text:
4,4'-Methylenebis(O-Chloroaniline) [MOCA]
OSHA Method ORG-24 | February 1981
For problems with accessibility in using figures and illustrations, please contact the Salt Lake Technical Center at 801-233-4900.
These procedures were designed and tested for internal use by OSHA personnel. Mention of any company name or commercial product does not constitute endorsement by OSHA.
|Method no.:
|Target concentration:
|0.2 mg/m3 (0.02 ppm)
0.02 ppm is the TLV of the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists. A skin notation is attached to the standard. The NIOSH recommended standard is 3 µg/m3 based on a time-weighted average. This value represents the detection limit for this method. (Ref. 5.7.)
|Collection in a bubbler containing 15 mL of 0.1 N HCl and analysis by HPLC using UV detection.
|Recommended air volume and sampling rate:
|100 L at 1 L/min
|Reliable quantitation limit:
|3.6 µg/m3
|Standard error of estimate at the target concentration: (Figure 4.5.1.)
|Special requirements:
|After air sampling is completed, the inlet tube of the bubbler should be thoroughly rinsed with the fresh collecting solution. The rinse solution should then be combined with the remaining collecting solution for later analysis. (Section 2.3.)
|Status of method:
|Evaluated method. This method has been subjected to the established evaluation procedures of the Organic Methods Evaluation Branch.
Date: February 1981
Chemist: Kevin Cummins
Organic Methods Evaluation Branch
OSHA Salt Lake Technical Center
Sandy UT 84070-6406
- General Discussion
- Background
- History
A variety of sampling and analytical methods have been employed in the past for monitoring exposure to MOCA. OSHA field samples have been collected using 37-mm cellulose acetate filters, glass fiber filters, and commercially available Florisil and silica gel sorbent tubes. Presently, the most common method employed uses a plastic filter cassette containing a 37-mm Gelman Type A glass fiber filter backed with a cellulose support pad. A two-stage sampling device using a filter and solid sorbent in series has been employed on occasion.
Since 1977 the analysis of MOCA in the OSHA Laboratory has been performed using HPLC. Prior to that time, analysis was performed by the gas chromatographic determination of the fluoroacetyl derivatives using electron capture detection. Analysis of the fluoroacetyl derivatives using FID detection has also been reported in the literature. (Ref. 5.1.)
MOCA is a solid at room temperature and has a relatively low vapor pressure (3.7 x 10-6 mm Hg at 20°C). Industrial applications often employ a molten MOCA process. (Ref. 5.2.) It is believed that an effective air sampling device must be capable of collecting the aerosol and the vapor of MOCA. Recognizing this problem, NIOSH has recommended a two stage sampling device consisting of a 13-mm Gelman Type A glass fiber filter followed by a 50-mg bed of 30/60 mesh silica gel. (Ref. 5.3.)
Rappaport and Morales of the Los Alamos Laboratory, University of California, evaluated this sampling method using an aerosol generation system. (Ref. 5.2.) They concluded that the glass fiber filter quantitatively trapped the MOCA aerosol, and no MOCA was detected on the silica gel backup portion of the sampler. MOCA aerosol from 3.6 to 54.6 µg/m3 were generated at relative humidities ranging from 5 to 90%. The ability of the sampler to collect MOCA vapor was not reported in this study. The rationale for recommending silica gel for sampling MOCA vapor was based on the work of Wood and Anderson also from the Los Alamos Laboratory. (Ref. 5.4.) Although MOCA was not evaluated in this study, they found silica gel to be an effective sorbent for the collection of a variety of volatile aromatic amines.
Yasuda, of Los Alamos, reported that Gas Chrom S was an effective solid sorbent for trapping MOCA vapor. (Ref. 5.1.) The vapor in this study was generated by adding a known amount of MOCA to a diffusion chamber contained within a temperature controlled oven. A MOCA concentration of 0.06 µg/L was generated at an oven temperature of 120°C. Gas Chrom S tubes attached directly to the oven outlet resulted in collection efficiencies of 100% for sampling times of 0.5 to 8 h at a 1 L/min sampling rate.
- Scope of this study
The evaluation of a MOCA sampling method was pursued in order to develop a reliable collection method for OSHA use. Air sampling over a flask of molten MOCA was performed using a variety of collection methods to test relative collection efficiencies. The design of the sampling apparatus employed did not permit independent determination of the concentration of the MOCA generated, nor could information about the physical state of the MOCA generated be determined. The solid sorbents XAD-2, acid treated and untreated Gas Chrom R, silica gel, Polar Partition and Florisil were tested in this manner. As much as 75% of the MOCA collected was found on the glass wool plug at the front of the tube when SKC silica gel, SKC Polar Partition, and hand-packed Gas Chrom R tubes were tested. Analysis of the individual portions of SKC XAD-2 and Florisil tubes indicated that the glass wool plugs on the ends and in the middle of the tube collected MOCA more effectively than the sorbent. Although the sorbent tubes tested may be effective in trapping MOCA at low levels, at the high loadings generated in this study, (10 to 100 µg) they were not effective.
When relatively dry laboratory air was drawn through the apparatus, 37-mm Gelman glass fiber filters, untreated and treated with 0.05 N H2SO4 were effective in trapping MOCA over the molten state. When an aqueous bubbler was attached to the molten MOCA system so that wet air was being sampled, the acid treated filter was less effective in trapping MOCA. Considerable amounts of MOCA were detected on the cellulose support pad in this case.
The initial results of this study indicated that a glass fiber filter followed in series with a silica gel tube might be an effective sampling method. However, it was later determined that low recoveries were obtained when MOCA was spiked onto glass fiber filters and air was drawn through the system. Similar low recoveries were also observed with air drawn through MOCA spiked silica gel, Gas Chrom R or XAD-2 solid sorbents. This loss of MOCA was apparently not due to volatilization since no MOCA was detected in any backup system, but was probably due to decomposition. Similar phenomena have been observed in our laboratory with benzidine. (Ref. 5.5.) Reports of oxidation of aromatic amines stored on silica gel have been reported in the literature. (Ref. 5.4.)
In breakthrough studies of MOCA, it was observed that the degree of decomposition or oxidation was not simply a function of the air volume sampled through the collection media. The recovery from spiked glass fiber filters, with equal volumes of air sampled, varied from approximately 46 to 99% with either dry laboratory air or 70 to 80% relative humidity air. Similar results were observed for silica gel, Gas Chrom R and XAD-2 solid sorbents. MOCA spiked into open glass vials (2.5 µL x 1523 µg/mL MOCA standard in methanol) and left exposed to the air for 24 hours both in room light and in the dark resulted in average recoveries of 87.5% and 89.5% respectively for triplicate 3.8 µg spikes. One-hundred percent recoveries were consistently obtained only if the MOCA was spiked into the methanol desorbing solution containing the sampling media.
In an attempt to determine if the loss of MOCA was due to oxidation, nitrogen was passed through a sodium metal-ketyl mineral oil oxygen scrubbing system and drawn through spiked filters. No improvement in recovery was noted. It is possible that the oxygen was not completely removed from the system or that decomposition occurred during the spiking process. Further efforts to evaluate this phenomenon were not undertaken.
Storage studies were conducted for glass fiber filters, cellulose backup pads, silica gel tubes, and 0.1 N HCl aqueous bubbler solutions. The results indicate that no further degradation occurs for filters after the initial loss. Further degradation is observed however for backup pads and silica gel tubes stored both at 4°C and ambient conditions. No degradation is observed with storage for the 0.1 N HCl bubbler solution.
Because of the problems encountered with glass fiber filters and solid sorbents, the 0.1 N HCl bubbler was selected as the sampling device for MOCA. This sampling procedure passes all of the criteria established by the Methods Evaluation Branch.
In order to further evaluate the efficiency of the bubbler as a sampling method, comparative sampling over molten MOCA was conducted.
Two 0.1 N HCl bubblers connected in series were attached to one side of a sampling arm, and a glass fiber filter-silica gel sampling train was attached to the other side. Moist air was drawn past the molten MOCA, generating average air concentrations ranging from 0.062 to 0.43 mg/m3 as determined by the analysis of the bubbler sampling system. Although equal volumes of moist air were drawn through both sides of the sampling apparatus, low recoveries of MOCA for the filter-silica gel system relative to the bubbler system were obtained in three of four experiments. In no case was MOCA recovery for an alternate sampling method found to exceed the 0.1 N HCl aqueous bubbler. In addition, it was determined that one bubbler was efficient in trapping MOCA at the levels generated.
It is recognized that some convenience in sampling is sacrificed with the use of a bubbler. It is also recognized that there are inherent limitations in this evaluation process. For this reason it is believed that side by side field sampling will provide valuable information regarding the relative collection efficiency of the bubbler versus the filter-silica gel sampling system.
- Toxic effects (This section is for information only and should not be taken as the basis for OSHA policy.)
Like other aromatic amines, MOCA can produce a cyanotic-anemic syndrome if absorbed into the body in high levels. However, MOCA may be classified as only mildly cyanogenic relative to p-chloroaniline as measured by its ability to produce methemoglobinema in humans. (Ref. 5.6.)
Of greater concern is the evidence that MOCA is a carcinogen as indicated by five separate animal studies using rats, mice, and dogs. (Ref. 5.7.) In a NIOSH-conducted study, a dose relationship of cancer to MOCA levels in the diet of rats was observed. MOCA levels ranging from 125 to 1000 ppm in a protein adequate and a protein deficient diet were fed to two groups of rats over an 18-month period. Although there was a variation in the incidence of various types of tumors between the two groups, both MOCA exposed groups had an increased incidence of malignant tumors compared to control groups. (Ref. 5.7.)
In another study, continuous daily oral doses of 8 to 15 mg/kg of MOCA administered to female beagles for up to nine years produced evidence of urinary bladder cancer in three of five dogs. No cases were observed in six controls. (Ref. 5.7.)
A positive Ames test for MOCA has also been demonstrated using Salmonella Typhimurium indicating that MOCA is mutagenic in an in vitro system. (Ref. 5.7.)
Evaluation of human exposure to MOCA is limited to one study conducted by DuPont on 209 employees who were exposed to MOCA over a 15-year period at their Chamber's Works facility. (Ref. 5.6.) Urinary MOCA levels as high as 25 mg/L were reported before controls were initiated. Maximum levels after controls range from 1.6 to 6.7 mg/L in a group of 17 current workers. These urinary levels are higher than expected based on the air concentration levels measured at the facility. The authors suggest that this may indicate that skin absorption is a major route of entry.
Some pathological disorders in urinary tract cells were observed among the 209 current or former employees as determined by the Papanicolaon (Pap) technique. Of 178 former employees two deaths due to cancer were reported. According to the report, the overall average cancer death rate for a 15-year period at the Chamber's Works facility which includes all 6500 employees is lower than the national average. (Ref. 5.6.)
- Exposure
MOCA is used as a curing agent in the production of polyurethane elastomers. Hard tires, rollers, seals, crash pad foam and vibration dampeners are products produced from urethane elastomers. It is estimated that 3.3 million kg of MOCA were produced in 1972. (Ref. 5.2.)
NIOSH reports that in the early 1970s approximately 55,000 U.S. workers were potentially exposed to MOCA. (Ref. 5.7.)
- Physical properties (Ref. 5.7.)
CAS no.: 101-14-4 synonyms: Bis Amine, Curalin M., Curene 442 3,3'-dichloro-4,4'-diaminodiphenyl methane physical properties: Yellow to tan pellets, nearly odorless. melting point: 99-107°C solubility: Slightly soluble in water. Soluble in alcohol, ketones, esters and many organic solvents. vapor pressure: 3.7 x 10-6 mm Hg at 20°C (Ref. 5.2.) specific gravity: 1.44 at 24°C chemical formula: C13H12N2C12 molecular weight: 267.16
- History
- Limit defining parameters
- Detection limit of the analytical procedure
The detection limit of the analytical procedure is 0.48 ng of MOCA per injection. This is the amount of analyte which will give a peak whose height is approximately five times the amplitude of the baseline noise. (Section 4.1.)
- Detection limit of the overall procedure
The detection limit of the overall procedure is 0.36 µg per sample (3.6 µg/m3). This is the amount of analyte spiked in the sampling device which allows recovery of an amount of analyte equivalent to the detection limit of the analytical procedure. (Section 4.1.)
- Reliable quantitation limit
The reliable quantitation limit is 0.36 µg per sample (3.6 µg/m3). This is the smallest amount of analyte which can be quantitated within the required 95% confidence limits of ±25%. (Section 4.1.)
The reliable quantitation limit and detection limits reported in this method are based upon optimization of the instrument for the smallest possible amount of analyte. When the target concentration of an analyte is exceptionally higher than these limits, they may not be attainable at the routine operating parameters.
- Sensitivity
The sensitivity of the analytical procedure over a concentration range representing 0.5 to 2 times the target concentration is 53,542 area units per µg MOCA/mL. The sensitivity is determined from the slope of the calibration curve. Variations in sensitivity may be observed with different instruments. (Section 4.2.)
- Precision (analytical method only)
The pooled coefficient of variation obtained from replicate determinations of analytical standards at 0.5, 1, and 2 times the target concentration is 0.0282. (Section 4.4.)
- Precision (overall procedure)
The overall procedure must provide results at the target concentration that are ±25% or better at the 95% confidence level. The precision at the 95% confidence level is 14.4% for the 21-day storage test. This includes an additional ±5% for sampling error. (Section 4.5., Figure 4.5.1.)
- Detection limit of the analytical procedure
- Advantages
- The analytical procedure is rapid, sensitive, and reproducible.
- Direct injection of sample is used for the analysis since no derivatization steps are required.
- Reanalysis of samples is possible.
- Disadvantages
- Bubbler collection solutions are cumbersome to use. Loss of sample can easily occur.
- Detection limits for bubbler solutions are greater than filters or sorbent tubes since the sample is more dilute.
- The sampling procedure has not been field tested.
- Background
- Sampling Procedure
- Apparatus
- An air sampling pump with a flow rate which can be calibrated to within ±5% of the recommended 1 L/min flow rate while the sampler is in line.
- Clean, dry 25-mL glass bubblers, fitted with matched ground glass joints and a fritted glass inlet.
- Clean, dry 20-mL glass scintillation vials fitted with leakproof Polyseal caps or other suitable glass containers for transporting samples.
- Glass Pasteur type pipettes equipped with small rubber bulbs for rinsing the bubbler, etc., and transferring the collection solution.
- Reagents
0.1 N Hydrochloric acid collecting solution.
- Sampling technique
- Place 15 mL of the 0.1 N HCl aqueous solution into a clean, dry bubbler. Connect the bubbler to the sampling pump using flexible tubing, and maintain the device in an upright position throughout the sampling period. Fifteen milliliters of solution is an adequate volume for at least 5 h of sampling at 25°C.
- After having completed sampling, transfer the entire contents of the bubbler to the scintillation vial for shipping to the laboratory. Rinse the inlet tube of the bubbler and the bubbler with several small volumes of fresh 0.1 N HCl solution and add these rinses to the shipping vial.
- Insure that the vial is leakproof, and sealed with the properly labeled OSHA seal.
- Avoid unnecessary exposure of the sample to direct light and/or heat.
- Include all necessary paper work with the samples for shipping to the laboratory. Insure that all possible interferences or other pertinent information is included.
- Submit any bulk samples in sealed containers under separate cover.
- Breakthrough
- Retention efficiency
Three bubblers containing 15 mL of 0.1 N HCl solution were spiked with 5.87 µg of MOCA in methanol. Ninety-two liters of air at 72% relative humidity was drawn through the bubblers at 1 L/min. The average recovery for the three bubblers was 101%. The average recovery for a 117.5 µg spike of MOCA was 97% in a similar study. (Section 4.6.) Low recoveries on glass fiber filters were observed in similar studies. (Section 4.7.)
- Collection efficiency
In order to evaluate the collection efficiency of MOCA, air was sampled over a flask of molten MOCA using an apparatus diagrammed in Figure 4.6.
Air concentrations of MOCA generated ranged from 0.062 to 0.43 mg/m3 as determined by the analysis of the bubbler system.
With the exception of the 205-L sampling, higher recoveries were found with the bubbler system in all four studies each performed on different days. No MOCA was detected on any of the back sections of silica gel. No MOCA was detected on the connecting piece of the two bubblers. The amount of MOCA found in the second bubbler was relatively small in all four cases.
The results of this experiment must be viewed with caution. The actual amount, as well as the physical state of the MOCA generated, is not known. In two of the four comparative samplings, the sections of tubing connecting the glass Y tube to the sampling device were rinsed with methanol and analyzed for MOCA. For the 205-L air sample, 9.07 µg was found on the filter side, and 7.6 µg on the bubbler side. For the 142-L air sample, 57.6 µg was found on the filter side, and 68.5 µg on the bubbler side.
These results indicate that both sides of the sampling device are apparently being exposed to a similar MOCA atmosphere. It is possible that the difference in recovery for the filter assembly is due to oxidation or decomposition. (Section 4.8.)
- Retention efficiency
- Recommended air volume and sampling rate
- The minimum recommended air volume is 100 L.
- The recommended sampling rate is 1 L/min.
- Interferences
There are no known interferences involved in the sampling procedure.
- Safety precautions
- Attach the sampling equipment to the worker in such a manner that it will not interfere with work performance or safety.
- Follow all safety practices that apply to the work area being sampled.
- Apparatus
- Analytical Procedure
- Apparatus
- High performance liquid chromatograph equipped with pump, sample injector, UV detector, chart recorder and necessary hardware.
- HPLC analytical column capable of separating aromatic amines. A 25-cm x 4.6-mm stainless steel column, slurry packed with Zorbax ODS 8-µm spherical packing material was used for this analysis.
- An electronic integrator, or other suitable method to measure detector response.
- Microliter syringes or automatic sampling device for making sample injections.
- Volumetric glassware for sample and standard preparations.
- A pH meter or pH indicating paper for adjusting pH of collecting solution to neutral conditions.
- Reagents
- HPLC grade methanol.
- HPLC grade water. Our laboratory uses a commercially available water filtration system for the preparation of HPLC grade water.
- Sodium hydroxide, reagent grade.
- Purified MOCA standard. (Section 3.3.1.)
- Standard preparation
- HPLC analysis of technical grade MOCA standards at 254 nm indicates the presence of contaminants. A cyclohexane extraction method for purification of MOCA gave low recoveries and was found to be time consuming. (Ref. 5.2.) In lieu of this method a semi-preparative HPLC method was used to purify the MOCA standard. Fifty-microliter injections of Pfaltz and Bauer technical grade MOCA in methanol were made onto a 50 cm long Whatman Magnum Partisil ODS column using a methanol-water mobile phase. Approximately 50 mg was loaded onto the column per injection without serious loss of peak shape. Using UV detection, the major peak was collected. A portion of each fraction collected was reinjected onto an analytical column under similar conditions to assure purity. Heptane was then added to the pooled fractions and the methanol and water mobile phase removed by rotary evaporation. Approximately 0.8 g of MOCA was obtained by this method. The melting point of the purified MOCA was 108.5-109.5°C. The melting point of the technical grade MOCA was 102-108.5°C. The purified standard is nearly white in appearance compared to the tan colored technical grade MOCA. No contaminants were detected by GC/MS in the purified MOCA. The unpurified standard was calculated to be approximately 95-98% pure relative to the purified standard.
- Stock standards of MOCA are prepared by weighing a portion of the purified MOCA standard into HPLC grade methanol. These solutions stored in dark bottles in a refrigerator are stable for an indefinite period of time. Working range standards (0.02 to 10 µg/mL) are prepared by making dilutions of the stock solution into HPLC grade water. These dilute MOCA standards in water are also quite stable, although decomposition of dilute standards in methanol has been observed. (Section 3.6.6.)
- Sample preparation
- Neutralize the 0.1 N HCl collecting solution with several drops of saturated NaOH. Check the pH with pH paper or a pH meter.
- Measure and record the total volume of the collecting solution with a graduated cylinder.
- Analysis
- HPLC conditions
column: Zorbax ODS 8-µm stainless steel column (25 cm x 4.6 mm) mobile phase: methanol/water 80:20 (v/v) flow rate: 1 mL/min UV detector: 254 nm or 280 nm injection volume: 20 µL retention time: approximately 6 min
- Use of a dual wavelength detector permits simultaneous detection at an alternate 280 nm wavelength. Since UV response varies with wavelength, this information can be useful for confirmatory purposes as well as for the recognition of interferences. A UV scan of the purified MOCA standard in methanol is shown in Figure 4.7.
- A representative chromatogram is shown in Figure 4.3.
- Detector response is measured by electronic integration.
- An external standard procedure is used for quantitation. A calibration curve of at least three different MOCA concentrations is used. Although the MOCA response is linear over a broad concentration range, it is good laboratory practice to bracket the sample values with standards.
- HPLC conditions
- Interferences
- There are no known interferences to MOCA which cannot be resolved by changes in mobile phase conditions.
- 2,4-Toluenediamine and methylenebisdianiline, the hydrolysis products of the 2,4-TDI and MDI diisocyanates, are not interferences.
- Benzidine, a- and β-naphthylamine, and o-toluidine are not interferences.
- 4-Amino-diphenyl (4-ADP) and dichlorobenzidine (DCB) elute with the same retention time as MOCA under the recommended analytical conditions. With dual wavelength detection at 254 nm and 280 nm, these interferences can be readily recognized since their absorbance ratios differ markedly from MOCA. By adjusting the mobile phase to methanol/water 75:25 (v/v), MOCA is separated from 4-ADP and DCB. 4-ADP and DCB elute at 9.6 min and MOCA at 10.5 minutes under these conditions.
- A matrix effect for MOCA in a mixture of aromatic amines has been observed. In an amine standard mixture MOCA elutes slightly earlier than if it is analyzed separately.
In order to identify MOCA in a complex sample, it may be necessary to spike a portion of the field sample with MOCA and reanalyze.
- In the course of this study, it was observed that some standards and spiked samples stored in methanol had decomposed with time. Since this decomposition has not been observed for samples or standards in water, the problem appears to apply only to the analysis of samples dissolved in methanol. The nature of this decomposition in methanol is not understood. One of the decomposition products may co-elute with MOCA at the specified analytical conditions. This decomposition product is observed at 254 nm but not at 280 nm. With dual wavelength detection, this problem can be recognized by peak ratioing. Adjustment of the mobile phase to methanol/water 75:25 (v/v) will separate MOCA from this decomposition product. In the event that only 254 nm is being monitored, the recommended analytical conditions should only be used to screen samples. Reanalysis at the alternate mobile phase conditions may be necessary. (Figure 4.8.)
- Calculations
- A linear least-squares fit is determined using standard concentrations and response values. Sample response values are used to determine the sample concentration from the least squares fit of the standards.
- The air concentration for a sample in µg/m3 is determined from the following formula:
(µg/mL MOCA in sample) (total mL of collecting solution)
air volume in cubic meters
- Safety precautions
- Sample and standard preparations should be performed in a fume hood. Avoid exposure to both standards and samples.
- Avoid all possible skin contact with MOCA.
- Confine the use of solvents to a fume hood.
- Wear safety glasses in all laboratory areas.
- MOCA should be handled with extreme care since it is an animal carcinogen.
- Apparatus
- Backup Data
- Detection limits
- The analytical detection limit for MOCA is 0.48 ng per injection (20 µL x 0.024 ng/µL). This amount of analyte gave a peak whose height was approximately five times the amplitude of the baseline noise. (Figure 4.1.)
- The overall detection limit of the procedure is 0.36 µg per sample (0.024 µg/mL x 15 mL).
- The reliable quantitation limit is the same as the detection limit of the overall procedure since the precision at the detection limit is better than ±25% at the 95% confidence level. This was determined with replicate 20-µL injections of a 0.024 µg/mL MOCA in water standard.
Table 4.1.3.
Reliable Quantitation Limit Data
peak height (mm)
- Sensitivity
The calibration curve for MOCA is shown in Figure 4.2. The slope of the regression line is a measurement of the sensitivity of the analytical method.
- Chromatogram
A typical chromatogram for MOCA is presented in Figure 4.3.
- Precision of the analytical method
MOCA standards at 0.5, 1 and 2 times the target concentration were each injected five times using a Waters WISP automatic sampler. The area response for each injection was measured by electronic integration and the results used to construct a calibration curve. The calculated best fit values in µg/mL of each injection are used to determine a pooled coefficient of variation.
Table 4.4.
Precision of the Analytical Method
x target conc.
µg/mL found 0.615 1.183 2.416 0.621 1.231 2.436 0.618 1.215 2.306 0.610 1.198 2.481 0.580 1.261 2.510 X 0.609 1.218 2.430 SD 0.0166 0.0302 0.0784 CV 0.0273 0.0248 0.0320 CV = 0.0282
- Storage
The percent recovery of MOCA after storage in aqueous 0.1 N HCl collecting solution is reported in Table 4.5. Thirty-six samples were prepared for storage by spiking 15 mL of collecting solution contained in 20-mL glass scintillation vials with 14.6 µg of MOCA (9.6 µL x 1523 µg/mL). Six samples were analyzed immediately. Of the remaining 30 samples, half were stored at room temperature in a laboratory drawer and the other half were stored in a refrigerator at -5°C. At the indicated time intervals, three samples each were removed from storage and analyzed for MOCA. The results of the ambient and the refrigerated storage are presented in Figures 4.5.1. and 4.5.2.
Over the same time period a similar storage study was conducted with MOCA spiked on glass fiber filters, cellulose support pads, and the front silica gel sections of the SKC sorbent tubes. All of these sampling media were spiked with MOCA and stored in 4-mL glass Waters WISP vials. Both ambient and refrigerated storage were conducted at the indicated time intervals. The samples were desorbed with methanol and analyzed. The results of both ambient and refrigerated storage for glass fiber filters, support pads, and silica gel are presented in Figures 4.5.3. through 4.5.8.
Recoveries of MOCA on the filter are constant after the initial loss upon spiking. A further loss of MOCA is observed for cellulose support pads and silica gel stored at both ambient and refrigerated conditions. No losses are observed on day zero for controls of spiked methanol solutions on each of the sampling media.
Table 4.5.
Storage Tests
storage time
% recovery
- Bubbler retention efficiency
- Four bubblers containing 15 mL of aqueous 0.1 N HCl were spiked with 8.75 µg of MOCA (5 µL x 1.75 µg/mL) in methanol. Three of the bubblers were placed on the humid air generator and 92 L of air at 72% relative humidity was drawn through each bubbler at 1 L/min. No air was drawn through the fourth bubbler (control). The percent recovery of MOCA from the four bubblers was 103.0, 100.0, 100.0, and 99.0 (control).
- A similar study was done with a 117.5-µg spike of MOCA into 15 mL of 0.1 N HCl collecting solution. One hundred and thirty-three liters of air at 78% relative humidity was drawn through each bubbler at 1 L/min. The percent recovery of MOCA from the four bubblers was 94.0, 98.5, 99.0 and 97.4 (control).
- Glass giver filter retention efficiency
- The average recovery for 12 glass fiber filters spiked with either 4.77 µg or 5.96 µg MOCA on different days was 80%. The recoveries ranged from a low of 45% to a high of 99%. Air volumes used ranged from 60 to 68 L. Both relatively dry laboratory air and 80% relative humidity air was used at a flow rate of 1 L/min. No correlation was observed between the percent recovery and the volume or the relative humidity of the air sampled. (Table 4.7.)
To examine sample loss from a glass fiber filter, a cassette containing a spiked glass fiber filter was backed by a bubbler containing 15 mL of 0.1 N HCl. Three filters were spiked with 117.5 µg of MOCA and 147 L of humid air was sampled. No MOCA was detected in any of the three bubbler backup systems although the average loss from the filters was 18%. MOCA was also not detected in cassette rinses, or on connecting pieces to the bubbler.
Recoveries for spiked XAD-2, Gas Chrom R and silica gel are similar to glass fiber filters. Similar conditions were used for the solid sorbents as was employed in the above work.
Table 4.7.
Retention Efficiency
of Spiked Glass Fiber Filters at Ambient Conditions
- Collection efficiency
A 125-mL flat bottomed boiling flask containing several grams of technical grade MOCA was maintained in a molten state using a heating mantel equipped with a rheostat. A two holed rubber stopper fitted with unequal lengths of glass tubing was placed into the top of the flask. The longer piece of tubing extended to a point near the surface of the molten MOCA. The shorter piece of tubing served as an inlet to the flask. To achieve humid air sampling conditions a bubbler containing 15 mL of water was attached to the inlet tube with flexible tubing. To the outlet tube was attached a 10-cm piece of tubing. Samplers were attached directly to this piece of tubing for testing individual sampling devices. For sampling with two devices, a glass Y with two 15-cm lengths of flexible tubing arms was attached to the outlet tubing section. Samplers were attached directly to each of the tubing arms for comparative sampling. The apparatus was supported by means of a ring stand and clamps. A schematic of this apparatus is shown in Figure 4.6. Air was drawn through the sampling devices using either a Gast pressure/vacuum pump or a personal sampling pump attached with flexible tubing. Flow rates were controlled by means of critical orifices or individual sampling pumps. The separate flow rates and total flow rates through the system were determined before, during, and after sampling. The sum of the individual flow rates equaled the total flow for the system.
The collection efficiency of two 15-mL 0.1 N HCl bubblers in series was measured against the collection efficiency of a glass fiber filter-silica gel sampling system. The bubbler sampling train consisted of two glass bubblers, each containing 15 mL of 0.1 N HCl, connected in series with a piece of flexible tubing. The filter assembly consisted of a two piece plastic cassette containing a 37-mm Gelman type A glass fiber filter with a Millipore cellulose backup pad for support. An SKC silica gel tube (6 mm x 70 mm) containing a 150-mg front and a 75-mg back section was attached to the outlet of the cassette with a short piece of flexible tubing and a plastic SKC cap with the end removed. The tube was butted against the cassette outlet to minimize exposed tubing. For comparative sampling over the molten MOCA, both sampling systems were used to sample for the same period of time at 1 L/min. After sampling was completed, the filter assembly sampling components were immediately desorbed with methanol. Analysis of the individual components of each sampling system was performed within 24 h of collection. The glass fiber filter, backup pad, front and back portions of silica gel, including front glass wool section, empty silica gel tube, plastic cassette and connecting tubing were all desorbed with methanol and analyzed for MOCA using a standard of MOCA prepared in methanol. The inlets of both glass bubblers were rinsed with a portion of the collecting solution. The 0.1 N HCl collecting solution was neutralized with several drops of saturated NaOH solution and analyzed directly for MOCA using a standard of MOCA in water. The results of this experiment are shown below.
Table 4.8.
Comparative Sampling Over Molten MOCA
amount found in filter-
silica gel assembly (µg)
amount found in
bubbler assembly (µg)
cassette silica
gel tube
total first
total 142 18.02 0.85 13.14 0.882 32.89 57.65 3.33 60.98 143 15.88 3.11 4.17 0.59 23.75 39.43 3.47 42.90 205 9.51 2.13 4.70 1.30 17.64 18.75 0.60 19.35 206 3.07 0.38 2.20 ND 5.65 11.70 0.78 12.72
- Detection limits
- References
- Yasuda, Stanley, K., J. of Chromatography, 1975, 104, 283-290.
- Rappaport, S.M.; Morales, R. Anal. Chemistry 1979 51(1), 19-23.
- "NIOSH Manual of Analytical Methods," 2nd Edition, Volume 1, April, 1977, NIOSH, Cincinnati, Ohio, 236-1 to 236-9.
- Wood, G.O.; Anderson, R.G., Am. Ind. Hygiene. Assoc. Journal 1975, 36, 538-548.
- Elskamp, Carl J. "Benzidine Status Report" August 1979, OSHA Laboratory, Salt Lake City, Utah.
- Linch, A.L.; O'Conner, G.B.; Barnes, J.R.; Killian, A.S., Jr.; and Neeld, W.E., Jr. Am. Ind. Hygiene Assoc. Journal, 1971, 32, 802-819.
- "Special Hazard Review with Control Recommendation, 4,4'-Methylenebis(2-chloroaniline)," Sept. 1978, NIOSH.


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Tamils in Northern Sri Lanka stage mass protest demanding speedy solutions to their issues
Sat, Sep 24, 2016, 08:33 pm SL Time, ColomboPage News Desk, Sri Lanka.
Sept 24, Colombo: Thousands of Tamils in Sri Lanka's Northern Province staged a mass protest in Jaffna today demanding solutions to their issues.
The march and a rally led by Northern Province Chief Minister C V Wigneswaran was organized by the Tamil Makkal National Front to highlight issues faced by the community, PTI reported.
The demonstrators asked the government to halt Sinhala majority settlements and stop building Buddhist religious shrines in Tamil areas, return of the Tamil civilian lands held for military purposes, release of Tamil political prisoners and assistance in tracing missing people.
Analysts said this was the first time the northerners took part in a public gathering of this scale since Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena took over in January last year.
Businesses remained shut in the Jaffna town in solidarity while the organizers estimated that about 10,000 people from both North and East attended the rally.
The main Tamil party, Tamil National Alliance, shunned the demonstration.
"The TNA pledged Tamils a federal solution at the last election. So the Tamils can be only happy with a federal solution by merging the north and east," TNA lawmaker Dharmalingam Siddathan said.

subset: commoncrawl


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10 Best New Restaurants in San Antonio
There were so many tasty additions to San Antonio's culinary scene in 2015 that it was tough to narrow down the list. We present the 10 top new restaurants.
(page 6 of 9)
In Hotel Emma, 136 E. Grayson St., 210-448-8351, supperatemma.com
Chef John Brand had the opportunity to set his own course as Hotel Emma was being finalized. He took that time to deeply investigate the local farmers, ranchers and producers whose ingredients he wanted to integrate into the menus at this boutique-chic hotel. Now that it's open, he's able to help diners investigate that freshness, too. There's a seasonally fresh, family style to many of the dishes, such as toasted cauliflower florets set on tender green lentils with a touch of red-pepper Romesco sauce, and perfectly medium-rare slices of grilled sirloin topped with a cherry tomato-infused chimichurri. At lunchtime, the dishes are equally as fresh—from a spinach and frisee salad topped with a fried egg to unusual sandwich combinations that work beautifully together, like the grilled white cheddar with apple slices and honey mustard on sourdough. The friendly staff and well-lit dining rooms reinforce a comforting sense of family meals.
When to Go: Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily
Noteworthy: Pair your visit with a stroll through Larder, the hotel's market and cafe, and get something delicious to take home for later.


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We are a collective of gender transgressive writers, authors, bloggers, and poets who want to use the written word as a medium for political protest, social critique, and empowerment. Gendertrash Café is an online creative space for gender transgressors, broadly defined. We seek to highlight and promote the fabulous work of writers, artists, activists and other gendertrash bohemians, in all of its degenerate forms. Of note: we value snark and gallows humor.
Why gendertrash?
Like the alphabet soup acronyms and use of the word 'queer' before it, we believe that 'gendertrash' follows in the noble footsteps of serving as a delightful catch-all for all manner of gender weirdos.
We use this word for several reasons.
- We believe that the historical reclamation of language can be empowering,
- We reject respectability politics,
- We believe humor can be disarming, and
- We try not to take ourselves too seriously.
You can read more about the original idea for the Gendertrash Café in our inaugural post.


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Free Coaching Session Just for You!
Introducing PowerTalk Coaching for Women a 45-minute consultation/coaching session to help you gain clarity, focus, resources and support for your startup idea or business.
If you've been thinking about hiring a business coach or would like to discover what a coaching session is all about – this is a great way to do it! Click here to Schedule Now!
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Hi, I'm Trina Newby, CEO and Founder of Women About Biz. I'm excited that you're visiting us today and I'm ready to empower you with tools and resources to create your six-figure plus business!
For more than 18 years, WAB has helped thousands of businesswomen to start and grow their businesses. Many of them started with young children and now their daughters are members of WAB with their own business – I think that's the most special part. I should add that my daughter was only 10 and now she owns her own business and is an active part of the WAB team.
Whether you're in the start up phase, been in business for 5 years or longer or you just need to "press the reset button", WAB is ready to help you!
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Check Out Our Latest Blog Posts!
5 Business Areas You Need to Evaluate!
This is the time of year when most businesses are gathering information to develop their Strategic Plan for the new year. I think it's important that no matter what size your business is - all business should have a strategy going into the next year. So, during the...
Daily Personal Development Is Your Key to Success!
Personal Development is a system of identifying skill sets in your life that need to be enhanced or completely developed. It is having a desire to be the best that you can be and taking that desire and putting it into action by seeking education, mentors, resources and tools that will help you build a satisfied and rewarding life.
Live Your Best Life Now!
"The biggest adventure you can take is to live the life of your dreams" - Oprah Winfrey Do you believe in accomplishing your dreams and goals now rather than in the distant future? Over the generations, many women have embraced the belief that you must work a 9 to 5...


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The Copper Bowl Spa & Holistic Studio is known for its friendly, caring staff, beautiful copper bowls, soothing and healing atmosphere, and most importantly for its qualified & certified professionals. The minute you walk through our door you will feel the relaxation and authenticity of your soul finding a home for nourishment and self-care. Our goal is to have everyone feel taken care of and nurtured.
Noted for our specialized treatments, use of quality essential oils and products, comfortable space and the caring hands of our staff – we are confident that you will leave feeling pampered, satisfied, and looking fantastic.Our company is based on the belief that meeting our customers' needs creates the best feelings in us and our entire team commits to being trained, present, and available for our clients. As a result, a high percentage of our business is from repeat customers and referrals. We welcome the opportunity to earn your trust and deliver caring, quality products and services for your well-being.
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CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. � First came the �ker-plunk� sound of the ball hitting the glass and dropping through the net.
Then came the roar of 4,662 in McKenzie Arena who witnessed Gee McGhee heave in a three-quarter court shot just before halftime.
It was another surprising moment in a season full of success that has Chattanooga sitting atop the Southern Conference standings after thumping Elon, the preseason pick to win the league, 84-63 in men�s basketball Thursday night.
�I thought the guy was going to block it and when it left my hand I thought it would hit the backboard,� said McGhee, who scored 13 points, including the most important three of the game. �I didn�t really expect it to go in. I just wanted a good look at it.
�If they hit a shot like that, I�d be, �I guess it�s their night.� �
It started with a missed free throw. Chattanooga junior Lance Stokes pulled the ball off the rim following the miss by Sebastian Koch, passed to McGhee just beyond the 3-point line where he avoided contact with Koch and heaved the ball toward the hoop on the far side of the court.
The last player to hit a shot like that before halftime here was recruited to Davidson by current Elon coach Matt Matheny and will start in the All-Star game � Stephen Curry.
The ball hit the square and stayed in the net for an extra split second as the Mocs� bench spilled on the floor � literally in the case of walk-on Alex Bran, who tumbled � and McGhee sprinted to the locker room with teammates following his lead.
Chattanooga coach Will Wade expressed his surprise with an expletive before retreating to the locker room. The Mocs (13-8 overall, 7-0 league) were on their way to their ninth straight victory.
�It�s a momentum thing,� Matheny said. �We want to score at the end of the half and we did. For them to turn around and throw it in, it�s a shot. Not only a shot made, it�s a shot that�s a dagger.�
Chattanooga forward Z. Mason delivered daggers and blows throughout the game. Even with Elon 6-foot-10 center Lucas Troutman defending him at times, Mason led all players with 27 points and 11 rebounds.
He scored on traditional post moves. He spun in the lane, he bullied his way, he swished fade-aways and buried a step-back 3-pointer just for good measure as well. Mason recorded his 10th double-double of the season and ninth in his last 10 games. His 11 boards helped Chattanooga out-rebound Elon 35-25.
�Z played phenomenally,� Wade said. �He�s a tremendous player, the best player in the league and he played like it.�
Matheny acknowledged Mason�s huge impact on the game.
�He�s really good,� Matheny said. �There were several times in the first half we defended him well and he made shots. In the second half, the biggest buckets he had were offensive rebounds and put-backs.�
Koch and reserve guard Luke Eddy led the Phoenix (10-10, 3-2) with 11 points each. Troutman and Tanner Samson added 10 points.
�Chattanooga played very well on both ends, and better than us on both ends,� Matheny said. �We struggled in the second half.�
Troutman had been averaging 16.2 points and 6.3 rebounds per game. The Mocs limited his effectiveness by defending him with multiple players.
�We tried to make it tough for him to catch it,� Wade said. �We wanted to have a body on him at all times and we came at him with two guys sometimes.�
Wade has known Troutman for several years. Troutman was going up in Belton, S.C., when Wade was an assistant coach at Clemson.
�I hugged his mom before the game,� Wade said. �He�s a load down there. We wanted to attack him and get him in foul trouble.�
The Mocs� defense held the Phoenix 14 points below their season average of 77.8 points per game.
�I think they do a good job of giving you different looks,� Matheny said. �It�s very difficult to get looks you want by design. They�re doing a very good job of playing aggressively and using their length to their advantage.
Chattanooga survived a sluggish start � perhaps the Mocs were too amped after trying to get 5,000 fans in the stands and with McGhee judging a dance contest at lunchtime � and were down 26-24 with 5:51 to go in the first half. But the Mocs closed on a 17-6 run including McGhee�s miracle.
�I�ve been coming to the �Roundhouse� for about 22 years and when the shot goes in halftime,� Matheny said, referencing the arena�s nickname, �the place was electric.�
The Mocs held off Elon�s attack in the early minutes of the second half. An 18-6 run capped by a 3-pointer from Mason followed by a spin-move and foul gave Chattanooga a 67-42 lead.
�We were better (Thursday night),� Wade said. �We played really well. We covered their stuff up. I think it�s great that we won and we�re continuing our momentum.�


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The party doesn't stop – UW360 is back once again with the Singapore Divers' Party.
Taking place at Peninsula Excelsior Hotel, Singapore, the party brings together anyone with a passion for the ocean (and partying!), regardless of whether or not they are a diver. Head on down for a night of fun and excitement as we bring 2017 to a close and get ready for a new year!
This December Singapore Divers' Party will be held in conjunction with Asian Geographic's Images of Asia (Asia Without Borders) Live Judging Photo Competition! With submissions still open from now till November 30, 2017, what are you waiting for? Head over to www.asiangeo.com/ioa/ to find out more today!
Alongside the talks, there are fabulous lucky draw prizes to be won from dive trips to dive gears – it's a party you simply cannot afford to miss!
All visitors will get happy hour prices on drinks, house pours spirits, wines and beers from 6pm to late!
Register below, or just turn up at the Orchid Room at Peninsular Excelsior Hotel, Singapore and we will register you on the spot! So make a date with us today!
Read about the last (August) Divers' Party HERE
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From: Times Union
Message is simple: No nukes
By JOHN AMIDON
First published: Saturday, May 8, 2010
Lying on my back, in the middle of the road, crying and wailing, the police looked withdrawn and confused. The strength of the women who joined in this anguished lamentation, our expression of profound grief over nuclear weapons and the poisoning of the land with radioactive waste somehow touched upon the holy mother and the divine feminine. It is Easter Sunday 2010 at the Nevada Test Site. I have returned to protest nuclear weapons and again my behavior has taken me out of the logical and rational. It has left me feeling disoriented and disturbed, yet a powerful healing and life-affirming transformation has occurred. Isn't this what Easter is about?
I want so much for Christianity to find itself, to give up violence and the mistaken belief in the right to kill. Jesus offer loved and the way of the cross. The bomb is the way of the sword, the ultimate weapon in our killing arsenal. Years ago, late Archbishop Raymond Hunthausen of Seattle said, "Our nuclear war preparations are the global crucifixion of Jesus." Recently the Indian writer Arundhati Roy has simplified this understanding. "If you are religious," she said, "then remember that this bomb is man's challenge to God. It's worded quite simply: We have the power to destroy everything that you have created."
Near the Nevada Test Site exists a spiritual anomaly, the Temple of Goddess Spirituality Dedicated to Sekhmet. It is metaphorically and literally an oasis, with natural springs offering life-giving water in the Mojave Desert. A visionary, Genevieve Vaughan, created this temple to Goddess Spirituality. Inside the temple the divine feminine is worshiped, most visibly in the form of Goddess Sekhmet, El Madre Del Mundo and the holy mother.
Genevieve wrote of her experience here in 1986. "I knew almost at once that this was the right place to build a temple to the goddess. The Earth at the test site is wounded underground. You can feel it in your body as you stand at the gate of the test site looking some 40 miles across the desert at the hills … Mother Earth is injured there, and nuclear waste is being stored in her wounds."
Genevieve talked about wailing the test site. "We name the things we mourn for and moan, and scream our grief like banshees."
The Judaeo-Christian tradition once recognized the need for lamentation more fully. It was past time for us to wail against nuclear weapons. We wailed our grief with our brothers and sisters of the Sacred Peace Walk and the priestess of the Goddess Temple. We writhed and screamed against the destruction of our planet. Hot tears streamed to the asphalt, and as we wailed, a Shoshone chief drummed what seemed like the calming and "steady beat of a human heart."
Last Sunday, thousands of people walked from Times Square to the United Nations calling for nuclear disarmament and the implementation of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. Our message was simple and profound, summed up in signs that said, "No Nukes, No Wars, Fund Human Needs, Protect the Planet" and "It's Always Been Wrong," and the words Buckminster Fuller, "We Are Called to Be Architects of the Future, Not Victims."
Some 1,800 people traveled from Japan, including survivors from the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Giving the rally a gracious civility and gentle tone, they came bearing friendship and small gifts. Steve Wickham, a peace activist from Guilderland, encountered a woman, a Hibakusha, who survived the blast at Hiroshima. She was 13 years old in 1945. She suffered burns over 25 percent of her body, was rendered infertile by the radioactivity has bone and eye problems in her later life. Her peaceful nature and message was moving.
We cannot leave it to our leaders to abolish nuclear weapons. All of us as common citizens must speak out and insist upon nuclear abolition. Sunday is Mother's Day. Let us all insist that we take care of our holy mother planet Earth, end the threat of nuclear annihilation and restore the balance of the divine feminine.
John Amidon is a member of Veterans for Peace in Albany. Wailing at the Nevada Test Site can be seen on YouTube at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IEGiD2lNiTw


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I went to the first day of the Paradise Toronto Comicon today, the only day I'll be going. The show continues for two more days, which will probably be a lot more eventful and crowded. I prefer the more relaxing pace of the less crowded day.
First thing walking into the hall that I noticed was Blake Bell. Seems I can't wander into a convention without running into him. After a short talk with him, I went to check out the artist alley section. Lot of guys hadn't set up yet (or were weekend only), but Marv Wolfman was there, with a short line-up. Wolfman was one of the main reasons I decided to go to the show, and I had brought a few things for him to sign, including my incredibly well read copy of NEW TEEN TITANS #1 from 1980. Wolfman's writing meant a lot to my younger self, so it was nice to thank him for it.
Looked at a few more tables, and came across David Day. He had a number of pieces of art, mostly from role-playing game and card work, available for an absurdly cheap price. I was a bit surprised at the work, not being too familiar with his solo work, and I guess associating him too much with his late brother Gene, he of the absurdly exact ink line. David's work is much more loose and organic, and I found a great piece that I mentioned to him would go great with some of the few other pieces of original artwork I have, dinosaur related sketches by Steve Bissette and Sam Glanzman. Turns out David was quite a fan of Glanzman (really obvious in the piece I got, which should be up top on this post), so I enjoyed talking to him about that. If you go to the show this weekend, I strongly advise seeking out his table and looking at what he has for sale. Great stuff at a great price (I went back and picked up two more pieces at the end of the day).
Later in the day the other guest I wanted to meet was at his table, so I got to say hello to Jerry Robinson, and pick up a signed print of a Joker sketch by him. Nice guy, and I got to thank him for the excellent COMICS - AN ILLUSTRATED HISTORY OF COMIC STRIP ART book that I used to take out of the library over and over, and he mentioned that the updated edition (which had been scheduled for last year) should be out later this year. O Frabjous day! Callooh! Callay!
Other than that, it was mostly bargain shopping. A few places were blowing out some overstock for $1 an issue (and sorted stock, not random like some bargain bins), so I was able to scratch a lot of itches cheaply that way. One dealer had some recent stuff that I was marginally interested in, but not at full price (several issues of DC's SOLO, the Philip Wylie adaptation with art by Russ Heath) or had heard good things about after the fact (AGENTS OF ATLAS, SPIDER-MAN/HUMAN TORCH) or just wanted to sample. Another had a lot of older stuff, including a massive amount of 1970s Charlton comics with Ditko art. I picked up about 50 of those and still had to leave a bunch behind. Fortunately, they have a store, and while it's a bit of a drive out there, it might make a good lazy summer trip. I also picked up some LITTLE ARCHIE digests, which should be fun.
Among non-$1 stuff (and I swear, there are like 150 books in that pile...), one dealer had a number of modern fanzines fairly cheap, so I found a few ALTER EGO and COMIC BOOK ARTIST issues I had missed or skipped, and another dealer had some great prices on recent graphic novels and collections, so I spent way too much on stuff that was on my mildly interested, get someday list. Don't regret any of it, other than the sheer mass of reading material I'm now facing.
I did look for a few more expensive back-issues, but didn't find much that I really wanted. I was sorely tempted by a fairly-priced low-grade copy of SCRIBBLY #2, but couldn't bring myself to break the $100 barrier in back-issue buying (although I know full well I'll have to someday if I want to get a run of SCRIBBLY).
So that was my day. Now my feet hurt, and I'm facing a mountain of books to sort through and read, but I'm happy. I liked the low key nature of the show, and the general comic focus (not heavy on screen and animation guests like some shows). I imagine the retailers would have liked bigger crowds, but hopefully those will come over the weekend. The crowd levels suited me fine.


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Numbing The Pain: How To Have The Best Tattoo Experience
It's often the first question we get asked when a client walks through the door, "Is it going to hurt?" And while it's normal to be concerned about the mysterious, unknown pain we're choosing to inflict on ourselves, problems can arise when we let fear make our decisions. Fear can convince us to get a tattoo that's
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2015's Colour Of The Year: Marsala
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I Caught The Tooth Fairy is currently offering a free picture of your child with the Tooth Fairy. Just enter the promo code fairy-proof to create your very own proof that the Tooth Fairy really did visit your child while she was sleeping. You will be able to print it out or share it over the internet.
So how much does the Tooth Fairy pay now a days?


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Circa 2007
Most of us in the SCA do something. Whether it's an art or a science, or heavy or rapier, or autocratting or reigning, we put ourselves out there in an active role. Often, we want to improve ourselves in that role, and seek feedback from others. Often, we get this feedback whether we want it or not!
Constructive criticism is offering both positive and negative feedback in a helpful and honest manner. It is important to offer it when asked, to recognize it when offered, and to be able to differentiate it from unhelpful or cruel comments.
Giving Constructive Criticism
Before you undertake to offer constructive criticism, consider two things:
Is it needful?
If you have been asked to provide feedback, as an A&S judge, as a trainer, or as a friend, you should make your best effort to do so. If you have not been asked, consider if it is your place to step in, or if you should mind your own business. Generally speaking, it is more polite to keep your nose out of other peoples' doings. However, if they are doing something which could hurt others, you may feel a duty to speak up.
Bad garb requires no comment. Bad polearm technique very well may. Bad rumors very well may.
Do not assume malice. People often spread misinformation with the best of intentions; they do not know they are repeating bad information.
Are you qualified to comment?
Very often, a local A&S expert will be called upon to judge a local A&S display. The local expert may know quite a lot about her field, but very little about the variety of fields entered into the competition.
This does not mean the expert can make no comment at all, as she is probably a most experienced researcher and can judge the quality of the research that has gone into each project. The embroiderer should not, however, tell the glassblower how to do his glassblowing better. The embroiderer can express her preferences - she likes this piece better than that one - but should make it clear, to herself and to the glassblower, that this is her subjective opinion.
Once your opinion has been solicited or you feel obliged to offer advice, and once you have made clear what kind of advice you feel qualified to give, continue onward.
Find one to three specific things that you liked.
Very first thing, let them know what was genuinely good. Even if the performer was shaking like a leaf, dropped his instrument, and nearly destroyed the song he played, you can congratulate him on his courage for getting up on stage, and for sticking through the piece until its end.
A novice who proudly presents a well-done commercial counted cross-stitch pillow at an A&S can be lauded for the consistency and evenness of her stitching and the neatness of the reverse of the piece.
Don't be patronizing. Find something you can honestly say was done right or done well.
Do be specific. "I liked it" isn't helpful. "I liked how you matched the calligraphy and the illumination to the scroll recipient's persona; that really personalized it" tells someone what you liked and why you liked it, and whether or not they accomplished their artistic goals.
Find one to three specific things that you find troubling and which can be amended.
There is little point in bringing up issues that the other person cannot solve at this particular time. If you suggest that the poor college student should make his tunic from linen instead of cheap cotton, and he tells you that cheap cotton is all he can afford, either drop it or help him find cheap linen. Work within his constraints, and help him make a better tunic out of the materials he has.
"I don't like it" is a very unhelpful comment. So is "You are doing it wrong." Neither offers any clue as to what is distasteful or incorrect, or as to what a better way of going about things might be. Your task is to be very specific, and to offer suggestions that could help.
"You read your poem so quickly I couldn't follow it. Could you read it again, more slowly, please?"
"Your hand-spun yarn is a bit uneven. Show me how you're using your drop spindle, and maybe we can figure out how to fix that."
"HOLD! You are going to break someone's neck with a thrust like that. Lightly, like this. Drill it until you get it right and if I see you pop someone like that again, you're off the field."
People can only process so much advice at a time. A litany of the sixteen things you see wrong in their work will overwhelm most people. Address the top one or three concerns that you have, and let the others go for now. Rome wasn't built in a day.
Do not make it personal.
You are addressing a piece of art, a technique (martial, managerial, other), or a stage presence. You are not making value judgments on the person who produced it. This can be hard to communicate, because many creators are very invested in their works. Do your best.
Clearly, phrases like "I don't think you tried hard enough" or "How could you mess that up?" are just not appropriate.
Accepting Constructive Criticism
Don't ask for it if you don't want to hear it.
None of us are perfect. If you ask someone for criticism, expect to get some. If you cannot handle that, do not request it.
Learn to handle it; learn to love it.
If you find someone who can give good constructive criticism, hold on to that person! Most of us who do things in the SCA, while we hope we're good at what we do, are happy to improve. Yes, it is hard to hear that we're not the shining paragons we hoped we were. But, unless you can identify what is wrong, you can never fix it.
Some problems, we are already aware of. We know the chair we made isn't quite level, or that we have a hard time delegating to our drop-dead deputy. But some other problems we may not even know are there: you were just frustrated with yourself for forgetting the banners to decorate the hall, but the rest of the event staff thought you were angry with all of them because of your scowling face and clipped tone. An outside perspective can be invaluable.
A genuinely helpful person isn't offering you criticism to tear down your ego. Really, they care enough about you to want to help you to do better.
Drop your defenses.
Listen to what your critic has to say without interrupting to leap to your own defense. When she is done, if you felt any of her comments were unfair, don't assume she's mean. Ask her questions to try and clarify the issue.
"I don't understand your objection to the hat. It's based off of the same portrait I used to re-create the dress."
Maybe you will educate your critic. Maybe the hat was worn by someone else in the portrait, and it never was worn with that style of gown even though they existed at the same time.
On the other hand, don't be a doormat.
Not every critic knows as much as they think they do. And, just like you, they are not perfect. Sometimes, they may offer you advice that you just plain believe to be bad.
You do not have to take bad advice.
Sometimes, depending on your relationship with your critic, discussing their advice and why you believe it to be unsuitable for you can be a wonderful and enlightening conversation. It may be that their advice is perfectly good for them, but not for you. It may be that you have learned some new thing which renders their old advice obsolete - in which case, they will probably be pleased to be corrected!
On the other hand, sometimes it is better to nod thoughtfully, tell the critic you will consider his words carefully, send him on his way - and ignore what he said.
Do be careful to distinguish bad advice (which would have you act contrary to your best knowledge on a subject) from difficult advice (which is just something that would be hard to do). It is tempting to dismiss difficult advice as "bad." Be honest with yourself.
Nasty Critics
Some people want to be helpful but don't know how. Some people are, regrettably, just mean.
If you encounter someone who gives you nasty, unhelpful, unsolicited advice, try to do them the courtesy of assuming that they mean well. If they have upset you or flustered you, it may be best to briefly "thank" them for their concern and move away to recover your composure. Try and not to give too much weight to their words.
If you are neither upset nor flustered, but rather annoyed with their presumption, again thank them for their concern. In gratitude, offer them your own unsolicited advice that they might upset a person of delicate sensibility with such words, and that they would do well to offer their advice in a more constructive and friendly manner, or else not offer it at all.


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To check Prepaid Code Accounting:
- Open web browser. Type 10.10.10.1 (gateway IP), or type http://login.secureunibox.com/(domain name) and press Enter.
- UNIBOX Administration screen appears. Click Billing tab.
- Click on the batch name from the table under the Prepaid link.
- Click List Prepaid Codes link from the left pane.
- Click on the prepaid code from the Prepaid Codes table.
6. The prepaid accounting information will appear on Billing :: Prepaid Accounting
7. To view the authentication history, click on Agent And Auth History link from the left pane.


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Minister Fagon-Liberian Govât unaware of Paylaylehâs asylum seeking in the USA
MONROVIA, LIBERIA-The Government of Liberia said it has no idea about BBC's Stringer, Jonathan Paye-layleh, seeking an asylum in the United States.
BBC Liberia Correspondent Jonathan Paye-layleh recently surfaced in the United States reportedly on an asylum.
He complained of being insecure following recent exchange of questions and answers with President George Weah during a press conference to mark the visit of UN Deputy Secretary General Amina Mohamed.
But speaking at the Ministry of Information Culture and Tourism (MICAT) press briefing Thursday, April 5, 2018, Deputy Information Minister for Public Affairs Eugene Fagon said Mr. Paye-layleh is a free man and is welcome back to Liberia at any time.
Minister Fagon said:" The Government of Liberia will take an official position on the matter once it has been notified that Mr. Paye-layleh is seeking asylum in the United States."
He dismissed Paye-layleh's claims that his life was under threat, noting that at no time will President Weah go after anybody particularly journalists for speaking about issues.


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19 results for "Children's literature, Books in Dutch, Books, other languages, Bibliographies, Subject websites, Full text and images"
Academic Search Complete (ASC)
Over 9,000 academic journals full text; international bibliography 13,000 academic journals; social sciences & humanities; from 1890s
Collections Belgian Royal Library: a.o. digitised books, newspapers, journals, manuscripts, maps etc.
Belgische Bibliografie (BB)
Official Belgian Bibliography; publications from and about Belgium; instalments of the last 12 months
Bibliografie van de Nederlandse taal- en literatuurwetenschap (BNTL)
Dutch and Flemisch language and literature, bibliography; references to literature on Dutch linguistics and literary studies; in Dutch
Digitale Bibliotheek voor de Nederlandse Letteren (DBNL)
Digitized texts Dutch language, literature and culture, primary and secondary; linguisticis, literary studies, cultural history; in Dutch.
Early European Books (EEB) - Alleen KB-boeken
Metadata and images of KB books (1473-1700); searchable on specific page characteristics (marginalia, hand coloring, images); no full text. Freely accessible from the Netherlands.
Early European Books 1 t/m 14
Metadata and images of books (1473-1700) from major European libraries; searchable by specific page characteristics; no full text
Ebook Central
More than 400.000 scholarly ebooks on a variety of subjects in the humanities and social sciences. Get inspired! (KB-membership only).
Search engine for many EBSCO-databases:
* Academic Search Complete
* Art & Architecture Source
* ATLA Religion Database with ATLASerials
* Education Resource Information Center (ERIC)
* European Views of the Americas 1493-1750
* GreenFILE
* Historical Abstracts with Full Text
* Humanities Source Ultimate
* Library, Information Science & Technology Abstracts
* Library & Information Science Source
* Political Science Complete (PSC)
* Religion & Philosophy Collection
* Sociology Source Ultimate
* SPORTDiscus with Full Text
* Teacher Reference Center
English Short Title Catalogue (ESTC)
Descriptions ca. 480,000 items from ca. 2,000 libraries; books, newspapers and journals; 1473-1801; UK and North-America.


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More HQ "Bel Ami" Stills
*le sigh* Source via Source
39 NEW & Some LARGER 'Bel Ami' Stills
SOURCE thanks @LeKinkyTwilight
TONS of NEW 'Bel Ami' Stills!
Source: SundownCaress and andreas-ri via RPLife
PHOTOS: New And Amazing Movie Stills From 'Bel Ami'
Nine new and amazing stills from Bel Ami hit the internet today! Check them out! Source | Via
VIDEO: 12 Minute Clip from 'Bel Ami' and Breakdown of the Scenes
A 12 minute video from Bel Ami hit YouTube tonight with five new scenes from the movie! Scene 1: Georges Duroy (Robert …
VIDEOS: 2 New Clips from 'Bel Ami'
OMG he's so mean!!!!!!! Watch these new clips from Bel Ami! Source | Via
'Bel Ami' & Robert Pattinson in March 2012 Glamour UK
CAN anyone resist Robert Pattinson? source | via | via
Kristin Scott Thomas' Character in Bel Ami "Goes Gaga Over Robert Pattinson"
The Independent recently interviewed Kristin Scott Thomas and she talks a bit about her character and why she wanted to do 'Bel …


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Sunday, January 5, 2014
Winter Bird Notecards
28 comments:
- Faith A said...
Gosh beautiful images make beautiful cards.
Happy New Year Bonnie
- January 5, 2014 at 2:59 PM
- jimlynn said...
Gorgeous set of note cards! Love all the different birds and the embossing folders are so pretty as a background.
Stay warm!
- January 5, 2014 at 4:08 PM
- Hettie said...
These are gorgeous Bonnie. Love the images and you have shown them off beautifully.
- January 5, 2014 at 4:31 PM
- Sue - said...
These are so beautiful. The bird pictures are gorgeous. Must pay Nicecrane a visit as they would be perfect for my eldest son as he's a keen birdwatcher.
- January 5, 2014 at 5:16 PM
- Bobby said...
These are lovely images and make wonderful cards. I have a number of colored graphics but didn't know if they were eligible for any card challenges. I used one once and someone thought I had colored it. ;)
- January 5, 2014 at 5:30 PM
- SYLVIA-ANNE said...
A beautiful note-card set Bonnie. I love the bird images and the embossing. I keep looking at the Lattice folder in my SU catalogue - I think it's time I bought one!
Hope this comment goes through - it disappeared when I tried to send it a few minutes ago!
Happy New Year - Sylvia x
- January 5, 2014 at 5:30 PM
- Marisa said...
Great bird images and they just pop against the white :)
- January 5, 2014 at 5:41 PM
- Julie Kitchener said...
Oh just beautiful!!!
- January 5, 2014 at 6:00 PM
- Karren said...
These are beautiful, Bonnie. That black mat really makes those gorgeous images pop!
- January 5, 2014 at 7:18 PM
- Darnell J Knauss said...
Wow, these really are stunning images and your matting and mounting on your note cards makes them even more stunning, Bonnie! Love them!! Hugs, Darnell
- January 5, 2014 at 7:34 PM
- Cynthia said...
Ah, gorgeous little birdies!! Love that you kept the cards super simple to show off the birds. Really, really beautiful cards!
- January 5, 2014 at 8:35 PM
- Greta said...
Being a bird lover, these really jumped off the screen! Beautiful way to use these gorgeous pictures!
- January 6, 2014 at 3:03 AM
- ♥Gemma♥ said...
Wow these are truly beautiful hunni and those images are stunning...
hugs and xxx
- January 6, 2014 at 7:13 AM
- Di said...
Fabulous note cards Bonnie - those images just needed the simplicity of your backings to make it all come together - love them!
Hugs, Di xx
- January 6, 2014 at 9:39 AM
- Susan said...
Those are the loveliest images! Great idea to turn them into note cards!
- January 6, 2014 at 12:16 PM
- Irene said...
Bonnie, your images are beautiful and stunning and make brilliant note cards.
- January 6, 2014 at 1:24 PM
- MaryH said...
These are some of the most gorgeous images, and how wonderfully well you have used them with the mesh EF. So very lovely. I keep saying I'm going to get some of these bird images, and I haven't yet. Each time I see them used so prettily, I just drool & drool. TFS, Hugs & hope Cary is warmer than Greenville. Expecting 7 tonight, and it's getting there fast. Whistling wind too. Be safe
- January 6, 2014 at 8:43 PM
- SARN (Stamping For Pleasure) said...
Ooh these are lovely Bonnie. Great idea.
Hugs, Sarn xxx
- January 7, 2014 at 10:35 AM
- Loll Thompson said...
Such beautiful images Bonnie. Your must have a wonderful color printer! Love the way you've matted and framed them - very elegant. Stay warm! Loll xx
- January 7, 2014 at 5:18 PM
- Mrs A. said...
These look stunning using the different embossing folders. The images really stand out. Lovely CAS cards. Hugs Mrs A.
- January 7, 2014 at 8:38 PM
- Lee Ann Barrett said...
Those images are just beautiful, Bonnie! I was intrigued and had to check out the website. Matted perfectly, these are an outstanding set of cards. Thanks for stopping by and leaving a sweet comment on my blog. :)
- January 7, 2014 at 9:08 PM
- scrappymo! said...
Beautiful cards and beautiful images!
- January 8, 2014 at 2:33 AM
- Cathy said...
Gorgeous note cards Bonnie, these images are so pretty. I love the added texture too, sets them off perfectly. Cathy x
- January 8, 2014 at 5:39 PM
- scrappymo! said...
Beautiful images and beautiful cards. You aure have a nice printer as the colours are so perfect on these!
- January 9, 2014 at 9:47 PM
- Susan Joyce said...
Beautiful set of cards Bonnie. I love the dark mat with the white embossed border.
- January 10, 2014 at 4:54 AM
- Doris said...
You really made good use of these bird pictures, Bonnie! So simple, yet so elegant.
- January 13, 2014 at 5:01 PM
- Barbara Murphy said...
oh wow...these bird cards just made my heart go all fluttery! perfect little creatures so perfectly highlighted...you've done them justice!
- January 22, 2014 at 7:32 PM
- Patti said...
These are so lovely Bonnie. The images are striking.
- January 25, 2014 at 4:51 PM


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Having trouble closing more sales? Ever feel like your customer just doesn't fully trust you but you can't put your finger on why that is?
The truth is that we put out signals to them. There are hundreds of aspects of you and our company that a potential buyer either consciously or subconsciously sizes up in very short order and can make or break a sale.
In all honesty, there are some things that you just cannot change, but there are also a ton of things you can be in control of to swing the odds in your favor. Of course there is physical appearance of your staff and your business, confidence you portray, etc but there are also things that we sum up as ACE.
That is Authority, Celebrity, and Expertise. If you get these three things working for you then everything else becomes less important. These three things are also easily manipulated or manufactured if you know what you are doing.
This Thursday I want to invite you to a live webinar I am doing on the ACE formula and how you can use to it to command premium fees, book more customers, and sell more easily. What I am sharing is a culmination of my 20 years being self-employed in addition with my background of being a former hypnotist and the techniques I used to influence people in hypnosis shows.
You don't want to miss this training. Right now there are no plans to have a replay so register now at: http://events.profit911.biz/
I will see you Thursday!
Best wishes,
Justin Miller


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The Portakabin Site Accommodation 1400-litre water bowser can provide all the water you need for your on-site facilities. It's housed in a robust, lockable steel structure for protection against vandalism.
Constant water pressure for all site amenities
To supply your appliances with water at a constant pressure of 4 bar, the bowser is fitted with a pump inside the steel housing. That means you won't suffer the low-pressure problems associated with many on-site water tanks.
Built-in frost protection for uninterrupted water supply
The steel housing is insulated to provide frost protection. The bowser is also fitted with a thermostatically controlled tube heater to prevent the water from freezing – ensuring you always have a supply of running water, whatever the weather.
Improved site sustainability with rainwater harvesting
The bowser incorporates a rainwater harvesting system, which can help to reduce the frequency of tanker refills – enhancing the sustainability of your site. When refills by tanker are required, the bowser has an easy-access filling point to make this process as simple as possible.
Water bowser specifications:
"We were so impressed by the quick turnaround and service levels from Portakabin Site Accommodation that we will be recommending them to the rest of the VolkerLaser Group. Our company is busier than ever just now, and we'll certainly go back to Portakabin Site Accommodation for future site building requirements."Dave Machin, Plant Manager, VolkerLaser


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Historic, idyllic Montford lies just northwest of downtown Asheville, east of the French Broad River, and South of University of North Carolina's Asheville campus. Most of its Victorian, Queen Anne, Arts and Crafts, and castle style home were built around the beginning of the 20th century; and nearly all are beautifully preserved or restored.
See All Homes For Sale in Montford
No fewer than 10 bed and breakfasts make some of the area's spectacular homes accessible to visitors. The quiet, tree-lined residential streets and shrub-flanked, perfectly manicured yards bear resemblance to other historic Southern cities like Charleston and Savannah.
Learn More about Montford including HOA/Covenant Info, Community Insight, and a hand picked list of Hot Properties in the area.
Perhaps one of Montford's best features, besides its impossibly picturesque beauty, is an engaged and involved citizenry. A robust neighborhood association meets regularly, keeps residents informed, and facilitates events and improvement projects.
A number of schools offer alternative styles of education. Montford North Star Academy is a STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and math) magnet school that is part of the Asheville City School District. Odyssey School is a private K-12 school with a Design-Thinking model, based on Multiple Intelligences Theory. Asheville Rhythm offers percussion classes and performance for people of all ages. Other schools for children include Isaac Dickson Elementary and Adonai Christian Academy. For adults, Lenoir-Rhyne's Center for Graduate Studies and the Daoist Traditions College of Chinese Medical Arts also make their homes in Montford.
The Hazel Robinson Amphitheater at Montford Park presents weekly free performances of Shakespeare and other works by The Montford Park Players. Patrons can purchase snacks and wine, bring a picnic, sit under the stars, and take in a truly excellent thespian performance. Hummingbird Park is a tranquil green space where residents gather, walk, relax, read, or picnic. There are plans to add a habitat space for native species, a path through the woods, and an herb garden.
Annual events in Montford include a music and arts festival, an art walk, a Greek Festival, and A Christmas Carol performed at Montford Park. The community center offers an eclectic variety of activities such as ukulele classes, community basketball, and capoeira instruction.
Only two restaurants grace Montford, but they are not to be missed: Chiesa, a positively delicious Italian restaurant, and Nine Mile, serving Jamaican-infused pasta dishes. You will not find any bars in this neighborhood, but downtown's bustling food and bar scene is just a 10-minute walk from nearly any part of Montford. Immediate access to I-240 and I-26 provide quick access to all of Asheville.
Contact Us!
Write a message below
Prefer a call? Call us at (828) 2103898


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Previously on the Sprout Diaries, I shared my first-ever experience with fiddlehead ferns. What's really wild about these edible earthy swirls is that, with the right timing and the right knowledge, you can wander out into the woods and pick some for yourself! Unfortunately, I realized this too late in the season to do my own gathering. However, I did have the opportunity to learn a thing or two about ferns from a true fern expert. Last week, I followed Anthony's dad around the arboretum he tends to in Kalamazoo, MI, and gained a greater appreciation for those tasty treats called fiddleheads.
According to Mr. Chase, Michigan's ferns unfurled early this spring. Thankfully, we were still able to spot a couple fronds young enough to demonstrate how a fiddlehead gets its spiral shape.
The fiddleheads sold in markets come exclusively from the ostrich fern, which grows in a fountain-like formation (not unlike ostrich tail feathers) in woods all over the Great Lakes state. Eating the young of other varieties of ferns is very dangerous as they can be harmful to humans. Still, one can marvel at the rich variety of fern types by feasting with the eyes and not the stomach. Mr. Chase effortlessly identified twelve-or-so species growing in Briarwood Arboretum's Fern Garden. Pictured below from left to right: Braken Fern, Sensitive Fern, Japanese Painted Fern, Tongue Fern (love the appropriateness of this name), Royal Fern, and Maidenhair Fern.
The Arboretum had other wonders to share, too, besides the ferns. Did you know ginger root grows natively in Michigan soil? You can identify the plant by its beautiful (and very geometric) russet-red flower.
We also saw a paw paw tree (still in its flowering stage!) and a lovely lake.
Thank you, Mr. Chase, for sharing your fern wisdom!


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Property Owner FAQ
Answers to Frequently Asked Questions by many of our current Clients
How do you determine the rental rate?
Rent amounts are determined by finding the "fair market" rent value of comparable properties in the neighborhood. We do extensive research using internet, other management companies and our own expertise to provide the rental rate recommendation to you.
What needs to be done to prepare a property for rent?
The property should be in the best possible condition to attract a quality tenant. Paint should be in good shape with marred or dirty areas touched up, carpets or flooring cleaned, needed repairs fixed, light bulbs replaced, carbon monoxide and smoke alarms installed and checked for operation. The home should be "detailed" clean and the yard should be maintained until occupied. Download the Move-In Checklist
What websites do you use to market the property?
In addition to our own highly visited website, we post properties to over 200 different websites including very popular sites like Craigslist, Zillow, Trulia and Hotpads.
When do you show the property?
If Vacant, we typically have open showings of properties Monday thru Saturday and by appointment only on Sunday. If the property is occupied, we will schedule a time and date with the current tenant.
How long will it take to rent the property?
Unfortunately, we cannot give you an exact time that the property will rent, some properties rent within days while other may take over a month. But we will work diligently to rent the property as quickly as possible while considering our most important objective is to have a quality tenant.
Who is responsible for maintaining the yard?
Responsibility of lawn care is generally the tenants but some owners will include this service, especially if it is a large yard or needs extensive care. We can advise you if we think providing lawn care should be included in the rental rate. While the property is vacant you will want to make sure the lawn is being cared for and it looks good since this is the first impression prospective tenants have of your property.
Should I allow Pets?
Statistics indicate that 75% of renters own pets. Restricting pets reduces the number of available qualified residents. We typically market homes as pet's negotiable with a minimum $500.00 additional security deposit. Certain dog breeds are restricted due to liability and insurance concerns.
What about smokers?
It is common to prohibit smoking inside the property. This does not significantly reduce the marketability of the property.
How do you screen prospective tenants?
We understand the importance of finding responsible and reliable tenants. We require a detailed application from each adult. We will process the application by completing current and previous tenant verifications, income qualification, and credit check.
How long is the Lease?
Unless otherwise requested by the property owner, our leases are for 1 year. At the end of the initial lease term the contract becomes a month to month tenancy. We will typically contact you 30-60 days prior to the lease expiration to inquire about offering the tenants another one-year lease or keeping them on a month to month agreement, we will also recommend any rent increases that we feel are justified.
Who maintains deposits received from tenants?
Security deposits are received from tenants and maintained by our company in a trust account until the tenant vacates at which time we deduct any amounts owed by the tenant and refund the balance in accordance with California State Law.
Can you pay my monthly bills?
We can pay monthly recurring bills associated with your rental property at no additional cost except for taxes and mortgage payments. These bills may include utility service, pool care, lawn care, association dues, insurance etc.
When can I expect my monthly funds?
If rent has been paid on time you will typically receive payment between the 3rd and 6th of the month. We can direct deposit funds into a checking or savings account of your choice or send you a check.
Will I receive monthly statements?
You will receive a monthly owner statement with copies of any bills paid and they will be mailed or emailed to you based on your preference. In addition, you will be able to create a login to be able to visit your owner portal to view any current or past monthly owner statements, bills paid, tenant leases, renewals, and property inspections.
Who do I contact if I have a Questions about my monthly statement?
For information about your monthly statement please contact (916) 597-2006.
What is the $300.00 owner reserve fee for?
We maintain a $300.00 balance in each owner's operating account to cover any expenditures such as repair and maintenance, utility bills, or other costs that may occur prior to receiving the next month's rental payment.
When will I receive information for my taxes?
A 1099 and complete Year-End Statement for the previous year will be sent to you by the end of January each year.
Do you charge a markup on repair or maintenance issues?
The handling of repair or maintenance issues is included in the monthly management fee and we do not charge any markup or additional fees for bills submitted by vendors.
Who handles the maintenance and repairs for the property?
We use reliable, qualified and cost effective vendors to diagnose the issue and make the necessary repairs. If the property owner would like to perform work, we will contact them to discuss the issue and offer any assistance we can.
Who pays for maintenance and repairs for my property?
Our vendors are trained to identify problems caused by normal wear and tear which the property owner pays for versus damage caused by the tenant's abuse, misuse or neglect which the tenant would be responsible to pay for.
Will you inspect the property?
Prior to any tenant moving into the property we perform a move-in inspection and then again when the tenant vacates we perform a move-out inspection. For a small fee we will perform an annual or bi-annual interior inspection of the property which complies with the inspection requirements for the City and County of Sacramento. All reports are done using a cloud based iPad program and you will be provided the detailed report with pictures which is typically 10-20 pages
What happens if the rent is late?
The rent is due on the first of each month and late fees assessed if rent has not been paid by the first business day after the 3rd of the month. If we have not received payment, we will contact the tenant and then update you about the date we may expect payment.
What happens if you have to evict my tenant?
If the tenant becomes delinquent in rent and we cannot negotiate a payment plan we may advise legal proceedings to begin eviction, although this is rare and our eviction rate is less than 1% of tenants that we have placed into properties. All of our evictions are handled through a California based attorney specializing in tenant/landlord law. The owner will be responsible for the cost of the attorney and we will provide you that cost and get your approval prior to starting any action.
What happens if the tenant leaves before the end of the lease?
We will begin marketing the property for a new tenant and the current tenant will be responsible for the rent until the next tenant moves in. In addition, the normal leasing fee charged to the property owner is paid by the current tenant.
How quickly do you contact me when my property comes vacant?
We typically send a letter or email and contact you by phone within 1 business day once we receive the 30 Day Notice to Vacate from the tenant. We will recommend the new rental rate and begin marketing the property for a new tenant. Once the property becomes vacant we will perform a move-out inspection and then call you to outline the property condition and any recommended repairs.
Who pays for repairs on my vacant property?
After the move-out inspection, we will determine if the past tenant is responsible for the cost of any repairs, cleaning or damage above "normal wear and tear" and make those deductions from their security deposit. We want you to know that we consider this an important time in the management cycle, and we will protect your interest.
What if a tenant contacts me?
Our job is to take the worry and stress of management away from the property owner. Although we are required to put your name on the lease agreement we will never give a tenant your address or telephone number, but occasionally tenants contact owners using other means for this information. In such instances it is imperative to direct tenants to contact our office for any requests. This provides continuity for tenants and allows you time to relax. If you would like to make direct contact with the tenants, just let us know and we will inform the tenants.
How much notice do I have to give the tenant if I want them to move out?
If the tenant has lived in the property for less than one year you can give them a 30-Day Notice to Vacate, otherwise you will need to give them a 60-Day Notice to Vacate
Can you help if I want to sell my property?
Although we do not sell properties, we can refer you to some of the best Real Estate Agents in the Sacramento area.
Have A Question?
(916) 988-5357