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Post by WCmutant at ATS
In this post I want to discuss the important aspects of an economy:
1. Wages
2. Job growth/unemployment
3. Retail sales
Too many people point to the stock market as an indicator of economic health. Some of you reading this may still do that, while many others have wised up and realize it's nothing more than gambling – mainly for the rich. This is why I focus on Wages, Jobs, and Sales. These three factors give you a better picture of the millions of Americans that haven't invested much (if any at all) in the stock market.
According to the most recent September 2015 Census Bureau report 2014 wages have been stagnant and are in fact down from 2007 (pre-recession).
Census Link – Page 13 provides a graph and highlights
You find that for 2014 average wages are not statistically significant from 2013 wages, and 2011 and 2012 saw declines in average wages. So, average wages (for everyone) have declined and now flattened out but are still not where they were prior to the recession – 6.5% lower 2014 vs. 2007.
If you are Asian, good news – your average wages are higher than any other race. If you are white, also good news, you make the 2nd highest average wage. If you are black you make the lowest average wage and hispanics follow right behind. More importantly the average wage for non-whites (asian, hispanic, black) had no statistically significant change from 2013 to 2014. However, the bad news for this same period whites saw a 1.7% decrease in average wages.
As an economist, this is one of my most hated statistics reported. Unemployment numbers are only based on people (age 16+) actively looking for jobs (last 4 weeks). People that give up on looking for jobs aren't included in this statistic.
It's important to understand that the BLS (Bureau of Labor statistics) attempts to track people in the "Not in Labor Force" (NILF) and they also have "Marginally Attached Workers" (MAW) and "Discouraged Workers" (DW). Both the MAW and DW groups (age 16+) are NOT included in the unemployment figures because they have not actively looked for work in the last 4 weeks.
To get a better understanding of what has really been happening (because a picture is worth a thousand words) I'm including two recent graphs from the BLS website.
Graph for Unemployment numbers (notice the downward trend):
Graph for Not in Labor Force numbers (notice the upward trend):
For reference: BLS Link to Graph 1 and BLS Link to Graph 2
As you can see the unemployment rate is indeed dropping. But of much more concern are the growing number of people that are NILF because they have given up. This paints a much more bleak picture of our economic conditions than the simple unemployment rate provides.
Retail Sales
In February 2014 the National Retail Federation (NRF) provided a forecast that retail sales were expected to grow by 4.1% over the next year (LINK). However, by July 2015 they had to adjust their forecast downward to 3.5% (LINK).
Graph showing the flattening of retail sales over the last 3-4 years:
Reference for this graph is at the NRF website, LINK.
Final Thoughts:
Now, I'm not intending to present an alarmist picture. However:
1. Lower average wages from pre-recession (2007)
2. flattening retail sales
3. Increases in the Not In Labor Force numbers
Add to that the stock market is moving into a much more volatile time period and there are continued restructuring (layoffs) in many industries around the world to save those companies money (Hewlett Packard, Catepillar, ConAgra, Walmart, Target, Air France, etc.) and we might be missing some signaling of things to come over the next 1-3 years.
Wal-mart stock price plummets and the billionaire heirs lose in the neighborhood of $9-11 billion in one day, Bloomberg. I can tell you this, any restructuring they do is going to preserve their own greedy pockets not those of the average worker.
My quick stock market forecast:
I'm expecting to see dips in the markets Mid-November into Mid-December (approx. Nov. 17 through Dec. 20). And again market dips in the Spring of 2016 Mid-April to Mid-May. The downward trend will continue as we move more toward a new paradigm, yeah I said paradigm because that's the best way to describe it at this point.
What do we do?
It's time to begin imagining and possibly implementing a better system. Complaining and pointing out the faults of the broken system that we have only goes so far, we must begin.


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Our Services
At Country Club Pet Hospital, we strive to provide high quality veterinary care for the pets that are a special part of your life. Dogs, cats, reptiles, rodents, rabbits, and ferrets are all welcome! Our goal is to ensure the happiness of you and your pet and to help you make the best decisions for the health and well being of an important member of your family.
- Behavioral Medicine
- Boarding
- Dental Care
- Full Service Laboratory
- Fully Stocked Pharmacy
- Grooming
- Hospice and Euthanasia Services
- Laser Therapy
- Microchipping
- Nutritional Counseling
- Pain Management
- Parasite Prevention and Control
- Puppy and Kitten Care
- Rabbits and Small Mammals
- Radiology (X-Rays)
- Reptiles
- Senior Care
- Surgery
- Ultrasound
- Vaccinations
- Wellness Exams
Country Club Pet Hospital
2250 Matlock Rd
Mansfield, TX 76063
Phone: (817) 477-4143
Fax: (817) 394-5087
Mon-Fri: 6:30am - 6:00pm
Sat: 7:00am - 12:00pm
Closed: Memorial Day, 4th of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, New Years Day.
Closed Early at 12pm: Christmas Eve, New Years Eve
Still selling eggs for $4/dozen
After Hours Emergency Contact:
Animal Emergency Hospital of Mansfield Dogs and Cats
301 North US Hwy 287
Mansfield, TX 76063
View additional emergency clinics

subset: commoncrawl


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Group Immaculata 1:
The Pre-Thanksgiving Enchant-a-Thon
(November 7th – November 21st, 2010)
This November, with the help of some of my creative friends and colleagues, I will be presenting the first ever "Group Immaculata Experience." Inspired by my personal 30-day Immaculata cleanse this past September, I will be encouraging people to join me in making some positive, healthy lifestyle changes for two weeks, while focusing on a creative project. People from all around the world are encouraged to participate, and for those living in Los Angeles there will be some extracurricular activities planned as well.
The goal:
To go into the Thanksgiving holiday feeling amazeballs.
(Amazeballs = pretty good)
To participate in the Enchant-A-thon, I recommend committing to the following for the 2-week duration:
-No Alcohol
-No Drugs
-No Fast Food
-At least 20 minutes of exercise 10 of the 14 days.
-Commit to completing at least one creative project before the end of the 2 week period.
-You are welcome to add anything you'd like to the above list. From quitting smoking, to eliminating sugar, to meditation or writing. I encourage you to check out what I did last month for other ideas. The main goal is to commit to making one or more positive changes and sticking to it for a two-week duration. So even if you think taking on all of the above is too much, I encourage you to participate to the extent that you can.
Reasons to consider participating:
-To get a jump-start into making positive life changes. Doing these things alone can be difficult. Knowing you have a supportive community can make it awesome.
-To lose some weight before Thanksgiving, allowing for less guilty bingeing. Because people like totally eat so much during the holidays, am I right?!
-To regain some mental clarity that is often lost when you engage in a lot of drinking or drugs.
-To try something new.
-To hang with old friends and meet some new, interesting people.
-To have fun, yo!
Who should do this?
Everyone ever.
Who shouldn't do this?
Why is it called an Enchant-a-thon?
Because the goal is to create an experience that leaves people feeling that the world is an exciting and enchanting place. And it sounds better than "THE NO DRINKING FOR 2 WEEKS FIESTA."
Why no alcohol?
First off, eliminating alcohol as part of this isn't to make any judgment on the act of drinking. Drinking can be a lot of fun. It can be delicious in your mouth. It can make your problems temporarily go away. It's pretty much the most popular leisure activity ever in the history of the world. But, in my own personal experience, I've found that taking a temporary break from it can be an enlightening experience that gets you back to your status quo. It can be a challenge, but challenges are empowering. And empowerment is great.
What if I want to everything except the drinking thing?
Like I said, you can do whatever you want, and it's certainly better to take on a few of these things than none at all. Do as you please, but I guess what I am trying to say is, if you are in LA, don't show up to bowling night stanking of Old Grand Dad Whiskey because people will be jealous.
Why only 2 weeks?
Most science and my own personal experience tells me that 21 days or 30 days are ideal for creating new habits. But I wanted to start with a 2 week program first to ease people (especially my liquor loving pals) into something like this, and to use this as kind of a "test run" as I hope to put together more of these in the coming months.
Tell me more about this "community" thing that you haven't mentioned yet.
Ok, sure, man. To keep people excited and engaged, I will be sending out a daily email. I will be posting on Immaculatize.com. I will be encouraging people to share their experiences. I will create a Facebook Group Page. And of course if you are in Los Angeles, there will be a few group events that you will have the opportunity to attend.
Ok, like what kind of events?
The final details are being worked out, and will be made available soon. But I do know there will be a kick-off "party" on November 7th, and a "Let's get drunk and eat cookies party on November 22nd.
What does this cost?"
Participating in Immaculata is free.
How can I get more involved?
First and foremost, spread the word! If you know anyone who might be interested in participating, please have them get in touch. Or if you have an idea for a group event or excursion, please let me know and I will send you more info.
How do I sign-up?
If you are interested in getting started, simply fill out the form below. I will get back to you with all the details shortly.


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Joseph's enthusiasm was infectious. A refugee from Liberia, he was showing me around the International Rescue Committee's New Roots Community Farm in San Diego and it was clear how much he appreciated the opportunity to grow his own fresh produce so close to home. Joseph, a farmer in Liberia, was forced to flee when his country devolved into civil war. He lost family and friends in that bloody conflict and after many years living in limbo in Ivory Coast, Guinea and Sierra Leone, he finally was given sanctuary in the United States. Resettled in San Diego in 2009, he found out about the farm earlier this year and immediately wanted to get involved.
There are over 14 million refugees around the world -- people who have been forced to flee their homes and their countries because of conflict and political persecution. Millions of these people live in refugee camps. Millions more live in a state of perpetual instability, not welcome where they are, not able to go home. They eke out a livelihood for themselves and for their families as best they can, living as they do on the precarious outskirts of the law. A lucky few -- less than 1% -- are able to resettle in a third country, and of that number, approximately 60,000 are welcomed into the U.S. each year.
Joseph's plot at the New Roots Community Farm is lush and well-tended. He loves to spend time here and so does his wife, who comes every morning and evening to tend to their crops. Joseph says that being at the farm makes him feel energized, and he is glad to be able to provide fresh vegetables for his family's table directly from his own plot of land.
Photo: Sandy Huffaker, International Rescue Committee
I had come to San Diego in my role as an IRC Voice to visit this wonderful project run by the IRC for refugees and other residents in the neighborhood of City Heights. The 2.3-acre farm was a vacant lot before the IRC worked with the city to turn it into what it is now: thriving farmland overflowing with crops like tomatoes, spinach, kale, broccoli rabe, lemongrass, cassava leaves and amaranth.
A lot of refugees, like Joseph, come from an agrarian background. The New Roots Community Farm gives them the chance to reconnect with the land, grow fresh produce for their families, and get to know other members of their community (I've heard that refugees from Cambodia exchange growing tips with refugees from Somalia). It also gives refugees the chance to earn extra income at the local farmers' market in City Heights - another project that the IRC was instrumental in getting off its feet, and which has been of enormous benefit to the entire City Heights community.
Being at the farm, in Joseph's company, was uplifting.
This was my second trip with the IRC since becoming an IRC Voice earlier this year. My first was to Thailand, to visit the Tham Hin refugee camp on the border with Myanmar (also known as Burma). Here, the IRC provides lifesaving healthcare and clean water to roughly 8,000 people - Burmese refugees who have been forced to flee political upheaval. Many have lived in the camp for decades, unable to go home.
We all know that water is essential to live. At Tham Hin, where water is a limited resource, the IRC has set up a water collection and chlorination system, as well as tap-stands throughout the camp -- making water readily available for safe drinking, cooking and washing. Every single drop is precious.
And this is where you come in. The holiday season is here and if you are anything like me, you are scrambling to figure out what kind of presents to give to your friends and family. If you would like to support the IRC's work around the world and here in the U.S., one good way to do this is to dedicate a Rescue Gift to someone special in your life. Rescue Gifts symbolize and support the IRC's work around the world. They are a way to give a gift that matters while brightening your loved ones' holidays. (The IRC will send recipients a personalized holiday card acknowledging the gift.)
Having seen the way that clean water and community gardens have transformed lives in Tham Hin, Thailand and in City Heights, San Diego, this holiday season, I am giving my friends the Clean Water Rescue Gift and Community Garden Rescue Gift this year.
Last year alone, the IRC helped 4.4 million people get immediate access to clean water. The $100 Clean Water Rescue Gift can rush fresh water to 200 people whose lives have been uprooted by crisis, whether war, famine or drought.
The IRC's farming programs allow hundreds of refugees to plant new roots in their adopted communities in the U.S. The $60 Community Garden Rescue Gift can provide the tools and seeds to start a community garden.
These are just two of the many Rescue Gifts you can choose. I hope you'll join me in giving Rescue Gifts this holiday season, because I can't think of a better gift than one that saves lives.


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When eharmony set out on its journey to help people choose a partner, we studied thousands of married couples to find out what made them successful and happy. A single person without that experience doesn't choose based on these factors, they choose on what they know now. Conversely eharmony has pinpointed how any two people will work together across years of being together, not just how it feels today. We have taken the guesswork out of finding someone that will fulfill you today, and well into the future.
With sixteen years of global data and nearly 200,000 relationships alone in Australia, we know our methodology works. And we care about it working that's why we know how many engagements, relationships, kids, dogs and human connections we have created since we started.
We are not interested in just making your life fun today, we want to change your life and bring you the power and joy of partnership in a busy isolated world. But before that can happen you will need to start meeting some of these deeply compatible matches, chatting with them and getting to know them.
By joining eharmony, you'll also be benefiting from the free Personality Profile – a comprehensive report based on your Relationship Questionnaire. It's yours whether you go forward with your eharmony experience or not. Providing compelling insights into your character, it could inform your personal choices in the future.
Backed by over 35 years of experience and scientific research into what makes happy, successful relationships, it's a method of matching you to a potential partner with the highest chances of success. That means more time to get to know possible dates and less time spent trawling to find someone you like.
Not only are matches based on their personal attributes, but you can also select practical preferences such as location, how far you're willing to travel, whether you're comfortable with a smoker or not and whether a similar world view is important, because these are all essential facts about you that will assist us in finding your perfect partner.
So take the free personality test to discover how your values and tastes match a potential partner's and learn about your key traits, which are the things that matter when it comes to compatibility. You'll be intrigued by what you discover about yourself.
After you've got your Personality Profile, you can start sending people Smiles and Icebreakers, so before you've even subscribed you can give potential dates the hint you've got an interest in chatting and maybe meeting them. When a profile that really sparks your curiosity comes your way, select a package to suit your budget – and start dating!
It's a simple and effective matching service that will put you in touch with the people you're most likely to feel a real connection with.
We know the dating game can be a chore. Our aim is to eliminate the uncertainty that can go along with finding people in bars or nightclubs, blind dates or on free dating apps, by finding you genuinely like-minded people.
While there are abundant free online dating apps in Australia, they're also designed so any member can contact any other person.This means you're likely to get swamped in communication – but that it's a task to find someone you feel attuned to. There's no point in fielding messages from someone in the right age bracket but that has polar opposite values to you, or in starting to chat with someone simply because you're both fans of rock music – you can only get so far before realising it's unlikely you've met the love of your life.
And that's why smart Australian singles are signing up to eharmony. They realise that with online dating, as with anything, you get what you pay for, and with us, you're paying for a unique and premium service – one that isn't offered elsewhere.
If you want the best matches for you, it's simple: join eharmony free, today.Join Now


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6 inch paper twist ties. Packed 2000 per box. Red
We promise to never spam you, and just use your email address to identify you as a valid customer.
This product hasn't received any reviews yet. Be the first to review this product!
All prices are in USD. © 2019 Outlet Bags. Sitemap
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If you're looking for something in particular, this page should help you find it. Blog posts are clearly labeled and tagged. And related posts are linked daisy-chain style. If all else fails, comment below. I'm happy to field questions. : )
If you don't have an e-reader, don't fret. You can still buy/read my books. There are free desktop versions for every reader, and these apps are all user-friendly. Here are some links you'll find informative: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo
Frequently Asked Questions
Post 001 answers: Why are you publishing under a penname? | Will I be able to buy print books? | Did I hear you say that the books will be illustrated? | Will there be more to the series? | Is Galleries of Stone the only stuff you'll publish as C. J. Milbrandt?
Byways, Three Ways answers: Why are you releasing three books at once?
Events & Conferences
San Diego Public Library's 48th Annual Local Author Exhibit, 01.31.14 [link]
San Diego Christian Writer's Guild, Spring Brunch, 04.11.14
Elim Ladies Book Club, Author Talk, Scandia, MN, 06.04.14
Scandia-Marine Lions Club Breakfast, 06.12.14
SDCWG "Write for Life" Fall Conference, 10.25.14
Author Snapshots
San Diego Local Author Exhibit, 01.31.14 [link]
Index for Galleries of Stone
Book Covers | Art by Hannah Christenson
Book 1: Meadowsweet
Book 2: Harrow
Book 3: Rakefang
Peaceful Wolf
Races & Places
Flox & Pred | Grif
Home Continent | Far Continent | First Continent | Last Continent
The Meadowsweet Family | Rimbles | Haimish | Torio Kite |
Anecdotes, Thumbnails, Sketches, and Lines
Chit-Chat: Birthday Traditions, in which the author adopts a Pred custom
Art for Galleries of Stone, Book 1: Meadowsweet
Preview 001 features: spot illustrations from Meadowsweet
Post 001 features: Aurelius, Tupper Makes a Friend, and Brand, all by Dana Guerrieri
Post 002 features: A New Servant & The Dragon Sculptor by Ismael Bergara, Brothers-in-Law by Anna Earley, and Freydolf by Dana Guerrieri
Post 003 features: Tupper by Avionetca, Tupper by potatopou, Tupper sketch by Lumaris, and Tupper Makes a Friend by Dana Guerrieri
Post 004 features: Aurelius by Dana Guerrieri, Brothers-in-Law by Anna Earley, The Balcony by raka, and Aurelius Hunting by AmyTaluuri
Art for Galleries of Stone, Book 2: Harrow
Preview 002 features: line art for Harrow's book cover
Preview 003 features: spot illustrations from Harrow
Chit-Chat: Trunks featuring spot illustrations for Harrow
Countdown: Harrow features an excerpt and spot illustration from Harrow
Freydolf & Tupper features art by WhiteFoxCub
A Moment's Repose features Tupper & Rimbles, art by Anna Earley
Art for Galleries of Stone, Book 3: Rakefang
Art for Deuce, a Galleries of Stone prequel
Hey You: Fanart of Aurelius and Ulrica by Skylee
Index for Byways
Book Covers | Art by Hannah Christenson
Series Header | Book 1: On Your Marks | Book 2: Aboard the Train | Book 3: Over the Bridge | Book 4: Up the Mountain |
Races & Places
Liberty | Ewan's Course | Zane's Course | Ganix's Course
Ganix the Scamp | Ewan the Eldest | Zane the Rebel | Ian Johns | Vanek Johns | Laurel Johns | Jovan Johns | Ewan's Team | Zane's Team | Brielle Trenton | Ganix's Team
Anecdotes, Thumbnails, Sketches, and Lines
Preview 004 features: sketches for spot illustrations in On Your Marks (Book #1)
Chit-Chat: The Byways Header explains my inspiration for the series header
Byways: Sketches features: thumbnail and lines for the cover of Aboard the Train (Book #2)
Byways: Sketches features: interior sketches and lines for the cover of Over the Bridge (Book #3)
Byways: Rangers features: sketches for spot illustrations in Up the Mountain (Book #4)
Chit-Chat: Byways Bookmarks shows off the swag I have for school & library visits, featuring Jovan in "Fairy Kestrels" by Katie Hofgard


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I'm a fan of creative mediums drawing inspiration from one another, so am pleased to share news of an opportunity inviting you to create a 90-second film based on a poem.
The inaugural Pighog Poetry Film Competition is open to all talented amateur and professional filmmakers.
First prize is £500.
All you need to do to be in with a chance of winning is select a poem from a Pighog poetry pamphlet or full collection and create a video around the poem. Creative response to the literary gems is encouraged – so let your imagination run riot!
The winner and shortlisted entrants of this international competition will be featured and celebrated as part of the growing Pighog poetry and film community.
How to enter this competition
You must pick a poem from a Pighog poetry publication and create a 90-second film based around it. This could mean anything from an animation to a live action film. The winner of the main competition, as decided by the judges, will win the £500 prize as well as a feature on the Pighog website alongside their winning film.
The second part of the competition is the 'Pighog People's Choice Competition' in which the judges will pick five outstanding films to be voted on by the public. The top voted film will receive a £100 prize and will be featured on the website alongside the overall competition winner.
The deadline for entries is 31 October 2013.
Once your entry has been filmed and rendered into an acceptable format (as shown in the competition's terms and conditions), you will need to send it via Submittable. This enters you for both the main prize and the People's Choice Competition. Along with your online submission you will need to send your entry fee. There are two categories for submission fees:
1. If you have purchased a Pighog poetry publication online since January 1st 2012, you will only have to pay a single £5 entry fee for a chance to win.
2. If you have not purchased a Pighog poetry publication online since January 1st 2012, you will need to pay a £10 entry fee to submit your film for your chance to win the full prize.
Find full details here: www.pighog.co.uk/prize/index.html


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Manchester United gave Sir Alex Ferguson the perfect anniversary president on Saturday as they moved three points clear of Chelsea at the top of the English Premiership with a convincing 3-0 win over Portsmouth.
Louis Saha, Cristiano Ronaldo and Nemanja Vidic scored United's goals to move them on to 28 points, three better than Chelsea, who were to play at Tottenham Hotspur yesterday.
Ferguson celebrates his 20th anniversary as United manager today and the Scot said he was delighted with the first three months of the season.
"We have had a fantastic start," he said. "Historically, we don't always have good starts. We have made one this year and we need to take advantage of it."
"I have to be honest and say there is a confidence about the place that suggests we are now in a position to pull out all the stops and go for it," he said.
Saha put United ahead on four minutes with a penalty after Dejan Stefanovic had tripped Wayne Rooney and Ronaldo then rifled in a free kick to make it 2-0 after just 10 minutes.
Defender Vidic completed the scoring with the third on 66 minutes, heading past David James, who prevented a heavier defeat with a good display.
Third-placed Bolton Wanderers suffered a shock defeat when they were beaten 1-0 at home by Wigan Athletic, while Dirk Kuyt scored twice as Liverpool beat Reading 2-0.
Fulham edged out Everton 1-0 at Craven Cottage, while Charlton heaped more pressure on Manchester City manager Stuart Pearce after a 1-0 win over his side.


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Building relationships at UK Construction Week
Published: 28 November, 2017
Fibo UK recently exhibited at the Surface and Materials Show, which is part of UK Construction Week.
Managing Director Scott Beattie said: "The Surface and Materials Show was an excellent platform for us to reach out to target audiences. Our prominent stand was busy all three days, generating over 200 quality leads. Visitors were drawn by the look, design and installation benefits of our range."
The attraction to Fibo's stand didn't stop there. On the second day of the show, BBC Breakfast presenter Steph McGovern cruised past the Fibo stand live on TV, generating direct enquiries from viewers. Fibo was so enthused about the response it received at the Show, that it has already booked to attend next year.
Fibo's panels can be fitted directly onto walls, stud partitioning or existing tiles. Its Aqualock system means that the panels are quick and easy to install with a simple tongue-and-groove system, making it up to five times faster than traditional tiles.


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I just received word that the next issue (47:2) of BYU Studies "will be a special issue of important documents about the Mountain Meadows Massacre, some never before seen." Guest edited by Rick Turley and Ron Walker, this volume of documents includes "affidavits and interviews" used by the authors for their forthcoming Massacre at Mountain Meadows: An American Tragedy (see BCC review here).
The documents will be produced in "full-color plates and meticulous facing transcriptions," and will also include "a detailed introduction explains the origins and significance of this trove of documents." Turley and Walker will also share insight concerning their experience in researching and writing the book.
Other features to be included in the volume:
- "biographical sketches . . . [of] the people behind these documents, some of whom were personally involved in the massacre."
- Book review of Shannon A. Novak's House of Mourning: A Biocultural History of the Mountain Meadows Massacre by Joel C. Janetski (reviewed at the Juvenile Instructor by Jared T. here).
- Book review of Walker, Turley, and Leonard's Massacre at Mountain Meadows by Brian Cannon.
I don't know whether all new (previously unavailable or unknown) documents used by the authors of the new MMM book will be included or not. I do applaud the effort to make these documents available to other researchers and interested individuals. The biographical register should also be helpful, and it will be interesting to see what kind of review Janetski and Cannon give each book.


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In April 2012 (18th to 20th) a new Symposium will be organized in Tarragona, Spain, under the title "Early Nutrition Academy Symposia: Nutritional programming, from theory to practise".
The Symposium is organized by the Paediatrics Unit of the Universitat Rovira i Virgili, directed by Ricardo Closa‐Monasterolo and Joaquín Escribano.
The Symposium will last 3 days. The first day will be dedicated to the "Nutrition of the preterm and the newborn small for gestational age ", the second day will be dedicated to "Nutrition and Cognition" and the third day to "Childhood Obesity".
The possible attendees are e.g. nutritionists, paediatricians, and researchers in the field of paediatric nutrition.
Renowned leaders in their fields will give talks on selected subjects. Already confirmed speakers comprise Prof. Berthold Koletzko (Ludwigs‐Maximilians‐Universität of Munich, Germany), Prof. Michael Symonds (University of Nottingham, UK), Prof. Cristina Campoy (University of Granada, Spain), Dr. Pauline Emmett (University of Bristol, UK), Dr. Luis A. Moreno (University of Zaragoza, Spain), Dr.Elizabeth Isaacs (Institute of Child Health, University College, UK).
Centre d'R+D+I en Nutrició i Salut
Avda. de la Universitat, 1 - 2a planta
E-43204 Reus (Tarragona)
Tel. Work977 75 93 94 http://www.iispv.cathttp://www.iispv.cat
© IISPV, tots els drets reservats


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Free eBook: Making Work Worth It – supplement to The Commitment Engine, compiled by John Jantsch
The free eBook contains the answers and stories of business owners telling – What It Is About the Work They Do – that makes it worth it
(Right click image below and Save As to download ) Enjoy!
Take advantage of some limited time special book launch incentives.
What would a book launch be without some special incentives to encourage you to pick up a few or a few dozen extra copies to share with friends, give to clients, bring to book club or just have around to share when you encounter someone that just might need to hear this message.
To participate in the promotion:
- Simply make your purchase below in the appropriate category.
- Complete this form – Bonus book form
- Relax as you're showered with additional goodies
And now for the levels of participation and associated bonuses:
Buy 1 copy and get
Bonus Audio Library featuring inspirational interviews by John Jantsch with the following authors and thought leaders all of whom contributed quotes for The Commitment Engine
Seth Godin, author of Linchpin
Steven Pressfield, author of The War of Art and Turning Pro
Chris Guillebeau, author of The $100 Startup
Guy Kawasaki, bestselling author of Enchantment; former chief evangelist of Apple
Derek Sivers, founder, CD Baby, sivers.org
Nancy Duarte, CEO, Duarte, Inc.; author of Slide:ology and Resonate


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Dexter House Location
Dexter House is located opposite the historic Tower of London. Situated just a five minute walk from Tower Hill and Tower Gateway DLR stations, the venue sits in the exclusive gated Royal Mint Court business community. Keep an eye out for a large stone arch which forms the entrance to Royal Mint Court. Once through the arch, follow the signs to Dexter House.
Dexter House


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I'm linking-up with Emily Freeman at Chatting at the Sky for her 31 Days of Living Art series. She's a fantastic woman and writer – you should check her out. You will be blessed!
Making art is hard. Putting it out there for others to see is even harder. Emily's words have encouraged me as I test the waters of writing and blogging. She reminds me that as God's creation I am meant to make art and he is glorified as I work to form thoughts and sentences. Yes, my art isn't as outstanding as other's but that's not the point. God's grace is there in the process and I find him in it. I need to let myself loose and and boldly create. So I write and do my very best to be satisfied that I am pleasing my Creator, and maybe encouraging a few people as well.


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Aggressive Representation In Both Family Law & Criminal Law
Here at the Eversole Law Firm in Birmingham, Alabama, we pride ourselves on winning; we have successfully handled countless cases involving divorce, child custody and other family matters, as well as criminal defense proceedings ranging from drunk driving to domestic violence and more. Whichever area you come to us seeking counsel, we will dedicate our vast experience and skill sets to a fierce and proactive strategy aimed at securing your rights and ensuring the best possible outcome. Though we are located in Birmingham, we represent clients in the surrounding areas and throughout the state of Alabama, including the municipalities surrounding Birmingham, such as Mountain Brook, Homewood, Vestavia Hills, Irondale, Trussville and in such places as Shelby County, Jefferson County, Montgomery and Madison Counties. Steven Eversole has devoted his career to helping his clients through the most emotionally devastating trials and tribulations a person can endure, whether they be an unjust criminal charge, or a bitter child custody battle. He is here to help you overcome these ordeals and protect your rights and family.
Family Law: The Most Sensitive Issues Demand The Most Skilled Advocate
We know these are trying times for you. Whether you are in the middle of a divorce or struggling through some other family issue like child custody or support, there is a severe psychological toll on top of the financial and logistical ones. Our firm's founder, Steven D. Eversole, has seen many people just like you through this process – enough to know that what's needed in these circumstances is not just an attorney with a strong resumé and a successful track record, but also a reputation for catering to the personal needs of his clients through what is often a heart-wrenching period in their lives. For example, if there are children involved, Steven mean suggest bringing a school psychologist into the fold to help ease their burden. Also, though Steven is greatly respected by his peers in the legal community for his masterful work in the courtroom, it may never come to litigation. When it comes to family issues, Steven is often successful at getting what his clients want through mediation, thus avoiding a more protracted an enervating experience for everyone involved.
No matter what strategy we end up adopting, our goal is always a process that is as painless and stress-free as possible for our clients, and that includes the hardship on your wallet as well. For more information on what we can do for you regarding divorce and other family law matters, please explore our divorce website, Steven's personal blog, and contact us for a free initial consultation.
Criminal Law: Your Case Is Not Only Worth Fighting For, It Can Be Won
You stand accused of a crime. Here at the Eversole Law Firm in Birmingham, Alabama, we've handled criminal cases including drug crimes, DUI, theft crimes, violent crimes, domestic violence, juvenile criminal defense, sex crimes, federal criminal defense, and state/federal criminal appeals. In all our time successfully challenging charges and protecting clients' rights, we've come up with one simple pearl of wisdom that deserves to be stated right up front:
IT IS ABSOLUTELY VITAL THAT YOU SECURE HIGH QUALLITY LEGAL DEFENSE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. The system moves quickly against you. Witnesses important to your defense may vanish, especially if there has been police misconduct. Without counsel to tell you otherwise, you may say things to the police and prosecutors that will give them further ammunition at trial, and you stand toe-to-toe with these people without someone on your side to help steer negotiations in your favor. Now, this may all sound abstract, but the consequences may be catastrophic for you and your loved ones. Even a drunk driving conviction can get you jail time, and, as you can imagine, the more severe crimes we've mentioned entail much more severe penalties. And incarceration isn't even the end of the line. A conviction can haunt you for the rest of your life. Even after your release, it can affect your ability to get work again, restrict your right to vote and even where you can live. Please understand that we're not saying this to frighten you. But it's our job – no, our moral obligation – to underscore just how important is it to have an aggressive criminal defense dedicated to protecting your rights. To learn more about our firm, and its founder, Steven D. Eversole, please explore our criminal website, Steven's personal blog, and contact us for a free initial consultation.
- Child Custody / Visitation
- Alimony/Spousal Support
- Post Divorce Modifications
- Domestic Violence / Protection From Abuse Orders
- Asset/Wealth Protection
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In launching its national "conversation" about tax reform, the Abbott government is caught between the policy imperative of "leading" and the political requirement of "listening".
A further complication is that Prime Minister Tony Abbott is seeking to wedge Bill Shorten, paving the way to blame him if no real progress can be made in fundamentally recalibrating the tax system.
What we are witnessing in this first stage of the "conversation" is that the government is reluctant to be seen to be "leading". It's hinting and nudging, but playing coy about what it believes is required. Inevitably, this makes the beginning of the debate quite confused.
The government is starting the sentence – "we need to fix the tax system" – but then leaving it hanging. Is this some super-sophisticated tactic, or is it not sure itself where things will head?
There are some tantalising points thrown out but what do they mean? "Fairness," said Treasurer Joe Hockey on Monday, "is in the eyes of the beholder. And this is where I want everyone to think a bit more deeply about things. 2% of taxpayers pay 26% of personal income tax." He went on to express concern these people could relocate because they felt they were paying too much.
But Hockey also said: "I'm not saying they should be taxed more or less". From the ordinary person's point of view, that's not likely to encourage deep thinking – it's a signal to tune out until the treasurer has something solid to say about his view on the tax these people pay.
The tax discussion paper is a useful document but hardly a revelatory one. Much of the ground it traverses is familiar; basically, it updates arguments, taking account of fast-moving developments in the globalised economy, and it refreshes the statistics.
On one level, it seems very democratic to just throw the whole discussion open, without putting forward options until later in the year after submissions are received. Also, given the lashing Abbott has got over his lack of consultation on the budget and other measures, it might be said he hadn't much choice.
But it would make for a more focused community discussion if the government had set out its broad view at this initial stage. To do this does not require a prior national conversation – its preference is pretty clear (although that doesn't mean it can be ultimately attained).
Hockey dwells on the tax system's heavy reliance on personal and corporate income tax.
He avoids going to the next logical point, which would be to say "what we would really like to do is lower income tax, both for individuals and companies, and rebalance the system by raising the rate of the GST or broadening the base, or both".
If the government were being frank with the public it would also say: "If we boosted the GST, which goes to the states, that would enable them to pay for some of the extra burden of future spending on hospitals and schools that we pushed their way at the last budget".
But the GST is such a dangerous bogland that the government dances around the edge, leaving commentators and others to draw the implications from the discussion paper, which doesn't make recommendations. Hockey said at one point on Monday that talk of the GST should be put aside – attention should be on other areas. But everyone knows this is avoiding the elephant in the room.
Abbott shifts the onus onto Shorten. "The point I stress is that there can be no change to the GST unless Bill Shorten wants it."
This is a reference to the consensus requirement reiterated in the discussion paper, which says: "Any change to the GST rate or base would require the unanimous support of the state and territory governments, the endorsement of the Australian government and the passage of relevant legislation by both houses of the Australian parliament."
But claiming "Shorten" has an effective veto power (only sort of true) is a very negative way to go about an argument for a shift in the tax mix.
This is a corner that, in strict political terms, the opposition leader is unlikely to mind being forced into.
Shorten has ruled out supporting changing the GST base or rate – although Labor is willing to contemplate lowering the present A$1000 GST-free threshold on imported goods if that were practical.
Changes to the GST, even when accompanied by substantial income tax cuts, would be a very difficult sell for Abbott at the 2016 election, especially given the lack of trust the community feels in him.
On the other hand, the tax reform debate is not all plain sailing for Shorten.
If Labor won't countenance altering the GST, how would a Shorten government meet the escalating pressures on the budget as the community ages, the proportion of workers falls, and the revenue rivers don't flow as strongly as they did in the years of the mining boom?
The opposition has announced a policy that would crack down on multinationals avoiding tax by shifting profits overseas. It is proposing to look at other areas including the generous concessions for superannuation.
But those sorts of measures are unlikely to be enough to meet the challenges ahead. The logic of that is Shorten would have to embrace tougher spending cuts than Labor might wish, if the opposition is to put forward a responsible fiscal program.
Did someone in Treasury have a long memory when giving an example of the complexity of the GST?
"Pizzas, pizza subs, pizza pockets and similar foods are subject to GST. In contrast, pizza rolls are generally GST-free but can be subject to GST when they are similar to 'pizzas, pizza subs or pizza pockets'".
When Liberal leader John Hewson was proposing a GST, he was asked before the 1993 election about how it would apply to a birthday cake. The explanation degenerated into a tangle that haunted Hewson for the rest of the campaign.


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Tuesday, October 07, 2008
The Clap is Back!
This will be year 5 with my old friend Clapotis. It was 37 degrees on the playground this morning, but I was toasty warm.
Book #39 Bread Alone
Book #40 The Light of Evening
Ravelry Stash Count 80
Posted by Jenn--she knits at 8:26 AM
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Frequent Links
Lego Star Wars: The Video Game
Lego Star Wars: The Video Game is a video game based on the Star Wars themed toy line by the Lego Group and the first game in TT Games' Lego videogame franchise. It is a video game adaptation of the Star Wars prequel trilogy, The Phantom Menace (1999), Attack of the Clones (2002) and Revenge of the Sith (2005), with a bonus segment from A New Hope (1977). Lego Star Wars was first released on April 5, 2005, a full month before Revenge of the Sith premiered. It is the only Lego game from TT Games to be rated E by the ESRB for consoles (handheld version of TT's Lego Games may have an E rating) while other Lego games 2015-onward are E-10.
It was developed by Traveller's Tales for the Microsoft Xbox and Sony PlayStation 2 video game consoles and Microsoft Windows personal computers, with Griptonite Games developing the Nintendo Game Boy Advance version. These initial versions were published in April 2005. A Mac version, developed by Aspyr, was released in August 2005. A Nintendo GameCube version of the game was released on October 26, 2005. All versions were published by Eidos Interactive and LucasArts.
Lego Star Wars was billed as a kids' game and received the "Game of the Year" award from Kidzworld.com[1] It received generally positive reviews (PC version Metacritic score was 77[2]) and peaked at the top of the UK charts during early May 2005.[citation needed] It later lost the spot to the official game of Episode III but maintained a consistently high chart position throughout the month.
Its sequel, Lego Star Wars II: The Original Trilogy, was released in September 2006, while a compilation, Lego Star Wars: The Complete Saga was released in November 2007 and Lego Star Wars III: The Clone Wars was released in March 2011.
Gameplay in Lego Star Wars is geared towards family play, and as such does not feature a game over scenario. Given a specific set of characters in each scenario, based on a scene from each of the movies, up to two players can control them, using their different abilities. By walking up to another friendly character, the player can switch control over to that character, which is necessary for using some of their abilities to complete puzzles. Studs can be found by finding them, smashing or using the force on certain objects, or defeating enemies. Players will lose studs however if their character is destroyed (as opposed to losing lives). These studs can be spent on unlocking new characters for Free Play mode. Certain segments of the game feature players controlling spaceships flying on a flat plane. There are also several minikit canisters hidden throughout each level that, when collected, come together to form a vehicle. Completing certain requirements, such as collecting enough studs in a level, earns Golden Bricks that can be traded for cheats.
When the player first starts the game, the player must first complete Chapter I of The Phantom Menace ("Negotiations"). However, once that chapter is completed, the player may choose to play levels from the other two movies, able to play any unlocked levels in their desired order. The levels available are:
- Episode 1: Negotiations - Trade Federation; Ivasion of Naboo - Naboo jungle; Escape from Naboo - Theed Palace; Mos Espa Podrace - Mos Espa Raceway; Retake Theed Palce - Theed Palace; Darth Maul - Theed Palace.
- Episode 2: Discovery on Kamino - Kamio; Droid Factory - Geonsis Droid Factory; Jedi battle - Geonosis battle arena; Gunship calvalry - Geonosis arena outskirts; Count Dooku - outskirts.
- Episode 3: Battle over Coruscant – Hyperspace over Coruscant; Chancellor in peril – Invisible Hand, General Grievous – Utapau, Defence of Kashyyyk – Kashyyyk, Ruin of the Jedi – Coruscant, Darth Vader – Mustafar.
Completing all the game's levels with full stud bars will unlock an additional chapter based on the opening scene of A New Hope, which features a 'prototype' Darth Vader (who uses Anakin's fighting style) and a Stormtrooper (who skips when he runs. The 'skip', featured on all clones, is removed in the next game).
The gameplay music is the same music from the Star Wars movies, but since the game was released before Episode 3, music from the original trilogy (1977, 1980 and 1983) was used. For example, the alternate soundtrack for the "Binary Sunset" was used in the second chapter of episode 3, and "The Battle of Yavin" was used in chapters 1 and 3. In the complete saga, they would become the soundtrack from episode 3 itself.
Lego Star Wars contains a total of 59 playable characters for LEGO Star Wars, 56 in the GameCube, PS2, Xbox, and PC versions. The three missing are Gungan, Tusken Raider, and STAP, playable in the GBA version though The Gungan and STAP are only available through cheat codes. The playable characters are modelled like actual Lego parts and on death, they fall to pieces and also lose studs. There are a wide variety of characters included in the game, all of which are unlocked by completing levels or by purchasing them at Dexter's Diner. Characters are divided into groups according to certain skills. For instance, Jedi and Sith can double-jump, use lightsabers, and have control of the force, which they can use to activate or lift Lego objects or defeat certain enemies. Darth Maul has a double-ended lightsaber which improves his defence from laser fire. Jar Jar Binks, General Grievous and his bodyguard have the super jump, which allows them to reach obstacles that the Jedi and Sith can't jump to. Characters like Padmé Amidala and clone troopers who carry blasters have the ability to grapple to reach higher places. Droids, while not being armed, can travel through the game without being intentionally attacked by enemy characters also, protocol droids and astromech droids can open special doors, then there are players like Boba Fett and Young Anakin that can fit in tight places. Every character, other than the PK Droid and Gonk Droid (whose only ability is that they are never attacked by enemies) have a special ability. However, an almost unknown Chancellor Palpatine can use the dark force.[3]
Unlocked characters can be imported into the game's sequel, Lego Star Wars II: The Original Trilogy, as an extra called "use old save", which costs 250,000 Lego Studs, and be used in its character creator function.
Because the game is based on the Prequel trilogy (1999, 2002, 2005), Luke Skywalker, Han Solo, Lando Calrissian and other characters from the original Star Wars trilogy (1977,1980 and 1983) are not shown, appearing in Lego Star Wars II: The Original Trilogy. However, if you unlock the last level (an episode 4 preview), Darth Vader, a stormtrooper, a rebel trooper and Princess Leia become available.
Free Play
Once a level has been cleared in Story Mode, the player may play through that level again in Free Play Mode. In this mode, players can choose to play through the level with their choice of unlocked characters (with the computer randomly selecting other characters based on their abilities.) At any point, the player can rotate between each of the chosen characters instantly, to access areas not accessible during the Story Mode to obtain hidden extras. No story cutscenes appear during this mode.
Dexter's Diner
Dexter's Diner is the area from which the player chooses what level to enter, or can enter the Parking Lot to view any vehicles whose parts they have found and pieced together. The parts to these vehicles are contained in 10 mini-kit canisters which are hidden throughout each level. Battles often take place between canon-good and canon-evil characters, such as Jedi and Sith, respectively, in the Parking Lot as well. At the diner counter, the player may purchase, or enter codes to unlock extras in exchange for Lego studs they have collected by playing through the levels.
Publisher Giant Interactive Entertainment came up with the concept of a game using Lego figures in 2003 and approached Lucasfilm who saw the potential of such a title. Developer Traveller's Tales, who had previously worked on Crash Bandicoot and Sonic the Hedgehog games were commissioned as game designers.
Heading the project were James Cunliffe (lead artist), Jeremy Pardon (lead animator) and John Hodskinson (lead programmer). Tools used to create the game were designed in-house. Lucasfilm provided assistance in various ways including the commissioning of new sound effects and music from their Skywalker Sound facility. The Lego company in Bilsund, Denmark also helped out.[4]
Game Boy Advance version
The Game Boy Advance (GBA) version of Lego Star Wars has several differences, including fewer playable characters, devalued studs, fewer levels, only one player character on screen at a time, and cutscenes consist of still frames of the home console versions.
All lightsaber users are able to deflect blaster shots aimed at them and each character has their own style. They also are the only ones able to use the force to interact with undeployed platforms and switches. However, unlike other versions of the game, blaster shots can only be deflected if they are headed straight towards the player at the front, not the back or sides of the character. Blaster characters can charge a shot by holding the button, making it stronger and able to pass through several enemies. However, they don't have the shot deflecting abilities of Jedi. The game has 15 playable characters that are unlocked through gameplay. These include Qui-Gon Jinn, Obi-Wan Kenobi, Anakin, Jar Jar Binks, a clone trooper, Darth Maul, Darth Vader, a battle droid, R2-D2, R4, Padme, and a Tusken raider. The game also has multiple cheat characters.
Deleted levels
There were several levels that never made it into the game; which were 'Anakin's Flight' (set during Episode I, the player must pilot a Naboo Starfighter as Anakin destroys the Trade Federation Cruisers, 'Bounty Hunter Pursuit' (set during Episode II, the player controls Anakin and Obi-Wan as they pilot their speeders as they chase down Zam Wessel), 'Asteroid Dogfight (set again during Episode II, the player controls Obi-Wan in his starfighter as he escapes Jango Fett in the asteroids of Geonosis), 'Boga Chase' (set during Episode III, the player must control Obi-Wan as he rides on Boga to catch General Grievous as he attempts to escape on his wheel bike) and 'Palpatine Duel' (set again during Episode III, the player must control Mace Windu, Kit Fisto, Saesee Tiin and Agen Kolar as they arrest the chancellor). The 5 levels were all deleted from the original Lego Star Wars game, but 'Anakin's Flight' and 'Bounty Hunter Pursuit' were incorporated into a bonus level and a main story level in Lego Star Wars: The Complete Saga respectively. They also appeared in the sequel game in the "Mos Eisley" level in a cinema part near the end (of that level). The other three levels were all deleted permanently, all for unknown reasons.
This game was released nearly two months before Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith on the Game Boy Advance. Another month later: on Xbox. In the first week of the game's release sales shot up high, possibly due to the fact that the basic plotline of Revenge of the Sith was in the game.[citation needed] To prevent inadvertent spoilers, most reviewers warned that this was the case in their reviews.[citation needed]
Reception and legacy
|This section requires expansion. (July 2009)
Lego Star Wars was the thirteenth best-selling game of 2005.[5] Figures released by The NPD Group show the PlayStation 2 version as the tenth best-selling single-platform title of 2005.[6] The game's worldwide sales total exceeded 3.3 million copies in March 2006[5] and 6.7 million in May 2009.[7]
It was one of the The Best-Selling PS2 Games with more than 1/5 of the copies sold on the PlayStation 2.
Lego Star Wars is credited with starting the Lego game series and revitalising the Lego brand.[8] IGN rated the game 8 out of 10 saying, "If you're a parent, LEGO Star Wars: The Video Game should be at the top of your child's birthday list. It has everything a family-oriented title needs: it has personality, puzzles, cooperative modes, replay value, low violence, a lack of frustrating difficulty, and most importantly, it has Darth Vader. And that's what makes it enjoyable for adults too, because let's face it; Darth Vader makes everything better -- it's a fact."
- ^ "Kidzworld's Top 10 Video Games of 2005". Kidzworld.com. Retrieved November 4, 2006.
- ^ "LEGO Star Wars (pc 2005)". Metacritic. Retrieved March 9, 2008.
- ^ http://guides.ign.com/guides/694419/
- ^ http://www.rebelscum.com/legostarwarsvideogame.asp
- ^ a b "LEGO Star Wars II: Improving A Surprise Hit". IGN. March 1, 2006. Retrieved October 27, 2009.
- ^ "The NPD Group Reports Annual 2005 U.S. Video Game Industry Retail Sales". The NPD Group. January 17, 2006. Retrieved December 22, 2009.
- ^ "Lego and Star Wars Celebrate 10 Years Together!". Wired. May 2, 2009. Retrieved February 18, 2010.
- ^ "Star Wars Games Through the Years". Yahoo! Games. Retrieved October 26, 2010.
External links
- LEGO Star Wars: The Video Game on Wookieepedia: a Star Wars wiki
- Lego Star Wars: The Video Game at MobyGames


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:-D Loved hearing this again.
World of Music at 3:30 a.m. last night was fantastic -- especially the Trio Los Paraguayos which brought back incredible memories. I saw and heard them live in the mid-fifties as a child when they packed the then glitzy Park Hotel in downtown Tehran. We bought all their records -- and I would love to hear the music again gloriously blasting out loud on an up-to-date player.
All the music you played last night, alas, was crystal clear familiar. I guess I am that age. But I guess I had the good taste then to enjoy them as much as I am enjoying them again now. Little better has been written with regard to pure glorious rhythm, which is amazing when you think about it.
Thanks as always Charlie.


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Offer and stock
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What can I find on the website of VitaZita's online pharmacy?
On VitaZita, you can find a sizeable assortment of qualitative products. Nursing products, dietary supplements, beauty products, first aid-products or accessories: you can find It all on our website. What's more, is that we guarantee the lowest price!*
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When you know the name of the product you're searching for, you can just fill it out in the search field. Our ultra-fast search function is available on every page.
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When you aren't looking for a certain product, but rather a solution for your problem or your condition, you can just navigate through our categories. During the navigation the product list changes, so you can see the products that are attributed to this category by our pharmacists. This is definitely the best way to compare some similar products. You can filter the list that's shown at any time on price, promotion and/or reviews.
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When you are a fanatical user of a certain brand, then it's probably more useful for you to look for that product using the brand name. When you've clicked on the brand name, it's possible to select a category. You can also filter on price, promotion and/or reviews. The results that are shown can be ranked according to alphabet, price and popularity. Standard the sorting is according to popularity. View the survey of our brands.
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When none of the previously mentioned ways was a solution to your problem, you can also view the alphabetical survey of all our products. See the alphabetical survey of all products.
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A final vote on legislation to delay the digital television transition has been postponed until Wednesday morning, but House members braved a Washington, D.C. ice storm Tuesday night for a partisan battle over the impending switch.
Pushing the DTV transition from February 17 to June 12 is "a highly regrettable but necessary step," said Rep. Rick Boucher of Virginia, chairman of the House Energy and Commerce technology subcommittee.
Boucher was the only Democrat to appear at the floor debate, facing off against seven of his Republican colleagues, all of whom opposed the measure.
The bill is "a solution looking for a problem," said Rep. Joe Barton of Texas, ranking member of the Energy and Commerce Committee. "We could do nothing worse than to delay this date."
TV broadcast stations are federally mandated to switch from analog to digital signals by February 17 in order to free up spectrum for public safety and other uses. Recent concerns about consumer preparedness, funding for the government-sponsored converter box coupon program, and possible loss of service, however, prompted the Obama administration to ask that the transition be delayed.
Barton suggested that the request from the Obama team disrupted efforts to fix the program's problems without delaying the transition.
"Until several weeks ago, we were working collectively [with the Democrats] to move a bill that would tweak the accounting or provide an additional $250 million for the coupon program," Barton said. But the "transition team decided they wanted a delay, and as far as I can tell, they didn't consult with any of our legislative experts. They just sent up a letter that they wanted this delay, and those discussions that we had on a bipartisan basis broke down."
Democrats remain concerned that Americans will not be adequately prepared by the transition date, Boucher said. He pointed to a Thursday report from Nielsen that said 6.5 million households or 5.7 percent of all homes are not ready and would likely not have service on February 18.
"It's truly unfortunate that the situation that we now confront was completely avoidable," Boucher said. "But previous action to avoid it simply was not taken," he said, referring to efforts three years ago to secure more funding than the $1.34 billion that was eventually allocated for the transition.
"At the time we suggested that approximately $2.3 billion was what was needed and we now know that that number is closer to the mark," Boucher said. "And so today we have no alternative but to delay the transition date, and provide in the stimulus measure the funding that should've been allocated for this program years ago."
The economic stimulus package, which was also the subject of a contentious Tuesday debate in the House, includes $650 million for the coupon program that provides every American with at least two, $40 converter box vouchers.
Boucher said he regretted that a delay would mean that first responders and wireless providers would have to wait four months to get their hands on valuable spectrum that will be freed up after the switch. But those involved, he said, have issued their support for the bill including the Association of Public Safety Communications Officials, the International Association of Chiefs of Police, and the National Emergency Numbers Association.
Verizon and AT&T, which snapped up most of the wireless spectrum in the 700 MHz auction, are also in support of the delay, Boucher said.
Rep. John Shimkus, an Illinois Republican, remained concerned about the public safety impact. "Woe be it to us if we have another national catastrophe in the next four months and we have failed to develop interoperability" in that time, he said.
Get the rest of this story on pcmag.com.


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After the storms, we will stay strong!
On April 27, 2011 the Northern Alabama region along with several other states experienced a storm like no other. One made of heavy rain, thunderstorms and multiple tornadoes. (Studies have now revealed that over 300 tornadoes touched down April 27-28, 2011.) The worst of the tornadoes was clocked with over 250 mph winds. This Wednesday started off as any normal one for our office; answering phones, support tickets, and doing our 'daily routine' as it were. On this day we were also still continuing to answer questions about Zack's brand new product, the Automated Wholesaling Systems. A new product unlike any in its path that would teach and help students to do a wholesaling deal on almost any property in any area by one of six methods.
The day started off bright with lots of promise and soon the rain came and with it, a storm that none of us expected. We remember seeing the sky turn black and the clouds rolling in and twisting to build what would later become a tornado not too far from our office. Quickly Zack decided to close the doors and send everyone home to their families not knowing what would come in the future.
We remember rushing home and preparing for the unexpected. Trying to 'hunker down' and protect ourselves and our loved ones while waiting for the tornadoes and storm to pass. To try and explain what a tornado sounds like when it is close by or even on top of you, is practically impossible. Especially one with such high powered winds. In some ways it sounds like you are in the bag of a giant vacuum that happens to be filled with water and bits and pieces. Read more here.
The power in many cities went out as soon as one of the tornados made it way past TVA and damaged all of the 90 lines that bring power into our cities. Later we would find out that not just these power lines where hit but also many of the stations and the nuclear plant as well. And many of the citizens of the city would be without power for 5+ days after the storm had cleared.
After the storm cleared, we were in a stage of rebuilding. People went out in search of gas, food, supplies and anything else that they may need to get by for the days or weeks that laid before them without power. Pictures in the paper revealed the absolute devastation that hit our area when we saw not just buildings but complete cities wiped out from the tornadoes.
However the city, the state, and the people here are all not only resourceful but have a kindness of the south embodied in them. Neighbors were helping each other clean up the mess. Strangers came from all around us to come in and help clear debris and damage sustained from the storm. People flocked to the nearest hospitals to give blood. Others donated time, helping hands, food, clothing, bottled water and anything to help out.
The staff here started to find ways to get our support back up as quickly as possible so that we could both inform all of our students and clients that we were ok and continue to support you as well. We fought to get internet through a cell phone and a laptop so that we could stay in connection with all of you, in case it was needed. We were able to find it in the backyard of Zack's home on his deck. That seemed to be a high point where we could get signal and internet access through our cell phones.
A few staff members got together to keep each other company while waiting for the power to come back. We played games, told stories and tried to keep our spirits up in the tragedy. Then, an even brighter light at the end of the tunnel–the kind words and wishes from many of you. We got emails and voicemails from many of you wishing us well.
On Sunday, many cities and areas began to regain power. Lights were coming back and businesses would soon re-open Monday morning. Slowly we are seeing our city come back to life. And with all of them, we are springing back as well. Luckily all of our staff members, their families, homes, and our office headquarters all made it out of this storm without much damage. There were some close calls, but we made it out.
Now, we are back up in our office and making our way through to forge on and forward. Zack is still coming up with ideas to help all of you through further training, mentoring, products and services. Our team is playing catch up but working fast to make sure that everyone is taken care of as needed and we continue to move forward. Someone on the news recently stated that "like the Phoenix, we will rise from the ashes." We believe that we are in the same boat. We are lucky to have made it out of all of this without much damage.
The cities and families that were affected by this storm, still need help and donations. If you or someone you know would like to make a donation, please reach out to the American Red Cross to donate. You can text REDCROSS to 90999 and a $10 donation will be added to your next mobile phone bill. You can also donate online here.
Take care everyone and best wishes to anyone that was affected by these terrible storms.
Related articles
- Has Your Home Ever Been Affected by a Tornado? (casasugar.com)
- Tornado Survival 101: How to Stay Safe (abcnews.go.com)
- Recovering From Tornado Damage (insuranceinvestigator.wordpress.com)
- TVA bills will reflect millions in storm costs (knoxnews.com)
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Lancashire's literature festival, publisher and development agency
Our annual literature festival is over for another year – thank you so much to all the artists, volunteers, board members, the teams at the venues, Lancaster and Morecambe VICs and of course to our wonderful audiences. We're looking ahead now to our 40th festival running throughout March next year – we're hoping to do…
Continue Reading
Natalie Charlesworth • March 26, 2018
Tuesday 24th April 7pm
Take a trip to the underworld…
Walk into the fire…
And don't look back….
The stage is set for a high voltage mythological mash-up!
Combining performance storytelling, music and song, Pandvani108 turn on the epic jukebox to bring us a wild night of unbowdlerised global myth and epic, in untamed short form style. Gods, monsters, giants, warriors & divas from Greece, Ireland, the Scandinavian North, the Indian heat and far beyond, are all hauled centre stage.
Far from sedate spoken word, this is a brash & exuberant cinema of the imagination, inspired by a 3,000 year old epic singing tradition and with more deities than you can shake a stick at. Encounter the Short Myth Massive – live and irresistibly direct!
As part of our first Litfest Springfest, two days of the very best in nature writing, we bring you another exclusive—Litfest's first podcast!
Free to download from the Lifest website (www.litfest.org) from Friday 23rd of March, come and join us on a literary walk around the streets of Lancaster. Exercise your mind along with your legs!
Litfest are very sorry to announce that the artists involved in our Fantastic Beasts Launch Night and Saturday's YA Day have ALL been snowed in by the Beast from the East! All three artists live in the North of the UK (Cumbria, Northumberland and Scotland) and, whilst the conditions in Lancaster are milder, are unable…
Natalie Charlesworth • March 1, 2018
To download a PDF Programme click here: 2018 PDF Programme This year we bring you a month-long programme packed with incredibly varied events! The 2018 festival launches on a truly 'Fantastic' evening at Lancaster Castle's Shire Hall. Olivia Lomenech Gill—illustrator of JK Rowling's Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them – will give us a…
Natalie Charlesworth • February 4, 2018
Friday 2nd March 7pm
The magical worlds conjured up by J. K. Rowling have enchanted readers for over two decades. Litfest are pleased to be launching this year's programme with a very special event with Olivia Lomenech Gill, illustrator of the new coffee table edition of Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them.
Set in the historic Shire Hall at Lancaster Castle, this is a not-to-be-missed event for all fans of the books, films
and anyone interested in illustration. Olivia will offer a behind-the-scenes insight into the creation of this extraordinary book, her life and work and some truly fantastic beasts.
Cosplay is welcome at this event.
Natalie Charlesworth • February 3, 2018
Saturday 3rd March 2pm
Young Adult fiction has seen a real boom in recent years and Litfest are delighted to welcome acclaimed novelist Cathy Forde to speak as part of our programme. Known for gritty and uncompromising prose that leaves readers thinking long after the final pages of her books are finished, Cathy has also worked with National Theatre Scotland on Theatre for young people.
In this session, she will discuss her bestselling novels Fat Boy Swim and The Drowning Pond exploring the journey of adapting these from novels to the stage. A fascinating talk that will be of interest to writers and all interested in drama.
Saturday 3rd March 3:15pm
Ever wondered how to take the plunge and start a Bookish YouTube channel? Or maybe you already have, but wonder how to build up a relationship with publishers, viewers or authors themselves? In this talk and Q&A session Hannah Hodgson will be revealing everything she has learned (sometimes the hard way) to get you on your way towards starting a YouTube channel. She will be discussing everything from how to approach publishers for free books, how to manage your time when you have a serious illness or many commitments and how to get yourself out there using Twitter and other social media platforms.
Most importantly, Hannah will be talking about how to enjoy yourself in your new online diary. Her favourite thing about her channel is the fact that her viewers feel like her friends – which means that she has avoided social isolation due to her disability. There will also be a Q and A session, where you can ask Hannah anything, from why she started her channel to what editing software she uses.
Friday 9th March 7pm
Naseem Khan's memoir Everywhere is Somewhere explores how stories from our diverse community are essential in understanding what it is to be British today. A radical and a pioneer, Naseem was born in Birmingham to an Indian father and German mother. After studying at Lady Margaret Hall, Oxford, she was held as an 'Indian spy' whilst travelling in Pakistan during the second India-Pakistan war in 1965. She was ultimately released back into India. Naseem returned to London, and became part of the black power scene in Notting Hill, editing the Hustler magazine with contemporaries
including Darcus Howe.
Naseem sadly passed away on the 8th of June 2017. Here her publisher Kevin Duffy talks about the process of publishing her final work, chronicling Naseem's extraordinary life.
Saturday 10th March 4pm
Since its beginnings as an artists' group in 2003, Comma Press has continued to evolve into a thriving northern publishing house by embracing innovation, collaborations and digital media. Despite its diversification over the years into translation, poetry, novels and film Comma still seeks to put the short story at the heart of its focus. Here, they showcase the latest short story collections from two of their best-loved writers – M. John Harrison and Martyn Bedford. In Letters Home Martyn explores a variety of characters each at a crossroads in their lives, and in his first collection of short fiction in over 15 years – You Should Come with Me Now: stories of ghosts – M. John Harrison pushes the boundaries of genre to bring us weird stories for weird times….
Saturday 10th March 5:15pm
Founded in 2006 by Kevin and Hetha Duffy Bluemoose Books are an independent publisher based in Hebden Bridge, Yorkshire. Here they present the latest novel from acclaimed writer Heidi James…
When award-winning journalist Marcus Murray's latest story involves a corrupt alliance between a UK bank, the arms trade and the government, it seems he has triumphed again in his quest for the truth. But he is accused of fabrication and nothing in his life makes sense any more, including the disappearance twenty years ago of his best friend, Melanie. Why did she vanish, and who is the body recently discovered in a Kent orchard? A timeless story of how love and enduring friendship shape who we are, the novel exposes the fault lines in our own reality and who and what we believe to be true, including ourselves…
Saturday 10th March 6:15pm
Litfest are delighted to present an exclusive panel of industry experts with a special
northern perspective. Representing four members of the Northern Fiction Alliance Rebecca Parkinson from Comma Press, Kevin Duffy from Bluemoose Books, Nathan Connolly from Dead Ink and Sara Hunt from Saraband gather together to give you a unique insight into the rapidly changing world of independent publishing.
Friday 16th March 7pm
In a specially extended edition of this long-running Lancaster staple, Spotlight presents a highly varied line-up. Alongside saxophonist and spoken word artist Alabaster dePlume Spotlight will also feature prolific writer Ian Marchant with an extract from his recent book A Hero For High Times. There will also be poetry from invited guests, music from Mollie Baxter & Chris Hargreaves and an Open Mic.
Saturday 17th March 12:30pm
We are delighted to open our poetry day this year with two poets from Oversteps Press—Alwyn Marriage and Rebecca Bilkau. Both of these poets have a widely varied background in poetry and bring all their experience to bear in their latest collections…
Saturday 17th March 1:15pm
For our second event of Poetry day Litfest are delighted to welcome back Beautiful Dragons Press for the launch of their latest unique collaborative anthology — Noble Dissent.
Featuring 72 poets from across the world this anthology celebrates standing your ground and advocating for change. Sadly we cannot have all 72 poets here on the day but come and here some of them pull out the soap boxes and blow their whistles…
Saturday 17th March 2:45pm
For our third Poetry Day event Litfest are delighted to present two rising stars of the poetry world. Both Rhiannon and Kate will reimagine the world from their unique perspectives. Drawing on a strong connection to their homelands of Wales and 'The North' the familiar grows strange when mixed with a liberal dose of Greek myth, Lake District floods, Glastonbury festival and the Great North run. Join us for a pair of truly memorable readings!
Saturday 17th March 4pm
For our penultimate Poetry Day event Litfest brings you two poets seeking to explore humanity's connection to the world. Katharine Towers' TS Eliot Prize shortlisted second collection The Remedies delves into our complex relationship with
nature. Whilst Philip Gross' latest collection A Bright Acoustic breaches the echoing void between language and the world and gives voice to the numerous voices he finds there.
Saturday 17th March 5:15pm
We conclude a bumper day of poetry with the welcome return of Wayleave Press, a small independent publisher of poetry pamphlets based in Lancaster founded by Mike Barlow in 2014. This final reading will showcase three of their poets, two with recent pamphlets and one forthcoming.
Friday 23rd March 7pm
We begin our Springfest weekend with a double bill with a distinctly Scottish flavour…
First we have award-winning poet and essayist Kathleen Jamie, possessing a poet's eye and a naturalist's affinity for the wold places of the world . Whether she is following the call of a peregrine in the hills above her home in Fife, sailing into a dark winter solstice on the Orkney islands, or pacing around the carcass of a whale on a rain-swept Hebridean beach, she creates a subtle and modern narrative, peculiarly alive to her connections and surroundings.
Friday 23rd March 8:15pm
In the second half of our Scottish double bill we welcome prolific nature writer Jim Crumley. The author of the much loved (and recently reprinted!) The Company of Swans has led a long and varied career including journalism, Radio and TV work. But throughout he continues to delight his readers with many new publications. The latest of these is the second in his seasons quartet—The Nature of Winter.
Saturday 24th March 7pm
In Field Notes from the Edge, the acclaimed writer of the Guardian's 'Country Diary', Paul Evans, takes us on a journey through the in-between spaces of Nature – such as strandlines, mudflats, cliff tops and caves – where one wilderness is on the verge of becoming another and all things are possible. Here, Evans searches out wildlife and plants to reveal a Nature that is inspiring yet intimidating; miraculous yet mundane; part sacred space, part wasteland. It is here that we tread the edge between a fear of Nature's dangers and a love of Nature's beauty. Combining a naturalist's eye for observation with a poet's ear for the lyrical, Field Notes from the Edge confirms Paul Evans's place among our leading nature writers today.
Saturday 24th March 8:15pm
Much-loved and award winning illustrator Jackie Morris will talk about her latest book The Lost Words. Inspired by the words that were dropped from the Oxford Junior Dictionary. Jackie's response was the creation of a large format, illustrated book of spells based around these words. Jackie will talk about the inspiration behind the idea for The Lost Words, the process of collaborating with author Robert MacFarlane and give a glimpse into the creation of a book that speaks with eloquence and lyricism about our relationship with both landscape and language.


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When Metal Gear Solid: Ground Zeroes was first revealed, series creator Hideo Kojima confirmed that the game will feature open world elements. Up until this point, we've only been able to speculate what he's meant by this, but that is no longer the case, as Kojima has spilled the beans at Eurogamer Expo.
The game will feature base-building, a mechanic that gamers who played Peace Walker are likely familiar with. In this new and improved version, Snake can call in a chopper at any time and be taken back to the home base, where the player is free to walk around and develop weapons. The chopper will also provide transport to other locations around the game world including other missions.
Interestingly enough, players will be able to manage their base using a smartphone should they choose. Kojima explained:
These days there are various ways to access the game world, not just playing in your living room on your games console. You may also access through your cell phone and other devices. I think in that respect that motherbase system lends itself very well to that system, and that's something we're planning on for Ground Zeroes.
Let us know what you think about these new additions to the Metal Gear franchise in the comments below.


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To continue the noble tradition:
1. I'm not entirely sure, but I think Robin Hanson is saying he's a successful blogger and economist because he's so pretty.
2. There seems to be some debate ( started by Steve Horowitz, continued by Mario Rizzo) about Ludwig von Mises's position on free banking. Horwitz claims that Mises prefers his own approach rather than the strict market-anarchist of Rothbard. I'm glad. I don't much like Rothbard's take in this regard.
3. Bob Murphy apologizes to Paul Krugman and Tyler Cowen (I'm not entirely convinced either of them deserve it).
4. Freakonomics reports that, in Detriot, the average home price is less than a good used car. The low price could encourage immigration to Detroit, but probably not since there doesn't seem to be much to do once you get there (career-wise).
5. Carl Zimmer quits bloggingheads and hints at a conspiracy that the editor Robert Wright is a secret creationist (or at least sympathetic).


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All Hail Software Metrics!
Estimating project expenses and quantifying the total value of a piece of work are variables that have plagued software development since it's conception. When will the program be complete, how much will it cost, and what will be my return on investment are simple questions that remain unanswered in nearly all phases of development.
Imagine a situation in which a construction contractor refused to release information regarding project completion and total expenses. What would be your reaction? Would you take this contractor seriously? Now imagine a scenario in which the entire industry acted in this way. You would have something called software development. Assuming the industry is somehow different or special is a giant mistake; it should be held to the same standards as other forms of business.
This is Our Philosophy:
- We believe that a great system of measurement is at the foundation of any successful project.
- We believe planning and evaluating technical tasks correctly allows managers to make quick and effective decisions.
- We believe development teams need to be held accountable for failing to deliver projects on time and within budget.
- And most of all we believe Software Metrics is the answer.
How This Site Works
The site is broken down into two sections: services and information. If you're looking to hire a consultant to apply Software Metrics techniques to your business, then you probably want to visit the services section. If you're looking for more information on Function Points and Software Metrics in general, then the information section is for you.


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If she doesnt scare you no evil thing will! Invite Cruella to heckle your guests and wow you with her impeccable fashion sense. Her formal black gown is draped with a fabulous fur coat made of faux puppies! She is dasterdly from her two-toned hair all the way down to her patent leather pumps. Muuuuaaaahahhahaha!
The Performer: All of our professional performers are hand selected from hundreds of applicants. We pay close attention to details, ensuring the most talented and realistic character attends your party. We have the BEST performers in the nation!
Check out our cast page to see interviews and videos with our talented Royals.
The Performance Includes:
– Coronation Ceremony (if there is a birthday child) with a tiara to keep
– Sparkling Facepainting for each child
– Sorytime & Singing
– magic show
– furry friend meet-and-greet
– Autographed photo: Collect autographs from all of your favorite characters on our collectible autograph card.
– Cake Ceremony: leading guests in "Happy Birthday"
If you are having a Halloween party or just a celebration fit for a villian, we will tailor the activities accordingly
Royal Parties are geared toward a maximum of 15 children. If you are expecting more little guests, it is suggested you add an additional 1/2 hour.
Addition Add-ons:
$50 for every addition 30min.
$30 OFF every additional character or $125 for the Royal Assistant
|Holiday Characters


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Government-led moves to establish an Asia Pacific code of practice for cloud computing providers could be counter-productive by drawing attention away from more rigorous international standards, Ovum analyst Steve Hodgkinson has warned.
iTnews last week revealed that Australia's National Standing Committee on Cloud Computing was considering the adoption of a voluntary code of practice for cloud services, developed by the Institute of IT Professionals New Zealand and funded by the likes of Salesforce.com and Google.
The code sought to establish a "trust mark" for local and foreign-hosted cloud services, while determining the potential impact of overseas legislation like the US Patriot Act on cloud services from US-based companies.
Hodgkinson said while any code of practice — regardless of emphasis on cloud-like products — was a good idea, too much focus on the certification aspects of such a code could simply exacerbate the 'cloudwashing' of normal IT procurement, while drawing attention away from more rigorous international standards.
"A code of practice is good because it reinforces understanding of what it is to be a cloud provider and what it is to provide cloud services," he told iTnews.
"Compliance is a bit more of a difficult one; that somehow, somebody would provide cloud services a tick to say whether they are grade A, B or C. That is problematic in my mind because the field is moving so quickly that it's a bit hard for people in that compliance space to actually be on top of the game."
He urged those developing the code to focus on "education, thought leadership, case studies and a progressive increasing of everyone understanding of what it is to be a buyer and what it is to be a supplier".
"To try and get to the next step of certification to me is a step too far ... you have unintended errors in the certification process because they're overly conservative or overly relaxed and that will create more damage," he said.
Hodgkinson pointed to the British Government's G-Cloud, which saw hundreds of small suppliers attempt to provide services through the Government application store on the pretense of cloud-based delivery.
The Government ultimately adopted a panel of 250 suppliers, three-quarters of which were from SMEs.
But Hodgkinson said an overly broad code of practice locally could unwittingly allow smaller cloud services providers from reaching a similar level of certification without necessarily proving the same capabilities.
"If you look at the way Salesforce.com has operated in this market, they've been front-and-centre of making sure that they comply with any hurdle that's shown up," he said.
"When [financial services regulator] APRA started raising concerns about cloud services in financial institutions, Salesforce immediately met with APRA and demonstrated them that they comply because in a sense, those large organisations are effectively setting the benchmark for what it is to be a cloud service provider which are enterprise-grade."
Smaller providers, he said, should move to offer services compliance with international standards, rather than local codes.
One of the cloud committee's other goals is to contribute to the International Standards Organisation's Joint Technical Committee on developing and improving cloud standards.
Hodgkinson said the code would provide a "useful transitory step" for those organisations unsure of differences between standard IT procurement and cloud services.
"Slightly paradoxically that can include large enterprises, but for anyone that's not familiar with the thought processes and logic of cloud procurement — either buying it or selling it," he said.
"I wouldn't want to see too much talk of it being used as a relatively crude compliance thing in an immature, half-evolving market."


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Above is what they call the 'raw video' of David Cameron's and Barack Obama's trip to a basketball game last night. It's the unrefined version of what Downing St hopes will be refined,
packaged and sent to your television screen at hyperspeed: images of the PM and the President dressed casually and chatting away as the game goes on. Like I said yesterday, it's political theatre — designed to benefit both men.
They were then both interviewed at halftime, which you can watch here. This was more about sports than about the political intricacies of
the special relationship (Cameron: 'It's hard to follow, sometimes, who's done exactly what wrong') — and it appears to have been usurped in the American newspapers by news
of Rick Santorum's two victories in Alabama and Missippi last night, which solidify the idea that it's Romney versus Rick now. I
can't see Cameron's visit mentioned anywhere on the homepage of the New York Times website. Although it does feature halfway down the Washington Post's, along with this bit of
'Cameron was such a rookie to American sports traditions that he put ketchup, sans yellow mustard, on his hot dog. At least he washed it down with an all-American Coca-Cola.'
The political theatre will become more politics, less theatre, today — with discussions about Syria and Afghanistan. On the latter, Obama has said that there will be no 'rush
for the exits,' but, as I've already blogged, it's thought that his White House is considering options for pulling out of the country faster. It's worth looking out for any further signals on
that, from either Obama or Cameron, as the day goes on. In the meantime, the Sun sums it all up in one cartoon.
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Ellison Cooper
Ellison Cooper is well equipped to write thrillers. A former murder investigator in Washington D.C. and certified K9 Search and Rescue Federal Disaster Worker, her debut thriller, "Caged," arrives this summer. She has a Ph.D. in anthropology from UCLA, with a background in archaeology, cultural neuroscience, ancient religion, colonialism, and human rights. She has conducted fieldwork in Central America, West Africa, Micronesia, and Western Europe.


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This web site serves as a central guide for education data resources including high-value data sets, data visualization tools, resources for the classroom, applications created from open data and more. These datasets have been gathered from various agencies to provide detailed information on the state of education on all levels, from cradle to career and beyond. Check back frequently because the site will be updated as more datasets and tools become available.
One Response to "Welcome to Education Data Community"
Alison Moore
Good evening- I am a doctoral candidate at the North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. I am researching datasets on K-12 school administration.
Alison Moore
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Big Climb Philly
at Cira Centre South
2929 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19104
47 Floors - 1088 Steps
735 feet of Vertical Elevation
Check out your race results below!
Donate to a specific participant or team
To support a specific participant or team, please use our participant search on the right side of the screen all the way under the "many thanks to" section to search for their fundraising page. To make a general event donation, please click the Donate Now button on the right.
Event Day Information
Date: April 13, 2019
Location: 2929 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19104
Time: 9:00 AM—1:00 PM
Fundraising Minimum: $100.00
Big Climb Philly is a one-of-a-kind of event providing opportunity for participants to test themselves as they climb 47 floors of stairs to the top of FMC Tower at Cira Centre South in support of the LLS mission: Cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin's disease and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families.
Contact Us
(610) 276-3191
All donations are greatly appreciated and are tax deductible. They'll not only support LLS research but patient services, advocacy, public and professional education, and community services as well.
On behalf of blood cancer patients everywhere I thank you for your support!
For more information about LLS, please visit lls.org
Questions? Comments? Feedback? Email: email@example.com