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Remarkable for its high altitude and dry summers, Ankara is the capital city for the Republic of Turkey.
Here's some interesting trivia involving Ankara: The world's tallest man alive is part-time Turkish farmer Sultan Kösen who was measured at 8 feet 2.8 inches (251 centimeters) in February 2011 at the Medicana International Hospital in Ankara, Turkey.
Kösen holds two other Guinness World Records. One is the longest hands for any living person at 11.22 inches (28.5 centimeters) from wrist to middle fingertip; the other is the widest hand span at a massive 12 inches (30.48 centimeters).
According to the International Trade Centre, Turkey placed among the world's top 40 exporters in 2017, shipping US$157.1 billion worth of goods around the globe. Turkey's highest-value exports include automobiles, gold, automotive parts and accessories, jewelry, iron or steel bars, refined petroleum oils and T-shirts.
Capital Facts for Ankara, Turkey: Quick Reference
Capital landmarks: Atakule Tower, Ankara Castle and Kocatepe Mosque
Famous People
Below, you will find 10 of the most famous people born in Ankara, Turkey:
- Serenay Sarikayai, Miss Turkey Universe 2010 (born Jul. 1, 1991)
- Mustafa Ceceli, pop singer (born Nov. 2, 1980)
- Melih Gökçek, mayor (born Oct. 20, 1948)
- Beren Saat, actress (born Feb. 26, 1984)
- Joe Strummer, singer-songwriter (born Aug. 21, 1952)
- Kenan Imirzalioglu, actor (born Jun. 18, 1974)
- Ali Babacan, former deputy prime minister (born Apr. 4, 1967)
- Can Dündar, journalist & documentarian (born Jun. 16, 1961)
- Ebru Özkan, soap opera actor (born Nov. 18, 1978)
- Mert Firat, actor & writer (born Jan. 10, 1981)
- Engin Akyurek, actor (born Oct. 12, 1981)
Note: Data for our Famous People tab was sourced from Google searches mostly targeting published Wikipedia articles specific to each person's name.
Demonym for an Ankara resident: Ankaran
Population: 4,640,000 (Ankara city built-up urban area)
Density: 18,196 people per square mile (7,026 per square kilometer)
Population: 5,270,575 (Ankara Province)
Density: 531 people per square mile (205 per square kilometer)
Population: 80,274,604 (Turkey)
Density: 270 people per square mile (104 per square kilometer)
GDP: US$1.67 trillion as of October 2016 (for Turkey, per WorldsRichestCountries.com)
GDP per person: $21,147
Note: The above country-level GDP metrics are on a Purchasing Power Parity basis and are in U.S. dollars. Credible city GDP statistics for Ankara were unavailable.
Official currency used in Ankara: Turkish lira
Research Sources:
Brookings Institution, Global Metro Monitor Report (includes GDP data). Accessed on November 26, 2016
Central Intelligence Agency, World Factbook, Africa: Turkey. Accessed on February 2, 2017
Central Intelligence Agency, World Factbook, Field Listing: Major Urban Areas. Accessed on November 26, 2016
CityMetric, Where are largest cities in the world? 2015 edition. Accessed on November 26, 2016
Demographia, World Urban Area, 12th Annual Edition. Accessed on November 26, 2016
Guinness World Records, Largest hands – living person. Accessed on February 2, 2017
Guinness World Records, Tallest man living. Accessed on February 2, 2017
International Trade Centre, Trade Map. Accessed on February 2, 2017
Official Government Website, T.C. Ankara Valiligi. Accessed on November 26, 2016
Turkish Statistical Institute, The Results of Address Based Population Registration System, 2015. Accessed on November 26, 2016
Wikimedia Commons, City Flags. Accessed on November 26, 2016
Note: Some city flags were unavailable. If so, attribution belongs to Wikimedia Commons for pertinent country flags.
Wikipedia, Ankara. Accessed on November 26, 2016
Wikipedia, Ankara Province. Accessed on November 26, 2016
Wikipedia, Turkey. Accessed on February 2, 2017
Ankara city's built-up urban area measures 255 square miles (660 square kilometers) and had a population count of 4.6 million Ankarans in 2015.
Ankara Province extends over a much larger land perimeter containing 9,925 square miles (25,706 square kilometers). About half of Ankara Province is used for agricultural purposes, while just over a quarter of its surface area is forested. Another 10% is meadowland appropriate for cattle that graze for their food.
At the country level, Turkey's land area covers 297,156 square miles (769,632 square kilometers). The national population count was 80.3 million inhabitants as of July 2016.
Population density is much higher within the urbanized areas for Turkey's capital city with an average 18,200 Ankarans per square mile (7,000 per square kilometer).
Over the vast land area of Ankara Province, density dilutes to an average 531 people per square mile (205 per square kilometer).
For Turkey overall, population density drops to an average 270 inhabitants per square mile (104 per square kilometer).


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Machine Gun Kelly just dropped a remix to his single Wild Boy, which originally featured the dread shaking, Waka Flocka. The remix now features a crazy line up of… *drum roll please*
Steve-O, 2 Chaaainz, Meek Mill, Mystikal, French Montana & Yo Gotti!
The Bad Boy Artist is set to drop his Half Naked & Almost Famous EP April 3rd. Check out the slapper after the jump.

subset: commoncrawl


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The Chicago Cubs are once again the favorite to be the best team during Major League Baseball's regular season, according to the Westgate Las Vegas Superbook (via BangTheBook).
With spring training now under way, the Cubs have an over/under win total of 95.5, three games better than their over/under win total prior to the 2016 season, and one game ahead of the next best team this season, the Los Angeles Dodgers. At sportsbooks, gamblers are tasked with picking whether a team will win more or fewer games than their over/under total.
There are six teams, three in each league, with an over/under win total north of 90. Last year at the beginning of spring training, the Cubs were the only such team. At the other end of the spectrum, the Chicago White Sox (68.5) and the San Diego Padres (67.5) are projected to be the worst teams in each league.


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I don't have words anymore...I packed them every morning early at dawn and sold them on the market...proved to be a bankrupt business - now you can relate to that - bankrupt.
So I decided to share some photos of my family instead...after all, you've all been very curious to know what I look like...so tonight, I will assuage your curiosity and quench that thirst of yours.
The Savage hoards arrive at my door.
Now they are consulting Jesus as to which door to knock next
Blond blue eyed Jesus is invoked
My beautiful home burning...
Iraqi Desert Sandstorm - can't stop God's Wrath.
Winning Iraqi hearts and minds
My family greeting you with flowers and candies
Martyred President Saddam Hussein's Palace - beats your 2nd hand Kentucky couch don't it ?
Oh the Humane American - feeds us with our own food.
Taking another break in our palaces...beats fucking Kentucky don't it ?
American dogs storming a Baath government office, little girl cries - will the antiwar dry her tears ?
Digital, biometric and crotch imprints. Will you recognize us now ?
Solidarity behind barbed wires - always.
Iraqi artificial leg in the winds...must have been a weapon of mass destruction
Another sectarian Shiite whore boy saying hello
Nothing beats Iraqi Tea...
Killing for sport
We have not stopped hating your fucking guts
That's what I said - we have not stopped hating your fucking guts
Finally found the Weapons of Mass Destruction
Whatever you do - these are my grounds, my land - always.
My family's hospitality despite your brutality. House raid by your brave boys - they are offered tea.
Depleted Uranium Reconstruction of Falluja ----------------------------------------------- new pictures available upon request.
You don't scare us...
She ain't scared either...
You didn't even spare my elderly Grandma...
My Iraqi boy has finally become a blue eyed one - after you exploded in his face.
This is my Red wedding day....am ducking mortars, bombs and pieces of flesh
An American female neighbor....she loves being in the "third world"- you American guys need to get your... ahem ...functioning again.
Black American cow, finally saved by the White boys - Where are you Malcolm X ?
American Iraqi reconstruction
Saddam already fucked you - the Hell that is Iraq.
Keep on crying and hugging - it ain't over yet - Iraq/Afghanistan
No more Western Feminist Pink Codes - Iraqi women are all alone.
Resistance Siempre- Always.
Big Rambo 23, died in 2004.
Exile - my permanent abode.
Broken, shattered lives...
Wouldn't even use this piece of cloth to wipe the sole of my old shoe, not even my cat's poop.
Your end and mine...20 feet underground.
My photo album was first published here - with American commentaries. They even stole the words...the words from the Death market...
I am very tempted to upload my Iraqi song - Where are you from and Where am I from !
I just need to be reminded always...photos are never enough.
Music-Composer : Iraqi artist Bashar Al Azzawi rendition of "Enta Mnen"old Iraqi folk song - Where are you exactly from ? uploaded on youtube by qwqfaris.


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A Political Conundrum
There is a naturalized Romanian-born handyman who works for me. Well, technically he works at my house, and my brother chose him and pays him. He has been here now about half his life, arriving at the age of 26. He has done everything from hang new doors and screen doors, to plumbing repairs, to replace 65 year old sheetrock, paint, rewire the house, and redo my bathroom. I like him, but he also annoys the crap out of me.
He's a Nazi at heart, loves everything German, and votes Republican. He's racist, sexist, and his work habits are completely unprofessional. On his asset list is that the work itself is excellent. I have told him repeatedly that no self-respecting Republican would continue his employment. Why? he shows up whenever he wants, puts his World Soccer Cup qualifying games, football games, basketball games, and general farting around ahead of his work. We started the bathroom tear-down in mid-July of last year, and there is at least another week's work to be done. He called yesterday and said he would be here at 7 pm and work until about 10.. He showed up at 7:40 pm, let around 9:41. Put on a second coat of paint, bitching about the brand the whole time. It dries too quickly. You see we chose the brand of paint, because we could get it for $20/gallon.
He shows up later and later every day he comes. Used to come about three and stay until about 8 pm. Then it was 5 and stay until about 10. Lately, he has been showing up at 6 or 7 and staying until 1 or 2 am. When we said something about it, he said "IF I come then you're asleep, and I have to wait 30 minutes to get into the house." Well if you would call and say you were on your way, we would be up. Yes, we often have to take naps, because we get up and get going about 11 am AT THE LATEST, and by 3 or 4 pm, we are tired. I have lupus. My husband has heart disease..
This whole project started for two reasons. First, the bathroom cabinetry, was falling apart, not surprising after 65 years, assorted plumbing leaks.over the years, and being cheap plywood to begin with. The second reason was needing to make it more handicapped friendly.
He started the project with the notion that he was designing it. I would tell him what I wanted, and he would argue that I didn't want that. I had found some cobalt blue I wanted. He shows up with some mottled light blue/dark blue/white/gray crap that cost more then what I had chosen. We argued about that. I ended up giving in because I was tired of arguing. I hate it. Totally destroys the look I wanted, which was the effect of rising up out of the ocean into the sky.
I had bought the cabinetry at IKEA on sale. Everything, sink cabinet, tall cabinet, two mirrored medicine chests, additional sink cabinet I planned to use as a vanity, sink for around $300. He bitched about the sink, because the hole for the faucet was on the side. "Who buys a sink like this? It's too small and the hole is in the wrong place. What do you know about plumbing?" I told him that THIS sink puts the faucet on the toilet side of the sink, which is handy for me. "Nah, nah, you don't need the faucet over there." I asked him point blank if he was handicapped, what did he know about being handicapped? The other thing I liked about that cabinet and sink was that it was only 10" deep, which would give us more maneuvering room. A week or two later, he comes in and announces he has now seen a few sinks like mine. Seems they are the newest thing in Europe. DUH! Guess I know something after all.
Then I decided that instead of just widening the doorway, I would have no doorway. "You gotta have a door!" I said master baths in many of the newer homes were not closed off. He argued with me about that, until I showed him a few photos on the web. Comes in a week or so later "Heh, I talked to one of my friends back in Europe. He says they are building bathrooms like that over there now." That of course made it ok, because anything European is good. America sucks.
He argued with me about the grab bars. I wanted 9" at the shower entrance. He thought I should have 18". I didn't want the shower half filled with grab bars, which would get in the way. So he goes out and buys 18" for those places, and where I wanted an 18" on the back wall, he buys a 24" one. The ones I wanted cost about $40, and he spent almost $80. Then I said I wanted a shower slider bar, and I showed him AN EXAMPLE of the KIND of thing I wanted. It happened to be a Hansgrohe model. So he goes and tells my brother I want a $500 shower system, and I get this angry phone call about "why do you always want the top model?" When he calmed down, I explained that I didn't mean I wanted THAT shower, THAT brand, I wanted a set up LIKE that, with the slide bar. Since I had shown that picture, I had found one for about $60 that provided the same facility. I also wanted to put shower mounts on the back slider bar and the one at the left side of the entrance. "They don't make those," says my know it all handyman. So I showed him online that they were available from the local home improvements store. "Oh those are cheap plastic. You don't want those!"
So it comes time to put an edge on the tile. I had chosen from the two he brought me the silver one, in keeping with the brushed nickel trim and bath fixtures. So what does he show up with the day he's going to lay tile? Cheap white plastic. "The other costs five times as much." he says. Now he starts worrying about cost. Heck, if he had gotten the grab bars I wanted, he'd have had the money for that!
When he walks in the door he yells "Obama, Obama." He hates Obama, has often expressed the hope that someone will "shoot the son of a bitch n*****." If we have the television on, he talks over it. God forbid we are watching Rachel Maddow "that ugly stupid lesbian bitch." Yeah, she has a BA from Stanford, and a PhD in Political Science from Oxford, where she was a Rhodes scholar. You have a Romanian high school degree and she's stupid. Riiiiiight.
Last night he was on a tear about Beyonce and her husband being in Cuba, that "commie nation." I guess he isn't incensed about the scientists visiting Cuba to study the wildlife in the Zapata area, or the state department officials who visit the Cuban culture. Beyonce and her husband visited Cuban children in art and dance schools, visited a World Heritage site, and dined in a privately owned restaurant, an innovation in Cuba. Then he bitched that she lip-synced the National Anthem at Obama's inauguration. My response is a yawn. I'm guessing Beyonce and Jay-Z will change Cubans much more than Cuba will change them. Ironic, too that since Cuba modified their travel prohibitions to the US recently, Cuban "commies"can visit the US more easily than Americans can visit Cuba, despite our greater freedoms.
He asked my husband "Has she EVER cooked for you?" He said "Of course, when she was younger and healthier." in an amazed tone of voice. "She's a good cook, but she just can't do it any more." Last night, I told this handyman that when Ron and I finished working in the side yard last evening, he had to bring the car around because I could not walk the 100' to the door. The idiot says to me, after having seen me have trouble standing up at least 100 times, "Maybe you need to get more exercise." I said "The doctor thinks I need 2 knees replacements and 2 hip replacements. The only kind of exercise I can do is swimming. Do you see a pool here?" He knows that sometimes I require a wheelchair. So he says, "I don't understand why you can't walk more." I said "My disease attacks the cartilege in my joints. It hurts me to walk sometimes, really really hurts, because the bones are grinding on the bones." He asks how my muscles attach then. I said "It's the cartilage cushion inside the joints, between the top of my leg bone and the hip socket. My God, I can lay down to sleep on my side and wake up with a dislocated shoulder!"
He hates Jewish people, Hispanics, Blacks, and women unless he finds them sexually attractive (and purty he ain't). He told me that despite my college degree, two Master's programs and PhD program, I don't know anything because I "haven't worked in so long." Totally overlooking the idea that I can still READ about anything and everything I ever studied, and do. I guess my brother and sister-in-law will suddenly become stupid on their way home from the office on their last days before retiring!
We said he has no respect for us, and he said "I never said that." We said "You didn't have to SAY it. You show it in everything you do and everything you do say."
What puzzles me is why this atheist man who believes abortion is nobody's business but the woman's, her doctor, and the man (if he is involved in her life meaningfully), believes nobody needs an assault weapon and gun owners should be registered and screened for mental illness, and talks about how stupid Americans are, and admits he is here only because Germany wouldn't let him in, votes Republican. It's not like he has money, either. He's pretty much living hand to mouth, and as far as I know, my brother and his wife are his only clients. He respects money and people who make a lot of it. He does not respect us. He orders my husband to clean the toilet before he returns it to the bathroom. Now, the toilet should have been cleaned and protected when it was removed. In stead he put out the back window dirty beneath a tree 9 months ago. He throws stuff out the bathroom window, on the street side of the house, has trash all over the front porch. Not one single job he has done here has been truly completed. From the front door needing one of those things that keep it from slamming, to the unpainted brace in the other bathroom (needed he said in case I leaned on it, but really, to support the counter top he chose and put on it) to no latch or handle on the back door screen (which means I cannot open from the outside myself because my arthritic fingers can't grasp the narrow ledge to pull it open.)
Ironically, I know Mexican undocumented immigrants who could have done the bathroom just as well,and had it done in 3 weeks tops, charged less, and would not have argued with me about it all. My bathroom, whatever you want, you are the boss. It's my house. Even more ironically, there is something lovable about him, despite his emotional maturity of about 13. I cannot for the life of me figure out what it is. Except maybe that there's something kind of like a puppy who always wants to be loved My sister-in-law joked that it was almost over, and I could get my Girl Scout badge in Surviving M. She said she has 5 of them.
Math: The Language of Science
I learned to read between the ages of 2 and 3. My maternal grandfather, my beloved DeeDee, taught me to play dominoes before he died when I was 4. My parents took me to symphonies (classical music in early childhood seems to have a relationship with academic success later in life, especially math). When I started kindergarten, I was already through most of the Nancy Drew novels. When I reached first grade, the teacher recommended that I be moved into 2nd grade after 6 weeks. I was and there it was that my teacher told my parents I had an uncanny math ability.
While various poor teachers nearly sabotaged my math performance, and undoubtedly sabotaged my self-confidence in the subject, I eventually ended up in a graduate program (PhD) in Applied Statistics, where a professor told me I had the greatest natural heuristic abillity he'd ever seen.
I taught statistics as a college instructor, business math, and later in a private grades 6-12 school, geometry and algebra. I have tutored people from age 5 to 55 all along the way. So I know a little something about math, and about learning math. I also know something about the FEAR of math, particularly algebra. It is with that, and the latest report on the US performance in math and reading that came out today, that I am creating yet another page to this website entitled The Math Language. There I will post reports on math performance, resources for parents and students, hints, tips, tricks, and the occasional rant :). I hope you enjoy it, use it if you need it, and leave me some comments please!


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This Google Translate feature is provided for informational purposes only. Please consult with a translator for accuracy if you are relying on the translation or are using this site for official business.
You are being directed off of a Comptroller of Maryland website to the Google Translate service. Because it is an external service, the Comptroller of Maryland cannot guarantee the accuracy or quality of this translation, and is therefore not liable for any inaccurate information resulting from the translation application tool.
Interactive Online Services cannot be translated using this service, and all information you enter must be submitted in English.
Text in electronic documents, such as PDF, Microsoft Word, Excel or other similar, will be translated but without their functionality, and often do not retain their formatting. They may not be used to conduct official business with the agency, and will not be accepted by the agency in lieu of official English or Spanish forms.


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Available ebook formats: epub mobi pdf rtf lrf pdb txt html
Trained as an Electronics Engineer and mastered as computer network and Information Security, Mr. Hitesh Choudhary is a renowned Author, video author, International speaker and security consultant. Also he is a student of CS50 semester at Harvard's and got trained in wireless security from a prof. of MIT. He created various tools and attacks like wireless Eurynomus featured in pentest magazine and in Backtrack project. His webinar on wireless, Backtrack, and ethical hacking was attended by 5000+ professionals from Google India, HP, IBM, Accenture, TCS, Sapient Corp. , Symantec, EEL India Ltd., Capgemini, Micro Technology, CDAC, Kodak India Ltd., Wipro Infotech Ltd., ABB Ltd., Tech Mahindra Ltd., and many more. He is also an active consultant and speaker for Rajasthan police and his work was featured in 20+ air, print and live media.


text: Exilio is now in Archway. What is Exilio? Exilio is the longest running LGBT Latin club in London. Exilio introduces Latin music and culture to the LGBT community since 1996. Exilio opens twice a month on Saturdays, except in April because of the Easter Bank Holidays. Check out the facebook page/twitter or visit our website on www.exilio.co.uk


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Moody's Investors Service recently confirmed Saskatchewan's Aaa credit rating.
Moody's rating confirmation is thanks in large part to our 3-year plan to return to a balanced budget. The dividends of some difficult decisions in the budget are paying off with lower debt financing costs, and stability for our finances.
The first time Saskatchewan ever received the highest possible Aaa credit rating was under our government. In its credit opinion update, Moody's stated that "Saskatchewan's fiscal planning is supported by comprehensive and transparent financial reporting and the Province enjoys significant flexibility in its financial management."
Our plan to keep Saskatchewan strong is working.
Credit ratings are higher than they were a decade ago, there's less operating debt and we have the second-lowest debt-to-GDP ratio among the provinces. We will not burden future generations with ballooning deficits as other governments are choosing to do. We will stay on the path of fiscal prudence.
With renewed confidence from investors, for the first time since the recession, our economy is projected to grow again. Today Saskatchewan leads Canada in manufacturing sales is stronger and more diversified with 67,000 more jobs after a decade of growth.
According to the latest census data from Statistics Canada, the past decade saw Saskatchewan emerge as a national leader in income growth. Median income grew 36.5% with Yorkton posting the highest median income growth (+40.5%) among 152 metropolitan areas in Canada.
At a time of when our resilient and diversified economy is growing and Saskatchewan people are earning more than ever, our government continues to stand up for Saskatchewan's interests. This means opposing federal tax changes that would threaten jobs and hurt our economy.
In addition to fighting an ill-conceived federal carbon tax that would hike costs, hurt competitiveness and do nothing to reduce emissions, we are also speaking out against the federal government's new "tax fairness" plan that is vilifying Saskatchewan farmers, ranchers and small business owners.
Farms and small businesses are not "tax shelters", as the federal government suggests. Farmers, ranchers and small business owners are the backbone of our economy – honest and hard-working women and men who proudly feed the world, create jobs and help grow our province.


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A Royal Orgasm For This Goth Girl!I am thrilled to finally own this. I'm so glad it's in my collection, and I hope it lasts for at least 10 years.... I wish, right?
Goth look, Stylish Vibe, Powerful, Quiet, Waterproof
Takes C Batteries which are not common, EF does not stock this anymore
Okay, so this vibrator is awesome. EdenFantasys seriously needs to continue this toy again. Because it's awesome. Secondly this is waterproof. So it's good for shower play time, bedroom playtime, playtime in the closet, playtime on the floor..... It's good clitorally, and good vaginally if you like it like that, but of course you know I don't recommend anally because it doesnt have a base on the end. This is great for chicks who love gothic-looking toys. This is a pretty badass sex toy, mate.
Material / Texture
It's so smooth! But I mean, duh, it's a plastic vibrator. It's heavy though with or without the batteries, and the C batteries it takes make it heavier. So even where it's "tattooed" it's smooth. It feels "baked-on" and it's safe to use this vaginally, to have it inserted whether or not you're in water, because the decal won't come off. I used to have an Inked Probe that was double sided, and it had the same awesome quality. Since this is plastic it doesnt really have a scent, and no taste either. The textured decal does add a little stimulation, like a tattoo on a body counterpart. This is a great vibe for beginners or advanced. If you're a beginner I'd recommend a low setting on the dial, whereas if you're advanced like me, you're welcome to use a higher speed on the dial if you're comfortable.
Design / Shape / Size
I absolutely LOVE the design. I ADORE the Inked collection from California Exotics, I think they did a great job on this collection, it's awesome. I love the simple massager shape of this vibe, though the inked decal I think is what adds the excitement of buying this and owning it. I think this size, as it's a "royal" size, is probably preferable for advanced users, whereas a beginner may decide on buying the regular Inked Vibe, which isnt a "royal." On the box this vibrator is described as 7 inches, aka 18 centimeters, and according to my measurements they are correct. I wouldnt say this toy is discreet- Most people know what a common vibrator looks like and will know what this is immediately if left out in the open. Sure, go ahead and travel with it if you must, but do expect to get a surprised or dirty look from the person rummaging through your bag for bombs and drugs and finding this instead.
Functions / Performance / Controls
Wow, with fully juiced C size batteries, this thing works wonders. Even having the dial turned on to the lowest setting it teases, and turn it up more, and it shall please. Especially while I'm using my Katsuni's Revenge of the Sea Rabbit Vibrator as a G-spot orgasm amplifier. The dial base makes this easy to use, even one handed, and you can use it clitorally with or without lube. Turn it on and go get to work, girl! The vibrations are all throughout, basically they come from a motor in the head of this vibrator though. I think the best function is the one you choose with this vibe. Since it has a dial it is super easy to operate. And it's quiet! Unlike my huge purple flurp massager, which is longer than this one but the same size in width, the motor is more powerful but also quieter. This is a huge plus! This thing is going to get a hell of a lot more use than my other vibe. Screw the other one completely, in fact. This thing is awesome. And waterproof? I didnt even know it was waterproof when I bought it. Then I got the packaging and I was like really? Hell yeah!
Care and Maintenance
It is super easy to care for this. All you need to do is spray it with anti-bacterial toy cleanser or use anti-bacterial soap with water and a rag. Then rinse and dry. No lint sticks to this doo-hickey! The thing about silicone toys is lint and dust sticks, but with plastic, it shouldn't be as much as a problem. Also, it doesnt matter what lubricant you decide to use with this. Anything goes!
Follow-up commentary 4 months after original review
I gotta say, this vibe is cool as shit. It's thick and stout and does its job. Main complaint is that it guzzles C batteries and I'm not a battery finding pro yet, so they're hard to find even in the grocery store..
This content is the opinion of the submitting contributor and is not endorsed by EdenFantasys.com
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Tribal Workshops with Paulette Rees-Denis
Paulette Rees-Denis, the Director of the Gypsy Caravan Dance Company, International will be in Toronto for 2 days this September presenting workshops on tribal bellydance technique. The world renowned The Gypsy Caravan Dance Company, International is a contemporary tribal bellydance troupe. Lead by Paulette the troupe's signature tribal styling is a fusion of several influences […]


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Emergency Treatments for Low Blood Pressure
Low blood pressure or hypotension can refer to any blood pressure below the established normal of 120/80 mmHg as per the American Heart Association. However, hypotension is typically only treated when accompanied by signs and symptoms such as dizziness or lightheadedness, fainting, unusual thirst, lack of concentration, blurred vision, nausea, cool or cold, clammy and pale skin, fast breathing, general fatigue and often increased heart rate. Treatments focus on the underlying cause of the low pressure.
Often, the quickest way to begin correcting symptomatic hypotension is by laying the hypotensive patient supine, on their back, and elevating their legs to a level above the level of their heart. If accessible, most gurneys permit the incline of the entire patient as a unit permitting the lower extremities to be elevated and the torso to be reclined. Prehospital Emergency Care refers to several positions termed shock, Trendelenburg and modified Trendelenburg positions. In the event the patient also experiences nausea or vomiting, this may have to involve allowing the head to remain propped to either side to avoid aspiration.
Intravenous Fluids
In situations where low blood pressure does not respond to positioning and a reversible cause cannot be identified quickly, the administration of intravenous (IV) fluids may be the recommended initial therapy. Often replenishing body fluids with normal saline can reverse or at a minimum stabilize hypotension until physicians can determine another cause. This typically proves most successful in situations where the cause results from decreases in blood volume, dehydration, prolonged vomiting, allergic reactions or severe infections. The use of pressure infusers, bags specifically designed to apply pressure to the outside of the IV bag and aids in forcing fluid in at a faster rate. It proves critical that too much fluid not be infused too quickly to avoid fluid overload, which can create a life-threatening situation.
Intravenous Medications
In the most severe cases of hypotension, often due to severe infections, heart insufficiency or multiple system organ failure, certain medications must be administered to increase the pumping ability of the heart. Some of the more commonly administered medications in the emergency setting include dobutamine, dopamine and norepinephrine. The New England Journal of Medicine indicates that these medications stimulate the adrenergic nervous system and in various ways increase the contacting ability of the heart, thereby increasing the force with which the heart can pump. Along with constriction of the vessels, these effects increase the blood pressure.
Other Causes of Hypotension
In some cases the cause of the low blood pressure may result due to issues such as tachycardia, certain prescription medications or changes due to pregnancy which require monitoring and treatment as appropriate depending on the underlying cause. It remains important to keep in mind that prolonged low blood pressure can cause inadequate blood flow to the body resulting in myocardial infarction, strokes, renal failure and various types of shock. Each of these can also cause low blood pressure so it becomes crucial to treat signs and symptoms.
- American Heart Association: Low Blood Pressure
- Mayo Clinic: Low Blood Pressure
- "Prehospital Emergency Care, 9th Ed.", Mistovich, J., et al., 2009
- New England Journal of Medicine: Vasopressors
- blood pressure image by Zbigniew Nowak from Fotolia.com


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Author: Folkstreams / Daniel W. Patterson
Source: http://www.folkstreams.net/context,4
"Arthur Jackson was born on a farm near Jonesville, S.C., in 1911, and grew up sharing a one-room log cabin with his parents and 5 brothers and sisters. His father worked him so hard as a child that he was glad when a rainy day came. "I went to a school when it rained, " he says. "Outside of that I always had something to do on the farm….If I'd a-stayed at home I wouldn't have known a thing, wouldn't have been able to do anything but plow a mule. Nothing from nothing leaves nothing. I did a lot of work in vain–sixteen hours in June, July, August, working from sun to sun. If you plow a mule all day and into the night, you feel just as tired when you get up as when you lay down. Plow all night too, dreaming."


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So many people I could add. First let me just add the whole of the BBC corporate set-up after the Savile affair and excessive payouts to the former DG and other unsuccessful applicants. That was unbelievable.
And the Sir David Nicholson scandal. He refuses to take responsibility for what happened on his watch at mid-Staffs and since as NHS CEO. He has faced many calls to resign and fall on his sword (well he is a knight) but astonishingly has the backing of the NHS commissioners and the Prime Minister.
Another knight Sir Hector Sants is accused of turning a blind eye when he was head of the FSA during Libor scandal. Barclays bank was one of worst offenders and now employ him on a reputed £3M salary as head of compliance.
Then we had the Senior Fraud Office. The former head, Richard Alderman, was lambasted by the Public Accounts Committee for slovenly leadership. There were unauthorised payoffs of millions of pounds of taxpayers money considered irregular by National Audit Office.
The former Chief Executive Phillippa Williamson, one of the recipients of Alderman's generosity, wasn't even appointed through proper channels. She was taken in on secondment by Alderman then made permanent and promoted to Chief Executive. She also lived in the Lake District and claimed £27k for travelling to London 3 times a week.
If the SFO behaves in such a haphazard manner how can they expect to be effective in carrying out their role?
It's been a while since I added anyone to my leadership hall of shame. Not because I didn't care any more but there seemed to be too many mediocre leaders receiving high rewards – even when they were found out.
OK Bob Diamond had to go in the end and we had Fred the Shred de-knighted – but he kept the majority of his massive pension (around £350,000 a year plus a lump sum and bonus of several million) more than most of us have any chance of earning when we are working never mind retired.
But a recent news story reminded me how people get way with it because of incompetence by their employers.
Steve Garner was Head of Children's Services for Rochdale Council after being promoted from being a manager three years ago. So the systematic abuse of vulnerable children was happening on his watch. He's now been allowed to resign without any disciplinary action being taken against him.
A review by the Council's safeguarding board into 5 years of sexual exploitation of girls by a group of predatory Asian men, mainly of Pakistani heritage, who were part of a sex-grooming network which eventually led to 9 of them being jailed, found that in 2007 fifty girls aged between 10 and 17 were identified as having links with local taxi and food takeaway businesses. (NB a further 76 were identified at the start of 2013)
Yet when these girls were referred to social service no action was taken despite concerns by police and care workers as it was thought they were making their own lifestyle choices – remember some of these girls were as young as 10!
The MP for Rotherham – another area with similar problems – said "it was outrageous that the local authority was allowing its senior managers to sneak off without being held to account for their actions".
He said that Mr Garner was the person within the department who influenced the culture which failed the victims. He went on to say that he thought the manager should have been suspended months ago, a point most people would find it hard to disagree with, and for that non-action you have to look at the employer, Rochdale Council.
Mr Garner was probably continuing in his predecessor's footsteps as he was following a series of internal appointments – not always a good thing if change needs to be made.
We could probably add former CEO Roger Ellis to this list as well as he told the parliamentary inquiry (which Steve Garner has declined to attend) that he knew nothing about the child abuse although he was in post for 10 years and it happened on his watch! Like Sharon Shoesmith he says he feels no personal responsibility for any of it. He's a lawyer so presumably knows his rights if no-one else's.
The Council's new Chief Executive Jim Taylor (formerly Director of Children's Services at Tameside and a maths teacher before that) said that Mr Garner's resignation was not directly connected to the report and that he would be willing to take disciplinary action against any staff who were identified as culpable after an internal review has been concluded. He said that Mr Garner would not receive any redundancy pay.
Well why would he as they are replacing him, following the thematic review of multi-agency responses to the sexual exploitation of children, to "allow someone else to take forward recommendations".
Allowing people potentially facing disciplinary action is a common practice in the Public Sector including the Police service eg only this week Sir Norman Bettison has decided to retire in the wake of the report from the Hillsborough Independent Panel as it enables people who might have been disciplined to retire on their pensions.
It seems that no-one is being held accountable for the whole sorry saga which has been going on for a lot, lot longer than this report suggests and before Mr Garner's time in post. Nevertheless the Rotherham MP is correct; leaders are highly influential in setting the culture of an organisation and in this case it was clearly a failure of leadership as well as a lack of moral certainty usurped by political correctness on race issues.
In some respects this is similar to the Sharon Shoesmith case (see below).
With Sharon Shoesmith's distasteful victory in the Courts we saw yet another example of leaders who refuse to take responsibility for their actions – or in this case inactions.
Her reported comments that "I don't do blame" and "this is a victory" has a hollow ring when you think about Baby P. Shoesmith was appointed to make sure that the Climbie case in 2000 was not repeated. She clearly failed to do this and the Courts upheld Ofsted's findings which described the department as the worst they had ever seen.
At least the leader of the Council and the Cabinet Member for the children's' services resigned, but not Shoesmith. And she got her compensation for unfair dismissal thanks to Ed Balls heavy-handed interference (but what was HR doing?). So big compensation for being rubbish at her job.
The last person I added to my list was Barclay's Bob Diamond who told the House of Commons Treasury Committee parliamentary committee earlier this year that "There was a period of remorse and apology for banks, that period needs to be over" and "the biggest issue is how do we put some of the blame game behind us?".
He also said that they were sensitive and were listening. I don't remember any bankers listening and refusing bonuses or showing any remorse at all!
We expect a lot of leaders and expect them to be good role models but that's not what we get a lot of the time. Leaders with narcissistic or sociopathic tendencies often show their dark side when under pressure.
The fact that "Fred the Shred" felt it necessary to take out a superinjunction to protect the public learning about his alleged affair with a senior member of staff at a time that the bank was going under at least shows some self-awareness, albeit in his own interest, that his behaviour might be seen as counter-productive. But on the whole people like Diamond and Shoesmith don't seem to possess a lot of emotional intelligence.
4 June 2011: It would be so easy to add Sepp Blatter to the list after his Napoleonic "coronation" but this week's nomination has to be Bernie Ecclestone after his decision to go to Bahrain with his Formula 1 circus. He obviously needs the $40m but even the sponsors are nervous about the effect on their reputations.
Britain has close relations with Bahrain but given the suppression of protests there and the possibility of a terrorist attack it's a dubious decision. Ecclestone might have a nose for a commercial deal but scores zero for ethical leadership.
12 July 2011: I've been trying to decide who is worse, Rebecca Brooks or any member of the Murdoch family. But the "red top" who oversaw the demise of the News of the World, which she described as a toxic brand and thereby besmirched the reputations of the 200 staff, has to be on a par with Sharon Shoesmith for not accepting any responsibility for what happened.
Leaders who won't fall on their sword, who believe they are right, who blame everyone else (Brooks was editor at the time of the hacking) don't deserve to be leaders. Why did Murdoch back her? She said she was a lightning rod for criticism.
Perhaps it keeps the heat off son James Murdoch. Rebecca should remember that no matter how much a favoured "daughter" she thinks she is, blood is thicker than water (and true to form Murdoch is now back at BSkyB).
Rebecca Brooks eventually lost her job, albeit with a reported £1.7M payoff and use of an office and chauffeur-driven car for two years. Perhaps they're waiting for the Sun on Sunday to be published.
And whilst we are on this topic let's add Assistant Commissioner John Yates to the list for complete lack of leadership. OK he has apologised, admitted that the Metropolitan Police's reputation is "very damaged", appears not to have carried out his responsibilities properly when he mishandled the review of the 2007 inquiry (apparently he decided in a matter of hours even though there were 11,000 pages of notes involved), but he's not resigned either.
James is still trying not to show how incompetent, or devious, he is but it looks like the Murdoch dynasty has upset too many shareholders to continue for another generation.
I previously let Sepp Blatter off the hook because of Bernie Ecclestone's Bahrain fiasco but after this week and his belated apology and refusal to resign – and why would he quit the corrupt gravy train that is FIFA – he's got to be latest nomination for a leader completely without principles and any awareness of what the public think about him and his ideas.
He's not the only one in football to defend the indefensible this month eg spitting at people is culturally acceptable in South American countries – really? So Sepp Blatter joins my leadership hall of shame.


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2Do Gets Updated to 3.0 and Has Been Completely Redesigned
Posted by Jessica Fisher on September 24th, 2014
+ Universal & Apple Watch App - Designed for iPhone, iPad and Apple Watch
Recently, Guided Ways Technologies updated their 2Do task management app. They have rebuilt the entire app to be streamlined and easier to use. With over over 200 new features and improvements, there are so many we can't list them all, but a few of the the features are:
Calendar Events for iPad: View and manage your Calendar events directly from within 2Do. No need to switch between apps. List Groups: Create new List Groups for organizing your lists. You can collapse or expand a List group with a simple tap. Quick Add: Tap and hold on [+] to add one task after another Extended View: Tap on the priority button next to the task to view multiple lines of text, notes and tags in one go Pinch Zooming: Pinch your fingers to zoom in or zoom out of your tasks. With the iOS 8 system, 2Do now also supports Fingerprint Password Protection and Notifications with built-in actions.
Current users will be upgraded for free, but if 2Do is new to you, then you can pick it up on the App Store for $14.99.


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Peaches is reading...
Can you guess what Peaches is reading?
The latest issue of Guinea Pig Magazine! Add a snack, a cozy, a human and a couch into the equation and you have the makings of a relaxing evening.
4 comments:
Lucky Peaches, lots of interesting articles in this edition.ReplyDeleteReplies
Peaches favorite read was the bath article.Delete
Peaches look so smart! I love magazines too, but I like ripping them. :) Mima says wheek to the other piggies. xReplyDeleteReplies
Understandable Gemma, Truffle likes chewing on magazines :) tell Mima wheek from all of us back! Or a woof WOLDelete
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Groundhog Day is a popular observance in many parts of the United States. Although some states have in some cases adopted their own groundhogs, the official groundhog, Punxsutawney Phil, lives at Gobbler's Knob near Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania.
Punxsutawney held its first Groundhog Day in the United States in the 1800s. The first official trek to Gobbler's Knob was made on February 2, 1887. It is said that Punxsutawney Phil (the groundhog) was named after King Phillip. He was called Br'er Groundhog prior to being known as Phil.
The Punxsutawney Groundhog Club plays an important role in organizing Groundhog Day in the town. Club members, news reporters, locals and visitors meet at Gobbler's Knob on February 2 each year to await Phil's appearance and his weather prediction. Many weather researchers questioned the groundhog's accuracy in predicting the weather but some of the groundhog's fans may not agree.
Groundhog Day is an observance but it is not a public holiday in the United States.
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Private markets investments require constant capital to fund new investments. Further, proceeds from investment sales are distributed to limited partners in the form of in-kind securities and cash. To manage these cash and security flows effectively, we develop a funding account, where distributions can be reinvested immediately into public equities and capital calls can be fulfilled immediately.
Meketa Investment Group develops and supervises the funding account, and relieves the fund of the administrative burden of capital calls and distributions. This efficient mechanism saves a fund a significant amount of time and, more importantly, significant opportunity costs.


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To begin 2018 Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference play, Ashland University's softball team lost 3-0 and 3-2 decisions on Sunday (March 25) afternoon at Tiffin.
The Eagles are 10-10 overall and 0-2 in the GLIAC, while the Dragons moved their winning streak to 10 games in improving to 16-11, 4-0.
Sunday's opener saw the game's only runs come across in the bottom of the fourth, as Tiffin scored three times. That half-inning featured four Dragons hits and two Eagle errors.
The tough-luck loss was suffered by senior pitcher Paige McMenemy (6-3), who went the distance on a six-hitter, allowing three runs (two earned) and two walks, and striking out four. Ashland had two hits on offense, and five errors on defense.
In Sunday's second game, the Eagles climbed back from a 2-0 deficit to tie the contest with single runs in the top of the fifth and sixth innings. Freshman shortstop Abigail Butler drove in the run in the fifth on a double, and junior designated player Katie Manahan knotted the game with a run in the sixth on an RBI single.
Tiffin scored the winning run in Game 2 on a wild pitch in the bottom of the seventh.
Junior pitcher Hannah Stroe (2-5) allowed eight hits, three runs (one earned) and two walks and struck out three in six innings. The Eagles had four hits and four errors in the nightcap.
UP NEXT: The 2018 home openers at Brookside Park on Tuesday (March 27) vs. No. 18-ranked Grand Valley State have been postponed. Ashland's next scheduled games are Friday (March 30) at 3:30 p.m. vs. Davenport at home.


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Huge product rangeOver 140,000 books & equipment products
Rapid shippingUK & Worldwide
Pay in £, € or U.S.$By card, cheque, transfer, draft
Exceptional customer serviceGet specialist help and advice
Australia's native rodents are the most ecologically diverse family of living Australian mammals. There are about 70 species - all within the sub-family Murinae - representing around 25 per cent of all species of Australian mammals. They range in size from the Delicate Mouse, weighing around six grams, to the large Water Rat, weighing around a kilogram. Unlike our 'home-grown' marsupials and monotremes which have an ancient southern origin, Australia's native rodents entered from the north, with their first ancestors arriving about five million years ago. Since that time they have radiated to fill many ecological niches throughout the country. Greatest species diversity occurred in the northern savannah and arid zone, with the few rainforest species having evolved in New Guinea.
This book details the diversity, evolution and ecology of this much-neglected group of animals, and describes their range of reproductive strategies and dietary adaptations. The book includes a chapter on rodent diseases, the impact of human settlement, and the efforts that are being made to conserve key species.


text:
A Soldiers Verse
------------ Click Here To Read My Poetry -----------
Beautiful Tara
Our Little Miracle Baby
That Time Of Year.
Do not pray for me
Roses and Lessons
My Mother Was A Soldier.
The Former Soldier And The New Recruit
Never Alone
Crack, Thump
Always Your Beau
A Father's Day Note For My Dad
Rise The Sun.
Beautiful You
No Words For Your Beauty
Let Me Be The One
Something About You
Dreaming Of You
Always Here
Vigilante - The Beginnings
Vigilante Oath
City Streets Are Forgetful Places
Forgotten Tragedy (Short story about a poem)
Thank You
What Hides In The Darkness?
Silence Sound Of Nothing
Here On The Edge Of The World
I Am Alone
Obsession Without A Face.
Lost Soul, Not Found
Loved No More
I wanted to tell you something
Middle Of Nowhere.
Fear, Hatred, Worry, Alone
Live To Learn, Learn To Live.
That Very Last Drop
A Million Mile Road
Dedicated To A Lack Of Inspiration
Just A Silly Verse
My Australia
Remember The Swaggies
Wandering Man
73693 Poems Read.
My Mother Was A Soldier.
My mother was a soldier,
Yes it is true.
She still has her boots,
And her stripes too.
Though she's not quite as fit,
As she was back then.
She can still carry a pack,
And keep up with most men.
Out on exercise,
She'd be there digging in.
Manning the gun pit,
Rifle in shoulder, under chin.
I'm proud of my mum,
For doing what she did.
When the shit hit the fan,
She never ran and hid.
When the call came for the medic,
She was the first to arrive.
Rifle for protection,
Med kit to survive.
Because of her hard work,
And compassion for the living.
She was my inspiration,
For the life I am now living.
If it wasn't for her,
I wouldn't be in this uniform.
With my red cross on my arm,
She's truly my inspiration.
My mother was a soldier,
Who stood tall and proud.
And she still has her boots,
Coloured baby shit brown.
By: Heath G. Schofield
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4 Doubles Drills To Help Your Game
All tennis players experience both singles and doubles tennis, some prefer one to the other. But if you are thinking of developing your doubles game then you must work on specific drills to help you.
All tennis players experience both singles and doubles tennis, some prefer one to the other. But if you are thinking of developing your doubles game then you must work on specific drills to help you.
To win in tennis depends on a lot of criteria, firstly you have to know the shots and the correct technique, secondly you have to be mentally prepared and lastly you must have a strategy and plan.
Being taught tennis technique and how to play shots correctly should always be tempered to your body and the style you like to play tennis. The advice is to listen to your tennis coach carefully when first starting out.
Playing tennis is a mix of technique and strategy, without one the other will not work. When you first start learning tennis then everything will be about technique.
Without spending time with your tennis coach at your local club learning how to play all the required shots, than having a good strategy is really a waste of time.
Tennis is a complex game that is played both physically and mentally. Unlike many sports tennis is mostly a game for the individual (apart from doubles) so there are no colleagues to encourage you or to cover for you when you have a bad day.
Most players think there are only two options when playing tennis and that is, to go for a winner by hitting the ball away from the opponent or by playing consistent by only hitting the ball at their opponent.
Taking tennis lessons is one of the most important factors for any player first trying to learn the game.
A good tennis coach can give you an invaluable foundation on which to base your game upon, he will teach you the fundamentals of technique and the basics in tactics. However there are things that a student can do to help himself, playing regularly is one and practicing drills is another.
A great deal of tennis technique depends on repetition, that is repetition of the physical movement and shot, and repetition of the brain so it retains the information.
That is why tennis coaches favour tennis drills so much, they get you to practice the same thing over and over again until it becomes second nature.
If your child is interested in learning tennis then a great way to do it is introduce them into the ANZ Hot Shots program.


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Menu #1
For groups 16 to 35 people
Private parties at The Beach House are what legends are made of... Whether its a birthday bash for twelve of your closest friends or a corporate dinner for those you must impress, The Beach House is prepared to make your event a memorable success. Know our banquet manager will be happy to create a special menu the is perfect for your theme and budget.
We are proud to offer our guests a classic alternative to the usual banquet hall or conference room. Whatever your occasion, whether it's for business or pleasure . . . plan on having dinner with us. The Beach House's private dining rooms will leave a lasting impression on you and your guests. From your closest friends to your esteemed colleagues, rest assured your private dining experience will be something they will remember for a long time.RESERVE YOUR GROUP
We have a dedicated Sales and Event Manager who will take charge of every last detail to make sure your event is a seamless success. From the time you book a private dining room until the final toast is made and your last guest leaves, The Beach House's Sales and Event Manager will cater to your every need.
Virtually everything on The Beach House's menus can be on your private dining menu, from delectable appetizers and our famous mouth-watering USDA prime-aged steaks, to the too-good-to-be-true desserts. Premium liquors, craft beers, award-winning wines and The Beach House's signature cocktails are also available for your pleasureRESERVE YOUR GROUP
Fire Cracker Shrimp
lightly fried shrimp tossed in a creamy, spicy sauce
hearts of romaine, roasted garlic cloves, croutons, shaved parmesan, boquerones
Choice of:
Parmesan Crusted Chicken Breast
sautéed spinach, smashed potatoes, butternut squash, sage-leek gravy
Grilled Salmon Filet
asparagus, brandy-glazed carrots, smashed yukon gold potatoes, dill cream sauce roasted lemon
Grilled Filet Mignon
smashed yukon gold potatoes, broccolini with soy aioli, green peppercorn sauce, horseradish cream béarnaise butter
Warm Apple Crisp with Vanilla Ice Cream
Credit Card required to hold rooms. • 48-hour cancellation /guarantee will be enforced
*20% service charge and sales tax will be added. • Menu items and prices subject to change without notice.


text: Live and stage can be anything from talks and educational panels to theatre productions, improv shows, public promotions and facepainting. Both Martin and Christina are confident, driven, creative and have no fears with being in front of an audience or amongst the audience. They have always rolled with the path the audience lays out for them.


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Our region
The South East Local Land Services (LLS) region covers 55,600 kilometres of south-east NSW—from Stanwell Park in the north to the Victorian border in the south, and westward from Boorowa in the north to Thredbo in the South.
Agriculturally, the region is highly diverse and supports a variety of landuses including sheep, beef, dairy, cropping and horticulture.
Nature based tourism is a significant contributor to the region's economy, especially on the coast and in the Snowy mountains.
South East LLS encourages sustainable production and environmental stewardship.


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Because it's never too early to plan Thursday night... two months from now.See What's New
We're halfway through the year; time to catch up!Discover Now!
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text:
These pics really reminded me of how much I love pleated silver clothing, I have quite a few nice pieces like these (mostly tops, like this one;
I think, but also at least one dress), because this was a trend let's say around 7 or 8 years ago as well, and I remember H&M made quite a few pleated silver pieces back then. If I wasn't super heavily pregnant I would totally be wearing those right now, after having seen how awesome Marion Cotillard looks in pleated silver!
(pics from Fashionadvertisements.com and Ebay)


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The Delmonico's Story
We are an Italian-inspired steakhouse restaurant that first opened in the spring of 1998 in Syracuse, NY. We grew up in Upstate New York searching for a restaurant with an exciting atmosphere to enjoy a perfectly cooked steak and a side of delicious pasta, but our travels didn't lead us to find exactly what we were craving so… we decided to create it ourselves! At Delmonico's, we pride ourselves in being a fusion between a casual steakhouse and one of the finest Italian restaurants in town. With an emphasis on consistency and using high quality, fresh ingredients we create generous-sized signature dishes that the whole family will enjoy. Love beef? You need to try our juicy 24 ounce Certified Angus Beef® Delmonico steak cooked to perfection! Craving a traditional Italian pasta dish? We have one that you'll absolutely love! How about a steak covered in mushrooms and hot cherry peppers with a side of your favorite pasta…did we just make you hungry?
Have You Experienced Delmonico's?
From the moment you walk through the door you'll realize Delmonico's isn't one of your typical "run of the mill" Italian restaurants. One of our fun, friendly host will greet you with a smile at the door outfitted like a 50's mobster to escort you to your table. As you make your way through Delmonico's you'll hear the sounds of Sinatra playing in the background and love the hand drawn caricatures that decorate our walls… plus once you catch the aroma from one of our signature dishes you'll think you've died and gone to heaven! Especially when our wait staff delivers one of our generous… we actually mean HUGE 24 ounce Delmonico Steaks or one of our signature dishes to your table, we guarantee… you'll never forget the Delmonico's experience!
Our passion for delicious food is the secret to our success. At Delmonico's, we serve a variety of original creations with savory flavors using the freshest and finest ingredients. Our steaks, for example, are superior Mid-Western corn fed, aged beef and seasoned for a distinct, unique flavor. Every Delmonico's dish is made fresh to order. Our soups, dressings and sauces are all made daily from scratch from our family recipes. No matter if you are in the mood for the best steak in town, our famous 24 ounce Delmonico steak or a signature Italian dish made with chicken or fresh seafood, we have exactly what you desire… all at an affordable price! Shaken or stirred? Don't forget to try one of our signature martinis, a classic cocktail, or that perfect glass of wine from our extensive wine list to complete your meal.
Gluten Free?
Could you provide a copy of your recipes?
Our founders, along with our research and development department, have spent years perfecting our products and recipes. As you can imagine, this information is proprietary; therefore we are unable to share our recipes..
What type of seasoning do you use on your steaks?
The seasoning we use on all of our steaks is a homemade blend we call "Delmonico's Steak Seasoning" and it is available for sale at any of our locations.
Who does the caricatures in your restaurant?
A local Syracuse artist named J.P. Crangle creates our favorite décor in each Delmonico's location. We encourage customers to walk through the restaurant and admire the caricatures.
Do you have daily specials?
We do! We have a variety of items that we run as specials every day.
Do you have a gluten free menu?
Yes! We offer a gluten free menu. Because all of our menu items are made from scratch, we can provide vegetarian and vegan options as well as accommodate many food allergies.
1553 Central Ave.
Albany, NY 12205
Phone: 518-456-5656
Fax: 518-456-6236
Clifton Park
3 Northside Dr.,
Clifton Park, NY 12065
Phone: 518-383-5656
Fax: 518-383-5654
125 White Spruce Blvd.,
Rochester, NY 14623
Phone: 585-424-4242
Fax: 585-424-1748
147 N. Genesee St.,
Utica, NY 13502
Phone: 315-732-2300
Fax: 315-732-6198
2950 Erie Blvd. East,
Syracuse, NY 13224
Phone: 315-445-1111
Fax: 315-445-0257
6115 Westwood Blvd @ I-Drive., Orlando, FL 32821
Phone: 407-226-2662
Fax: 407-226-2616


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Feb 12, 2018
Instacart raises $200M to defend against Amazon delivery
Bloomberg News,
Amazon.com Inc. is very serious about grocery delivery, but Instacart Inc., the most popular alternative for supermarket orders in the U.S., isn't rolling over.
The San Francisco startup raised US$200 million in a round led by investment firms Coatue Management and Glade Brook Capital Partners, the company told Bloomberg on Monday. The money will help Instacart defend against programs like the one Amazon made public on Thursday: It's testing free two-hour delivery of Whole Foods groceries to Prime customers in four U.S. cities.
The funding values Instacart at US$4.2 billion, said people familiar with the matter, who asked not to be identified because the terms are private. That's quite a ways off from Amazon's US$649 billion market value, but Instacart said it can compete by forming more alliances with grocery stores concerned about the online shopping company's dominance.
The five-year-old startup has been inking partnerships, which now include Albertsons Cos. and Costco Wholesale Corp. Whole Foods is also a major partner and shareholder, a remnant of a contract signed before Amazon acquired the company for US$13.7 billion last year.
Apoorva Mehta, Instacart's co-founder and chief executive officer, has a specific goal in mind for the new capital: "We raised it because we want to win," he said. Mehta is looking to expand the service outside the 190 markets in the U.S. and Canada where it's currently available, and add new businesses beyond delivery, coupon management software and digital circulars. He plans to hire 200 employees this year.
The deal brings Instacart's total funds raised to US$900 million from investors, which includes Sequoia Capital and Andreessen Horowitz. One big shareholder who didn't participate in Instacart's new financing is Whole Foods. Their partnership contract, a five-year deal signed in 2016, made Instacart the exclusive delivery provider for most Whole Foods goods. It's unclear whether the contract forbids Whole Foods from building its own grocery-delivery arm.
Analysts expect Amazon to be a real threat to Instacart's business -- especially with Jeff Bezos's habit of driving down prices. The two companies may also find themselves competing on the quality of avocados and other produce picks, said Phil Lempert, a food industry analyst. In mature markets, Instacart typically switches from contractors to full-time employees, who are trained to be expert grocery shoppers, Lempert said. "If, in fact, Instacart can do that, I think they stay very competitive," he said. "If they can't do that, I think they're in trouble."


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One of our club members began e-mailing us episodes of an Avengers fan fic this past week, much to everyone's delight. It got me thinking about the benefits and uses of writing in someone else's imaginary universe.
When you write fan fiction, the world and the characters are already there. No need to spend a lot of time developing back-story, building scenery, hammering out a magic system or inventing new technology, anything like that. You can focus on other aspects of the writing process, like pacing, dialog, and character interactions. Get right to the high-level stuff.
And fan fiction is fun! It is fun to write, and your friends will probably have fun reading it since they know and love the characters you're working with.
You may have so much fun writing fan fiction that you never get around to doing your own stuff.
Don't do that.
You can't publish fan fiction. It's illegal, unless you get hired by the owners of the intellectual property to write it. Some people make good money writing novelizations of popular movies, but they've been asked to do it, or else they asked permission to do it by submitting a book proposal and having it approved. If you really want to know more about the process, I know some authors you can talk to.
For most people, writing fan fiction as a career is not an option. I wouldn't even post fan fiction on the internet as a hobby. Some intellectual property owners are cool with it, but others are not. And besides, you don't want to be known as a writer of fan fiction.
You want people to write fan fiction about the characters and worlds YOU create.
Writing fan fiction is GREAT practice. In fact, most artists begin by copying other artists that they admire. The goal is to keep writing and reading and writing and reading until you develop your own style, something unique, something that others will admire and want to emulate.
Today, the fan. Tomorrow, the challenger.


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I love the clarity of this man against the muted backgroud…well done!!!
While it was completely safe and allowed for foreigners to go out on the streets and see the sights during the curfew in Kathmandu, most people stayed indoors, scared after seeing BBC-world & CNN in their hotels.. So this monk at the Monkey Temple had few visitors and he enjoyed that he could take his time to show us the small monastery, as we were the only tourists that afternoon.
Taking time for things is what we in the western world seem to have lost the most, I know I have. Why should something good be over so quickly? I do not know, but this man just enjoyed his being there as well as a nice breeze and the warming sun.
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Asia • Nepal • People • Religion


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Healing mind, body and spirit
Your body was designed to feel great. With a little encouragement your body can produce an abundance of energy.
Muscular massage reinvigorates the skin and muscles. This is accomplished by stimulating your muscles to melt away tension and increase blood flow. Massage brings more oxygen and nutrients throughout your body and carries away the toxins and stress hormones that accumulate due to the intensity of our modern lives. It's time for a massage...
Sarah Hicks, LMT


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Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Steinway A Ready to String
I had hoped to string the Steinway this week, but a flurry of tuning calls has delayed the process. Next week I am on vacation, so hopefully June 28 will be the day to start. The pinblock has been drilled, and the plate suspension dowels installed, and the board top finished prior to the plate installation.
Posted by James N. Hess at 12:57 PM No comments:
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Schomaker Upright Piano
I recently began a soundboard project on a Schomaker upright piano built in Philadelphia in 1903. This is a very interesting piano. I will note some of it's unique features.
First off, the sides are doweled and held to the back by two large bolts and nuts. There was no glue used. This is wonderful for the rebuilder, as the sides are very easily removed and replaced.
The rim that the soundboard is attached to is a large laminated "U" shaped rim, much like a grand piano rim. The pinblock is mortised into this "rim" and the bottom portion of the pinblock serves as the top liner for the soundboard to be attached.
Instead of back posts, there is a cast "spider" that is lagged to the corners of the rim, and is attached to the bottom side of the pinblock. The plate has a horn much like a grand piano, that comes in contact with the spider.
This piano should rock! It has a strange scale, so should be re-scaled. I'll keep you posted as work progresses.
Posted by James N. Hess at 12:46 PM No comments:
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Steinway A Soundboard Trim
After the new soundboard is glued into the piano, there are several pieces of trim that need to be installed. These are 1/2" cove moldings. These are round, and need to be pressed both down onto the board and side ways to the piano side. The photos show the cauls I use to accomplish this.
Posted by James N. Hess at 12:38 PM No comments:
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Steinway A Soundboard Glued
I am hoping to get my Steinway A strung in the near future. The first step is gluing the completed board into the piano. Today was the day...nearly 1 year after the board was pressed. In that year I have done case repairs and sprayed with black lacquer, recapped and installed the bridges onto the board, and finised the underside of the board.
Posted by James N. Hess at 1:50 PM No comments:
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Sir Bobby Robson believes Craig Bellamy's Newcastle United team-mates "owed him" his injury-time goal against Blackburn Rovers.
Bellamy's selfless running has created many goals for Newcastle this season.
But before Saturday's 5-1 win the Wales striker - now on international duty along with Gary Speed - had scored just five Premiership goals for United.
For he has been doing more work outside the box for his team-mates this season and has not had as many chances in front of goal.
Robson especially was pleased to see him finish Hugo Viana's cross in the dying seconds to take his season's tally in all competitions to eight goals.
He said: "I was delighted Craig Bellamy scored. The team owed him one and he's taken it well.
"I was happy for him. He had a really good game alongside Alan Shearer and deserved that goal for the work he put in."
Robson admitted the game - with United winning 2-1 - was not yet won when Graeme Souness sent on an extra striker in Corrado Grabbi with 20 minutes left.
But that worked against Rovers, who left space at the back for Newcastle to exploit.
Robson said: "Graeme Souness wanted something out of the game and went from a flat back four to a back three.
"He put an extra striker on and that was going to give us problems. We defended well in that situation and those three players at the back left more space for us.
"We had the pace of Craig Bellamy, Jermaine Jenas and Kieron Dyer."
The Magpies then hit Blackburn with three late strikes - from Jenas, Bellamy and an own goal from Vratislav Gresko - to give the scoreline a lop-sided look.
Sir Bobby admitted he had decided to stick by Titus Bramble after his mistake against Barcelona on Wednesday night.
He played Bramble alongside £9 million signing Jonathan Woodgate, Andy O'Brien dropping down to the bench despite a string of impressive performances.
Robson said: "I left Andy O'Brien out and we've won without him. He has never let us down.
"I said to Titus before the game: `Because you made that mistake I'm keeping you in the team, other managers would leave you out. Justify my faith.'
"O'Brien was shelved and he didn't deserve that. We won 5-1 and that was great for the club and great for the team."


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Tess knows that her transition to the elite preparatory school Thorn Abbey will be challenging, but when she falls for the mysterious and tortured Max, everything becomes hauntingly more difficult.
Tess, while shy and bookish, seems determined to find her way in her new school. However, her indomitable spirit is quickly shanghaied by an overwhelming obsession with the handsome and moody Max. Very little digging is required to unearth the terrible tragedy that haunts Max: the death of his girlfriend, Becca. Tess' roommate, Devon, reveals that Becca was also her old roommate. Rather than seeing this as a bad omen, Tess seems to find the coincidence fortuitous. Devon's repeated warnings, Max's own rejections and even ghostly attacks cannot dissuade Tess from her objective: to claim Max as her own. The acknowledgments claim Daphne du Maurier's Rebecca as the book's inspiration. However, other than a few minor plot points, Ohlin's story bears little resemblance to the classic work, both in its content and its execution. Tess is more oblivious than tragic, and Max reads as shady rather than mysterious. Add in the stock secondary characters, and the resultant tale is little more than a watered-down ghost of the Hitchcock-worthy mystery.
Not classic. (Suspense. 14 & up)


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"Joe's stories exemplify what we try to do: tell serious stories about the top people in law. His work has been a finalist in awards competition against high-profile competition Playboy and Reason magazine. You don't often see a legal journal in this kind of company.
— Erik Lundegaard
Super Lawyers
Reading Is Believing
Making Friends at Facebook: Hanging around with the general counsel of Facebook on the day before its IPO. Nominated for best profile by the LA Press Club.
Mickey Mouse's Lawyer: The general counsel for Disney is a tough negotiator — and not a bad dancer.
I have many, many more clips, of course. If you would like to see something on a specific topic, just send me a note using the form below and I'll send you a complete information package, along with a quiz to tell you if you are getting the quality of writer you deserve.
Please Send More Information


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Minnesota River Trail Bikeway log
The Mississippi River Trail is an on-road bikeway extending 3,000 miles from Itasca State Park to the Gulf of Mexico.
This guide covers the 600 miles of valleys, bluffs, prairies and woodlands through Minnesota. The MRT Bikeway links with many of Minnesota's popular off-road bike trails, state parks and cities.
Mississippi Headwaters
Tiptoe across the mighty river's humble source in Itasca State Park. Hear the call of the loon and watch Bald eagles soar above the majestic virgin pines. You can bike the 18-mile Wilderness Drive loop through the tall white pines of Itasca State Park.
Visit Bemidji — first city on the Mississippi — and make sure to capture a photo memory with legendary lumberjack, Paul Bunyan and his faithful pal, Babe.
Lake Bemidji State Park is on the north side of Lake Bemidji and at the start of the Paul Bunyan & Heartland State Trails. These trails provide a paved, off-road alternative to the MRT between Bemidji and Brainerd.
At Cass Lake you'll find the 18-mile Migizi Trail loop through the tall red pine forest in the Chipewa National Park.
Mississippi Northwoods
Experience nature in the whisper of the pines and the crisp northwoods air. Follow the river through the George Washington State Forest along some of Minnesota's best fishing lakes of Bemidji, Cass, Winnibigoshish, and Pokegama. Discover the stories of the Ojibwe and the history of the lumberjacks.
Visit Grand Rapids to tour the paper mill, Forest History Center and Judy Garland's birthplace. You will also intersect the North Country National Scenic Trail.
Mississippi Crossings
Heading sourth of Grand Rapids you will bike through the Savanna State Forest and not far from the historic Savanna Portage State Park. By river, by rail, by road, people of this region have traveled the Mississippi for centuries. Today the area plays host to thousands of vacationers each year who bike, golf, fish, bird or simply relax. The Cuyuna Country Recreation Area offers a 23-mile mountain bike trail carved out of the mining hills. You will also pass Crow Wing State Park and Fort Ripley south of Brainerd
Communities along this section are Grand Rapids, Aitkin, Deerwood, Crosby, Ironton, Brainerd and Little Falls.
Scenic Mississippi
Wild and Scenic River is the designation given to this pristine section of Minnesota's Mississippi. The river here is ideal for canoeing, picnicking, and fishing. Remarkable main street architecture, historic museums, the boyhood home of aviator Charles Lindbergh, lovely parks, magnificent gardens and scenic rural farm-scapes provide a backdrop for a relaxing river experience.
You will cross the Soo Line Trail neaer Royalton that leads to the Lake Wobegon/Central Lakes Trail which crosses the state from St. Cloud and to Fergus Falls.
Lake Maria State Park and Elm Creek Regional Park offer both camping and recreation.
You will be riding through Little Falls, Royalton, Rice, St. Stephen, Sartell, Sauk Rapids, St. Cloud St. Augusta, Clearwater, Monticello, Otsego, Dayton, Anoka, Champlin and Coon Rapids.
Metro Mississippi
The 72 miles along the Mississippi River through from the Coon Rapids Bridge to Hastings is part of the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area hosting a wide variety of natural activities as well as cultural and historic sites. You can visit the Stone Arch Bridge and tour a flour mill, experience Historic Fort Snelling and Fort Snelling State Park where the Mississippi and Minnesota's meet.
Abundant parkland and trails invite you to the riverfront renaissance taking place in both Minneapolis and St. Paul and throughout the Metro region. The Grand Rounds Bike Trail System connects the river corridor with Minneapolis Chain of Lakes. St. Paul's Trail system will take you to Summit Avenue, the state capitol and Stillwater.
Theater, major sports venues, museums, concerts, fine dining, and shopping headline some of your entertainment, while thoughtfully preserved riverfront parks, historic sites, the falls of St. Anthony, and the first of the Upper Mississippi's working lock and dams inspire the essence of nature on the fringe of commerce.
Mississippi Bluffs
Bring binoculars to bluff country because the river vistas are remarkable and the wildlife viewing - especially birding – is some of the best in the country.
From Hastings you can ride the bikeway on either side of the river. Historic Red Wing's river boat charm is one of Minnesota's most popular tourist destinations and where you can take a side trip along the 18-mile Cannon Valley Trail.
There are many great views of the river from this bikeway especially at Frontnac State Park south of Red Wing. Lake Pepin is famous as the birthplace of water skiing. You'll want to tour the National Eagle Centre at Wabasha.
Tiffany Bottoms State National Area on the Wisconsin is one of the largest floodplain forests in the United States.
Back on the Minnesota side, John A Latsch State Park near Winona is a small park with a big view of the river. hosts one of the most photographed views along the river. Great River Bluffs State Park also has great views as well as camping.
The Apple Blossom Scenic Byway near La Crescent offers a challenging 560-foot climb and an incredible view of the river valley.
Minnesota towns along the way include Hastings, Red Wing, Lake City, Wabasha, Kellogg, Winona and La Crescent while your find Bay City, Maiden, Pepin, Nelson, Buffalo City, Onalaska, French Island and La Crosse on the Wisconsin side.
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Written with colour, sweep and the authority of Robert Mundle's five decades as a competitive sailor, maritime journalist and broadcaster, this extensively researched new biography of Cook will put you on the quarterdeck with the great navigator as he painstakingly guides his ship through dangerous, reef-strewn waters. You will also be alongside the captain when his ship is a wave-width away from annihilation; and at the helm, when he calls for the anchor to be weighed and his men to heave hard on the lines, and at the start of an exciting new voyage.
by Rob Mundle
From Sailor to Legend - the story of Captain James Cook is one of the greatest maritime explorers of all time
Rob Mundle O.A.M. is a bestselling author, journalist and competitive sailor whose family heritage is with the sea, dating back to his great-great-grandfather, who was the master of square-riggers. Rob has spent a lifetime combining his passions for sailing and writing. He has written thirteen books - including the international bestseller Fatal Storm - reported on more than forty Sydney-to-Hobart yacht races (and competed in three), and covered seven America's Cups, four Olympics and numerous international events. He is the winner of many sailing championships, has been a competitor in local and international contests, and has sailed everything from sailboards and 18-foot skiffs through to supermaxi yachts and offshore multihulls. He was awarded an Order of Australia Medal in the Queen's Birthday Honours List 2013 for services to sailing and journalism. He is the only Australian member of the America's Cup Hall of Fame Selection Committee, an ambassador for the Cure Cancer Australia Foundation, a director of the Australian National Maritime Museum's Maritime Foundation and a past commodore of Southport Yacht Club. Before The First Fleet, his most recent book was Cook - From Sailor to Legend.


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Business Systems Analysis - Design Phase
Design is perhaps the hardest part of the SDLC. Even though you are forming ideas in your mind while amassing the information and developing the analysis, now you need to formulate the picture and predetermine which questions or problems will occur and try to solve them ahead of time. Whatever technical knowledge you have comes into play, and a wise SA (systems analyst) will work hand in hand with any experts at his/her
The systems analyst needs to know what a computer is capable of, what coding can do, and what the existing or proposed hardware can handle. The better the SA knows coding, the more detailed the design, but this is sometimes a drawback. Better to figure the architecture and let the programmers determine the most efficient way to animate it.
Sources for a system are often a combination of known and new products, depending on the specific system needed. The Drug Discovery division of Bristol-Myers Squibb (B-MS) has a single outside company managing their licenses and tracking all the software, as well as developing all in-house applications. Pfizer uses a pre-developed package (currently Peregrine) to track all calls for technical support; while designed for this purpose, the client (Pfizer) customizes it extensively to track job types in its own nomenclature and to generate some automatic reports. I developed three tools for the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation entirely because the type of information they are looking to manage is so different from that of a normal US corporation.
It is imperative that any data conversion from legacy systems be addressed at the outset -- it will directly affect the data dictionary of the new system. Post-development conversions are expensive and awkward, indicating poor planning. Another situation that should be addressed right in the beginning is how the legacy and new systems will
interact during deployment. For various reasons, one of three options will be employed:
overnight replacement -- the preference of developers, since their system is of course the Ideal Solution; this would be the necessary changeover in one fell swoop, as for POS systems; other than the logistics of switching, there is little impact on the design.
concurrent systems -- both the legacy and new systems run simultaneously. This doubles the work of the users, but is absolutely essential for accounting and validated systems. After 3-6 months, depending on the patience of the users, the resulting data is compared between the two systems. If there is no degradation or corruption of data, the new systems runs and the legacy system is dismantled. The designers have to be sure there is no conflict between the two systems and that they can run independently while being in the same environment.
legacy system "on tap" -- a favorite of the Regulatory division at B-MS. The new system is accessed just like (and where) the old system was, but the legacy system is still available in case the new system has functionality problems. This is important where the users cannot afford 'downtime'. Important for Wall Street, or pharmaceutical firms when they have a 24-hour windows to report to the FDA. Not a great impact on design, but same-name file calls could mess up the new system. The legacy files need to be isolated.
The implementation environment is usually in place. The only instance where I've seen an agreement to switch environments is in an acquisition where one company is archaic and the acquirer will bring it up to current level. Usually hardware rules software, such as including cross-platform modules to a Mac lab.
Types of environment (and most places are a mix) -- main frames, networks (there can be both NT and Novell in a single organization), minicomputers (Sun stations, scanning stations, 'towers of power'), server-based applications, client/server applications, stand-alone applications.
It is possible that at this point the client will pull out for a variety of reasons. Political opposition may gain power, they may start realizing it will have to be far more extensive than originally presumed (companies with little experience with software development think anything is possible at little cost), or the budget suddenly has to be redirected to another need -- I've seen this far more often than I like. For in-house IT this is not usually a problem; they switch to another project; it rarely means a cut in personnel because they are staff -- additional personnel would not be hired until the proposal goes
ahead. However, for outside resources, this is a painful moment – they have already expended time in research and presentation. Outside resources just thank the heavens they didn't put out for the all-electronic JAD!
In most cases, the project continues.
When planning a baseline (minimal) system, design a stepped approach (with costs) right up to the top-of-the-line. Many clients would prefer to take a trimmed-down system if they know they can keep growing. And success on the first level makes them hungry for upgrades. I'd rather produce a baseline piece of perfection than a system with all
the bells and whistles...and more bugs than Pest Control can handle!
The idea of having a firm develop and run your application on their own computers, where you supply input and take output, is not really that extreme. Examples are billing companies for medical offices, paycheck generating companies and "data warehousing" in any form. Many companies are large enough to need an outsource to generate business analysis, ad hoc reports and manage its data while the company pursues its own business function.
Considering outsourcing? There are complete hardware and software systems pre-built and supported fully by their manufacturers (such as systems to run photo studios, beauty parlors, restaurants). Absolutely essential: get interviews with previous clients of the outsource! Big companies make a difference; at B-MS they decided to employ an outsourced app called Asset Insight, to survey, categorize and track hardware and software globally. It was the choice and recommendation of one individual (who may have known the source). As the scope of the usage broadened to more than 100 machines, problems with the application increased logarithmically. Eventually they discovered
the application was developed by three persons in a private home – they had no experience with a global enterprise and no way to pretest it.
Prepackaged, off-the-shelf systems are often called "shrink wrap". Especially for small businesses, this is often the best choice to offer.
At the same time that Ashton-Tate was screwing around with dBaseIV (causing die-hard dBase II users to wait for dBase V before upgrading) a lot of PC databases came out -- FoxPro, DB (now DB2, from IBM), MS Access and Alpha3 (then 4 then 5) came out. Within two years, Ashton-Tate was out of business. A good example of how a single version of a single company's line can spell disaster. The SA must be able to predict which shrink-wrap applications will survive.
Turnkey systems were an exciting idea around 1990 -- applications were just starting to get complex, requiring installation instead of running off diskettes. And there was little formal computer education, so a no-brainer system was very appealing. Larger corporations eventually discovered the ease of installation did not make for a very useful application. Smaller companies and educational organizations, which cannot afford a full time professional staff, still often go for turnkey systems.
PeopleSoft systems may be customizable, but they are not user-friendly. You need in-house PeopleSoft-trained people full time just to maintain the systems.
Hybrid systems could get messy -- no access to source code, for instance. But I have seen some gifted software engineers who could get quite a lot accomplished.
Many companies think it's cheaper to maintain in-house software, especially since this way they are not 'held hostage' by an outside source. The common side effect is an overload of the in-house staff.
At B-MS I handled a few tussles with vendors of software because they design the product for stand-alone licensing, where you receive an 'unlock key' when you purchase it. So what do you do when you want to install via a network of 4500 users? You can't have a different number for each person; you want a quick and transparent installation. Often the vendor (for purchases of 700 licenses or more) will have their own software engineers redesign the install module to fit our purposes.
When working with enterprise systems, a company may purchase one set of user manuals for every 50-100 users, because of the cost. So software companies started beefing up their online help, albeit poorly. MS online help is very thorough -- *if* you called it up as
context-sensitive. Otherwise they refer to menus and buttons that are not on the screen you are at. The alternative to good online help is good training, whether the software is in-house or purchased. But then, what do you provide when new users come on board?
Trade-publication application reviews are not always seeded by the manufacturer and can be a good source for evaluation. Consider the source; some publications give excellent comparisons of similar applications, which is always better than a single-application review.
Simultaneous hardware upgrades or changes are usually cost-prohibitive, and most companies will not agree to it (unless they are woefully antiquated). But it's a good idea to design ahead of the state of the current hardware, so the application will still be part of
the repertoire when they do upgrade.
When OOD (object oriented design) first came out it was called object-oriented programming solutions -- OOPS. And those of us comfortable with modular design thought the acronym appropriate. OOD is more of a conceptual thing than a practical
application. But it's very handy for architects.
Obviously, this white paper does not tell you how to design a system; its purpose is to help you know all the factors that will affect the system analyst's architectural design.
© 2013 Bonnie-Jean Rohner