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Last week on June 25th, 2008, OEM Depot (better known as OEM Express in Ontario) closed it's last store in Calgary. It was done quietly, silently and without a whimper. With Memory Express in the NE moved to their new location on 34th St NE, people who would go play both stores against one another no longer appeared at OEM's doors. As such, only the few remaining loyal clientele would have discovered the sudden loss of the store, and be greeted with a simple paper sign announcing the white flag of surrender to Memory Express and a hollowed out storefront. This is the latest store to fall in a once growing seven strong, to a muted 3 (as I fully expect Montreal to be the next to fall soon).
Why am I writing about this? I myself only discovered this closure a week after the fact, though it didn't surprised me in the slightest. I ran that store, and the original store on Macleod Trail SW from summer 2003 until I was forced out in early 2007. In retrospect, it was probably more like escaped, but I'll get into that story a little later. But again why? Probably because upon seeing the carcass, it brought back a fair amount of memories, some admittedly pleasant, but eventually leading to simply pity and regret for a company and owner that lost its way (or maybe never found one to begin with), and wasted incredible potential and opportunity in so many ways.
OEM Express, still primarily based in Ottawa, but registered under various numbered companies or under PC Parts and Periphreals in Markham, Ontario, had achieved in Ottawa what Memory Express achieved in Calgary, or Bcom in Edmonton. In fact, every major city in Canada, had a single player that had struck it lucky in the beginning of the tech boom in the mid-90s, and managed to forge a hammer lock on what I call, the "hearts and minds" stage of their respective cities. At that level, the company is virtually a household name on the same level as a Future Shop, and required minimal advertising and occasional care for their customers. Memory Express is that in Calgary. OEM Express is that for Ottawa, Micro-Bytes in Montreal, ATIC in Vancouver and Canada Computers in Toronto. Everyone else, to survive and to remind that there is an alternative to those stores, would have to keep their name out there in any way, mean or form possible to simply remain competitive let alone successful. Look at Computer Rack in Calgary, a distant second to Memory Express, and constantly advertising in local papers. Toronto's papers are filled with the ads of all the up and comers struggling in the shadow of Canada Computers.
OEM's mercurial owner, known as "Chi", had seen his baby grow in Ottawa without a single page of ads ever. Despite an unfinished building and poor visibilty, he had admirably managed to overcome those problems with better pricing than the next guy, and simple word of mouth. Within a year or two, OEM Express became the predominant store of Ottawa, so much so that from my native Montreal, even I heard of the store and would occasionally shop there during my then monthly visits to the capital to see friends. Literally at the same time, 2 brothers in Calgary were selling sticks of memory from a safe in a dingy office, and thought about opening an actual store. In Montreal, one store deep in the west of Montreal, miles away from the downtown core, decided to take a chance and open a second store.
Ottawa was experiencing the beginning of the tech boom, as a center of high-end companies such as Nortel, JDS Fitel (later JDS Uniphase) and Corel growing into multinational corps large enough to rival AT&T, Cisco and even Microsoft. Add the guaranteed income from the government employees that filled the city's coffers, and OEM was probably in the one place in Canada that could make money blindly under almost any circumstance. OEM stayed in it's home, gathered it's resources, and entertained thoughts of expansion into greener pastures. Memory Express had a similar boom as oil and gas had begun to recover from the lows of the 80s and early 90s, and Alberta's friendly business environment started to attract a multitude of head offices from across Canada.
Over the years, each store in each city consolidated their hold on their respective markets, and opened new stores, or gathered resources for whatever reason they chose. Once so held, a competitor in "their" market would be at a significant disadvantage, and would have to overcome all sorts of problems, most of all the literal total lack of recognition of their brandname in the new market.
In 2003, that's what OEM Express did. They came into Edmonton, and then Calgary, and strove to conquer their new markets from Bcom and Memory Express. And for a time, OEM actually did make a serious dent into their new markets. With advertising, good pricing and a bold attitude, it was starting to gather a loyal clientele. The new staff, trained in Ottawa, but sent forth to do battle in for the hearts and dollars of Albertans, strove to give the fledging venture a fighting chance. And that's where I came in, as well as certain others.
Each person strongly believed in the vision of OEM conquering Canada, and relocated across country in the belief that their leader, Chi, was sending them on a holy mission. And admittedly, all were blinded by his promises of future riches and rewards, all in exchange for loyalty and fanatical work week hours. Over time, each of us would find ourselves betrayed and see through the lies and empty promises, and either leave on our own accord or be forced out.
Chi had understood one thing quite well from his years in computers and electronics, price is king. Give a good price, and the people will come. I myself often shop based on price if it's an inconsequential item, or compare pricing between stores for something more important when quality is preferred. With an incredible blowout starter special, Edmonton opened with a bang and continued running. But that initial excitement soon subsided, and leveled off after the big bang into silence.
Calgary then opened, with less fanfare and worse pricing, and fizzled quickly in no time. Days would pass with little or no customers, and Memory Express and Bcom found that they had little or no worries and the new challenger had emerged as virtually no threat at all. Neither company was advertising, OEM Express / Depot was not on the lips of people anywhere, or even an afterthought for that matter.
Seeing that something was needed, OEM Express in the West had to disguish itself from OEM Express East in order to be at least mildly competitive. What was decided was something memorable for the Calgary and Edmonton computer parts market, a price war.
OEM Express became OEM Depot with it's own website and image, and offered pricing slightly above cost. Most computer stores were used to margins in the 20-30% profit range. OEM decided to shake things up by offering pricing in the 10% profit range, and squeezed key suppliers to sell their goods to OEM at barely above cost.
This shook up the market, and even without advertising, this did bring in people into the door, though not in the hordes that was hoped for. The problem was plainly apparent to the people manning the stores. Good pricing was fine and well, but how would people benefit if they didn't know you even existed. From the start, this strategy was fatally flawed. At such low margins, quantity was now needed to make up the costs. Edmonton had the advantage of cheap real estate and the actual ownership of the land that the store inhabited. This made it's fixed costs relatively low with little possible shocks that might ruin that profit-loss spreadsheet. Calgary's red hot real estate market was much different, with almost no buildings in ready access available for sale, and had to be rented. This made Calgary's costs much higher, despite taking up only a fifth of the total space of Edmonton.
As such, Edmonton still managed to maintain profitability despite the low customer turnouts, but this would be problematic for Calgary's survival, especially when in competition with a much stronger opponent as Memory Express.
As explained before, pricing may be king, but brand name and knowledge is queen. How can a customer take advantage of cheap pricing if the brand is virtually unknown. In fact, in the early days, OEM Express was more likely than not to be assumed to be a car parts store as the acronym OEM was better known for such merchandise.
When I came into Calgary, I was asked to devise a $30,000 ad campaign to get the name out. Incredibly bored by hours of empty tedium (I would see one, maybe two customers a day those early weeks), I plunged into this task eagerly with images of dollar signs and customers dancing in my head. I spoke to radio stations, bus companies and newspapers. Fliers would be found in every parked car in every parking lot. Tournaments would be sponsored with the OEM Express banner flying high above the crowd.
Imagine my surprise when the boss came into town, looking forward to spend his Ottawa riches for a new Honda Pilot, and cut the ad budget from $30k to $3k. It was then I was also told about the low OEM Depot pricing strategy would be the path, and I immediately saw all those dreams screetch to a halt.
Like every leader, once a decision is made, the followers should follow. But every follower had agreed then unanimously that is was incomplete. The pricing was needed, but with no one spreading the word, it was doomed to failure from the start. And as such, the error was compounded as every attempt to at least try to flesh out the strategy by combining it with advertising had fallen on deaf ears. The leader, so absolutely sure in his strategy, refused to take any further comment, which probably would be the same as Napoleon saying, "Gee, Waterloo looks like a great place to fight."
The funny thing is that on the occasional times that advertising was allowed, and only after torturing the poor sales staff and the Edmonton Sun or the Calgary Sun, sales did actually increase in general. There were weeks that the ads did little, and some that the ad results were phenomenol, but overall, the name was finally being reached. And just when we were finally starting to get a name, the ad money suddenly stopped as suddenly as it began, and OEM would fall back quickly into obscurity. Is it any coincedence that the best sales year for Calgary was also the year that a good deal of advertising was spent?
Employees work best when they are treated with respect. Any Fortune 500 company can attest to the fact that an employee that felt like they were important, vital and/or needed is a valuable productive employee. OEM never seemed to learn that lesson, and even now continues to lead the way in proving that a revolving employee door by underpaying your staff, treating them with disrespect, subjugating them to slave hours and finally subjecting them to an atmosphere of paranoia and fear is no way to run a company.
Employees would be directly and indirectly insulted for their lack of character for various reasons, oblivious to how petty and even crude this would make the attacker seem. And despite claims of trust between the boss and the staff, everyone was overtly observed at all times by cameras, and even listened to despite privacy criminal laws disallowing audio surveillance.
Employees would find themselves dreading to go to work, or be in constant fear whenever the boss would be in town. Worse, he would psychoanalyze every action, every movement by the employee, whether it be optionally wishing private time instead of going out for dinner, or a yawn or avoidance of the camera as an act of defiance or possible treachery. The other needs of employees would be completely ignored, except for the rare moment of clarity (as finding an apartment with a kitchen for staff as opposed to forcing them to live in a hotel, and literally spend all their money on far more expensive restaurants).
As such, the company could not expand, or barely manage to run their existing stores. Very often, some stores would have one employee only, with the bigger stores barely managing 2 to 3 staff. Any further expansion would be impossible as as soon an employee was even barely trained, someone would leave. So many would join and leave within weeks that the main office would often run out of Record of Employment (ROE) forms each month and had to request more.
Worse, some staff would also find that promises would be broken almost as soon as they were made. One staff member sold his own computer company to join OEM, only to find that all of the pre-existing conditions agreed to were immediately thrown out. The company would refuse to sign any formal contract for any employee, which made it easier to make and break promises routinely. For employees that seemed to be worth the effort, initial promises would be kept just long enough to put the person into an untenable situation and unable to leave without incuring huge losses. Still, there were those who did just that. Some claimed to incur losses in the tens of thousands, not to mention a uniform steady breakdown of their general health due to the combined toll of restaurant meals, lack of exercise (computer retail isn't exactly strenuous) and being stuck indoors all day with no sunlight or fresh air seven days a week.
Oh, and how did I end up being forced out? I was offered verbally to take a 60% paycut with all of my employee perks taken away, with all and any staff hires out of my pocket. On top of that, advertising pricing probably (though admittedly wasn't discussed) might have been transferred to me as well. In exchange, I would get a 25% cut of all profits based on their numbers. Assuming that they were even reasonably honest, I would had to literally triple sales to just regain my salary, let alone the lost of the perks. But, I had already seen the writing on the wall and with the help of my now fiancee and former bookkeeper of the company, we had prepared for an expected attack by the company. Over the prior months, I had seen all sorts of staff fired, and I was cut out of the loop from all meetings. In part admittedly, I was a bit less than discreet when it involved plots against certain staff, but for the most part, it was because I also actively fought head office on behalf of employees. I even acquired a reputation as being the go to person when in trouble and needing help. Soooo, I was forced out, but in all honesty, I was prepared to leave at a moment's notice anyways.
Later, I successfully won a labour violation judgement and settled with OEM over the statuatory holiday violations. It wasn't much money admittedly with all of the other violations, and if this was Ontario instead of Alberta, I probably would have admittedly won in the tens of thousands, but what I wanted to do was to make sure that there was a ruling against OEM on the books here in Alberta, just like there's one on the books against OEM in Ontario. In all honesty, I probably wouldn't have bothered with the labour board at all just like many of the other staff who had left, quit or fired, but after 3 years of loyalty and then insulted with that obvious offer to be rid of me? Who could blame me?
Imagine having to do 70-80 hours a week, and be on call 24-7. Statuatory holidays were ignored, and all Sundays would be is a reduced work schedule. If anyone complained, it would be a black mark on his or her record, and would eventually factor into his dismissal or resignation. Now imagine this 51 weeks a year, as most staff would only take a week off.
The company would claim only 63-70 hours tops per person, but the added hours in special projects given to the staff member, not to mention all of the extra duties that running a store would usually entail such as general upkeep, supplies, deliveries, orders and more would take. All of this would be unpaid, and expected from each staff member. It would actually get far worse when the boss would come around, as one long departed staffer put it, "A cold wind of dread would descend on us." On top of our duties, we would also have to put up with worries of the boss seeing us close and personal, and make any observations or comments that would be totally inappropriate. That same saffer had endure a lecture stating that he had no strength of character, and did not have any because his parents were divorced, and then had that topped off with the comment that this was all told to him to make him "a better man."
When you add the company's need to economize even the smallest things, such as how to unload trucks, the stress levels would become unbearable to most. Imagine being the only staff member in the store, and being told to empty an 18-wheeler truck full of computer cases (over 1500+) in the middle of a -25C day, with no help, and not be allowed to close the store. Worse, all the cases were loose instead of on easy to unload pallets or even with a handtruck. The final cherry on top was that this particular staffer was only 5' 4, and the piles would each almost 6' tall, so every time he tried to unload the cases, some would literally fall on top of him, incurring some harm.
People burned out quickly, some sooner, some later. I lasted maybe 2 years before burnout set in, and then probably coasted for the following year. Others burned out in months, and some would become virtual zombies and avoid computers altogether for years after leaving. And with the company dedicated to keeping labour costs as low as possible, employees would see the ongoing strain of the hours, the work and the stress, with no relief in sight.
Replacements would be subjected to an initially low salary of the hourly minimum wage. There was no accounting in difference for the cost of living for the staff, and while some might prosper a little, most would suffer a lot. One particularly brightly skilled star, requested a slight increase, which worked out to maybe $100 a week. Just enough to cover his bills and pay for his growing family. This was refused, and worse, treated as an act of a devious traitor.
This was not Silicon Valley. At least there, long hours were tolerated, even encouraged, as the passion was mutually understood by all that there would be an eventual enrichment to everyones' lives. But with work conditions quickly deteriorating, open abuse and fear prevalant, and a long trail of broken promises thousands of miles long, the initial passion and dedication most of the staff came with, soon fell into a heap of broken bodies and spirits. If you look at OEM now across Canada (and the ever quickly diminishing number of stores), only 1 out of probably dozens of sales and support employees remain (even the office staff has had a high turnover). In a healthy company, an expected attrition rate of 15-20% is expected. But an attrition rate of over 95%?
This was, and is, no way to run a company.
The choice of inventory was often a matter of contention among the staff and head office. Advanced computer cards would become available only long after price drops, often weeks or even months. Trying out new product would be allowed occasionally, only with begging or pleading. Sure there would be the odd mistake that the staff member would make, but these would be mistakes in the tens of dollars.
Understandably, the need to keep inventory down is always necesarry, but how could anyone assess what might be hot or not without the staff being able to at least bring in samples?
The company also had the unfortunate curse of overpurchasing when the price was too good. Edmonton and Calgary had purchased literally truckloads of 17" monitors in expectation of crowds beating down the doors. It took almost a year to unload all of them, but it was done however agonizingly slow. The leadership would assume that a given item would draw in the crowds, STILL with no advertising, and sometimes in direct competiton with the blowout deals that other companies would also do such as Future Shop. Another memorable mistake was the overpurchasing of USB flash memory drives to the tune of tens of thousands of dollars, all having to eventually be sold at discounted prices.
Time and again, customers would request one thing or another, and time and again they would be turned away to the welcoming well stocked arms of Memory Express or Computer Rack. Time and again, sales would suffer, and the staff would remain helpless to do anything, and eventually even cease to care over time. We would be instructed that these requests were probably from "problem" customers anyways and it was "our way or no way."
I've always had a personable approach to sales in general. Being well-informed, helpful and friendly, I probably and definately did my best to let my customers know they were appreciated. If they tried to take advantage of that, some may have gotten away with it so long as we got paid, but I would also fight back just as often for those who overreached their demands. For especially large contracts, I often drove to customer offices and homes on my own free time and cost to ensure satisfaction. To me, that was natural.
To the company, this was almost unheard of, even anathema. As I was instructed, I was supposed to see the customer as the enemy, with contempt and suspicion. Every customer is a potential thief and liar, and while that might be true for some, I refused to believe it for all. And in some aspect, I've been rewarded with customers that even now exclusive buy from me (despite my not even having a store front).
Worse, I was guilty of the worse crime, taking the extra mile for a customer. One particular customer, who was sadly disabled due to a car accident, needed especial aid in finding the parts he needed for his computer reseller business. He bought almost exclusively from me, and his account easily numbered in the thousands, even tens of thousands in a year. As soon as I left, his loyalty to OEM was treated with disdain, even arguably disgust and that was but one of many loyal customers who voted with their feet down to Memory Express.
In all honesty, I really did once believe in the company. I believed in the leadership and the vision of a glorious new day and challenge of building a retail empire, and left years of public service because I thought it would be wonderful to build something new and lasting. Now, almost 18 months since my departure, and hearing word from former employees were still being abused by arguably unethical, but definately ill advised business practices, I just simply see it all as an end of an era of sorts.
Calgary closing it's final doors will be blamed by the office as probably increased rental rates, or poor staffing or the falling drop of computer pricing and sales, but at the heart of it all, it's the problem of the company as a whole and the directionless mercurial leadership that is the true fault.
This isn't written as an act of spite, or not even glee or perverse pleasure, simply an observation from within and without, for a company that by pure blind luck and timing became into a minor national computer power, and now falling to earth and imploding as quickly as it grew.
I wonder if the newest salvation plan is still underway. When I left, a local delivery service for computer parts, based from the Markham office for the Toronto market was in the works. Not trusting in credit cards and wanting to force people to use online debit or cash only, this struck me as an act of madness. This was in universal agreement by all staff in Edmonton and Calgary, but we all stayed silent at the insane plan as any dissent led to eventual dismissal as "not being part of the plan."
Just more poor planning piled upon paranoia and disastrous lack of vision. It's an honest shame. OEM really could have become something.


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Art is the perfect messy fun for kids and makes for ideal sensory play. So don the old clothes, cover the table and crack open the paint pots – fun is guaranteed with these 22 Easy Painting Ideas for Kids.
You can also sign up for our free monthly newsletters. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube & Pinterest.
In addition to writing for MyKidsTime we also have a blog packed with inspirational ideas for little learners – Learning and Exploring Through Play. We have just had an exciting re-design too so be sure to stop by!
1. Ice Painting
I was pleasantly surprised at how enjoyable this painting technique really is for the little ones. If your child enjoys getting their hands messy, this is definitely one to try! Learn with Play at Home and Messy Little Monster have also been busy enjoying Ice Painting!
Image via Learning and Exploring Through Play
2. Nature Paintbrushes
These set of Nature Paintbrushes are definitely the most beautiful and inspiring set of Nature brushes I have ever seen! I love how you can combine this activity with a Nature Walk and collect the bits you need together too! Oh and check out Danya Banyas Painting with (and on) Sticks too!
Image via Messy Little Monster
3. Bottle Top Art
This is a process art that I have never considered doing before. How effective is the outcome!! Definitely adding this to our to-do list!
Image via A Little Pinch of Perfect
4. Squirty Foam Paint
Now this kind of painting is right up my street!! With some simple ingredients and a bit of recycling it's pretty easy to try out too!
Image via Learn with Play at Home
5. Watercolour Glue Resist Art
Ohhh the possibilities! This is a great art technique that children of all ages will enjoy.
Image via Artsy Momma
6. Rainbow Sidewalk Paint
Want to take art outdoors? How about making some of your own outdoor paint? I love the bottles they use in this activity too! You could also have a go at painting with it on paper like Mama Papa Bubba shows us.
Image via Learn Play Imagine
7. Shaving Foam Painting
We really love how this turned out! Little N asks to do this activity often.
This activity (along with 150+ more activities) features in a great book we co-authored, that is jam packed full of Learning through Play activities for kids! Find out more about our book here.
Look how Mom Inspired Life enjoyed shaving foam painting on their windows!
Image via Learning and Exploring Through Play
8. Painted Toast
Looking to spice up breakfast time and start the day on a creative note? How about some colourful, painted toast to eat?
Image via Messy Little Monster
9. DIY Bath Paints
Do you enjoy making bath time fun for your little ones? Try making some bath paint and giving them the opportunity to get creative while they are in the tub
Here is another super bath paint recipe from Messy Little Monster.
Image via The Realistic Mama
10. Fingerprinted Season Keepsake
Not only does this look very effective, it's a keepsake and provides a cute decoration that you can hang up on you wall all year round! If canvas keepsakes are something you like, check out this one from Heart of Deborah.
Image via Rhythms of Play
11. Spiderweb Art
Have the family coming over? Why not re-create this painting activity? I love how Deb talks about creating family memories of togetherness while they all paint their own spider webs! You could even make your own Hand print Spiders to cut out and add to your colourful webs!
Image via Learn with Play at Home
12. Spin Art
Spin art painting is a firm favourite of mine. I remember doing it as a child! It always goes down well with the children, and adults just cant resist having a go too!
Image via Learning and Exploring Through Play
13. Squirt Gun Painting
Now this is a process art that many kids dreams are made of!
Image via Mama Papa Bubba
14. Printing with Foam Blocks
Is your child a fan of building with blocks in the construction area but not so keen to paint? Why not combine the two and use the blocks to print?!
Image via Rhythms of Play
15. Mess-Free Painting
Some children are reluctant to get paint on their fingers, while other children continue putting anything and everything into their mouths. Sometimes you only have a quick couple of minutes to do an activity – this mess-free painting activity is great for these moments!
Mama Smiles also did a great Mess Free Painting activity that she secured to the table.
Image via Learning and Exploring Through Play
16. Painting on Salt
Not only a fun canvas to paint on, there is also some great science behind this technique!
Image via Learning and Exploring Through Play
17. Nebulae Art
What a delightful way to capture your child's interests through art! I would love to give this a try! A lovely, calming, painting technique.
Image via Mosswood Connections
18. Painting on Foil
This is purely about the process, but what a delightful painting technique with the hands and fingertips! If you have a child who is reluctant to get their hands dirty, use a paintbrush or Q-Tips.
Image via Learning and Exploring Through Play
19. Coffee Filter Painting
Colour mixing with coffee filters is a fun painting process. Children can observe the different colours they create by mixing 2 or more colours together.
Image via Messy Little Monster
20. Spice Painting
A great painting activity to engage the senses! From textures, to scents, to the colours.
Image via Mama Papa Bubba
21. Painting with Playdough Tools
Playdough tools make a great variety of patterns and imprints in Playdough and that's no different in paint too!
Image via Learning and Exploring Through Play
22. Homemade Paint Recipes
To finish off our collection of painting activities and techniques for kids, here is an amazing collection of Paint Recipes to work your way through!
Image via Learn Play Imagine
Over to you! Have you tried any of these activities or have you other favourites? Let us know in the comments below.

subset: commoncrawl


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Hand Car Wash & Detail Center for Sale in Suffolk - 28145 Business Type: advertising/ printing,car wash
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Financial Information (non-confidential)
|General Information
|Asking Price
|Down Payment
|Gross Revenues
|Lease Remaining
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$775,000 Down and
Business Description
Spectacular East End year round hand car wash and detail
center.Very wealthy clientele. Equipment 2 yrs old.
Hamptons stye retail store selling locally sourced products
Zero discharge, water recycling,23 yr lease w/5yr option.
1% increases Highest LI avg ticket -$39.53. State of art
website, mobile app and social media platforms.Sonny's
POS w/cloud access. Tunnel master car wash controller
Advertising revenue from TVs(8) and static advertising.
2 vac lanes with INGROUND plumbing.3 car enclosed
detail area.Wholesale accounts,large apron.Complete
Steam cleaning.Smoothie bar w/hot & cold snacks- self
manage or rent it.Verifiable financials.Distributor for
weather tech products. Sells Big Cat and American
Electric scooters. Many revenue streams from this state
of the art car wash.Local artisan foods & products in
season. Must be seen. Huge opportunity to add mobile
wash and detail to the wealthy clients in their homes.
Beautiful waiting are, snack bar, and outside patio.
Proof of funds of at least $700k is required for more
information. Sellers will stay on to help with training and
transition. Contact broker Joseph Stansky for more
details. Please call 1-877-735-5224 for further information.
Attention Business Owners: We are always in search of quality businesses to list, so if you are thinking of selling your business or would like to acquire another business, please email us at email@example.com or call us at 1-877-735-5224 to discover the difference that is Vested Business Brokers.
Disclaimer: The financial information in this business listing has been provided by the Seller. Vested Business Brokers, Ltd. (VBB) has not independently verified this information. Therefore, we make no claims as to the accuracy of this financial summary. Vested recommends that you consult with an accountant, attorney and/or other professionals to represent and assist you in any business transaction. One of our associate brokers will arrange a meeting between you, your representatives, and the Seller, but they are not authorized to make any representations or warranties on behalf of the seller or VBB. You agree to hold Vested Business Brokers and its associated brokers harmless for any misrepresentations made by seller.
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- Absentee business
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- Bagel stores


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Documentum Expands Presence in Canadian Market
Thursday, December 06, 2001
Press release from the issuing companyDocumentum has announced the establishment of its Canadian Headquarters in Toronto. The facility will include a Research and Development center and will provide regional sales, support, education and marketing. This facility will expand the Documentum presence in the Canadian market and enhance the support and services provided to current Documentum and Bulldog customers. Worldwide sales and consulting will continue to be managed through Documentum headquarters in Pleasanton, California, and its other offices located throughout the world.
Industry News
Copyright © 2020 WhatTheyThink. All Rights Reserved


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Energy Works in PA turning waste into watts
Turning chicken waste into energy is not easy. It requires expensive systems, a high degree of mechanization, and an astute business sense to use every part of the manure. And it probably won't pay for itself, at least not in the near future.
Patrick Thompson is doing it anyway.
His company, Energy Works, is turning the manure from 5 million egg-laying hens into power. That energy not only runs the nutrient recovery plant and makes it self-powering; it also lets him pay the bills by selling electricity back to the grid and to the egg farm to run its operations. More importantly for the Chesapeake Bay, it converts 240 tons of manure a day into a useful product. Were it not for Energy Works, Thompson said, haulers would take much of the manure to Maryland, where it would be applied on lands closer to the Chesapeake.
- April 09, 2015
- Energy
- 3 Comments


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At Mossel Bay Bowling Club we encourage bowlers of any age to participate in this healthy and challenging sport. We offer free coaching for children aged 11+ and assist them with equipment so that they can get started. Our young players play in various club and district youth competitions, including national tournaments.
Under19 and Under25 National Tournaments 2016 – Bloemfontein
Our club was fortunate to have two of our young players in the Eden teams that participated in the 2016 Nationals!
UNDER 19 INTERCLUB BOWLS TOURNAMENT: Saturday 10 October 2015
Saturday 10 October 2015 saw the inaugural Interclub Under 19 Bowls Challenge at the Mossel Bay Bowling Club, with two teams from Mossel Bay, three from George Bowling Club and one from the Outeniqua Bowling Club taking part in the all-day event. They played three trips games (three players per team) to decide the three strongest junior teams in the Eden District. Right from the first game it became obvious that the very experienced teams from the George Club would prove a serious challenge to the rest of the teams, so it was no great surprise when they walked off with all the medals as well as the club trophy at the end of the day. What was a surprise however, was how strongly the less experienced teams fought back and refused to give up – a lesson to the adult spectators in "vasbytvermoë". Ultimately they were the winners as they gained valuable experience playing against their strong counterparts. It didn't kill them, it just made them stronger.
The players had to choose names for their teams, which introduced a fun aspect to the day. With names like "The Smooth Guys", "Bowls of Steel", "Bayrollers" and "Touchers" there were constant jokes popping up and nicknames mysteriously appeared on the score boards. It all helped to make the day fun for everyone.
A full-day bowling tournament like this is very exhausting work, so between games the young players enjoyed the usual good food and refreshments for which our club is famous. The pasta, cold drinks and snacks kept them running on all cylinders all day. Thank you to our ladies for the excellent food and especially thank you to the three club members whose generous sponsorship made the event possible.
The tournament was run as part of the Mossel Bay Sport Festival, so the junior players were privileged to have our Mayor, Ms Marie Ferreira, address them and hand over the bronze, silver and gold medals to the players. The manager of the George Club teams, Hilton Prins, proudly accepted the shiny new floating trophy on behalf of this club. In her address councillor Ferreira expressed her pleasant surprise at seeing such a large group of teenagers playing a game usually associated with older retired people. The players are becoming quite used to such a response and will point out that bowls is growing rapidly in popularity with younger players all over the world. It may just be THE sporting code where junior players have the best opportunity to progress rapidly to higher levels as there are active programs in place a district, provincial and regional levels to identify young players with the skills and drive needed to excel in this sport. The Eden District boasts with Springbok bowlers and administrators who represent this sport at the highest levels, so it is no wonder that our local players have ambitions to achieve more.
We challenge other bowling clubs in the Eden District to enter under 19 teams in the next tournament in 2016. These young bowlers will be the ones who will be keeping bowls alive as an active and vibrant sport when we are all long gone. To this end, Mossel Bay Bowling Club welcomes young people between the ages of 10 and 19 who would like to learn to play a fun, challenging sport to phone 072 768 5662 for more details.
Gold medal winners, team "Bring It". Darren Lindoor, Dillon Booysen and Enrico Slinger
with manager Hilton Prins and Councillor Marie Ferreira.
Silver medal winners, team "Smooth Guys". Leighton Prins, Keenan Williams and Ynolan Isaacs
with manager Hilton Prins and Councillor Marie Ferreira.
Bronze medal winners, team "Touchers". Reagan Meas, Lu Ann Brandt and Kim Jumat
with manager Hilton Prins and Councillor Marie Ferreira.
YOUNG BOWLERS IMPRESS YET AGAIN: 15 August 2015
Schools within the Eden District competed recently for the Talisman Inter-schools Floating Trophy, with the final taking place at the George Bowls Club on Saturday 15 August . This year newcomers Curro High School from Mossel Bay surprised everyone including themselves as they put pressure on the very experienced and highly-talented team from George High. Ultimately though it was the experience of the George High players which was the deciding factor and they finished as the overall winners, with the Mossel Bay team as runners-up. Congratulations to Keenan Williams, Darren Lindoor, Reagan Meas and Leighton Prins from George High on their victory and to the Curro Team of Athenkosi Nguta, Ling-Ling Yu and Londa Khanyile for playing an excellent game. The experience gained in this and other recent tournaments has been of immense benefit to our young players, resulting in them playing with a level of maturity and skill far exceeding all expectations. The Curro under 19 team and the Mossel Bay Bowls Club wish to thank the organisers and sponsors for hosting such a well-run competition. Watch out for the Curro team in 2016 – they have their eye on that trophy!
Owen Calverley (Manager, MB), Athenkosi Nguta (MB), Keenan Williams (George), Londa Khanyile (MB), Darren Lindoor (George), Reagan Meas (George), Leighton Prins (George), Ling-Ling Yu (MB), Hilton Prins (Manager, George).
Article in the Mossel Bay Advertiser 2 April 2015
Mossel Bay Bowls Club has launched its own Junior league, with the first eager group of 12 young players from Curro school having already started their training.
President of Eden Bowls Trevor Davis (centre back) handing over the sets of training bowls to the coaches and eager players. With him in the photo are Yvonne Elley (MB Bowls coach), Bennie Coetzee (Curro coach), Vanrenen van der Westhuizen (president MB Bowls Club), Owen Calverley (MB Junior Bowls coordinator) and young players Londa Khanyile, Kizia Frans, Heike Frans and Jeandre Brits.


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Archie, MO
IntelliFarms announces the appointment of Adam Weiss as the Chief Operating Officer. Mr. Weiss comes to IntelliFarms from GSI where he was the Director of Global Technology and Product Management. Mr. Weiss brings over 20 years of experience launching high-tech products. As a leader, in both engineering and business, he will add direction and experience in all aspects of IntelliFarms.
In his new role, Mr. Weiss will focus his initial efforts on production and engineering, but will be critical at all levels of IntelliFarms' operations. Upon joining the IntelliFarms family, Mr. Weiss stated "I am excited to join such a well-respected company that is focused on quality, integrity and customer satisfaction." Mr. Weiss brings with him a passion for solving customers' needs with innovate products and a strong belief in transparency and continuous improvement. Mr. Weiss will be an integral part of bringing IntelliFarms into the next phase of growth. Mr. Weiss stated, "I truly believe the best is yet to come for IntelliFarms!"
Todd Sears, President and CEO of IntelliFarms reported, "We are so excited to have Adam join the team. He brings such a passion and knowledge of the industry, he is really going to help us continue to drive our mission to help bring value and profits back to the farms."
Prior to GSI, Mr. Weiss spent almost 10 years with GE working on the engineering and product teams; growing product lines, spearheading projects, developing product strategy, leading teams all along the way. Mr. Weiss received his Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering and Master of Business Administration from the University of Nevada - Reno.
About IntelliFarms
IntelliFarms is an agricultural technology company based out of Archie, MO. For more than 18 years, IntelliFarms has been working to bring increased value and profits back to the farms. SureTrack FARM™ is connecting farmers with processors and merchandisers who are looking to buy grain directly from the farms. SureTrack PRO™ is locating growers, creating transparency in supply chains and improving overall quality for processors, merchandisers and end users. Visit www.intellifarms.com for more information.


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Sale Menswear
Posted by Route One on 6th June 2016
A massive congratulation goes out to Norfolk born vert talent and Route One team rider Sam Beckett who made UK skateboard history this weekend by winning a vert gold at the X Games in Austin, Texas.
As you are all well aware (given his bombardment of footage, photos, turning pro for Blind and nonstop magazine content over the last year) Sam is a special breed of skateboarder who can't seem to stop killing it. And, to place the cherry on top of the proverbial cake, courtesy of his relentless productivity on his whizz plank, Sam went and took a well-deserved first place in the final heat of the fabled vert contest this past weekend.
Having earned an impressive third place podium standing in 2015 he, to no surprise, absolutely smashed it to pieces again this year, nudging his way up from 11th place and past Moto Shibata by the tightest of margins in his last run of the event. Sam is one of the best humans out there, our hats go off to you fella!
Watch Sam in his winning X Games run below, hockey helmet and Mohawk in tow…


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Mrs. - By Patricia Perrella
These were delicious and looked beautiful in my pink candy buffet.
Jelly beans - By KIM
ADDICTING!! I wasn't sure there would be ANY to put out for my shower guests... Beautiful shade of pink and VERY yummy!! Thanks!


text: Between October 2014 and February 2015, Margaret facilitated the Project Advisory Team for a proposed mountain bike trail in the Cheasty Greenspace area of Seattle. This has been a highly contentious process for Seattle's Parks Department. Opponents argue that the Greenspace will suffer severe environmental harm from the trail, while proponents argue the importance of providing safe and healthy access to the outdoors for an underserved area of the city. Meetings of the 12-member Project Advisory team were typically observed by some 50 members of the general public. The Team, made up of both proponents and opponents, reviewed preliminary trail designs, commented on an environmental assessment of the trail's impacts, and created a set of evaluation criteria.


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Day 2: I'm continuing with the T25 and I actually got behind a day (only because I wanted to do my new Jillian DVD). So I decided to do two workouts on this day and did the first one on my lunch. It was nice to get it done so I might do it like that more often.
Day 3: Amen to weekends!! They go by way fast but that's why I cherish every minute of them. And these two cuties make it even more special.
Day 4: I found a blog that had a DIY face mask. I had the stuff and thought I'd give it a try. Landon thought it looked funny and I agree...but it did make my face soft so I'll try it more often when winter is over. Kind of makes my face even drier than it already is. And a sweet brother moment when going to town!
Day 5: The hubs was at a boat open house for the past couple days so we were excited to have him back. Everyone took a good rest, the boys played in the bath, and then Landon decided he wanted to paint us some pictures.
Day 6: I got my picture taken with my nephew for the Kindergarten yearbook. He is actually in my class this year and I love getting to see him every day!
Day 7: It was a busy day for this momma! I went to Walmart after school and got tons of groceries, went to get the boys at 5:00, and then ran to subway for quick supper and soup for the sick hubs! He was sick so I decided to take my Emergen C hoping it would help me stay well. Even though I didn't want to I did my Jillian tape, showered us all, and then piled into bed with my two babies. Lance hid out from us.


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Huddersfield Town sign Norwich striker James Vaughan on loan
- From the section Football
Huddersfield Town have signed Norwich striker James Vaughan on a season-long loan deal.
Vaughan, 24, joined the Canaries from Everton last summer but injury restricted him to five appearances.
"He is a different type of striker to the ones we currently have and crucially he has plenty of pace," boss Simon Grayson told the club website.
"He is a determined character with a high work-rate and he is a player with something to prove."
Grayson added: "He has had some problems with injuries in the past but he has had a good pre-season behind him and comes to us fully fit.
"We have agreed a sensible deal with Norwich to protect us and I look forward to working with James over the coming months."
The Birmingham-born striker became the Premier League's youngest goalscorer when he scored on his Everton debut, aged 16 years and 271 days, in the 4-0 win over Crystal Palace at Goodison Park in April 2005.
His time with the Toffees was disrupted by injury and he struggled to establish a first team place, leading to loan spells with Derby, Leicester and Palace before joining Norwich permanently.


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The Beginnings
To see where Cycling Elements began, it's best to investigate the original logo and the name itself. Cycling Elements is a play on the periodic table, at school Jeff studied engineering and often referenced the periodic table. After much thought, he ended his engineering schooling and went in a new direction. Taking the 4 key elements he deemed necessary to start a successful bike shop: Passion, Bikes, Gear, and Service. Then adding a splash of purple to honor his years at Ecclestone Cycle in Bracebridge, the original concept for the Cycling Elements Brand was born. Since opening in 2012, the original logo might have been replaced but the core elements are still there: Passion, Bikes, Gear, and most importantly Exceptional Customer Service.
Why Cycling Elements:
- Authentic Experience
- Passionate Staff
- Exceptional Customer Service
- Committed to Developing Cycling in the Community
- An Unconditional Guarantee your bike will be Perfect for You:
- Lifetime Service Policy
- Comfort Guarantee including Saddle upgrade program
- Basic Fitting Services with all bikes, and touch point purchases
- Kids Trade Back Program
Our Building
1832 Griggs Mill stood on the edge of Mill Creek before Orange Lawerance moved to the area
1896 The main structure erected as Armstrong Foundry producing and repairing local machinery. They developed a reputation for being able to solve any problem
1940's Fire gutted the building and destroyed the original peaked roof, simultaneously the local bank was robbed. It is assumed the burning of the Armstrong foundry was a distraction for the thieves to complete their job
1973 Renewed life housing local printing business, Bailey's Printing
2013 Home to Cycling Elements, building restoration begins anew
2020 Put the peak back on the roof and restore the building back to its former beauty


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Last week I put on a webinar talking about some of the lessons I've learned in the past few years I've been using AdWords.
You can watch the entire webinar in the video below:
In this webinar we discuss:
- How to avoid costly mistakes in AdWords by using broad match keywords!
- How to measure success using conversions codes!
- How to increase clicks from AdWords without wasting your budget!
It's all truly exciting stuff. As long as you are someone that gets excited about online advertising.


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Mortgage BankingBanks & Credit UnionsFinancial & Investment ServicesReal Estate Services
Local mortgage lender looking to help people get pre-approved to purchase a home and/or refinance their existing home.
Click for an interactive map of Farmingdale!
Join Today
Start benefiting from your Chamber membership today. Sign up today and get your business more exposure. Connect and grow your business with the Chamber.
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Farmingdale Chamber of Commerce
PO Box 1166, Farmingdale, NY 11735
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Today was a day we looked forward to, knowing there was only ten kilometres into Port Hardy. Chief George's prayers were working as we began to walk with no rain and for the most part, the rain held off all day.
Janice Varga
3/30/2017 11:31:00 am
Thanks for the update, a wonderful journey. Keeping you all in prayer
Leave a Reply.
Wayne Stewart
lives in Calgary, Alberta where he is an active member of the Anglican Diocese of Calgary. Wayne is spending the winter in Victoria generously donating his full-time efforts to organizing all aspects of the Sacred Journey. He is also Bishop Logan McMenamie's walking companion on the two-and-a-half week journey from Alert Bay to Mill Bay and, as he likes to tease, the bishop's bait while they walk along the less populated stretches of the route.


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WAC Trophy
Wichita Aero Club Trophy
The Wichita Aero Club seeks nominations for its annual Wichita Aero Club Trophy each year between July and October. The club presents the trophy to an individual, group, or organization with ties to the local aviation community whose exemplary achievements and contributions in the field of aviation or aerospace deserve special recognition. The trophy is awarded at a recognition gala usually scheduled for the last week in January.
Submit a Nomination by October 1, 2018
We've taken the nomination process online! Please complete this online form to submit your nomination. All submissions are due by October 1, 2018.
Members of the aviation community and the general public are encouraged to follow the simple criteria for nominating potential recipients by October 1. We will announce the winner at the National Business Aviation Association Annual Meeting & Convention once all of the nominees have been reviewed by the Selection Committee.
The Committee, which is chaired by Ashley Bowen-Cook of the Greteman Group, includes members of the Wichita Aero Club Board of Directors and prominent members of the aviation community, who will evaluate all of the nominations, including those previously submitted if they still conform to the criteria. The WAC wants to continue to build upon the tradition we began in 2009 by selecting a deserving candidate with solid ties to the Wichita and Kansas aviation community.
Acknowledging Legacy: A Look Back
The Wichita Aero Club Trophy has been created to recognize both contemporaneous accomplishment or a lifetime of achievement. The first WAC Trophy went to someone who has been associated with Wichita's aviation history since its early days, Mrs. Velma Wallace. Of course, that doesn't mean that nominees can't come from the ranks of individuals, groups, or organizations whose recognition is based on a recent milestone or singular event. The second trophy was presented to Jeff Turner and Spirit AeroSystems for their outstanding performance during difficult economic times. The 2013 trophy was presented to John O'Leary and Airbus Americas Engineering and the 2014 trophy was presented to Russ Meyer, Chairman Emeritus of Cessna Aircraft Company. There are always significant achievements during the course of a year that certainly warrant consideration.
Past Recipients At a Glance
- 2018: Lynn Nichols and Yingling Aviation
- 2017: Paul Bowen, World Renowned Aviation Photographer
- 2016: Doc's Friends, B-29 Superfortress Restoration Project
- 2015: Al Higdon, Co-Founder of Sullivan Higdon & Sink Advertising
- 2014: Russ Meyer, Chairman Emeritus of Cessna Aircraft Company
- 2013: John O'Leary, Vice President of Engineering for Airbus Americas Engineering
- 2012: Jeff Turner, CEO Spirit AeroSystems and Spirit AeroSystems
- 2011: Mrs. Velma L. Wallace, Cessna Aircraft Company and philanthropist
Nominees for the Trophy
The Wichita Aero Club Trophy will be awarded annually to a living person, group, or organization with a strong relationship to the greater Wichita area. The nominee(s) will be considered on the basis of exemplary achievements in the field of aviation or aerospace accomplished during the past year or, as appropriate, over an extended period or career.
About the Trophy
For the Wichita Aero Club Trophy, sculpture and creator Chris Brunner chose elements that represented the eyes-turned-skyward spirit of aviation. A translucent blue pyramid containing the Aero Club Logo harkens to the ancient form through which man strived to reach the heavens. Its delta shape is also representative of the modern form of advanced flight. The translucent aspect of the trophy represents the atmosphere, with contrails wrapping upward from the base. The trophy's pedestal of stainless steel framework gives recognition to Wichita's aircraft manufacturing legacy.
This beautiful achievement trophy permanently, prominently, and proudly resides on the mezzanine at Eisenhower International Airport.
Nomination Details
- The name, affiliation (if applicable), address, telephone number and e-mail address of the person making the nomination is required information on the form. The identity of nominators will remain proprietary.
- A citation (40 words or less) which captures the essence of the achievement for which the nomination is being submitted is required.
- Electronic submission must be prepared in a Microsoft Word or compatible format which can be opened electronically. Hard copies, submitted by mail may be sent as "backup" versions only after confirmed receipt of electronic versions.
- Nominations can be submitted online here. The Wichita Aero Club Trophy Selection Committee will review the nominations and select a winner. The Trophy will be presented at the WAC Trophy Ball in January.
- All nomination materials will become property of the WAC.


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An employee earning $12 per hour with an average of 20 minutes each day of untracked breaks, extended lunches, etc., yields $1,040 per year in overpaid wages.
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Through our online portal, both employees and managers have access to HR and payroll functions. Managers can access existing payroll reports and invoices, create their own reports, and review training and licensing information. Employees can change personal data and view payroll history, including pay stubs.
Contact CBR today for more information or to request an online demo! Be sure to ask about our numerous timekeeping solutions, customized reports, paycheck calculators, and more!
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Barking Buddha Dog of the Week: Bolshoi!
This week's dog is actually a puppy, our youngest dogi ever at just 4 months! Bolshoi is a Shepherd, Shar Pei, ect. mix.
Here he is pictured with his human, Anna and above with some friends from doga class (Snickers, Mia, Honey).
I think Bolshoi looks very adult in the picture with his friends and for such a young guy he was really well behaved in class.
Very bright, a quick learner and a lovely disposition. For now he's light enough for many of the small dog modifications in the doga poses but we'll have to adjust those to big dog poses as he is growing larger by the minute. Such a pleasure to have in the Seattle Humane Society Doga Series. Thanks Bolshoi, I'm looking forward to watching you grow into a full size dogi!


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Canada's Forum on Patient Safety and Quality Improvement 2014 opened on Wednesday, October 29th, with virtual greetings from Canada's Health Minister Rona Ambrose. In her remarks, the Minister recognized October 27 to 31, 2014 as Canadian Patient Safety Week and the Canadian Patient Safety Institute's 10th Anniversary. The minister emphasized that safer care is better care and the importance of showcasing best practices in patient safety and quality improvement across Canada and internationally.
Catherine Gaulton, Board Chair, Canadian Patient Safety Institute (CPSI) provided a lens for the day, welcoming participants to Canada's Forum and kicking-off Canadian Patient Safety Week. Hugh MacLeod, CEO, CPSI asked participants to network, learn from one another and to use the patient narratives to create the energy and passion to move the patient safety agenda forward.
Hugh MacLeod
Patient videos are a key component of Canada's Forum to set the tone each day. These personal stories demonstrate the importance of Canadian Patient Safety Week and illustrate the tragedies that patients and families have experienced in the healthcare system.
Click here to view the videos and read their stories.
To celebrate the past, Donna Davis (Co-Chair, Patients for Patient Safety Canada) led a panel discussion with CPSI'S former CE0, Phil Hassen (Health Innovator-In-Residence, International Centre for Health Innovation), John Wade (former Board Chair, CPSI) and Wendy Nicklin (President and CEO, Accreditation Canada) on the relationships formed, initiatives championed and the groundwork laid for the concerted efforts toward patient safety improvement in Canada. The panel shared their perspectives on the wins, lessons learned and hope for the future. The panel agreed that although much has been done, there is a bolder, more radical effort required to create an even safer healthcare system for patients and families.
(l to r) Donna Davis, Dr. John Wade, Wendy Nicklin and Phil Hassen
In the opening keynote, Dr. Kishore Visvanathan (Head of Urology, Saskatoon Health Region) delivered a compelling and humorous presentation underscoring shame and blame, respect in the workplace and turning failures into learning opportunities. He related his journey as a recovering perfectionist and how his perspective as a physician has changed.
Recovering perfectionist, Dr. Kishore Visvanathan demonstrates his Zumba moves
Innovative change strategies for patient safety were deliberated by a panel including Dr. Brian Wong (Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre), Dr. Ron Collins (British Columbia Patient Safety & Quality Council) and Dr. David Chaulk (Alberta Children's Hospital). Dr. Wong provided innovative strategies for capacity building and aligning continuing professional development with quality and patient safety initiatives. Dr. Chaulk says that change has to come both from the top down and bottom up. He relayed three useful strategies to consider: know your question in order to focus and finish; get the right people on the bus through strength-based leadership and relationship building; and the art of persuasion, which he called the elephant and the rider and how to win people over. Dr. Ron Collins shared strategies being used through the National Surgical Quality Improvement program (NSQIP), where 600 hospitals are measuring outcomes and using data to leverage cultural change.
Panelists with innovative strategies (l to r): Dr. Brian Wong, Dr. David Chaulk and Dr. Ron Collins
A two-part panel discussion focused on change strategies looked at culture on the frontline, followed by a response form the top. Dr. Trey Coffey (The Hospital for Sick Children) and Gwen MacDonald (Capital Health, Halifax) provided insight from the frontline. The leaders responding included Shawn Terison (Good Samaritan Society), Dr. Petrina McGrath (Saskatoon Health Region) and Dr. Jeff Lozon (Lozon Associates). The underlying message from the session reinforced to affect culture change requires challenging the status quo and being curious again.
(l to r): Dr. Trey Coffey, Gwen MacDonald, Dr. Petrina McGrath, Dr. Jeff Lozon and Shawn Terison
A session on making the patient experience a top priority reinforced the importance of patient-centred care. Deb Prowse, provided insights on her new role as the Health Advocate for Alberta and Michael Decter (Board Chair, Patients Canada) reinforced the value of listening to the patient to better understand from their experience what can be done to improve healthcare in Canada.
Michael Decter and Deb Prowse
The closing keynote also addressed the patient experience as a catalyst for change, Margaret Murphy (External Lead Advisor, World Health Organization) received a standing ovation for
validating the power of conversation to impact the patient experience and connecting her insights to underline the importance of the patient and family being listened to and being heard.
Margaret Murphy
The Accreditation Canada and Canadian Patient Safety Institute inaugural
Champion Awards were presented to recognize safer care and stronger partnerships with patients and families. Congratulations to the 2014 Champions: Carolyn Canfield (individual recipient) and Kingston General Hospital (organization recipient)! Click on the link to learn more.
Daryl Bell, Kingston General Hospital and Carolyn Canfield
Wednesday's program at the 2014 Forum included a live audience of some 300 participants and more a virtual audience of almost 1,900 viewers from over 500 sites in 10 countries outside of Canada. Over the first part of this week, some 181 participants have tweeted to #asklistentalk and the hashtag has recorded over one million impressions.
French programming for Canada's Forum is provided at 7:00 am (MT)/9:00 am (ET) each day. Wednesday's presentation was delivered by Dr. Denis Roy (President and CEO, Health Sciences North) on origins, accomplishments and challenges for the future. Thursday's program will discuss potholes in the health care system: a patient safety challenge, with thoughts from Lawrence Rosenberg (Executive Director, Jewish General Hospital).
Click here to view archived presentations from the Forum broadcast and pre-conference proceedings. To join the final day of Canada's Forum, visit


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Planning a honeymoon? Here are a dozen destinations for a range of budgets based on recommendations from wedding and travel experts at The Knot and Expedia.
Caribbean hotspots like Anguilla are consistently popular with beach-loving honeymooners. But this small island also comes with pricey flights and some of the Caribbean's most expensive resorts.
For a Caribbean vacation for less, Expedia spokesperson Sarah Gavin suggests the Dominican Republic, an up-and-coming beach destination that has many resorts offering deep discounts.
Splurge: Anguilla
What you'll pay*: $3,800
Steal: Dominican Republic
What you'll pay: $2,000
NEXT: Thailand vs. Vietnam


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What's Hot Today
I stumbled across this article in EW's Popwatch and I can only hope it speaks the truth. The great Aaron Sorkin (man behind The West Wing , as well as its short-lived predecessor Sports Night and follow-up Studio 60 On The Sunset Strip ) might be considering a return to television. From EW: "A source close to Sorkin says the uber-writer is in talks with Entourage to guest star on the comedy once it returns to HBO in July. And there may be more good news on the horizon: Although his dance card is filled with must-finish screenplays (a Facebook movie! A courtroom drama for George Clooney called The Challenge!) word is that Sorkin is mulling over the idea of a new TV drama that takes a behind-the-scenes look at a cable news program (think: Keith Olbermann's show on MSNBC)." Granted, Sorkin's other two behind-the-scenes TV shows were short lived (Sports Night and Studio 60), but none of them were bad (not even Studio 60, despite what some claimed). And...just watch any West Wing episode that the man wrote and you'll see the great TV he is capable of creating. So..who's with me in hoping this comes to be?
Continuing with this week's theme, it's time to examine where some of our favorite West Wing staffers have popped up since the show's conclusion. Martin Sheen - President Josiah Bartlett The greatest TV President has appeared in a multitude of films including Bobby, The Departed , Talk to Me and the upcoming Echelon Conspiracy . He also has a number of upcoming credits in various stages of production. Stockard Channing - Abigail Bartlett The lovely first lady has appeared in a film (Sparkle) in 2007 and has an upcoming film for 2009 - Multiple Sarcasms. She began narrating the Animal Planet series Meerkat Manor in 2008, is directing/producing the upcoming "The Joy of Funerals" and returned to Broadway with 2008's "Pal Joey". Bradley Whitford - Josh Lyman Bradley Whitford starred as Danny Tripp in Aaron Sorkin's short-lived follow up to The West Wing, Studio 60 On The Sunset Strip , which aired for a single season in 2006. Whitford has appeared in films An American Crime and Bottle Shock , guest starred on Monk and starred in a Broadway play. He is currently starring in/producing a new pilot for NBC. Allison Janney - C.J. Cregg Allison Janney has appeared in a few films since her White House days including Hairspray and Juno. She guest starred in an episode of Two and a Half Men and provided a voice on 2 episodes of the animated Phineas and Ferb . She appeared in the internet video, Prop 8: The Musical and has a bunch of upcoming film credits for 2009. Rob Lowe - Sam Seaborn After leaving West Wing in 2006, Lowe starred in the short lived TV series Dr. Vegas, which only lasted for 10 episodes. He's also appeared in a few TV movies and now is a member of the ensemble cast of ABC drama Brothers & Sisters . He plays a senator! John Spencer - Leo McGarry "Leo McGarry" was John Spencer's final role, as he passed away of a heart attack in December 2005, while still a part of the West Wing's cast. A moving tribute episode was aired. Richard Schiff - Toby Ziegler Schiff has appeared in the films Waiting, Martian Child and Last Chance Harvey. He also has done some TV guest appearances in series including Burn Notice , Eli Stone and Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles . Dule Hill - Charlie Young I'm sure many of you recognize Dule Hill as one of the stars of USA Network 's Psych , where he plays Gus. He's also appeared in a few films: The Guardian, Whisper and Remarkable Power. Janel Moloney - Donna Moss Janel Moloney has guest starred in a few TV shows including Showtime 's Brotherhood (5 episodes), House , Law & Order: Criminal Intent and 30 Rock . She also appeared in the 2008 film "Puppy Love". Joshua Malina - Will Bailey Joshua Malina was one of the stars of last season's short-lived Big Shots on ABC. He's also made guest appearances on many TV shows including Numb3rs , Medium , CSI and most recently, Grey's Anatomy . Where have you seen other West Wing alums appear?!
#5. Matthew Perry: Author's Note: It pains me to put Matthew Perry so low on this list, because he was arguably my favorite Friend (and I maintain that he possesses an enormous amount of talent), but looking at his credits, there just isn't that much to work with... On Screen Perry's main credit since Friends was the short-lived Aaron Sorkin vehicle Studio 60 On The Sunset Strip . Studio 60 was supposed to be the next big thing, but it fizzled and died after just a single season. At least Perry received generally positive feedback for his performance. The problem with Perry is that besides Studio 60 he hasn't done very much ; a TV movie here (The Ron Clark Story) and a movie you've never heard of there (Numb, Birds of America). While Perry has received positive reviews for all of these films, I just don't feel that any of them can be considered that big post-Friends breakthrough. Perry will also be playing an older version of Zac Efron in this Spring's 17 Again . Second billing to Zac Efron. Yikes! Perry's best chance for post-Friends success might be "The End of Steve", a new series for Showtime in which he will be starring and producing. Off Screen There's very little off-screen news for Perry and in his case, no news is probably good news since he previously suffered from various drug and alcohol addictions during his Friends tenure (and Chandler's weight see-sawed accordingly whether Perry was on or off of the sauce). Perry may or may not be dating his former girlfriend Lauren Graham, of Gilmore Girls . Hotness Retained? Here is an image of Perry from February of this year. Like LeBlanc, he looks older, but since he doesn't appear to be balding or fat, I'm going to go ahead and vote "Yes" on this one. Honestly, could he BE any more adorable? Previous Entry: #6 - Matt LeBlanc Next Entry: #4 - Lisa Kudrow
Just heard from a reliable source that Studio 60 (unaired episodes in Canada), will be coming to the CTV Broadband Network. These will be full length, HD-quality episodes you can stream online for free! Release date for the final 5-episodes is still TBC.


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Licensing Project Management Methodologies
How can you license the methodologies you create? Copyright is a tricky thing, but it works like this. If you use content included within MPMM out of the box, then this content is copyrighted to Method123 Ltd. In short, we own it and you can use it, but you can't license it – or charge for its use. However if you use itto create new unique and novel content yourself, then you can license and charge for this content as you wish. That way, it can become a vehicle for creating, publishing and selling a Project Management Life Cycle to your clients.


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Located just outside Denver, The Wildlife Experience is a museum dedicated to promoting a deeper understanding of wildlife and the value of conservation. The facility houses a collection of wildlife art and cultural artifacts, presents interpretive exhibitions and educational programs about the human connection to the animal world, and provides space for civic and philanthropic events.
If you are a nature buff, lover of animals, and someone who is concerned about the natural environment, what can you do to raise awareness about endangered species? Where can you go to learn more about the history of wildlife and the dangers that animals face in our rapidly changing world?
To realize his goal, however, there was very little lead time. The dates of the exhibition were less than two years away. There was no museum staff or infrastructure as yet, and construction would have to slow down during the winter months due to the usual snow and freezing weather conditions of the area.
[The Wildlife Experience] bridges the twin focus on nature and up-to-the-minute engineering, combining prairie-style organism with the rugged rural west.
The interior of the building is comprised of a first floor devoted to natural history dioramas and artifacts and a second floor featuring galleries filled with wildlife art. As visitors enter the building, they enter a space reminiscent of the Rocky Mountains, as they are greeted by a massive stone wall that functions as both a grand staircase and a sculpture. Walking up through this environment to the second floor simulates the experience of journeying through the canyons. Similarly, access to the outdoors is like a stroll through nature, with a series of gardens leading us to outdoor installations of animal sculptures.
Consistent with the attitude of harmonious design with the land, the site incorporates materials that weather elegantly over time. Exterior materials consist of structural precast concrete panels, sandstone, copper, and anodized aluminum glazing systems. Interior materials include wood wall panels, exposed structural ceilings with wood beams and trusses, and hardwood and native stone flooring.
The Wildlife Experience building also houses an IMAX theater, a cafe, and a basement level for support functions, administrative offices, and mechanical spaces.
- AIA San Antonio Citation Award 2006
- Chicago Athenaeum American Award for Architecture 2004
- AIA San Antonio Merit Award 2003
- Building Magazine Gold Nugget Merit Award for Best Public/Private Special Use Facility 2003
- Umran Magazine, "The Wildlife Experience," January 2006
- Architecture, "Rugged, Rustic and Refined," May 2005


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Back by popular demand are the hilarious Wacky Races this May Bank Holiday weekend (5/6/7) – so it's on your marks, get set, go for this season's Chicken Run, and Lamb National!
Our famous and colourful 'woolly jumpers' will compete daily in the 'Lamb National'. Meanwhile, 'Vera', 'Maureen', 'Ethel' and 'Gertrude' will compete in the 'Chicken Run'. Everything is set to ensure an unmissable day out.
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Mary Ola Buckles
Mary Ola Buckles, age 83, formerly of the Walker and Schell City areas died on Friday, July 18, 2008, at Christian Health Care in Nevada following a lengthy illness. She was born on March 4, 1925, in Stotesbury, Mo., to Henry Lawrence Bloesser and Kittie Frances Martin Bloesser. On Dec. 19, 1943, she was married to Emmett Lewis Buckles and he preceded her in death in 1978.
Mary worked a number of years in Nevada at Nelly Don, the Nevada State Hospital, Kraft Foods, and for the Walker School District, from 1973 until her retirement in 1986. She was a member of the Walker Christian Church, The Order of the Eastern Star No. 53 in Nevada and had received her 50-year membership pin several years ago. Mary, who was also known for her musical ability was at one time an active member of the Crazy 8 Band which played at area nursing homes.
Survivors include one son, Charles L. "Larry" Buckles and his wife Barbara of Walker, Mo.; one daughter, Nancy McCrery and her husband Richard, of Nevada; four grandchildren, Kim Dade and her husband Tim of Walker, Kerry Jennings and her husband Darl of Nevada, Crystal Bearce and her husband Jack of Butler, and Eric McCrery and his wife Heather of Leland, Miss.; four great-grandsons, Aaron Dade, Ethan Dade, Damon Jennings, and Dirk Jennings all of Nevada, one sister, Corinne Oskee, Nevada; one brother, James E. Bloesser, Fresno, Calif.; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, and two brothers, Robert Charles Bloesser and Harry Joe Bloesser.
Graveside services will be held at 2 p.m., on today at the Greenlawn Cemetery, Schell City, Mo., with Tim Brewer officiating. Friends may call at Ferry Funeral Home from 1 p.m. on Sunday until 1 p.m., on Tuesday and the family will receive friends from 7 p.m., on Monday evening at the funeral home.
Those who wish may contribute to Vernon County Cancer Relay for Life in care of Ferry Funeral Home, 301 S. Washington, Nevada, MO 64772.
View obituary and send condolences online at www.ferryfuneralhome.com.


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PCJ is a library for Java language that helps to perform parallel and distributed calculations. The current version is able to work on the multicore systems connected with the typical interconnect such as ethernet or infiniband providing users with the uniform view across nodes.
Download PCJ library (jar file of 24.02.2019 ver. 5.0.8) Latest (improved IDE support)!
Download PCJ manual (pdf) for PCJ 5 New!
The PCJ library can be used with no cost at BSD license. It requires Java 8 and no additional tools or comilers. The PCJ library for Java 7 is available in the dowload section.
The source code is available at GitHub: https://github.com/hpdcj/pcj
Version 5 introduces asyncPut() and asyncGet() methods; put() and get() methods are now synchronous. There is new handling of shared variables. The code developed for PCJ 4 hast to be modified. For details please reffer to the JavaDoc file.
The usage should be acknowledged by reference to the PCJ web site and/or reference to the papers:
- M. Nowicki, Ł. Górski, P. Bała PCJ – Java Library for Highly Scalable HPC and Big Data Processing 2018 International Conference on High Performance Computing \& Simulation (HPCS), pp:12-20 IEEE, 2018
- M. Nowicki, M. Ryczkowska, Ł. Górski, M. Szynkiewicz, P. Bała PCJ - a Java library for heterogenous parallel computing In: X. Zhuang (Ed.) Recent Advances in Information Science (Recent Advances in Computer Engineering Series vol 36) WSEAS Press 2016 pp. 66-72
- M. Nowicki, Ł. Górski, P. Grabarczyk, P. Bała PCJ - Java library for high performance computing in PGAS model In: W. W. Smari and V. Zeljkovic (Eds.) 2012 International Conference on High Performance Computing and Simulation (HPCS) IEEE 2014 pp. 202-209
- M. Nowicki, P. Bała PCJ-new approach for parallel computations in java In: P. Manninen, P. Oster (Eds.) Applied Parallel and Scientific Computing, LNCS 7782, Springer, Heidelberg (2013) pp. 115-125
- M. Nowicki, P. Bała Parallel computations in Java with PCJ library In: W. W. Smari and V. Zeljkovic (Eds.) 2012 International Conference on High Performance Computing and Simulation (HPCS) IEEE 2012 pp. 381-387
Full paper list can be found here: http://pcj.icm.edu.pl/pcj-papers
Contact: email@example.com email@example.com
π Approximation using Monte Carlo
The performance of the code to approximate π using Monte Carlo method. The code has been executed on the PC cluster halo2 at ICM. The red line shows ideal scalling.


text: Tu Bishvat Tu Bishvat and some of the other smaller holidays—Sukkot, Shavuot, Purim—can be great ways to introduce Jewish partners to the beauty of Judaism. Every winter, just as we start to think about spring, a minor holiday comes along. Minor enough that not all of us know what it means or how it came to be. The resources on this page can help you and your family learn about the wonder of Tu Bishvat. The upcoming dates for Tu Bishvat are: Beginning at sundown on: February 9, 2020; January 28, 2021; January 16, 2022. Booklet Tu Bishvat: the greening of Judaism Explaining the customs, rituals, history, foods and more, this booklet will be a popular reference for all families. Basics So you might be wondering, What is Tu Bishvat Anyway? This article offers an explanation and history of Tu Bishvat, new year of the trees according to the Jewish calendar, and its customs. Seders A Basic Tu Bishvat Seder Structure A compilation of our favorite seder resources, including menus and haggadahs. Videos Tu Bishvat Seder A Kid's Guide to the Tu Bishvat Seder Quick Reference Jewish Holidays Cheat Sheet Jewish Greetings Cheat Sheet Jewish Foods Cheat Sheet Further reading Tu Bishvat Archive Other Holidays Archive Additional Resources Tu Bishvat: A New Year for Trees — My Jewish Learning The Jewish Holidays: A Guide and Commentary Tu Bishvat Seder — Wikipedia More Holiday Quick Links December Holidays Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur Passover and Easter Shabbat and Other Holidays Shabbat Sukkot and Simchat Torah Purim Shavuot


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Satin Pothos
{ Scindapsus Pictus; Silk Pothos }
Fits pots 16-19cm
This product is currently unavailable.
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All our plants are hand-delivered to ensure they keep their quality. We will always be here to offer you advice, and ensure you have everything you need after purchase to care for your plants. We won't quibble about returns. Tell us within 72 hours of delivery - we'll sort it.
About Silvy
Rapunzel's sister Silvy is just as versatile and low maintenance, with a beautiful silver colouring on her hanging leaves. She's a great trailing plant perfect for shelves and able to adapt to almost any environment.
Estimated height (including pot): 30-50cm
Nursery pot width: 15cm
Silvy thrives in both bright indirect light and low-light.
Silvy doesn't liked to be overwatered so make sure you allow the top half of her soil to dry out between waterings.
Health Benefits
Silvy is an air-purifiying plant that has been proven to remove airbourne toxins found indoors such as formaldehyde and carbon monoxide.
Watering and feeding
Silvy appreciates a liquid fertiliser being applied once every two weeks in the spring and summer to promote growth.
Living with children and pets
Silvy can be toxic to cats, dogs and children if consumed.
Need a pot? Fits great in:
Fits pots 16-19cm


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"You can't just talk, like people have in the past, about wanting more mutuals and co-ops and hope somebody, somewhere gradually gropes towards making it happen. You really need to push it."
That was the message from Cabinet Office minister, Francis Maude, last August as he launched the government's Pathfinder scheme of (12) public sector mutuals. As Social Enterprise Coalition (SEC) chief executive, Peter Holbrook, hinted on this blog last week, there's no area of activity where the social enterprise movement is more likely to find itself hoist by its own innovative petard than this.
While sceptics may have other suggestions about their motivations, taken at face value the current government's enthusiasm for mutuals is based on an eminently sensible desire to enable the provision of more flexible, more responsive public services in a situation where there's not much money to pay for them. So, while Jesse Norman MP, author of The Big Society, is an honourable exception, the current support for mutuals should not be regarded as a sign that most Conservative politicians have specifically decided that co-operative structures are a good thing in themselves.
That makes it interesting to read the views of those who do support mutual approaches as a matter of principle. One leading voice is Jonathan Bland, Holbrook's predecessor as SEC Chief Executive and now an independent consultant. Last week, Co-Operatives UK published Time to get serious, a paper in which Bland considers existing examples of co-operative public service delivery from around Europe: schools in Spain, social care in Italy and nurseries in Sweden.
Bland explains that Italian social co-operatives, which employ 244,223 people primarily in delivering local social care, benefit from a clearly defined legal structure (established in law in 1991), tax breaks and the active support of local authorities – both as purchasers of their services and investors: "The social co-operatives have strong and positive partnership relations with local authorities. They are often involved in joint planning of services with local authorities. When the law (establishing the social co-operative legal structure) was passed, it gave the co-operatives a status as preferred providers in the procurement of local authority contracts."
- political support
- the ability to raise cash
- and specialist business advice
Filed under Uncategorized


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Barksdale TXR and TXL series temperature switches are available from Measurement Solutions . These thermostats/ temperature switches are suitable for freeze protection or temperature control in hazardous applications.
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Mentor Financial is dedicated to excellence in
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Stories of STEM: Abby Shelton
Abby Shelton is a senior in electrical engineering at the University of Kentucky. She is interested in renewable energy and in efforts to update the power grid to accommodate renewable sources. Abby has applied to graduate school and hopes to pursue a master's program with a focus in industrial engineering or engineering management.Coming into college, Abby wasn't really aware of the gender gap in engineering. In high school, all her advanced math classes had an equal number of females to males, so she figured it would be the same in college. At the start of college, most introductory classes such as chemistry and calculus had plenty of females. But now in her upper level engineering classes, it is not uncommon for Abby to be the only female. At first, she didn't have any friends in electrical or even know anyone, and that's when the gender gap became real to her. Abby would try to tackle everything on her own, which was difficult. If she could give any advice to her freshman self, it would be to make meaningful connections in her classes right off the bat. The more friendships you form, the less you feel like a minority.
Leave a Reply.
Campus Representative: Hannah Thompson


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Mercy Health — St. Charles Hospital
Compassionate, high-quality health care for Toledo
Mercy Health — St. Charles Hospital offers you the high-quality health care you need and the compassion you deserve. Our expert doctors, nurses and caregivers are committed to helping you be well in mind, body and spirit.
Through advanced treatments and cutting-edge technology, we've been making lives better and health care easier for eastern Toledo since 1953.
Hospital Services
At Mercy Health — St. Charles Hospital, we offer emergency, orthopedic, acute rehabilitation, behavioral health, and cardiac rehabilitation services. Our hospital features include a birthing center, a sleep center, and a women's center.
Mercy Health — St. Charles Hospital received the accreditation in stroke care with the Certification for Primary Stroke Center accreditation from the Joint Commission.
News from Mercy Health St. Charles Hospital
To provide the community with more resources to dispose of old, unused medication, Mercy Health is pleased to announce the installation of medication drop boxes onsite at eight of its locations across Northwest Ohio to serve the community and help combat ...


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The Met Office have warned people in South West Scotland to keep a close eye on the weather forecast this weekend as a tropical storm, combined with the remnants of Hurricane Gert, heads in off the Atlantic.
This storm could lead to flooding problems as heavy rainfall has seen the level of the River Cree rise in Newton Stewart, with SEPA issueing a flood warning earlier this week.
Now the remnants of the Atlantic storm which is moving in a north-easterly direction could also bring 1.6in (40mm) of rain for parts of North West England and Scotland on Sunday into Monday.
A spokesperson for the Met Office said: "There is quite a bit of uncertainty at the moment as this front is a few days away. It's a tropical system that has got caught up in the Atlantic flow. Saturday will be cool, breezy, showery and a bit blustery.
"Sunday will have a bright, still start but it will start to cloud over and rain sets in during the afternoon. The exact location of the heavy rain, which will be intense at times and will continue overnight, is not certain. It could well be that south west Scotland is on the northern edge of the front.
"If people have plans for the second half of the weekend they should check the forecast first."
A spokesman for the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency added: "In terms of flooding for Sunday, there is heavy rain expected, however it's too early at this stage to know what alerts / warnings may be issued. Its dependent on how the weather patterns develop over the next few days and the areas where rainfall is most concentrated. We'll have more confidence over the next few days.
"Our general advice would always be to encourage members of the public to remain vigilant, especially in areas susceptible to flooding and sign up to Floodline on 0345 988 1188 for the most up to date alerts and warnings."
The aftermath of Hurricane Gert is expected to hit the UK, splitting the North and South with very different weather.
The storm, is expected to bring strong winds and rain in the North as it travels across the Atlantic and hits the UK on Sunday. However, the South is set to bask in sunshine, with temperatures forecast to reach up to 27C on Monday as the low pressure system draws warm air up from Europe.
Today the category 2 hurricane will be downgraded to a tropical storm, but as it tracks across the Atlantic it will interact with another low pressure system to the east of Canada, and the two lows will move to the UK by the end of the weekend. The National Hurricane Centre said that Gert was the Atlantic's second hurricane of the season.


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2015 was just another year of learning for me, traveling into 14 new countries, and visiting over 100 cities, so here are some of my thoughts on my travel and growth in 2015. This year I tried to mix the rough with the smooth on my travels, roughing it through many parts of Asia before some relative luxuries in the Maldives.
Asia still amazes me, there are just so many pockets of this continent wanting to be explored, again I tried to get out of the cities as much as possible, particularly in Myanmar (Burma), The Philippines, Malaysia, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. I found a gorgeous island in the Philippines (Boracay) and fell in love with Myanmar with a trip from Mandalay to Yangon, with the roads being the biggest pain the backside (literally) and the people being amongst the happiest I have encountered.
Japan (Tokyo) is an organization freaks paradise with an abundance of redundant helpers walking the streets and zebra crossings. Taiwan again threw up issues with my lack of local linguistic skills. It seems older Asian ladies enjoy serving me what they wanted and not what I thought I ordered – which incidentally became a game I quite enjoyed.
I have also become quite obsessed with motorbikes and am convinced it is the only way to travel in Asia. Forget about name brands like Honda or Yamaha – Hero MotoCorp, Bajaj Auto, or Suzuki are the most popular bikes and (most importantly older bikes), as it is no point having a bike you cannot fix yourself, and don't worry about breaking down, within minutes there is a friendly local to help you out, even on back dirt roads! In fact just about anywhere in Asia you go, if you even look slightly lost or puzzled someone will approach you – and most of the time it isn't about the money!
Sri Lanka was a gorgeous country. Yes, the cities are pretty run down and dirty and the noise and smog can be quite annoying in Colombo, but outside of the cities and into the countryside it is beautiful. I recommend hiring a local to take you to some of the hidden gems in the countryside which of course is famous for its teas. Point Pedro and Mannar were particular highlights as well as some of the tea plantations (not a big fan of drinking it) were quite amazing. Although I did try coffee (Kopi Luwak) passed through the intestines of the Asian palm civet. It tastes like coffee if you really want to know, but the people on the table next to me thought it was from heaven.
I am not one to do much of the luxury travel, but if you go to Maldives, it is pretty hard to avoid. My only suggestion would be to find something close to the airport in Male (within 1 hour boat ride) or you will find yourself hopping on another long flight to one of the many resorts. I chose Baros, Maldives, a 5 Star resort, only about a 40 minutes boat ride from the airport. I have to say after a few rough weeks in Asia and a beard no-one could be proud of – it was pretty darn nice. Luckily I had my good friend Gordana, who just happened to be relatively nearby in Cypress to share it with, otherwise it would have been a shame to be on an island like this with the incredibly abundant protected sea-life just a short dive (swim) away from my water villa. Everything is there for you, and catered for, including a private boat trip, a personal helper, diving, snorkeling and just generally relaxing on a tint island paradise. I think I might go back! Just be warned, you wallet will burn big time! I would avoid the city of Malé, as it is a depressing city, run by some religious crazies and almost poor beyond belief.
Probably the best trip I took was in Iceland and Georgia, architecturally Iceland and its cities are pretty poor (functional living reigns supreme), but get into a 4 wheel drive and the countryside and mountainous regions are incredible. Getting to travel around the glaciers on a snowmobile was also a treat, but really just exploring this amazing little country was breathtaking.
Georgia is a weathered country, but the resilience of its people is pretty heartwarming, if you have a steady job, life is ok, if you don't, then it is tough. Like most rising eastern european countries it again suffers from police corruption – what do you expect when their income is barely enough to scrape by on, so best to avoid them at all times. The people again are friendly and always interested in western life.
So there you have it, a small snapshot of my travels in 2015.