text:
If you have had relationships that did not last long or if you have trouble finding someone who wants to get involved in a long-term relationship, the idea of having a long and happy relationship may seem difficult to achieve. Luckily, there are steps you can take to improve the quality and duration of your relationship.
Method 01
Start your relationship with the right foot
Understand your needs and desires If you want to have a successful relationship, it is important to understand your own emotional and physical needs before starting, because you will need to communicate them to your partner. You may already have a clear idea of what you need and want in a relationship, but if you're not sure, you can think of the following questions:
- Reflect on your past relationships to determine the reason why they worked or not. What can these experiences tell you about your needs?
- Think about the way you react to people and events. For example, do you tend to react emotionally, find it hard to trust someone or express your feelings? It may be helpful to consider these personality traits before entering into a serious relationship.
Make sure the reasons for having a relationship are healthy instead of the opposite. Keep in mind the following indications:
- The healthy reasons for having a relationship are a desire to share love, intimacy and companionship; yearning to experience personal development; eagerness to provide emotional and physical support to the couple; and the hope of creating a family. It is important to keep in mind that these motivations not only focus on receiving love and support, but also on giving them to your partner.
- The unhealthy reasons to have a relationship are the fear of being alone, fear of breakup and the unwillingness to lose your connection with friends or family of your partner. Using your partner to obtain security, sex, money, or getting revenge on an ex-partner, are unhealthy reasons to have a relationship. If you start a relationship and keep it for these reasons, both your partner and you will have difficulties to make it last and be happy, causing damage to the process.
Choose your partner wisely. If you want to build a happy and lasting relationship, you must choose your partner carefully. A common mistake is to think that opposites attract, but researchers have revealed that people who share common goals, interests and expectations often have more satisfying relationships
- It is not necessary that your personality traits are the same as those of your partner, but if both want things different from the relationship, they will have difficulties to make it last.
- Determine if your differences complement each other. For example, someone who is more impulsive might find a balance with someone who tends to be more planners.
Keep it real. Starting a relationship with the hope that there are no difficulties or challenges is not realistic. The early passion and the feeling of falling in love may fade, but, with time and effort, you can forge a deeper and more meaningful relationship.
Do not try to change your partner. While you can persuade your partner to pick up dirty clothes or walk the dog, thinking that you can change your personality, views or behavior radically can make the relationship fail. In particular, experts suggest that you will not be able to change the following personality traits or ideas:
- ideas about religion;
- the views of your partner regarding having children;
- his temperament and the way he acts when he feels fury;
- the introversion or extroversion of the person;
- the interests, activities and hobbies of your partner;
- the relationship of your partner with your family.
Develop friendship If you hope to have a lasting and happy relationship, focus on developing friendship with your partner. Experts have revealed that couples who maintain a friendship are happier and are more likely to stay together.
- If you do not want to spend time together, the relationship will not be very successful.
- Take the time to explore the interests and hobbies of each one. At first, doing something you do not want might seem like a sacrifice, but your partner will appreciate your effort and, next time, will be more willing to do something you enjoy.
- Try to identify your common interests and try to get them. For example, if you both enjoy outdoor activities, go on a camping trip.
Do not think that you have to do everything together. Sometimes couples think they need to do all the activities together, but that can make them feel claustrophobic.
- Do not stop spending time with your friends or family.
- Continue with the hobbies you used to have before starting the relationship.
Be generous with one another. Generous people are willing to put the thoughts, feelings and interests of others above their own. Researchers have revealed that when couples are generous with each other, they are more likely to create a lasting relationship.
- Share what you have This could be something as simple as being willing to split a dessert or something more important, like your resources and time.
- Do not act with generosity to get something in return. Those who exhibit true generosity do not do so because they want something from the other person. For example, do not give an elaborate gift just because you want to receive one in return.
- Do not feel rushed. People who are in a relationship may feel the pressure to move quickly to a more advanced stage (being intimate, moving in with the partner, or getting married right after they meet). While it may be exciting to think about the happy ending you expect and hurry to fulfill it, taking the time to make sure that both your partner and you are on the same page with respect to the relationship will only solidify it.
- If they do not feel pressure or obligation to do something quickly, both will have more confidence and will be happier in the relationship.
- The better they know each other and the more they develop their relationship, the more likely they are to succeed.
Method 02
Maintain a long and happy relationship
Keep in mind that your relationship will change. Just as your partner and you may change over time, the relationship will also evolve. Instead of maintaining a monotonous relationship, accept and appreciate the changes that arise with the development of a more established and lasting. [18]
- Some people worry about not feeling the same level of falling in love or passion as in the first days of the relationship, but it is normal. As the relationship progresses, they may have fewer opportunities for intimacy because of the pressures of work, family, and other commitments. However, research suggests that people in committed relationships claim to have a more satisfying physical and emotional relationship with their partners.
- Instead of worrying about the negative aspects of a more established relationship, think about the positive ways in which your relationship has developed. For example, do you feel that the connection with your partner is deeper? Do you feel more confidence and confidence than at the beginning of the relationship? What kind of experiences and challenges has you and your partner faced?
Agree to invest time, energy and effort in the relationship. To cultivate a long and happy relationship, it is necessary that both people invest time, energy and effort.
- Instead of thinking that maintaining a relationship is a "hard work", consider it as something that deepens and develops the connection that both your partner and you share. While this sometimes means facing the challenges, there will also be many pleasant, special and exciting moments.
- Even when the relationship seems like hard work at times, focus on the profits you will receive with your investment.
Treat yourself with respect. Treating each other with respect will allow both developing and maintaining a lasting and happy relationship. Here are some effective ways to show respect to your partner.
- Treat your partner as you would like to be treated.
- Demonstrate attention and courtesy by asking each person's opinion and giving opinions on important matters, such as parenting, and even on everyday topics, such as what will be for dinner.
- Consult each other before making plans.
- Ask your partner about their work, interests, activities and feelings.
- Avoid insulting or using language and behavior that degrades your partner. Sarcasm, fussiness and disturbances may seem insignificant, but they can also hurt your partner and cause him to become defensive or hostile.
Show your partner how much it means to you. Many couples pay close attention to birthdays and anniversaries, but expressing and showing your appreciation for the things your partner does on a daily basis will help you establish a strong and happy relationship.
- It is not necessary that you spend money to show your interest.
- Try to do something useful or considered without asking. For example, take out the trash or offer to prepare dinner.
- Tell your partner the reason why it is important to you.
- When your partner does something good for you, acknowledge it and thank him.
- If you want your partner to show more appreciation and consideration, then do the same. You can preach by example.
Communicate with your partner Bad communication will prevent your partner and you from having a long and happy relationship. Effective communication will help you make sure you are on the same page and trust each other.
- Get in touch with your partner frequently and talk daily about more personal issues and the relationship instead of just doing work, raising children or doing household chores.
- Communication does not always mean talking. It also consists of listening carefully to what your partner has to say. Avoid interrupting her or talking when she is doing it.
- When your partner shares their feelings, recognize what you heard by summarizing everything he or she has told you. You can start by saying "So what I am hearing or understanding is that …". Even if you do not agree with what your partner tells you, this strategy will show that you pay attention and allow you to feel empathy with her. In general, it will also prevent people from becoming defensive.
- Usually, face-to-face communication, especially when it comes to the relationship, is more effective than phone calls, text messages or emails. If you can see a person in the eye, observe their body language and pay attention to their reactions, you can better respond to the situation and address concerns.
Be honest. People who are honest with each other are more likely to enjoy a lasting and happy relationship. The distrust that often arises from dishonesty can seriously endanger your relationship.
- Instead of risking losing confidence, be honest and let your partner know about your feelings and concerns. Even when the conversation is uncomfortable and difficult, trying to regain your confidence after acting dishonestly will be even more so.
- While it is important to be honest to have a successful relationship, brutal honesty can be harmful. Try to be kind and sensitive in conveying your concerns or sharing unpleasant news. If you act rudely and insensitively, your message will not be well received and both will have much more difficulty communicating.
Keep in mind that you and your partner could express love differently. People show their affection and love differently, and keeping that in mind can help you establish a happier and healthier relationship.
- Be sensitive to each other's needs by asking what both can do to show love and support. Once they both know their personal needs, they can make a conscious effort to express their feelings to each other.
Celebrate your differences. Instead of thinking about how much your partner irritates you or differs in how you approach a particular topic, try to appreciate your differences.
- Think of the way your differences complement those of your partner and contribute to your relationship. For example, if you are more serious and your partner, more cheerful, think about how you can help balance the relationship. Does your partner force you not to take things too seriously and can you help her focus on important things?
- In general, people consider that a trait of personality or habit that is sometimes irritating is also something that, at first, attracted you to your partner.
Spend a quality time as a couple. Often, in more established relationships, people become busy and it can be easy to overlook the importance of sharing quality time with your partner. Spending time together frequently without interrupting children, pets, parents or work can help connect them and form a mutual bond.
- Instead of just watching television or a movie, choose an activity in which you can interact with your partner. You can plan a weekend trip, sign up for a cooking class, walk through the park or dine.
- Many couples find it useful to schedule regular "appointments". Plan what you will do together or take turns planning the activities for a week while your partner does the next. Be sure to choose different activities, so that your appointments do not become a routine.
Take some time for yourself. While it is important to spend quality time together, taking time for yourself will also help you maintain a long and happy relationship. Anyone can irritate another person after a while, and spending a while away or taking time to be alone will usually allow you to appreciate your partner even more.
- Have interests and activities separately. When they get back together they will feel independent, but also happier and revitalized.
Laugh along with your partner. In a relationship, challenges are inevitable, but having the ability to maintain a sense of humor and laugh with your partner will help them overcome difficulties.
- Try to remember a shared experience or go to an amusement park or a comedy club where people laugh out loud.
- Focus on laughing together instead of at the expense of each other, because that can make the experience negative and prevent you from forming a mutual bond.
Do not let others interfere in your relationship. Unhappy parents-in-law, authoritarian parents and bossy friends can wreak havoc on the relationship they both have. Work together to keep negative interference to a minimum.
- It is not necessary to take these people out of your life, but neither do you tolerate someone who does not support or negatively affect your relationship.
- If your partner or you are concerned that someone intervenes in the relationship, speak openly and honestly. Try to develop ideas for potential solutions. For example, if your in-laws insist on visiting them for Christmas every year, you and your partner can plan a trip and enjoy a time away from family pressures.
- You can listen and respond to the concerns that people may have about your relationship, but you can also explain in a courteous and calm manner how their involvement negatively affects your partner and you.
- An exception to this occurs in case you are in an abusive relationship or there is a reasonable justification for your concerns. In these cases, do not isolate yourself or take from your life the people who want to help and support you.
Method 03
Solve the problems
Do not try to win an argument. Sometimes, people start a discussion with the idea that they need to "win" and show that they are "right". However, this attitude severely limits your ability to solve the problems they have.
- If you are determined to "win" a discussion, you will show your partner that you do not care what he thinks and feels. This behavior makes the relationship more conflictive and will cancel communication channels.
- This attitude also suggests that the discussion is aimed at dominating rather than solving any underlying problem that caused it.
- Trying to beat your partner will not help you establish a long and happy relationship. People who "lose" a discussion often feel the need to retaliate, react and respond. Also, you probably do not end up with a sense of satisfaction.
Discuss fairly. Just as starting a discussion with a "winning" attitude is detrimental to a relationship, employing unfair strategies with your partner is also unfair. Shouting, applying the law of ice, blaming and making intentional comments that you know will hurt your partner are destructive strategies that will not solve the problems of the relationship.
- You can express your annoyance and frustration without resorting to these unfair strategies. For example, instead of blaming or making accusations, focus on your feelings and be as specific as possible.
- Instead of saying "You did this to me", it explains what makes you feel hurt or upset. In general, resorting to accusations will put the person on the defensive, as he will not want to spend his time listening to your concerns.
- Do not use words such as "never" and "always", because they are rarely accurate and tend to increase tension.
- If these behaviors arise during an argument, take a break from it and challenge it when your partner and you are more calm. Go for a walk, breathe deeply a few times, write in a diary or play with your children. In this way, you will have your emotions under greater control when you resume the discussion with your partner.
Focus on one problem at a time and be specific. Often, during a discussion, it is tempting to air other problems and stack up complaints. However, this method will make your problems seem more overwhelming and limit your ability to solve some of them. [43]
- Concentrate on the specific problem so that you can approach it without the things that complicate and become more negative.
It admits the occasions when you make an error. It is normal to make mistakes during a relationship, but refusing to admit that you did something wrong or that you hurt someone will not help you maintain a long and happy relationship. If you want to solve the problems that may arise and develop trust in your relationship, both should recognize the times when they make mistakes.
- If your partner has a concern or problem, consider it carefully. Because you probably know better than anyone, there is a good chance that your concern is valid.
- Ask for specific suggestions on how to prevent this from happening in the future.
- If you can accept your own mistakes, your partner will be more willing to recognize your own.
Try to forgive. Holding grudges and refusing to forget the hurts of the past will make both your partner and you unhappy. While it may be difficult to learn to forgive, doing so will lead to a lasting and healthy relationship.
- It may be helpful to reconsider the reason why you felt hurt in the first place. Ask yourself if what happened is as important as it seemed at first and keep your willingness to recognize that something you said or did may have influenced the situation.
- Ask yourself if something from your past could cause you to hold grudges.
- Think of the benefits you could obtain through forgiveness. Clinging to negative feelings will make you feel upset, anxious and stressed, and forgiving someone will probably make you feel better.
- If you keep bringing up the things that hurt you in the past, both you and your partner may feel overwhelmed and hopeless about the future of the relationship.
Accept the fact that you may not be able to solve all the problems in the relationship. While you may feel that your partner and you need to solve all the problems that arise in the relationship, this is not necessarily a realistic long-term goal. People can have a lasting and happy relationship regardless of disagreements that may arise.
- Sometimes, what we identify as problems in the relationship are not the main problems that we initially thought they were. Try to look at the situation in perspective by asking yourself if the problem really is a reason to break the relationship and requires a clear solution.
- Successful couples can commit, adapt and recognize times when it is not worth risking a relationship.
Keep in mind the right time to ask for help. If you have problems solving a situation with your partner or communicating the aspects of your relationship, do not hesitate to seek help from a couple therapist, a couples counselor or other mental health professional.
- Waiting until the problem gets worse and threatens your relationship will only make it difficult to solve it.
- It may be useful to have someone who is objective and has experience in dealing with relationship problems in order to mediate or facilitate the discussion.
- If you want to keep a long and happy relationship, you need to be friends with your partner. Spend time cultivating common interests, but also keep your willingness to explore different interests.
- Show your partner that you care about doing something considerate without being asked.
- Strive to resolve the differences by creating situations in which both win instead of those where there is only one winner. The latter will not help them to have a long and happy relationship.


text:
In this Feed the Future video, narrator Matt Damon discusses the importance of increasing food production around the world and notes the importance of equipping women with the right tools, training, and technology to see as much as a 30 percent increase in food production. To feed our growing population we need to increase food production by 70 percent before 2050. Women make up the majority of the agricultural workforce in many areas of the world.
Last updated: January 17, 2020
More Videos
January 17, 2020
January 17, 2020
January 10, 2020
January 9, 2020
January 9, 2020
December 20, 2019
December 18, 2019
December 13, 2019

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Friedman Would Be a Coveted Cubs Acquisition
Most of the Rays Republic remembers when Tampa Bay Rays outfielder Randy Winn was traded basically so the team could sign former Mariner's Manager Lou Piniella. Could we be possibly heading towards the same scenario with Vice President of Baseball Operations Andrew Friedman?
It is way to early in the Chicago Cubs General Manager outreach process to venture solely into this scenario, but it does warrant at least a peek. The Cubs did get an up front and personal shot at the cunning and creative thinking of Friedman and his construction of a trade in the 2011 Winter Matt Garza deal.
What is amazing is the perception still lies in the hearts of some on the North side of Chicago that the Cubs got the best end of that deal. Others, like the Rays Republic know that Friedman pulled another beautiful rabbit out of his hat and has already gotten a great return on his swap.
Think about it for a moment. Sure Chi-town got the ever scowling Garza and his bag of tricks, but Friedman got a newfound Legend (Fuld). Friedman only has to look at the box score of his Triple-A team, the Durham Bulls to see OF Fernando Perez, another component of the Cubs trade back in the Rays system after being released by Chicago.
People around Tampa Bay are getting a bit worried that if Friedman does take a meeting with the deep-pocketed Ricketts clan. Amazing enough he only has to sit down next to his own Senior Advisor Don Zimmer who took command in Cubs stripes to hear about the advantages and struggles he would have with such a move Northward. But don't fret yet Rays Republic, Friedman seems to love the challenge of the Rays opportunity.
But there is also a once in a lifetime challenge of helping structure and realize another World Series title in a town that yearns, begs, pleads for another chance at glory. Knowing Friedman he would have the Cubs institute a "Goat Day" where goats got in FREE just as a humorous and innovative way to ease the burden of the long held curse of Wrigley.
You know the Rays and Friedman are going to be confronted with this situation. Even Garza, who was traded by Friedman is shouting his name to the Heavens as a key component of the Rays climb from the cellar to contenders in such a short time span.
We know the Boston Red Sox will do everything in their power to block a chance of Theo Epstein even texting the Cubs organization. With a tongue-in-cheek comment a few days ago from someone that the Cubs want to build a Red Sox Nation in the West, battle lines and formations both by the Boston fans and front office went up fast to secure any chance of a Epstein defection or seduction.
Friedman has one of the most innovative minds since Oakland A's GM Billy Beane. The "Rays Way" has been a perfect model of how to build a competitive unit with a minimalistic budget. Friedman's team is responsible for one of the best scouting units and farm systems in baseball. Even if Friedman isn't submerged in the day-to-day heartbeat of this system, he gets the glowing comments by association.
How ironic would it be if Friedman did get a chance to go to the friendly ivy-lined confines of Wrigley Field. Would he be treated like a King, possibly warbling a rendition of "Take Me Out to the Ballgame" from that heralded spot in the booth? Would he be given the key to the city? Possibly get a sandwich named after him at one of the area's best bistros? Or maybe he could get a coveted cameo in the "Ferris Bueller" remake? That is what happens to those who fall into the arms of the Cubs faithful, they feel the warmth.
What would be more of a challenge than to resurrect a team that has not won a World Series in a Century. Take a team steeped in such deep tradition and in-bred into the town's psyche and provide a vibe, a final piece of the puzzle to finally eliminate that faithful Cub phrase, "Maybe next year".
But do not fret Rays Republic, Friedman is only being mesmerized by the snake charmer. There is no apparent movement of feet or mind to the Chi-town skyline, but it will happen. The city will open itself to Friedman, throw on it's Sunday best to try and persuade the Rays boy genius to take up stakes and move to this vista.
But even as the traditions and advantages of a Chicago move are flowing in his mind as soul, Friedman also knows he has a little unfinished business back here in Tampa Bay. You know he wants to be a part of the legacy of this franchise. His footprints already dot the landscape, but there is one prize still missing.
It is not a stadium deal, or even a full stadium for 25 % of the home games, it is hoisting that last trophy into the air with a franchise he helped get off life support and finally get to the threshold of that dream. Friedman has done so much here that possibly he could realistically say he has done is job and ready to move on to another project.
Many here in Tampa Bay know that one day this scenario will play out, that Friedman will leave, retire or find a new rebuilding project that he finds intriguing. But if it did materialize that Friedman is to pick up stakes and take his show on the road to Chicago, you know he will leave with a bang, possibly in one of those trademark Friedman trades to the Cubs. Hey Friedman has done more in the past with far less…It could happen.


text:
The 12 minute gameplay debut of Dark Souls 2 has been released, courtesy of IGN.
GOTY - everyone make sure you watch the Q+A
I can already picture myself throwing the controller against the wall
Where's the Q+A video?
My impressions of the game: Loving the visuals of it. Much better lighting overall and more detail put into it even at this stage.
Hopefully my reflexes are the reason I felt that the enemies seemed too easy, or it's just because of the demo, but that "surprise attack" event bothered me.
I'm loving the world, and the destructible environments.
Combat has changed. It seems more fluid in addition to maintaining the tight controls of the previous games. I'm loving the weapon swap upgrade though.
I hope they will allow parrying with the torch, but I can see them not.
All in all, it looks to be in-keeping with the Souls series and I'm hyped for it.
**EDIT** Found the other video. I watched the gameplay somewhere else. LOL.
Here's proof to all those moaners about 'accessibility'
I like that the game looks better. Don't really care much though, i'm glad to see Souls series return again.
And why do you say that @ Below? There is no reason to believe that especially judging from the vid, it looks like a new souls game with better graphics, it seems the new producer hasn't done anything bad and it was as originally intended/ Souls game with more accessibility.
dont think this one is goty lol. demon souls and darksouls 1 are probably better.
Here's hoping for a Sega Saturn edition
That's a good thing, omi25p. If it's anywhere near as good as the first two games, I'll be happy.
dang i was right... last time i had said they will be showing 9 mins of dying... and how i was right.
which game shows deaths on their first demo..
looks great though.
"Here's proof to all those moaners about 'accessibility'"
Being able to carry three weapons EACH HAND sure means they didn't dumb the game down. And don't get me started on the extremely obvious item indication effects...
Subtlety in design's been thrown out of the window.
Praise the dragons !
Sweet, this game will help me fill up the swear jar ten fold.
Awesome indeed. I'm officially looking forward to this game more than anything else. Really surprised at the graphics too. Can't wait!
Day one for me... but I knew this before it was even going to be announced. Love the Souls games.
From Software keeps on putting out pure quality. I don't know who all keeps coming out with such crazy and unique enemy design, but I love it! This studio is really on a roll.
graphically it looks about on par with the pc version of ds1.....cannot wait to see this thing maxed on my pc...will look 10x better i imagine
gameplay of course will be AMAZING on all platforms
Some of the Animation, particle effects, lighting and cloth physics are alot better! But I agree this will look outstanding on PC!
Yep, because we all know how well DS1 was optimized for PC. Get your head out of your ass and stop posting these stupidly-veiled slanderous comments. Just because you threw a small comment about "all platforms" at the end doesn't make it any less backhanded (or dumb, for that matter).
Yea its FLYING on my amd quad 3.2Ghz , 6770 , 4GB ram ...........NOT
PC and Optimization dont belong in the same sentence.
runs at 2560x1600 at locked 30 frames, never below, with massive, MASSIVEly better graphics than the ps3 version i played
and yes, it looks way better than that sub-hd, 720p video on ign.....that better have been last gen console gameplay.....becasue it looks worse than ds1 on my pc
just being honest...butthurt all you want
@landog, lol that is a load of crap. I've got the game on both my PC and my PS3 and there is virtually ZERO difference even when you have high resolution mods, etc.
Give it a rest, we know PC games usually look better; that doesn't mean sh*t in this game's case.
@landdog - Who are you trying to convince, yourself or people that don't know better?
downvoted by ragin consolers. ironic because it probably looks WORSE than ds1 on pc.
apart from a few cool new wind effects, it looks same as ds1 but as a pc gamer I notice the horrible low resolution.
are poor, hoping the PC version is better this time
@below- already have :)
You should try the Crysis series, specially Crysis 2.
You'll love it!
After all the complaints that PC gamers had against the first game's port I don't think they should make a PC version. It is pretty clear that PC gamers are more interested in graphics than anything else.
Or if these guys don't know how to code for PC, then we don't want their games.
they said long before the PC version was released that it would be a direct port and they were not familiar with PC development on the whole. So they admitted, before release, that it was not going to be improved and for giving a straight answer I applaud them and will continue to support them (on consoles though).
Do you enjoy video games only for the graphics? If so, that's pretty depressing.
graphics might not be everything but it plays a big part of games, that said I thought the game looked good, not sure where the "poor graphics" comment came from, its not best of the best quality but it still has a nice ambiance to it and great designs(which are part of the term "graphics").
Nice, I'm really looking forward to what's to come.
Gotta love the people that commented on how amazing the game looks before they even had time to watch the entire video...
doesnt look too much different than the last but that is by no means a bad thing in this case, why mess with perfection. prob going to be the best game ever like the last was!!!!!!!!! cannot wait!
really good! hope the framerate can handle this gfx this time...
well at least they keep the same combat and not fuck it all up like ff13/ dragon age 2
FF13 combat was actually the best thing about the game though
Looks great! I'm looking forward to playing it.
They used to say "want dark souls? get a console and stop complainging!!"
Look at me now!!! Complaining got me a pc version!
Success story ended..
How did you manage to misspell 'complaining' in the first sentence, but managed to get it right in the second?
and PC elitists complaining also got an easy difficulty setting...
Wonder if they will ever do another Demon Souls, instead of just Dark Souls, i know they are similar but it be cool to have another Demon souls
Yeah I really wish they would make a Demon's Souls 2, I really liked the art and atmosphere of Demon's Souls better.
It's doubtful. They changed the name to Dark Souls because they wanted to go multiplatform, and the quality was maintained quite well in the transition. There were definitely some things I liked better about Demon's Souls, but there were also some aspects of Dark Souls that were a major step forward, including one of the most amazingly well integrated game worlds I've seen. I didn't realize how well the areas were interwoven until I started opening shortcuts and started to get a sense of where everything is located. Also, the Covenant system was quite interesting; I want to see that continue for more PVP and jolly cooperation.
One thing I'd really like to see improved is more unique perks to various branches of upgrades, such as HP regen with Demon's Souls' Blessed weapons. There wasn't much difference in Dark Souls by comparison other than which stat modifies damage.
Also, I want them to return to Demon's Souls magic system and dump the limited casting stuff. It's not terribly practical when you can run out of spell casts.
" It's not terribly practical when you can run out of spell casts."
I think that was the point. Meant people couldn't just spam it.
You can run out in Demon's Souls, but you can recharge. That animation can get you crushed in PVP.
Perhaps they could find a happy medium and not have any item that gives a huge MP recharge? That is, have grass or whatever that only gives back a modest amount of MP per animation. That way you can't be careless you spells against bosses or in PVP.
My problem with the limited castings system in Dark Souls is that it tends to force you to rely much more heavily on melee, and just about any other build is going to be better at melee than a mage. Mages are already going to have less health, stamina, ect. because they need to put points for spell slots and whatnot.
Man, if Sony announces Demon's Souls 2 as a PS4 title at E3... well... it would be a very good thing.
not going to happen..... but i agree! lol
People banging on about PC version already? Not to brag but Dark Souls on PC looked awful on PC, and required a bloody mod to make the game much better looking, something FromSoftware couldnt even sort out themselves.
On a side note, this game does look great, surely will be getting it =)
this game looks blurry as fuck full of aliasing man.
I can't believe people are banging on about graphics & particles: This is Dark Souls 2! Nice to see the core elements have been transferred over & the art design looks great. Incredibly excited!
To be fair, the devs themselves opened the video by banging on about graphics.
It's nice to see improvements to the engine, but the graphics have never been really important to Dark/Demon Souls (apart from scale). The only thing I would really like is stability in the frame rate.
It just annoy's me people are looking at pixels & particles when this is a potential classic. All the graphic cards in the world can't stop Crysis 3 being shit.
They also claimed that the final graphical quality will resemble the trailer.
Actually they said it was just improved. The ones who hyped the graphics was the Edge magazine article, which then it all spread around.
And as far as graphics fo, maybe its not top of the line but you can notice the change in the details. Thats prob what they meant.
i agree once again pc gamers cant shut up avbout graphics this dark souls its not about the graphics. they should of left this console born series on consoles. tired of ungrateful pc pirates not playing there own boring pc games. console devs make the best games as you can see how hyped people are for demon/ dark souls series. but if u havent played them all your not reeally a true fan of the series.
I haven't given this franchise the attention it deserves I need to finish the first two that are just lying in my game collection...
I missed out on Demon's Souls because I fell on the wrong side of the console fence, but Dark Souls was AMAZING. I have entire days logged into Lordran. Do yourself a favor and give them a go.
Demon's Souls was, imo, a much better game than Dark Souls. (Character/World tendency <3)
But it could also be the fact that Demon's Souls was 100% fresh at it's time so that Dark Souls didn't get me that much. (still over 100h played, of course)
I'd really like to know from someone who played Dark Souls first and then Demon's Souls after that, which of the games he enjoyed more.
My friend, who never shuts up about Dark Souls, played DkS first and then DS, and he liked DkS better. One of the main reasons he mentions being that armor is a lot more important in DkS than it is in DS.
I like Demon Souls better I loved the enter doorway theme world gameplay. I have 100's hrs in both games but really enjoyed the central location.
As in regards to armor i use basically no armor in Demon and Dark i roll around lite as a feather for most of both games.
Much better? That's a bit of a stretch. Each had their own strengths. Tendencies could be interesting, but they could also be a source of incredible infuriation at times.
I'd say Demon's Souls tended to have less cheap moments (not that either are cheap games; just by comparison) and had more interesting features to the upgrades (HP regen, MP regen, poisoning, critical damage, ect.). I also greatly preferred the magic MP system.
On the other hand, Dark Souls really impressed me with an incredible interweaving of areas in the game world and a very cool Covenant system. I hope they take the best of both games in Dark Souls II.


text:
Schlüsselwörter: cyber × security × polls ×
Geografische Abdeckung: Griechenland × Österreich ×
Sortieren nach:
Special Eurobarometer 389: Europeans' attitudes towards food security, food quality and the countryside
This survey shows that EU citizens understand that food security is a global issue, with a large majority expressing concern at the challenge of feeding the world's growing population....
Provisional data ZIP (1313 Aufrufe)
Special Eurobarometer 390: Cyber security
The aim of this Eurobarometer survey is to understand EU citizens' experiences and perceptions of cyber security issues. The survey examines the frequency and type of internet use that EU...
Provisional data ZIP (1211 Aufrufe)
Special Eurobarometer 404: Cyber security
This report brings together the results of the Special Eurobarometer public opinion survey on "cyber security" in the EU27 countries and Croatia. The aim of this survey is to understand...
Provisional data ZIP (950 Aufrufe)


text:
Just make a deposit of at least $1,000 to your account!
Get the best trading conditions and attractive bonus offers! We have already given 6 legendary sports cars! But it does not stop there! The next Lamborghini Huracan of the latest generation may be yours!
InstaForex – invest in your victories!


text:
Jackson dominates D-backs in final tuneup
Right-hander allows one hit over four innings with two strikeouts
PHOENIX -- Edwin Jackson bounced back from a shaky start his last time out to end his spring on a high note on Friday while Trevor Cahill battled his way through six strenuous innings as the Cubs defeated the D-backs, 3-1, at Chase Field in an exhibition contest.
Jackson, who will open his regular season Wednesday in Pittsburgh against the Pirates, cruised through four innings, allowing just one hit while striking out a pair. Jackson's best outing of the spring came after the right-hander surrendered four runs on eight hits and a walk over five innings vs. the Reds last Saturday.
Jackson finishes the spring with a 4.00 ERA and 20 strikeouts in 17 innings of work.
"It's the last game to really go in and fine-tune things before we get started officially," Jackson said. "I just wanted to end on a positive note going into the season. I'm feeling pretty good and just came out throwing strikes."
The right-hander led the National League in losses last year with 18, and was eager to start with a clean slate.
"I'm excited," Jackson said. "Last year was a crazy year and it wasn't a year I wanted to have. I'm going to go out and play the way I know I can play. I haven't lost any confidence -- I never lost any confidence last year. It was a tough season but at the end of the day, I came in the clubhouse, the same person, day in and day out. I'm ready to go out and show what I can do."
Cahill hoped to show some improvement back on American soil after giving up five runs over four innings in a regular season loss to the Dodgers in Australia last week. Instead, his rough spring continued as he allowed eight hits and three walks in his six frames on Friday. He did, however, manage to limit the damage to three runs while striking out five batters.
"He was better tonight," D-backs manager Kirk Gibson said. "Better rhythm and repeated his delivery better. He tried to work on his pace and go quicker, I thought he did a pretty good job of it. He stayed with it, sometimes he overthinks it. Overall, he's headed in the right direction."
Cahill will take the mound again on Wednesday vs. the Giants in the D-backs' third home game of the year.
The Cubs got on the board in the first inning when Emilio Bonifacio doubled and came around to score on Anthony Rizzo's RBI groundout.
The Cubs struck again in the fourth, as when Ryan Sweeney smacked a single to left field, driving in Rizzo to make it 2-0.
Nate Schierholtz provided the other RBI for Chicago in the fifth, singling to center to once again plate Rizzo.
Evan Marzilli doubled in the eighth to score Cliff Pennington for Arizona's lone run.
Up next: Jason Hammel closes the Cubs' exhibition season with a start Saturday against the D-backs at Chase Field in downtown Phoenix. Hammel is scheduled to start the series finale in Pittsburgh in the third game of the regular season. Instant replay will be in effect for Saturday's game, the last chance for manager Rick Renteria to test the new system. The game will be broadcast for free on MLB.TV and on Comcast SportsNet, and also WGN Radio, starting at 3:10 p.m. CT.


text:
The top newspapers on Twitter? Try this list
April 8th, 2011
Guest post by Mathilde Piard
In the past few days there's been a blog post about the top 25 newspapers on Twitter that's been making the rounds. In fact, it's been circulated so far and wide that I've heard about it from multiple coworkers who don't tend to run in different Twitter and/or reading sharing circles as I do, and who were wondering why two of our newspapers weren't on the list (the Atlanta Journal-Constitution and the Austin American-Statesman).
The problem with the post over at The Wrap is that it worked off a list from Journalistics.com from the fall. Back then, the Journalistics post only looked at the top 25 newspapers in terms of circulation because it was part of a series comparing those exact 25 papers on Twitter, Facebook, website traffic, and Google PageRank. I commented on the recent blog post to point this out, as did Jeremy Porter, the author of the original list at Journalistics.com. But because Dylan Stableford hasn't clarified in the post that his list is just for the top 25 newspapers by circulation (although he did update it to include at the bottom a few of the omissions, thank you) and since most people don't read comments anyway, I figured it would be best to just provide my own list of the top 25 newspapers on Twitter, one that actually goes by number of followers on Twitter, not circulation.
Some will argue that ranking Twitter accounts by number of followers is a load of hogwash, either because Twitter's recommended list skews things or because it's not a good measure of "engagement". The truth is, you could argue the same about any type of metric. Companies don't share specific traffic numbers, so the only way to compare websites to each other is to use ComScore's number of monthly unique visitors. Uniques don't measure how long visitors stay on sites, how many page views they provide, how many comments they leave or pages they share with their friends.
Which leads me to my next thought: we shouldn't have to resort to manually compiling lists like these of top accounts on Facebook and Twitter (by the way, Chris Snider does this every month for the top newspapers on Facebook). MuckRack has rankings of journalists by beat and region, but only tracks individual journalists, not brands. Jeremy Porter had a great idea when he compared newspaper circulation with other online metrics – but it would be great to see that kind of stuff for more than just the top 25 (mostly national) papers. And why look only at newspapers? I keep secretly hoping Cory Bergman at Lost Remote will compile a list of top TV accounts on Facebook and Twitter, since he's one of the only ones to cover what local television stations are doing with social media – but again, he shouldn't have to. (UPDATE: actually, he already did, ha!). Wouldn't it be cool to compare TV ratings or radio cumes with online stats? And why keep it to media organizations? There are so many brands out there that fudge the line between media, and, well, everything else. Just like ComScore tracks unique visitors for websites, it should also track number of Twitter followers and Facebook fans.
Anyway, here's my list, and here's my methodology:
- I used the top of a list that Robert Quigley had compiled on this very blog in the wake of the original Journalistics list (which didn't really state clearly that it was part of a series comparing how the top 25 newspapers tacked online in a variety of metrics, so it too drew a lot of criticism from people who didn't get it at first, including myself. Apologies Jeremy!) However, I kept to just the top 25-ish, because frankly I don't have time to be as thorough as Robert was and go through nearly 200 newspapers.
- I've kept the list to US newspapers – no online/iPad only publications and I also took The Onion off the list. Sorry guys, it's just easier to compare apples to apples. All the more reason somebody like ComScore should be tracking this for everybody, not just newspapers, perhaps not even just news orgs.
- In the case of the San Francisco Chronicle and the Arizona Republic, I went with the Twitter accounts that Jeremy Porter/Journalistics and Dylan Stableford/The Wrap used rather than the ones Robert Quigley had on this blog – as in, @sfgate instead of @sfchron_alert and @azcentral instead of @arizonarepublic. That seemed only fair since Robert's list used @bostonupdate instead of @bostonglobe and @coloneltribune instead of @chicagotribune. That explains why the Chronicle went from 51st to 18th place, and Arizona Republic from 158th to 25th.
- I also added the Minneapolis Star Tribune, which The Wrap and Journalistics lists did have, but Old Media New Tricks did not. Interesting to note, it looks like the username used to be @mn_news and was changed to @startribune without claiming the old username. So I just did, to avoid someone else perhaps ill intentioned grabbing it. Hey Minnesota Star Tribune folks, if you want @mn_news back, holler and I'll gladly hand it over.
- Because I removed The Onion from the list, I'm only confident about the top 24 or so listed. Beyond those, I had a quick look around the various lists to find the lucky #25, and that's how I realized the fudging up of the other accounts like the Chronicle, Republic etc, so I extended the list to beyond 25, as a means or righting a previous slight I suppose J. If I missed your newspaper, I apologize. I'll happily share the Google doc with you so you can add it yourself, or if you feel like updating Robert Quigley's list of 200 papers (thus further emphasizing my point that someone like ComScore should really be tracking this stuff instead)
- A word about growth rates since the October lists: The Chronicle, Star Tribune and Washington Post lead with 127%, 91% and 84% (followed by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution with 63% – shameless plug, they are one of Cox Media Group's papers – and a handful of others in the 40-50% range). Interestingly, there is one account that had a negative growth rate: The Chicago Tribune @coloneltribune account with -2%. Ouch. I wonder what the story is there.
Top newspapers by Twitter followers
Piard is the social media manager for Cox Media Group Digital
Entry Filed under: Guest Post,Twitter,Uncategorized
Pingback: The top newspapers on Twitter? Try this list « « Big Engine Media Big Engine Media
Pingback: An updated list of the "top" newspapers on Twitter | Invisible Inkling
Pingback: In the Tumblr vs. WordPress debate, I decided to go with… both | Mathilde Piard


text:
What is your favorite place to find clothes for children?
Target, Target, Target. I'm already going there a couple times a week anyway, but Target also has amazing sales. If you shop the racks often and buy ahead of yourself, you can get the cutest things at a fraction of the price.
And another cheap hidden gem: Old Navy. Maybe it's because there's not one very near my house, but I always forget about Old Navy. They have the cutest trendy clothes for baby. I really like shopping there for darling sweaters, coats, and shoes, and their girls' leggings are normally a heck of a bargain.
Plus, let's not forget H&M. Sure your kid and every other kid on the playground will be dressed exactly alike; but those Swedes know what they're doing and the clothes are just darn cute.
But let's say that I have all the money in the world to spend and I feel like dressing my baby in something she can't get dirty for some reason. Then I'm all about the Baby GAP and Janie & Jack. You just can't deny the cuteness.
(Denverites: One of my favorite baby consignment shops is in Golden, called "Bumps and Bundles." They have really high-end baby clothes for good prices.)


text:
CSS has a property called content. It can only be used with the pseudo elements :after and :before. It is written like a pseudo selector (with the colon), but it's called a pseudo element because it's not actually selecting anything that exists on the page but adding something new to the page. This is what it looks like:
.email-address:before {
content: "Email address: ";
With this CSS in place, we could have this HTML:

[email protected]

And the output would be like:
• Email address: [email protected]
Maybe that example doesn't get you drooling, but pseduo element content can be quite useful and do cool things. Let's go through some ideas and considerations.
Hey! That's content not design!
The first concern might be that of a separation-between-content-and-design purist. You are literally adding text content to the page with CSS content, and that breaks that barrier. The spec is done and the idea implemented, but that doesn't mean it's not worth discussing. If you have an opinion about CSS content and its use, please share in the comments.
I think it's awesome and perfectly suited for CSS. Consider the example above where we preface all elements with a class of email-address with the text "Email address: ". That is a design decision, where for the clarity of content, it was decided that having that text before email addresses made the content more clear. Perhaps in a redesign of the site, there was less room where those email addresses are being displayed and it was decided that instead of prefacing them with text, a small icon would be used instead. This fits with the idea of CSS, in that the HTML content doesn't need to change at all, this change could be solely accomplished with CSS.
I'm going to publish an article tomorrow with this kind of idea.
Using Special Characters
If you need to use a special character in the CSS content, it's kinda weird. How I do it is I figure out what the ASCII number is for the symbol. This chart of glyphs is handy. So on that chart the copyright © symbol is © - so the ASCII number is 169. Then I drop that number in the Entity Conversion Calculator which will convert it into what you need for CSS.
Here's some random useful ones:
\2018 - Left Single Smart Quote
\2019 - Right Single Smart Quote
\00A9 - Copyright
\2713 - Checkmark
\2192 - Right arrow
\2190 - Left arrow
Example Trick: Checkmark visited links
Mark your visited links with checkmarks:
#main-content a:visited:before {
content: "\2713 ";
Using Attributes
You are able to insert attributes of the elements you are targeting as content. For example, an anchor link might have a title attribute:
CSS-Tricks
You can access that title attribute from the content property like:
a:before {
content: attr(title) ": ";
Any attribute can be targeted as such, in the format attr(name-of-attribute). If you'd like to insert something into the HTML to use for a CSS content purpose (but nothing else), you could use the new data- attribute prefix in HTML5.
Example Trick: CSS3 tooltips
Tooltips for links based on the title attribute:
a {
color: #900;
text-decoration: none;
a:hover {
color: red;
position: relative;
a[title]:hover:after {
content: attr(title);
padding: 4px 8px;
color: #333;
position: absolute;
left: 0;
top: 100%;
white-space: nowrap;
z-index: 20px;
-moz-border-radius: 5px;
-webkit-border-radius: 5px;
border-radius: 5px;
-moz-box-shadow: 0px 0px 4px #222;
-webkit-box-shadow: 0px 0px 4px #222;
box-shadow: 0px 0px 4px #222;
background-image: -moz-linear-gradient(top, #eeeeee, #cccccc);
background-image: -webkit-gradient(linear,left top,left bottom,color-stop(0, #eeeeee),color-stop(1, #cccccc));
background-image: -webkit-linear-gradient(top, #eeeeee, #cccccc);
background-image: -moz-linear-gradient(top, #eeeeee, #cccccc);
background-image: -ms-linear-gradient(top, #eeeeee, #cccccc);
background-image: -o-linear-gradient(top, #eeeeee, #cccccc);
Now this example uses the title attribute, and other examples like this that you find around the web also use the title attribute. It's probably the correct one to use. However, do note that browsers have their own tooltip popups that they do. When that comes up, it will cover this, and look weird. I tried to take a screenshot of the issue but there it wasn't letting me for some reason. There is no way to suppress this, other than just not using the title attribute. HTML5 data- attributes, again, could be useful here.
Points to consider
- Firebug can't yet target pseduo elements. The web inspector in WebKit browsers can target them, but don't show their property/values. I heard the IE dev tools could target them too, but not sure about the property/values.
- In WebKit, they have to be block level to be rotated. Firefox can rotate inline elements/pseudo-elements.
- In Firefox 3.0, pseudo elements can't be absolutely positioned.
- They cannot be transitioned or animated.
Example Trick: Fancy email link popouts
I had an idea I wanted to try where you would have a vertical list of names, and as you moused over them, their email addresses would slide out from underneath them. To have the HTML be as clean as possible, I thought it would be cool to use the an :after pseudo element and a -webkit-transition to make it happen. But, alas, you cannot animate or transition a pseudo element.
Using the :after/content method, I got an example working it just doesn't slide out like I thought would be cool. Using s I got the idea working, also in the demo page.
Example trick: display full links in print stylesheets
@media print {
#main-content a[href]:after { " (" attr(href) ") "; }
Browser support / Accessibility
All the major browsers (Firefox 3+, Safari 3+, Chrome 3+, Opera 10+, and Internet Explorer 8+) (See the full chart) support CSS content with the :after/:before pseudo elements and the spec is in it's full candidate recommendation status.
Regarding accessibility, I'm just not 100% sure what the situation was. I was trying to use VoiceOver with Safari on my Mac with the email popout links demo. For best accessibility, I would think the goal would be to get it to read the whole text, including the CSS content being added. I had trouble getting it to do that, but I thought I did get it to do it once somehow. I was really bad at using VoiceOver and found it frustrating to get it to do what I was trying to do even at the most basic levels. If someone knows more about accessibility as it relates to CSS content, I'm sure we'd all love to know more.


text:
It's day 9 of our Sew It All 13 Days of Giveaways on our blog!
Remember to enter to win each day by answering a question in the Comments section. Also, we will be giving away a GRAND PRIZE, your own copy of Sew It All, Season 1! You will be automatically entered to win the grand prize every time you comment on a giveaway day question.
Congratulations to Friday's winners; Bobbi, Cookie Franks, Donna Russ and Maggi S. Please email firstname.lastname@example.com with your mailing address to receive your prize.
Today, we're giving away a copy of Sew, Craft, Quilt and embroider Confidently with Sulky Stabilizers by Joyce Drexler to one winner! (Check out Eric Drexler's episode, "Free-Motion Frenzy" and download the project for free.)
For your chance to win, answer this question in the comments section:
Did you watch all 13 episodes from season 1 or did you only catch one or two? You can purchase season 1 at quiltandsewshop.com.
Enter your answer below and good luck! Tomorrow, we'll announce today's winner and the question for Day 10!


text:
- Bands (3)
- Choirs (8)
- Musical groups (14)
- Opera (2)
- Orchestras (1)
Filter your list
- Bands (3)
- Choirs (8)
- Musical groups (14)
- Opera (2)
- Orchestras (1)
Filter your list
50+ Singing Group Melody Moments
Singing group for over 50's, not a choir, the group is for people that have a love of singing all kinds of songs. No audition, the only requirement is being able to sing and to hold a tune.
Mo Baxter
07579004190 0114 2507001 Leave a message if no-one in the office
Abbeydale Orchestra
Wednesday mornings in term time, 10.00 to 12.00
This is a rehearsal orchestra which plays a wide range of music. Our aim is to have fun making music and to improve our skills.
Anne Huggins
0114 2686120 077631 08833
Abbeydale Singers
Thursday at 7.30- 9.45 pm
Abbeydale Singers is an a capella choral group. Meets at Fulwood Old Chapel, S10 (Thursday).
Aston Church Choir
Thursday Evenings, 7pm - 8:30pm rehearsals every week other than in August
We are a good quality church choir of around 15-20, mixed and of all ages (10-70!), currently looking for new members male or female. We sing Sunday services and some paid weddings. If you enjoy good sacred choral music then this choir is for you!
Ian Watts
0115 9637647 07950 753429
BeVox (Community Choir)
Thursday 7-9pm (term-time only), please see website to confirm dates
BeVox is an adult singing group for those that want to sing high quality musical arrangements in a fun and friendly group.
01226 712173
CAST - Creative Arts Support Team
CAST is part of Recovery Enterprises www.recoveryenterprises.co.uk and is for people who have lived experience of mental health issues, volunteers and workers who are passionate about arts for mental health and wellbeing. CAST runs regular workshops as part of the Time Builders Programme at St…
Chrissie Hinde
Chrissie Hinde 07592 589167 Neil Simpson 07534106339
Community Choir - Stannington Mixed Choir
Thursday 19:30 - 21:30 at Knowle Top Chapel, Stannington: Stannington Mixed Choir is a community choir based at Knowle Top Chapel, Stannington. We welcome new and experienced singers so you don't need to be able to read music - but we do want you to enjoy…
Fred Holmes and Sue Mason
Fred Holmes 0114 2346803; Sue Mason 0114 2348500
Council and Carers Choir
The sessions are fun, there are no auditions, everyone is welcome, and you come when you can so there is no feeling of letting anyone down if something unexpected crops up. So if you 'don't like Mondays', why not give the Council and Carers Choir…
Jan Outram
0114 278 8942
Ecclesfield Church Bell Ringers
Tuesday & Friday 7.30-9pm (practice)
A local church bell ringers group. Meets at St Mary's Church, Ecclesfield in S35 on Tuesdays and Fridays from 7:30 to 9:00pm and for Sunday services at 9:15 am and 5:45 pm
Phil Hirst
0114 2862766
Forget-Me-Nots Singing Group
Tuesday evenings from 5pm till 7pm
The For-Get-Me-Nots Singing Group is there to for anyone needing an uplift in life, to meet friendly people and have some fun. No singing experience necessary.
Diane Cairns
0114 252 1072
Let's Sing!
A singing workshop for all abilities.
Steve Hibbert
07703 174 237
Meersbrook Park Church Operatic Society
MPCOS is a friendly operatic society, performing Gilbert and Sullivan comic operettas. No auditions required to join the chorus. Everyone from the age of 14 updates welcome.
Steve Hibbert
07703 174237
Minerva Women's Acapella Chorus
We are a friendly group of women who love close harmony unaccompanied singing. We welcome women of all ages - no need to read music as we provide tracks to help learn the songs. We rehearse in Walton Chesterfield every Monday evening 7.30 - 9.30pm…
Raise The Roof
2nd Thursday in the month at 8.30pm (except Aug)
Raise the Roof is a folk singing club where everyone gets the opportunity to lead a song they know, regardless of experience. Raise the Roof is not a music session. Everyone is welcome. The songs are interesting with lots of choruses and harmonies to join…
Sheffield Bach Society
Monday evenings from 7.30pm - 9.30pm
Sheffield Bach Choir was founded in1950. Around 60 strong, under our conductor Simon Lindley, we have built a reputation for musical excellence with dynamiic performances of modern classics and Baroque masterpieces. The choir regularly performs three of Bach's major choral masterpieces: Mass in B Minor, St Matthew Passion and St John Passion as well as Handel'sMessiah every December.
Liz Arnesen
07960 523 911
Sheffield City Opera
Wednesday 7:30-10pm (rehearsals, please see website for latest information)
Sheffield City Opera is Sheffield's only amateur operatic company. Over the past few years as well as performing concerts of staged scenes in local venues we have staged full performances of Massenet Cinderella, Gounod Faust, and Mozart Magic Flute. Next Production We are currently…
Marjorie Skidmore
0114 230 3204 07547 230632
Sheffield Community Choir
Thursday 7:30pm - 9:00pm
We are a gospel community choir based in Sheffield, we perform for events all around the country from concerts, backing artist, weddings, funerals, promotions for corporate events etc. If you require a comprehensive quote please contact us via email - firstname.lastname@example.com
Janine Dyer
0114 400 0047
Sheffield Concert Band
Sheffield Concert Band is an adult wind band which regularly performs concerts in and around South Yorkshire and North Derbyshire. We rehearse on Sunday mornings from 10.00 - 12.00 at Croft House Settlement, Garden Street, Sheffield 1.
Anne Huggins
0114 2686120
Sheffield Jazz
See website for venues, times and prices of performances
Sheffield Jazz is a charitable company which aims to bring the best of British and international jazz performers to Sheffield though our concert programmes, and raise awareness about jazz music in Sheffield and South Yorkshire. Live performances by top musicians are run in various venues in the city between September…
Celia Cashman
Sheffield Philatelic Society
1st Wednesday in the month at 2pm (chat & swap), 2nd & 4th Thursday in the month at 7.15pm (except August, only one meeting in December; speakers, competitions and displays)
Sheffield Philatelic society is a not-for-profit society that meets three times a month. The society was founded in 1894 and is one of the oldest philatelic societies in the country. The society has a programme of speakers, competitions, and displays and an informal chat and…
Ken Rutter
0114 268 0088
Sheffield Philharmonic Chorus
Rehearsals on Tuesdays from 19.00 to 21.15, September to June; see website for details
Large high quality choir open to anyone who can sing
Sheffield Socialist Choir
Thursday (choir rehearsal)
We are a political choir, not affiliated to any particular party. Open to anyone who shares our vision of singing to promote and celebrate freedom, justice and peace around the world.
Sheffield Viola Ensemble
An all-viola ensemble for adult players who want to get together to play great music, just for pleasure, in a friendly and supportive group.
Dr Jenny Jackson
Sosa-Xa Choir (Sounds of Southern Africa)
Meeting every Monday during term time 7.30pm-9.15pm (beginners coaching from 7pm)
Intercultural Community Choir, - friendly choir open to all. Lead by Tonderai Phiri from Zimbabwe the choir sings songs in a variety of southern African languages -no auditions and no previous experience required. Just bring your love of singing. Join us at the Quaker Meeting House 10 St James St. S1 2EVV. Monday 7.30pm to 9.15pm (term time only) with extra support for beginners from 7pm.
St Marys Church, Handsworth - Bell Ringing
Wednesday 7.30-9pm
Church Bell Ringing at St Mary's Church, Handsworth. The group will teach people with no experience from aged 11 years. New members welcome. Sessions held in S13 (Wednesday)


text:
DOWNERS GROVE — It was a couple years after their trip to Philippines that John and Nancy Economou came up with their bright idea.
After visiting missionaries working in one of that country's poorest regions — which lacked electricity and running water and where night-time light was provided by dim kerosene lamps — the Downers Grove couple set out to deliver light to those who needed it.
Out of that kernel grew Watts of Love, a charity founded last year with the mission to deliver solar-powered lights to those around the world without electricity.
The Economou's efforts paid off this month with a trip back to the Philippines, when they delivered 1,000 of the solar-powered lights to the Filipino island.
"The response was enormous. After everything you always hear about the poor, but to go and see it," Nancy Economou said. "I just thought about our five young boys."
Wherever the lights are delivered, Watts of Love will work with a local nongovernmental organization — both to ensure the lights go to the right people and to follow up afterward, John Economou said.
In the case of the Philippines, the missionaries plan to report how the lights affect students' grades in the area.
"We can gauge the impact these things have," he said.
Watts of Love is already planning another trip — Mozambique sometime in between July and December. They'd like to at least match and possibly double their 1,000-light contribution.
In that time, they'd also like to make it a self-sustaining nonprofit. (They've filed an application for a 501-(c)(3) status.)
The idea is to wed the nonprofit with the services provided by John Economou's business, Aureole LED, which installs LED and energy-efficient lighting for new construction and renovations.
Retrofitting corporate buildings with LED lights provides energy savings, John Economou said. The Economous hope to entice some businesses to donate a portion of those savings to the charity.
The lights are relatively inexpensive. The lights on the first trip this month were finances by several private donors.
They retail for about $43, but the cost $20 for the charity. By sharing office space with Aureole LED in Lombard, just north of Butterfield Road, they can keep their overhead and administrative costs low.
"Everyone gets something," Nancy Economou said. "They get their retrofit, they get their savings."
The solar-power light has four settings. The lowest, which was still brighter than a kerosene lamp, can run for 100 hours without a sunlight charge. The other, brighter settings can run for 24, 12 and eight hours. The brightest setting delivers the equivalent to a 4- watt bulb.
The light also includes an adapter for a cell phone charger, which can be as crucial.
In many parts of the developing world — where 21st century digitization is taking off without as much 20th century infrastructure — cell phones do more than just handle calls. According to a World Bank report published in July, they are also used by individuals for financial transactions and business developments and by governments to deliver services.
In the Philippines, the business aspect was a big part of the solar lights' impact, she said.
Nancy Economou recalled one mother who found nothing to do after the sun went down but to wait for bedtime. With the solar light, however, she could put a couple hours into her cottage industry — widdling down bamboo sticks, which she could then sell at market. After returning the next day, Nancy Economou recalled, she widdled dozens of the skewers.
"They doubled their family income in 12 hours," she said. "It's exciting, we really saw the direct impact. Sitting here in Downers Grove, we can only think about all the implications, how it can be used."
Downers Grove charity lets there be light
DOWNERS GROVE — It was a couple years after their trip to Philippines that John and Nancy Economou came up with their bright idea.


text:
Bmachine wrote:Thank you AlanS for this good info.
I was about to post a similar question but then I found this so let me thank you in the name of the OP... ;-)
I also found some related info on the Kolor site, including coding examples, here:
http://www.autopano.net/wiki-en/action/ ... publishing
I will be testing this out in the next few days.
Andrew Lyons wrote:The OP stated that his site is with Zenfolio. Mine is also with them and they block Iframes so that approach doesn't work.
I'm trying to find a way around, but my coding skills aren't very good I'm afraid.
I can embed the SWF file in a Zenfolio page as per these examples http://www.andrewlyonsphotography.com/v ... hotography
This obviously works OK on a device that supports flash, but not so good for other platforms. I need to find out how to code the page so that the HTML version loads. any help would be appreciated. Other than that I'll have to put a link below to the site where the tours are hosted, so that it loads the HTML page created by PTP, in a new window.
There is also an issue with the bottom tour (of the show home), which was created in PTP V2 (the others are 1.8). The full screen and floorplan icons don't work? any ideas.
edgar_ali wrote:Does this code: <iframe src="http://yourdomain.com/folder/yourpanotour.html" style="border:0px #FFFFFF none;" name="myiFrame" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" marginheight="0px" marginwidth="0px" height="700px" width="950px" allowfullscreen="true" mozallowfullscreen="true" webkitallowfullscreen="true"></iframe>
work with the SWF files?
Users browsing this forum: No registered users and 2 guests


text:
There are no products matching the selection.
Get pool ready with Zoggs' line of men's swimwear. With a cool collection of swim shorts and trunks, you can have the perfect look without compromising on performance.
Our range of jammers and racers are ideal for pool practice while our stylish shorts are perfect for leisure. With durable, long-lasting material guaranteed in a range of functional swimwear across a range of sizes, you can rely on Zoggs for a comfortable swim.
Stylish designs
We've got the perfect collection of swimwear for the pool and the beach.
With trunks and shorts in classic colours such as black and navy as well as striking, eye-catching designs, you'll find subtlety and style to match your personality.
We offer swim shorts with mesh lining for modesty and twin pockets for convenience on those sunny holidays.
Performance driven
Our range of men's swimwear is tailored to ensure maximum performance in the pool. Glide through water in trunks that are smooth and hydrodynamic and experience reduced drag for a resistance-free swim in Zoggs swim shorts. We only use long-lasting, high-quality materials so you can feel confident in our durable swimwear.
Hydrolife™ products feature chlorine-resistant fabric that guarantees 200 hours of pool swimming with complete colour and shape retention. Durafeel™ is a soft and comfortable fabric with a 750-hour assurance for pool swimming, and Aqualast™ delivers a lifetime promise of snag resistance.
Complete collection
We pride ourselves on offering a huge selection of swimwear for however you decide to hit the water. Explore Zoggs range of swim shorts, trunks, wetsuits and jammers.
Perfectly fitted and durable, our swimwear is ideal for a frequent competitor. Elasticated drawstring waistbands allow you to adapt your shorts for a customised fit, so you can always swim in comfort and confidence.
Our men's swimwear is available in sizes S-XXL and waist measurements 30" to 40".


text:
Dolphins are mysteriously dying along New Jersey beaches, and the cause is a mystery.
They have been found in Seaside Heights, Long Beach Island and other locations, bringing the total number found on the Jersey shore to 58 since since July 9.
Director Robert Schoelkopf of the Marine Mammal Stranding Center tells The Press of Atlantic City the dolphins appear to be dying of viral pneumonia, but the cause is unknown.
U.S. & World
The day's top national and international news.
Researchers are investigating what may have killed more than 124 dolphins found stranded in coastal areas in the Mid-Atlantic region since July — seven times the historic average, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration officials said. All but seven of the dolphins were already dead when they were discovered, and each of those eventually died or had to be euthanized.
It isn't clear whether an infectious disease is causing the deaths; scientists plan to test blood and tissue for viruses, bacteria, fungi and biotoxins, among other things. But humans and marine mammals do share common pathogens, and anyone who finds a dead dolphin is being urged to stay away from it and contact authorities.
The discoveries have led the federal agency to declare an unusual mortality event for bottlenose dolphins, a significant designation that Congress created in the wake of the in the 1989 Exxon Valdez oil spill and previous dolphin kill-off.
The declaration means scientists will have access to additional research funding. That investigation and analysis by teams of national and international experts could take months or even years to finalize, and officials say there is likely little they can do to stop the deaths unless the root cause is ultimately blamed on humans. And determining a cause is difficult: Of the 60 unusual mortality events declared since 1991, causes have been determined for only 29 of them.
Among dolphins, other strandings have also been caused by trauma, starvation, algal blooms and pollution.
At the top of the suspect list for the deaths is the same disease that led to 740 dolphins dying between New Jersey and Florida in 1987 and 1988, a morbillivirus infection. Morbillivirus is found in a broad range of marine mammals like seals, and its symptoms often involve lesions appearing in the lungs and central nervous tissues. Many of the dolphins have washed up badly decomposed, and lesions have been found in some of them.


text:
Dating Guide
London's for lovers. Find out why...
More Info...
London Fashion
Street styles and designer runway shows...
More Info
High street trends and info on the best shops...
More Info
Health & Beauty
Nurture your body, mind and spirit...
Welcome to LondonNet's ladies only section, where we provide the latest information about your favourite celebrities, the hottest styles and the best ways to entertain yourself in the city. No matter what interests you--sightseeing, relaxation, men--we'll tell you how to get what you desire.
LondonNet has a great selection of female only London accommodation. Whether you are a woman travelling to London alone or in a group of girls we have a choice of centrally-located accommodation providers just for ladies. Read More
Looking for a brand new fling? Let us make your search easier, with our lists of the best spots to find love prospects, dating tips and more. Read More
How trendy are you? Keep yourself looking fabulous with the help of our fashion section, where you can critique the latest street styles and designer runway shows, then see where to find the looks you love. Read More
If it's time to expand your wardrobe, we can help you pick the best shops to search. Have your purse ready, because London fashion is fast-paced. Read More
And at the end of the day, you deserve a little time to relax. Take some of our advice to pamper both your body and your mind. You know you want to. Read More
- Jill Hilbrenner


text:
National Organizations Treadlightly: http://www.treadlightly.org/ National Off-Highway Vehicle Conservation Council: http://www.nohvcc.org/
Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle Association: http://www.rohva.org
American Motorcyclist Association: http://www.ama-cycle.org Sound Resources Motorcycle Industry Council: http://www.mic.org/ (Sound meter/Safety specific information: Click on "MIC Downloads" at the top of the MIC main page) U.S. Forest Service Spark Arrester Guide: http://www.fs.fed.us/recreation/programs/ohv/OHV_SAG2007.pdf
OHV Safety Education (Online) Oregon Parks ATV Safety Education Course www.rideatvoregon.org. Free to all. Fresh Air Educators www.atvcourse.com/usa/oregon. Cost is $29.95
Kalkomey Enterprises, Inc. www.offroad-ed.com/oregon/. Cost is $29.50
Plans U.S. Forest Service-National OHV Policy and Implementation: www.fs.fed.us/recreation/programs/ohv/ Oregon State Parks-Statewide Trails Plan:
OHV Organizations Oregon OHV organizations Volunteering Rates and Oregon Labor Resources Independent Sector-Volunteer rates https://independentsector.org/resource/the-value-of-volunteer-time/ Northwest Youth Corps (NYC): http://nwyouthcorps.org/ Youth Conservation Corps (YCC): http://www.youthconservationcorps.org/
Arizona CaliforniaColoradoIdaho Illinois Indiana MinnesotaMontana Nevada North Dakota Utah WashingtonWisconsin
Recreation Trails Program (RTP): Great resource for ATV Grant projects that provide on the ground work considered as "Development". Eligible applicants include Federal and State Agencies as well as non-profit motorcycle clubs. http://www.oregon.gov/oprd/GRANTS/pages/trails.aspx
Polaris T.R.A.I.L.S. Grant Program: http://www.polaris.com/en-us/company/trails-application.aspx Yamaha OHV G.R.A.N.T. Initiative: http://www.yamahaoai.com/
This program focuses on funding trail projects that benefit all OHV user types (ATV, Motorcycle, side-by-side). Equipment purchases are not allowed.
4-H Safety Grants: http://www.atv-youth.org/grants.html
Adobe Reader, or equivalent, is required to view PDF files. Click the "Get Adobe Reader" image to get a free download of the reader from Adobe.
Are you sure you would like to leave?
You are currently running an old version of IE, please upgrade for better performance.


text:
Protection, Purification, Spirituality
Primary Chakras: Third Eye, Crown
Astrological signs: Pisces, Virgo, Aquarius, Capricorn More Info... Online Catalog
See More Summary Info See Less Summary Info
Amethyst Cathedral Geodes #13-18 (Brazil) - These beautiful Amethyst Cathedral Geodes from Brazil are a lovely deep purple color. With beautiful crystals and wonderful formations, these Amethyst Cathedrals not only make a beautiful display piece, but also infuse your space with powerful healing energy.
Amethyst is a powerful and protective crystal, and is a first choice of many metaphysicians. Amethyst was used in ancient times to recover from both physical addictions as well as addictive relationships, and became known as the "stone of sobriety". A natural stress reliever, Amethyst encourages and supports inner strength.
Amethyst opens and activates the Crown Chakra as well, allowing easier access to the divine. Amethyst enhances spiritual awareness and spiritual wisdom, promoting a higher state of consciousness. Amethyst clears and repairs holes in the aura and draws in Divine energy, as well as aligning and fostering cooperation between the energy bodies.
Physically, Amethyst can help to alleviate headaches and migraines. It dispels nightmares and helps with insomnia. Amethyst can also reduce eyestrain, especially when working at a computer.
Please note: Over time, Amethyst will fade in direct sunlight.


text:
The suites in Friedli and Hofer, found on the north end of campus near the Wehr Center, offer suite-style living for upperclass students.
Each suite contains four double bedrooms and shares a bathroom and furnished living area. The Hofer side of the suites houses chapter rooms for Lakeland's six Greek organizations. All areas of these halls are tobacco-free.Click Here To See the Floor Plan


text:
Ocean Running Mt Maunganui
Tuesday, 7 January 2020
Mount Ocean Sports Club, Mt Maunganui
Ocean Running Mt Maunganui on Tuesday, 7 January 2020 is a scenic 5km fun run and walk around the Mauao base track; the series is held every Tuesday evening during daylight savings.
Enter at Mount Ocean Sports Club on Pilot Bay from 5.15pm onwards. Walkers start at 5.40pm and runners at 6.00pm. The $6 entry fee includes a free drink and a chance to win a spot prize after the run. Children under 12 are free.
Any surpluses from the entry fee goes back to the community and local charities.
Ocean Running Mt Maunganui
- Next in series (14 January 2020)
- Previous in series (17 December 2019)


text:
Röyksopp's Adventures in Barbieland
Svein Berge and Torbjørn Brundtland of Röyksopp, respectively as a sleeping hobo and an old man, spent some time in Barbieland, which is what you would expect to be Waylon Smithers' house.
The video is a promotional vehicle for the launch on their next album, entitled Senior and scheduled in September. The director is Andreas Nilsson.Also tagged abat-jour, Andreas Nilsson, billiard, dance, dolls, eyeglasses, gym, headphones, interview, OSD, pregnancy, Royksopp, sleeping, toys, vegetables


text:
Gary Power is 4-2 this season playing primarily at the No. 3 position on the ladder (Gil Talbot).
Scene Setter
The No. 3 Harvard men's squash team makes the short trip to Amherst to take on the No. 23 Jeffs and No. 11 Western Ontario in the Pioneer Round Robin.
Last Time Out
The Crimson went 1-1 in Ivy League play over the weekend to go to 2-1 overall in the conference. Harvard began the weekend by dominating No. 13 Penn, 9-0, and sweeping all nine matches 3-0 from the Quakers before facing top-ranked Princeton. In a showdown at Jadwin Squash Courts, Harvard came up just short, dropping a 5-4 decision to the Tigers. Ali Farag earned a 3-1 win over All-American Todd Harrity at the No. 1 position, while Jason Michas and Tommy Mullaney both recorded sweeps to improve to 6-0 on the year. Zeke Scherl also picked up a win at No. 7 for the Crimson, but it wasn't enough to topple the reigning national champions.
Related Article: No. 3 Harvard Routs No. 13 Penn, 9-0
Related Article: No. 3 Men's Squash Comes Up Just Short Against No. 1 Princeton, 5-4
About No. 3 Harvard
Harvard sits at 8-1 overall and 2-1 in the Ivy League entering the weekend. Junior Ali Farag continues to lead the Crimson, boasting a 5-0 mark on the season at the No. 1 position. Senior Jason Michas and junior Tommy Mullaney are tied for the team-lead with six wins apiece, while Zeke Scherl, Matt Roberts, Sam Goldberg and Brandon McLaughlin are all 5-1.
Zeroing In
Harvard swept its first three opponents of the season for the 21st time in program history before finally losing a match to No. 6 Rochester. The three consecutive sweeps to begin a year is the longest streak since Harvard swept the first four matches of 2006-07. Harvard's program record for consecutive shutouts to begin a season is six, which it did it 2004-05, 1991-92 and 1972-73. The program record for shutouts in a season is 12, set by the 1991-92 team and equaled by the 1994-95 squad. Thus far, Harvard has swept seven of its nine opponents with No. 5 Rochester and No. 1 Princeton winning the only matches against the Crimson.
Coach's View
Assistant coach Luke Hammond is now blogging to give fans an inside perspective of the Harvard men's and women's squash teams. The blog will be periodically updated throughout the season, recapping the latest results and highlighting other interesting tidbits about the squad.
Related Link: Harvard Squash Blog
Undefeated Ali
Junior Ali Farag is a perfect 21-0 in his Harvard squash career. The Egypt native went 16-0 last season, including an 11-0 mark at the No. 1 position, en route to the individual CSA title and is off to a 5-0 start this year after picking up wins against Dartmouth, Rochester, Bates, Penn and Princeton.
About No. 23 Amherst (Team Page)
The Jeffs are just 3-5 overall and on a three-game losing streak after falling to Bowdoin 8-1 Wednesday night. The squad topped Northeastern and MIT, 9-0, and edged Connecticut College, 5-4, but has dropped decisions to Drexel, George Washington, Middlebury, Bates and Bowdoin. Amherst does field a young squad with four upperclassmen, five sophomores and six freshmen on the roster. Rookie Noah Brown has assumed the No. 1 position on the team, and second team All-NESCAC selection Scott DeSantis has moved to No. 3.
Series History Against Amherst
The Crimson is undefeated against Amherst, winning all 48 matches in the series dating back to 1941. After a seven year hiatus, the series was renewed last year, and Harvard prevailed 9-0 at home.
About No. 11 Western Ontario (Team Page)
The Mustangs bring a 7-2 mark into the weekend after besting Brown, 8-1, Wednesday. Western Ontario has also defeated Stanford, Williams, McGill, Toronto, Queens and Concordia this year, while dropping a 5-4 decision to the US Naval Academy and a 6-3 verdict to Cornell.
All-Time Record vs. Western Ontario
Harvard holds a 13-1 advantage in the all-time series, winning the last 13 matches after dropping the first match 5-4 in 1977. In the last meeting between the two schools, Harvard prevailed, 8-1, Jan. 13, 2011.
Successful Starts
Harvard is 56-1 in its last 57 opening matches dating back to 1956. Harvard started the year 8-0 for the second straight season after beginning last year 10-0.
Meet the Captains
Jason Michas and Zeke Scherl were voted co-captains for the 2012-13 season. Michas, who also served as a co-captain last year, went 11-2 last season playing in a variety of positions for the Crimson, while Scherl was 12-6 overall after playing in five different spots.
Welcome Back
Harvard returns nearly everybody from last year's squad with Will Ahmed '12 serving as the lone exception. Defending national champion Ali Farag returns for his junior season after posting an 11-0 mark at the No. 1 position and 16-0 record overall in his inaugural campaign in Cambridge. He's joined by fellow All-American Brandon McLaughlin, who finished 10-8. Overall, Harvard returns 97.6 percent (160/164) of its matches won in 2011-12.
Third is the Word
In the CSA preseason rankings, Harvard was ranked as the third best team in college squash. The Crimson sits behind No. 1 Princeton and No. 2 Trinity, who finished in those positions to conclude last season, as well.
Related Article: Men's Squash Ranked No. 3 in CSA Preseason Rankings
New Faces
Six freshmen have joined the squad for the 2012-13 season. They are Walker Evans, Sam Goldberg, Peter Janulis, Jake Matthews, Matt Roberts and James Watkins. The sextet hails from four states (Connecticut, New Jersey, New York and Connecticut) and three countries (the United States, South Africa and the United Kingdom).
Last Season
Harvard outlasted Cornell, 5-4, in the third-place match of the CSA Team Championships in Princeton, N.J. Ali Farag breezed to an easy victory at No. 1, while then-junior captain No. 8 Jason Michas and then-sophomore No. 2 Brandon McLaughlin both rallied from 2-0 deficits to lift Harvard past the Big Red.
Leading the Way
Mike Way, The Gregory Lee '87 and Russell Ball '88 Endowed Coach for Squash at Harvard University, returns for his third season at the helm of the Crimson. In just over two seasons, his teams have posted a combined 33-11 mark, including a 16-4 record last year. Both of his assistants, Reg Schonborn and Luke Hammond, are back for 2012-13, as well.
Related Video: Men's Squash Looks to Build on Success in 2012-13
Up Next
Harvard jumps back into Ivy League play with matches against Columbia and Cornell Feb. 2 and 3.


text:
Finding The Funny by Ryan Pilling - Book
|A Professional Entertainer's Guide to Improvisation, Ad-Libs, and Audience Interaction.
Learn the techniques to creating inspired moments of comedy, and getting the best out of your audience volunteers.
This guidebook will help the practiced magician, juggler, clown and other entertainers add the sparkle of spontaneity to their performances.
You'll learn the techniques to developing a quick wit and discovering opportunities for comedy at every turn. It covers strategies for adding funny moments into your show, and practice techniques for sharpening your skills. How to write and develop new routines using improvisation. The secrets to letting every audience volunteer be at their best to create hilarious moments of comedy and interaction.
If you want to improve your performances, and have a stronger connection with your audiences, this book will help you get you there.
Content Sections:
There have been no reviews


text:
America's Cup cost to S.F. more than doubles
Expenses for port added in new budget analysis / Preliminary report didn't include expenses for port
(02-10) 21:14 PST SAN FRANCISCO -- San Francisco's red ink from the 34th America's Cup doubled Monday, with updated figures showing the city lost $11.5 million hosting the event.
Preliminary figures released in December showed the regatta had cost taxpayers at least $5.5 million, but that number did not include expenses for the Port of San Francisco, a city department with its own budget funded by rent revenue from its property, not taxes.
The Cup and two related exhibition matches in 2012 had a net cost to the port of $5.5 million, and their cost to the general fund, the city's main spending account, was revised upward to $6 million, according to a new report by the Board of Supervisors budget and legislative analyst. That meant the event cost the city a total of $11.5 million.
The latest analysis, requested by Supervisor John Avalos, a critic of the regatta, also presented a mixed picture on the economic benefits for San Franciscans, finding that officials failed to track local hiring and the inclusion of small businesses during the 2012 events. During the 2013 competitions, however, more than half of the 953 people hired under contracts with race organizers were San Franciscans.
The new findings come as Mayor Ed Lee's administration has reached an impasse in negotiations with software billionaire Larry Ellison's Oracle Team USA sailing club about hosting the next Cup in 2017.
5 race sites on table
Russell Coutts, the CEO of Ellison's sailing team, recently said the organization is looking at five U.S. locations as possible host sites, including San Francisco, San Diego and Hawaii. The winning race syndicate gets to determine the location and boat type for the next Cup, and Ellison's team, sponsored by San Francisco's Golden Gate Yacht Club, has won back-to-back contests.
Hosting sailing's oldest competition, though, did not turn into the financial windfall that organizers and city officials had hoped for. Buffeted by the global economic crisis, few teams were willing to spend the $100 million or more needed to field a competitive team in new, 72-foot, high-tech catamarans used last year.
Projections in 2010 that the races would create $1.4 billion in economic impact for San Francisco fell well short. Instead the figure was $364 million, according to a wrap-up economic impact study by the Bay Area Council Economic Institute released in December. That figure rises to more than $550 million if the long-planned construction of a new cruise ship terminal, which the regatta served as a catalyst to finally get built, is factored in. This new report does not include the impact of the cruise ship terminal because it assumes that it would have been built anyway.
The $1.4 billion figure was based on 15 teams competing, but only four did.
Fundraising also came up short. A committee of civic leaders led by Recreation and Park Commission President Mark Buell sought to raise up to $32 million to cover city costs but ended up with only $12 million. About $8.7 million went to city coffers, according to the latest report. The rest went to cover other obligations under the hosting agreement or was paid elsewhere at the city's direction, including to benefit a nonprofit youth sailing center on Treasure Island for public school children, said Kyri McClellan, CEO of the committee.
Venue rent debated
In total, the city spent $20.5 million out of its general fund. That was reduced by the $8.7 million from Buell's committee and $5.8 million in new tax revenue from the events.
In the negotiations to hold the Cup in San Francisco a second time, the Oracle team has objected to paying rent for venue space that was provided for free last time and being compelled to pay union rates for labor, people involved in the negotiations said.
The new report from Budget and Legislative Analyst Harvey Rose's office, though, specifically calls for the city to charge rent and to ensure the event authority complies "with local hire and prevailing wage requirements for all events covered by the agreement."
"The mayor is looking to come to an agreement with the event authority that is rooted in lessons learned from these past few years," said Lee's spokeswoman, Christine Falvey. "That means a tighter race schedule, more teams, a significant economic impact to San Francisco and an agreement that protects the city's bottom line."
Coutts and others point to the economic benefits, saying the regatta creates thousands of jobs, brings business to local companies and showcases the host city on TV to viewers around the world.
The report found that 517 San Francisco residents were employed in 2013 through contracts with race organizers, known as the America's Cup Event Authority.
Hiring goals, union rates
The event authority met the goal of having 50 percent of the new hires on its contracts be San Francisco residents in 2013, but not in the area of temporary installation work, where only 87 of the 252 people hired to set up grandstands and other structures were from the city, the report found. No information was available for two preliminary races in 2012.
The issue became a political flash point for the Local 22 Carpenters Union, which picketed for weeks outside City Hall and race organizers' offices.
The event authority also failed to pay union-level wages as it had agreed to do, a city audit showed, and was assessed more than $400,000 in back wages. The city also is still trying to verify the number of local small businesses that got some of the 328 event authority contracts. So far, it has found six with a special certification from the city verifying their status as small businesses, according to the report, but there may be more.
That wasn't good enough, said Avalos, the progressive supervisor who commissioned the report.
"Harvey's report shows that the event authority and the Lee administration are really committed to the 'trickle' in 'trickle-down economics,' " Avalos said. "Given the cost to the city and failure on commitments to small businesses and local workers, I'd say it wasn't worth it."
John Coté is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. E-mail: email@example.com


text:
By David "Hayemaker" Haye
Just a quick message to again express how sorry I am for postponing my return to the ring because of injury. It was a tough decision to make, as I didn't want to let anybody down, but was one made easier by the pain I experienced. In the end, I had no choice but to postpone the fight.
The injury occurred on Sunday evening, when I was hitting the heavy bag as ferociously as I always do. After landing a punch, I instantly felt a shooting pain in my left wrist. The pain never stopped.
I went and got it checked out immediately and was told I'd suffered a subluxation of the wrist, and that the pain in the wrist was due to the intercarpal ligaments around the capitate being damaged. The specialist then told me the wrist would take a minimum of four weeks to heal and that I should avoid punching, of any kind, during this period.
As you can imagine, I was totally gutted. After hearing the diagnosis, I knew it was going to be extremely difficult to train the way I wanted to. And, by the time it healed, I would have been way behind schedule. My timing and sharpness would be non-existent come fight night on June 29, as not being able to punch before a boxing match is far from ideal.
Injuries in training happen more often than you think, and I've had to overcome plenty of them in the past. Sometimes you can get around them and fight through the pain. But other times, they just get the better of you. That is what happened to me on Sunday.
It's devastating and has put me back a few steps, but I made the only choice available to me. There was absolutely no way I could take at least a month off from punching and then expect to turn up and beat any world-class heavyweight.
All I can do now is wait for it to heal and get back into the swing of things. I'll keep my weight down, continue eating healthy food, and then, when the time is right, step up the punching side of my training. The wait will be frustrating, both for me and my fans, but as soon as I'm in a position to announce another fight date, my fans will be the first to know. I won't make you wait very long.
For those looking to refund tickets, the best thing to do is contact the point of sale. I've been told Eventim are offering full refunds on all tickets sold, which is great news. Again, so sorry for any inconvenience caused.