me about the derby as the game to win and the Old Trafford as the stadium to conquer...I understood that - and did it!
"To score against United with the City shirt is a wonderful feeling."
Despite his off-field problems and inconsistent performances on the pitch, Balotelli enjoyed a trophy-laden period in Manchester, winning the FA Cup and the Premier League. While the league may be out of their grasp, the 22-year-old hopes they can pick up the cup once again.
"The FA Cup is a prestigious and important competition and winning it means to have glory for everyone, players, the whole team and the supporters," he continued.
"I have been lucky enough to experience another great moment against United [in that competition] that I have been very happy to share with my team-mates and the great City supporters.
"Of course I hope that City can win the FA Cup, the team has the potential to do it and the boys deserve at least a trophy in this season."
Looking forward to next season, Balotelli says he would like nothing better than to play against his former club in the Champions League in what would be an emotional return to Manchester.
"With AC Milan we are trying to qualify for Champions League directly, without needing the preliminary phase and I am sure that City also will qualify for the Champions League and I hope to come back to play at the Etihad," he added.
"If that will happen I will come back with love and respect for everyone: club, players and supporters. I would love a Champions League group with AC Milan and City, it would be great."


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The interest for the opening night was beyond my boldest expectations! All three levels were packed
swiss replica watches
with true watch aficionados and the occasional watch lovers, all of them tirelessly visiting exhibitors in
replica watches sale
every hall. Large crowds gathered around every booth as brands repeatedly presented their latest and greatest timepieces. Some brands tried to further enhance the night's
swiss replica watches
buzzing atmosphere. My absolute favorite of these efforts had to be the 1940's band playing by the Bremont stand. Their lovely style lent a unique flair to the gallery while perfectly matching the British company and its showcased
replica watches sale
timepieces. From a watch enthusiast's perspective it was fantastic to see so many
replica watches
people attend and show such incredible interest for the event, for the brands and - most
cheap replica watches
importantly - for watch making itself.


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NUM welcomes platinum industry breakthroughs
by TINTSWALO BALOYI
JOHANNESBURG – THE National Executive Committee (NEC) of the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) welcomed the agreements recently reached with mining companies that culminated in the end of some strike action by workers.
The NEC at the Elijah Barayi Memorial Training College in Johannesburg on 24-25 July 2014.
It is the highest decision-making body of the union apart from the Central Committee and the National Congress.
The NEC welcomed the signing of a three-year ground breaking wage agreement with the Royal Bafokeng Platinum.
"The NEC wishes to express its sincere gratitude to its members in the manner in which they conducted themselves during the negotiation phase up until the signing of the agreement.
"The struggle for a living wage continues and it shall be won through experience and discipline both these elements have shortened the bargaining turn around which is important and consistent with our history and vision," Livhuwani Mammburu, Acting NUM National Spokesperson, said.
He said the wage agreement between NUM and Royal Bafokeng Platinum (RB Plat) Mines demonstrated the maturity and commitment to working with stakeholders to find solutions to address these issues and to deliver sustainable benefits for all involved.
"The NEC is also happy that NUM has ended the marathon wage negotiations with Aquarius with a 3 year agreement."
NUM is still locked in wage negotiations process with Kumba Iron Ore, De Beers, Petra Diamonds and Eskom.
The NEC meanwhile condemned he recent attack in the platinum belt which includes the shooting of Samancor Chrome mine worker in Kroondal last Wednesday and the murder of Bongani 'Bahyi' Mehlonkomo killed in Marikana last Tuesday.
"The NEC calls for law enforcement agencies to do their work and apprehend the culprits," said Mammburu.
– CAJ News
Short URL: http://cajnewsafrica.com/?p=712


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Hilton London Tower Bridge
- Free WiFi in the lobby
- Collect nights
Hilton London Tower Bridgefrom £131
- Twin Room
- Deluxe Twin Room
- Executive Twin Room
- Deluxe Twin Room (Plus)
- Deluxe Room, 1 King Bed (Plus)
- Executive Room, 1 King Bed
- Family Room, 1 King Bed
- Room, 1 King Bed
- Deluxe Room, 1 King Bed
- Family Room
More great choices
What's around Hilton London Tower Bridge
- In London City Centre
- HMS Belfast (4-minute walk)
- London City Hall (4-minute walk)
- The Shard (5-minute walk)
- London Bridge (8-minute walk)
- Borough Market (8-minute walk)
- Tower Bridge (9-minute walk)
- Globe Theatre (15-minute walk)
Getting around
- London (LCY-London City) 35-min drive
- London (LGW-Gatwick) 48-min drive
- London Bridge Station 6-min walk
- London Cannon Street Station 15-min walk
- London Fenchurch Street Station 18-min walk
- London Bridge Underground Station 4-min walk
- Monument Underground Station 13-min walk
- Borough Underground Station 14-min walk
At a glance
Key facts
Hotel size
- This hotel has 248 rooms
- This hotel is arranged over 12 floors
- Check-in time starts at 3 PM
- Check-out time is noon
- Express check-in/out
Required at check-in
- Credit card or cash deposit required
- Government-issued photo ID required
Travelling with others
- Up to 10 children stay free when occupying the parent or guardian's room, using existing bedding
- Pets not allowed (service animals welcome)
- Free WiFi in public areas
- WiFi and wired Internet access in rooms *
- No parking
Payment types at the property
- Cash
Other information
- Smoke-free property
In the hotel
- Full breakfast daily (surcharge)
- Restaurant
- Bar/lounge
- Coffee shop/café
- 24-hour room service
- Coffee/tea in a common area
- 24-hour fitness facilities
- Fitness facilities
- Business centre
- Meeting rooms
- 24-hour front desk
- Concierge services
- Dry cleaning/laundry service
- Laundry facilities
- Free newspapers in lobby
- Luggage storage
- Multilingual staff
- Number of buildings/towers - 1
- Year Built – 2006
- Lift
- Safe-deposit box at front desk
- Terrace
- Accessible bathroom
- In-room accessibility
- Roll-in shower
- Wheelchair-accessible path of travel
- Assistive listening devices available
- Chinese
- English
- French
- German
- Italian
- Latvian
- Lithuanian
- Polish
- Russian
- Spanish
In the room
- In-room climate control (air conditioning)
- Air conditioning
- Coffee/tea maker
- Iron/ironing board
- Blackout drapes/curtains
- Premium bedding
- Private bathroom
- Shower only
- Free toiletries
- Hair dryer
- 37-inch flat-screen TV
- Pay films
- Premium TV channels
- Desk
- Free newspaper
- WiFi (surcharge)
- Phone
- Daily housekeeping
- In-room safe
- Connecting/adjoining rooms available
Also popular with travellers from the UK
Special features
DiningJamie's Italian – This restaurant specialises in international cuisine and serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. A children's menu is available.
TwoRuba – This bar only serves light fare.
Hilton London Tower Bridge's small print
Also known as
- Hilton London Tower Bridge Hotel
- Hilton London Tower Bridge Hotel London
- Hilton London Hotel Bridge
- Hilton Tower Bridge
- London Hilton
- Hilton London Tower Bridge Hotel
- Hilton London Tower Bridge London
- Hilton London Tower Bridge Hotel London
- Hilton London Tower Bridge
- Hilton London Hotel Bridge
- Hilton Tower Bridge
- Hilton London Tower Bridge England
- Hilton London Tower Bridge Hotel London
- London Hilton
- Hilton London Tower Bridge Hotel
- Hilton London Tower Bridge London
The property has connecting/adjoining rooms. These are subject to availability and can be requested by contacting the property using the number on the booking confirmation.
Optional extras
Parking is available nearby and costs GBP 25.00 per day
Full breakfast is offered for an extra charge of GBP 19.95 per person (approximately)
WiFi is available in guestrooms for GBP 14.99 per 24-hour period (rates may vary)
Wired Internet access is available in guestrooms for GBP 14.99 (rates may vary)
We have included all charges provided to us by this property. However, charges can vary, for example, based on length of stay or the unit you book.
Recent reviews
Fabulous 8.8 From 433 reviews
Excellent location. Great breakfast. Nice upgrade to room with view of The Shard - thanks 😊
Hotel is over priced in comparison with what is around
Overall very good. Staff very helpful. Made sure we had everything we needed. Bit disappointed with breakfast area. I know it's a modern look but didn't feel plush enough to us. Lovely hotel though 👌
Hotel was good and in an excellent location. The only complaint was that the cooked breakfast was not very warm!!
Amazing hotel. Great service and excellent cleanliness.
Is the description of this property not correct? Tell us


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Thanks to the magic of music camp for the bigs this week, my youngest and I found ourselves in the Nordstrom Rack shoe department where we fell into a time vortex as she tried on every.single.pair that sparkled, shimmered, lit up, had a face on it, or were in any other way irresistible to her preschooler heart. The scent of mall retail easily tips me into an anxiety attack, not to mention mentally prepping myself for the scene assuredly to ensue when said preschooler is carried out without new pink jellies that smell of strawberries.
We roamed around a lot of our city this week and as I listened to yet another public parenting meltdown, it has become increasingly clear that we are a time-harried group hassling our preschool aged children to hurry-the-eff-up with little to no success.
I would like to inject here that I understand the frustration since the daily activity of loading my children in the car would give the saintliest of saints heart palpitations. As my three year old so transparently revealed to our pediatrician recently, I "did a bad job not being shouty at us at bedtime". No, I am not above parental sh*t losing and my children tattle on me to our family pediatrician to keep me humble in what I can only imagine to be a subtly smug proverbial flip of the finger.
But when it's ten AM on a Tuesday and we're losing it in front of other families we've got some issues to deal with that are usually about our own hearts and not our kids' lack of respect for the clock.
No doubt we are all living through a critically stressful time both domestically and globally that has left no one untouched. No matter how separated or directly linked we imagine ourselves to be, we are storing the stress within the cells of our bodies with our children first in line for the fall-out.
I'm going to suggest a few parenting tactics here that I think will help us all ratchet back a bit. Yes, I hear how audacious and annoying it sounds to get parenting advice from someone struggling through just like everyone else that is, not to forget, LATE. TO. ALMOST. EVERYTHING. EVERYWHERE! (I would like to defend I'm only a few minutes late, only sometimes these days. Progress in positive direction.)
Build in Time to Waste
We already know this parenting gig is wildly inconvenient. We already know they are going to stop for every roly poly on the sidewalk. We already know. It is part of their natural child development to explore, to put order to their world, to imagine. What I miss when I don't block enough time for my kids to enter their world as children instead of expecting them to be overly rushed mini-adults is the opportunities they create for connection with me. Mama, look! Mama, come! Mama (come be with me)!
HOW We Arrive Is More Important Than WHEN We Arrive
This is pretty self-explanatory. When I rush my kids they shut down. Their feelings get hurt and their heels dig deeper while I get crazier grasping for ways to prove I am the Actual Boss around here. We all end up miserable before slinking back (much later) for apologies. I'm trying to build in more buffer time so we are not compressed into stress, but when it just doesn't work out I will most likely be late. At the end of the day (or two decades the kids are in our home) my priority is the atmosphere of our family. Every time. The End. Not the clock. I promise to try to text you if I'm late.
Drill-Sergeanting Orders vs Asking Kids What's Next
Even if I am not falling off the ledge of control, it's easy to get into a habit of barking directions at our kids. Put on your shoes! Get your hat! Wash your hands! Come, NOW! Instead, we're trying to ask our kids what comes next and for them to come up with the answers, basically stealing all the best parts of Positive Parenting.
It sounds a lot like
"Lunch is ready. What do we need to do?"
"Wash hands!"
or "I can think of three things that are your ticket to the car. What are they?"
"Hat, shoes, and water bottle!"
Yes, it takes more energy and intention to do this the majority of the time, but it's worth maintaining an element of fun in the day. Not to mention raising kids who are thinkers. It does, however, presuppose a certain amount of routine and clearly-communicated behavior expectations already foundational in the dynamic (& the hope no child is going through a smartass phase).
I am happy to report I didn't have to football my child out of Nordstroms while she sabotaged racks of Ray-Bans along the way. Time to try allllllll the shoes on with my attention, not annoyance filled her little cup.
Parents of littles and how-can-they-be-this-big-already kids, I see you out there with your crew teetering between Intention and The-Brink. I know this place and I know we can do better. Not by trying harder, but by trading our benchmarks for what success looks like.
I love our city and I want to explore it with my kids without shouting at them about time and who's in control and without listening to you do that either. I believe in you. I believe in me. I believe in the intelligence and kindness of our kids. Whether you loved or hated this parenting post, just wait 'til you hear what I have to say about the ineffectiveness of time-outs and making your kids apologize!


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Never, never, ever take a shortcut on a hike
Unprepared and full of testosterone, always a bad combination. Read more.
A big shout of thanks to General Thimaya National Academy of Adventure (Gethnaa) and Praveen CM who completed a 75-ft run-out, that is a climb without any bolts or rope, to reach the boys. Had Praveen made a single mistake, he would have fallen 150ft down to the ground. It was a huge risk the rescuers were taking.
Featured article
Beautiful photography and an amazing read on sidetracked magazine. Read more.
Gross National Happiness
Many know Bhutan as the last Himalayan Buddhist Kingdom and the only country in the world to use Gross National Happiness as its primary yardstick for progress.
On rape and racism
For god's sake, let's stop painting our own society as a haven of peace and safety, which it most definitely isn't, and by the same token, let's stop turning the rest of the world into a no-go zone, full of dangerous criminals. Rape, and sexual assault, and all the other violent crimes, happen everywhere. And that's appalling. But what's also appalling is how much our worlds will shrink if we don't question the beliefs and prejudices we're being fed by mass media and popular culture.
Emily discusses the prejudices and beliefs impaired by people who have not stepped out of their country. As a lone woman travelling across continents on her bicycle, her views are well worth a read.
Exploring Tirthan
Ankit Sood lists a few places you can explore around Tirthan (Himachal Pradesh).
Rijul Shergill, an intrepid Himalayan Explorer
The most pertinent information on Dahuladhar (Himachal Pradesh) mountains. Sigh! we just wish it was better presented, because this deserves a wider audience. Rijul is a true Dhauladhar trekking legend. We salute you!
Unclipped Adventure's humorous take on 7 things that you must pack for an adventure.
More peak bagging in Raru Valley, Ladakh
Raru valley lies in Zanskar, Ladakh (J&K). The article goes on to give due reference to the cook and liaison officer. Cooks, an important part of any expedition hardly get a mention in the dispatches.
Read more about this ascent on Planet Mountain. Read more on Raru Valley in this 2011 dispatch from The British Mountaineering Council (BMC). It includes images too.
Amazing view from Sandakphu
Subhra Dey's amazing view from Sandakphu (W. Bengal). A view of those peaks was worth the trek.
Ricoh introduces its smallest, most rugged, go-anywhere camera
Ricoh has announced the WG-M2, an update to the WG-M1, its original rugged action camera, adding 4K video at 30 fps. It's capable of diving to depths of up to 19.8m/65ft, an improvement over the prior model's 9.8m/32ft waterproof rating, and is 40% smaller and lighter than its predecessor. The WG-M2 is also able to operate in temperatures as low as -10°C/14°F and will survive falls up to 2m/6.5ft.
Meanwhile, check out Go Pro's range for trekkers on Amazon India.
Instagram inspiration
REI lists a group of people who share great stories, backpack and choose to OptOutside on a regular basis. Read more.
Liked this? Follow along on Facebook, Pinterest and Google+ for live updates!


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Welcome to Michel's Place (michelsplace, michelsplace.fr)
Nearly there ....
..... two more days of work for this tour, then it's back up to the NW on Saturday night. A busy day on Sunday - preparation for a music festival in late August - then head for the south again on Monday to get the night boat from Portsmouth to Caen. French sunshine again on Tuesday - hopefully!!
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Michel's Blog
Moments Musicaux
Have you sampled any of the live recordings of choral music featured on the Moments Musicaux page of the website?
Or there's a Christmas Carol selection available here.
Michel - just an ordinary guy, I guess. A musician by trade and into 'techy' things as 'relaxation'. Originally from the UK, but resident in France for 13 years.
September 2019


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Keep Your Edge
"The whims and vagaries of team life sometimes are not so much fun, but more often than not, there's a great feeling of brotherhood amongst everybody that works together." –Geddy Lee, Rush
Collaborative energy can be a powerful creative force, just as it has been for more than 40 years with my favorite band, Rush. Geddy, Alex, Neil. Each has lived, lost and loved his work, with every fiber of his being.
OK, I'm a fan. I romanticize. But the proof is in the music. They take their craft very seriously, blending bass, keyboards, guitar, drums and evocative lyrics. They also have fun. Lots of serious fun. And failure. They've definitely seen their share of failure.
They've pushed themselves individually – and as a team – with a kinetic energy that knows no bounds. To me, this is refreshing, because I constantly hear the world of work cliché about how easy it is to find your passion andbe happy with what you do.
It's not that easy. It takes introspection and homework, plus a lot of practice and perseverance. But the good news is that the investment pays off in ways that you can apply in your life and your team's lives. It's not about becoming a big-time rock star; it's about understanding you and your team's particular brand of core genius –the special contribution that each of us brings to our professional life. Core genius is what you are in this world to do that only you can do. It's the unique package of skills, experiences, passions, interests, talents, abilities and attitude that you possess. It's something you can all get your heart around, and rev over and over again, until the vibe is right for you, and for your organization. The rewards are more than monetary; they are the growth experiences.
That's why learning is the heart of core genius, particularly continuous learning, and it's one the most important activities in business today, empowering engagement, retention, innovation, leadership development and ultimately revenue growth in today's global, fast-paced economy.
If individuals aren't encouraged to find their core genius, to receive the experience they increasingly want, where they feel the employer is committed to their ongoing development and helping set the stage for a long and successful tenure of reciprocal growth, they will seek to work for a company that offers such opportunities. That's what keeps bands together, you know.
In order to truly engage – and thereby retain – your talent (and for yourself, mind you), organizations must evolve their talent development practices to drive the engagement drums while determine how they can provide a more rewarding experience.
Part of Learning Technologies Group plc


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May 8th, 1982 marks 30 years since the death of Gilles Villeneuve; one of the most-talented and fearless drivers the sport ever witnessed… Here, we bring you a short video-clip tribute narrated by the ever-colourful (and opinionated) Jeremy Clarkson to assist in documenting this incredibly entertaining jousting match (for 2nd place) between Rene Arnoux and Villeneuve at the '79 French Grand Prix…
Video Duel: Remembering The Talented Gilles VilleneuveMay 8, 2012
The Legendary Monza High-Speed Oval: Then and NowDecember 30, 2011
Very few racetracks invoke genuine fear within racecar drivers and the high-speed Autodromo Nazionale Monza circuit (located near the town of Monza, Italy) is one such track with a lucrative history of legendary speeds and spectacular crashes resulting in many high-profile and unfortunate deaths. From its inception in 1922, 9 drivers and 27 spectators lost their lives within the first 10 years of its existence – the sheer number of crashes alone, was extraordinary.
The high speeds attained on the original design of the track (with little to zero run-off area, mind) pushed both car and driver to the limits of their capabilities, with any major mechanical (or driver) failure linking with road-holding manageability often resulting in a life-threatening crash of an extremely violent nature. Over the decades though, safety concerns were addressed and many revisions to the circuit were added and improved upon with various chicanes and extended run-off areas being added.
After extensive damage to the track occured during World War II, the Monza circuit was repaired for the 1948 season and then revamped, yet again, in 1954 – this time with a newly-built, steeply-banked 2.64 mile re-introduction of a section of the original oval track that was used from 1922 to 1933. The 'new' high-speed oval section was incorporated into the existing circuit design and saw truly incredible speeds… along with growing concerns.
Various manufacturers (and drivers) deemed the new banking section unsafe, especially as the tires used in the day simply weren't capable of providing adequate enough performance to withstand such conditions and were usually prone to disintegrating along the bumpy, rough surface of the oval. The controversial banked oval-section only saw F1 action in 1955, 1956, 1960 and 1961 along with various other races such as the '57/'58 'Race Of Two Worlds' series – a race-series utilising the oval circuit alone and saw pole-position speeds of 177 mph… Astonishing when you consider the pole-position speed for the Indy 500 in the same year was 144 mph.
The end for the oval came in 1961 after the horrific crash and subsequent death of Wolfgang von Trips along with 15 spectators when Trips' Ferrari collided with Jim Clark's Lotus and hurled the car airborne into the crowd. Although the crash happened just prior to the Parabolica curve section (and nowhere near the oval itself), it was enough of a shock and blow to the circuit owners who then took precautions of further reducing speeds on the legendary track and eliminating competitive F1 usage of the high-speed banked oval section outright.
Sections of the oval were altered throughout the 1960's and remained in use (albeit, in a slightly neutered/shortened/chicaned state) until 1969, yet the original high-speed circuit was captured on film one last time in the 1966 film 'Grand Prix'….
The famously daunting (and slowly disintegrating) oval section barely escaped complete destruction in the 1990s and (thankfully) remains a cherished, historical view of a dangerously frightening time in motor racing negotiated by incredibly brave drivers achieving speeds that must have been beyond the realms of 'unbelievably scary'.
-Blake J.
Photos of the Day: Jackie Stewart vs. The NurburgringDecember 19, 2011
Today's POTD focuses on Sir Jackie Stewart and his nemesis: The Nurburgring Nordschleife.
It was Sir Jackie himself who coined the famous term 'The Green Hell' towards the demanding and terrifying circuit, yet it was also Sir Jackie who studied it, mastered it and conquered it. And nowhere was this most impressively evident than in 1968 during the German Grand Prix held at the Nurburgring amidst simply appalling weather conditions…
The notorious heavy rain and thick fog of the region had descended upon the Eiffel mountains with a vengeance that day and, even then, teams and spectators were surprised that the race wasn't cancelled.
Accidents were a-plenty and many cars retired within the first few laps of the race, but Sir Jackie drove on throughout the rain-battered, fog-engulfed mellee with exquisite, precisional concentration – almost 'feeling' his way around the course lap after lap, usually relying on his memory of the endless dips and cambers as the blanketed fog prohibited any real view of what lay ahead… Incredible.
As the chequered flag fell, Jackie crossed the finish line a full 4 minutes ahead of the next car and soon after offered-up his descriptive 'Green Hell' tag that has stuck with the challenging circuit to this very day.
A short vid from the 'Murray Walker F1 Greats' series…
-Blake J.
Spotlight: Alfa Romeo 164 ProcarNovember 30, 2011
By the time of the late '80s, Formula 1 had become a raging sea of Turbo-powered monsters that were engineered to produce exaspirating performance figures. It was a tumultuous period for both the FIA and the teams involved, eventually resulting in the outright banning of the mega-horsepowered formula for the 1989 season. Yet, Bernie Ecclestone had an intriguing idea up his sleeve to re-ignite race fans – an F1-powered Procar series for the '88-'89 season.
A fantastic (though mightily expensive) idea was born – one that allowed the manufacturers to showcase their latest F1 technology within a bespoke race series where the cars were near-identical to their regular production versions. A 'silhouette' racing formula that would have seen top drivers competing in relatively stock-looking production cars heavily modified under the skin. The proposed power and weight limitations were exciting as well, dictating a 750 kg minimum and a 3.5L engine that could have up to 12 cylinders.
Alfa Romeo, now under Fiat management, was keen to provide their proposed version of a Procar for they had been planning an eventual return to the F1 stage for several years already. Since 1986, development of a 3.5L V10 F1 engine was evolving for the Ligier team but after relations fell through, Alfa was left with a 610 bhp V10 engine with nothing to slot it in.
When the Procar idea was laid out, Alfa collaborated with Brabham towards the challenge of producing an F1-style chassis that could accomodate a carbon-fibre saloon-car outer shell. The timing was also impecable for the Alfa marketing legions as it coincided the Procar debut with the launch of their brand new 164 Saloon, gorgeously designed by Pininfarina.
By the Fall of 1988, Alfa's newly successful partnership with Brabham for the project would produce two fully-built Procars (of shocking similarity to the production counterpart) and 15 V10 engines – Alfa looked primed and ready for a triumphant return. Testing of the 164 Procar produced impressive results as well – Top speed was 211 mph (faster than F1 cars) and the standing quarter-mile was achieved in 9.7 seconds.
In light of these figures, Alfa decided to enlist Riccardo Patrese to show-off their new Procar creation (video below) to the public during practice sessions at Monza prior to the Italian Grand Prix. Riccardo hit 207 mph on the long finish-line straight in the slippery-bodied 164 Saloon and easily whet the crowd's appetite for more Procar action in the future.
Yet, as is the case with most great ideas, this seemingly brilliant one from Mr. Ecclestone would be put to rest by a lack of available funds (and subsequent interest) from all the other major manufacturers. And Alfa Romeo simply could not afford a lone, one-make series a-la BMW in the late '70s with their M1 Procar. Sadly, the F1-rivalling Procar idea was canned and the 164 Saloon Procar was eventually utilised as a research-vehicle towards their later DTM efforts.
The proposed Procar race series of the late '80s remains one of those undeniable could-have-been/should-have-been paths for Motorsport to have undertaken. It would have been absolutely spectacular in many ways yet, most importantly, forever memorable.
-Blake J.