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Search and compare thousands of words and phrases in American Sign Language (ASL). The largest collection online.
How to sign: a contentious speech act; a dispute where there is strong disagreement
"they were involved in a violent argument";
Similiar / Same: controversy, contestation, disceptation, arguing, disputation, tilt, argument
Categories: dispute, difference, difference of opinion, conflict
Within this category: argy-bargy, firestorm, sparring, polemic, fight


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Reiki Session
Appointments needs to be made at least one (1) week in advance to ensure the availability of our Reiki Master
Reiki is a Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation that also promotes healing. It is administered by "laying on hands" and is based on the idea that an unseen "life force energy" flows through us and is what causes us to be alive. If one's "life force energy" is low, then we are more likely to get sick or feel stress, and if it is high, we are more capable of being happy and healthy.
A treatment feels like a wonderful glowing radiance that flows through and around you. Reiki treats the whole person including body, emotions, mind and spirit creating many beneficial effects that include relaxation and feelings of peace, security and wellbeing.
Reiki is a simple, natural and safe method of non invasive and does not apply any deep pressure. If you're currently experiencing migraine, any stress related issues, Reiki can help de stress and take away the edge of pain.A person who has just received a Reiki treatment will feel soothed, energised and relaxed.
- Some observed benefits include:
- Boost the immune system
- Complements all other therapies
- Creates optimism, positivism and total relaxation
- Improves creativity and memory power
- Increases harmony and (spiritual) inner peace
- More energised
- Non-manipulative gentle light touch – does not instil pain
- Reduces or eliminates pain of all kind
- Reduces stress and tension
- Removes physical, mental & emotional blockage
- Speed up recovery on illnesses
A session normally takes 60 minutes, and the practitioner will apply her hands on you and allow the Reiki energy to flow through you. If you'd like to know more, please contact our staff at email@example.com for bookings & information.
- 60 minutes @ RM279.00 nett

subset: commoncrawl


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July 2018
Why the CRO Model is Failing
The clinical trial industry has undergone rapid transformation over the past few years, and many CROs are struggling to keep up. With more than 250,000 trials currently registered on clinicaltrials.gov, the number of clinical trials throughout the U.S. and across the globe has continued to grow exponentially, creating an oversaturated market that has taken a toll on CROs of all sizes.
As the market grows more competitive and the pressure from sponsors to deliver results mounts, it is clear that research organizations must rethink their business model to survive in this dynamic industry. As the clinical trial field continues to evolve, research organizations must look out for these three issues plaguing the current CRO model:
- Competitive Landscape – Competition among CROs has become increasingly stiff, making it difficult for these organizations to secure high-performing sites, find qualified patients for trials and keep their market share. It is not unusual for multiple (five to seven) or more CROs to be bidding on the same clinical trial opportunity. This creates a situation where price becomes the overriding factor in the CRO selection. This puts the smaller CROs in a vulnerable situation. As a result, research organizations are often forced to either find an untapped niche to specialize in or get acquired by a larger CRO.
- Inclusion/Exclusion Criteria Dilemma – Finding eligible patients isn't the only challenge CROs face when recruiting patients – retaining those patients for future studies can be incredibly difficult, as well. Once a patient is excluded from a study, he or she will be less likely to participate in future trials – the result of the "exclusion ripple effect" – reducing the already limited number of qualified patients. Not to mention, there are reports of an increasing trend for patients to send their medications to independent labs to confirm whether they are on drug or placebo. This can result in an abnormal drop-out rate.
- IRB Issues – Due to the increase in clinical trials, many IRBs wrestle with backlog issues, taking nearly two – three months to complete a thorough review. Additionally, several pharmaceutical companies and CROs have taken to paying independent IRBs to review their products for multiple sites. How will the FDA respond?
While these issues have hindered the CRO industry, there are several approaches CROs can take to differentiate themselves from their competitors and stay one step ahead:
- Pre-clinical Evaluation Capabilities – A successful CRO's role in the approval process should start before trials begin. Having a team of chemists, engineers and researchers who can review a new drug or device and compile a thorough market analysis will help companies come up with a comprehensive plan to guide them through trial designs, as well as planning for the product's entire life cycle.
- Reimbursement Strategy – When going through the clinical trial planning process, many organizations make the mistake of not taking into account the strategy around reimbursement and the price they are going to seek for their product. Clinical trials need to provide the justification and product advantages to ensure the best possible pricing scenario. These studies need to be directed towards those who ultimately are going to pay for the drug. Therefore, careful consideration must be placed on not just the efficacy and safety, but the economic features of the drug being studied.
- Team of Regulatory Experts – It is crucial for a CRO to establish itself as a trusted strategic partner for the study sponsors. A good CRO has the ability to build a team of easily accessible experts with first-hand FDA experience, to help the sponsoring organization deal with the complexities of a global regulatory approval strategy.
Finally, it is critical that the entire CRO industry find a way to shift away from this trend of being a commodity service, to one where their sponsoring clients view them as key partners in their clinical trial and regulatory strategies. This development of a partnership mentality can only improve long term results for our entire industry.


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Welcome to our new web site!
To give our readers a chance to experience all that our new website has to offer, we have made all content freely avaiable, through October 1, 2018.
During this time, print and digital subscribers will not need to log in to view our stories or e-editions.
Patrick Patterson and the Volunteers of America Michigan, which named him president and CEO just last July, have parted ways over "differences."
After Patterson's departure, four members resigned from the VOA's nine-member Lansing committee, which is a subcommittee of the board of directors. Patterson was a longtime VOA executive in Lansing before he took the statewide post.
VOA Board Chairman Don McCann confirmed the departure of Patterson, which is being called a "resignation." He said that Patterson's predecessor, Alex Brodrick, has come out of retirement to return to his old post on an interim basis while the VOA looks for a new chief executive.
Meanwhile, in another development, the financially stressed VOA and Holy Cross Services announced they are discussing a take over by the latter of Lansing services. Holy Cross is a Catholic organization based in Clinton with services around the state, including a women's facility in Lansing.
"We've gotten so big up there that our resources may not be able to fund it for the long term," said Brodrick, who is in VOA's Southfield headquarters. "We're trying to make sure there's someone there to take care of the 7,200 people" served by VOA in Lansing. Brodrick said he could not comment on whether the proposed takeover played a role in Patterson's departure. He said he and the VOA's chief operating officer "have been looking at this for a long time."
A spokeswoman for Holy Cross Services said Patterson was not involved in the new development.
City Pulse learned of Patterson's departure, which was effective Feb. 28, from a source last week. The VOA had announced neither his departure nor Brodrick's return.
Asked what happened with Patterson, McCann issued what he said was a joint statement by the VOA and Patterson that extolled Patterson personally and said: "We had some differences of opinion on how to run the agency and grow into the future and have respectfully agreed to part ways."
McCann declined to comment on the board's differences with Patterson because they were a "personnel matter."
Asked if Patterson's departure resulted from either his or the board's desire to make changes in VOA operations, McCann said, "It was a little of both."
Patterson joined the VOA in Lansing in 2000 after working for the city of Lansing and serving on the VOA's board. He rose to executive vice president while overseeing Lansing operations.
Patterson was a highly regarded local leader during that time who was known for innovative programming and a get-thingsdone attitude. One Lansing fundraising executive, who asked not to be named, said his departure was a "shock."
Patterson is credited with developing medical and dental programs as well as one that helps to identify government benefits to which homeless individuals may be entitled.
McCann confirmed that three or four members of the Lansing committee had resigned. He declined to name them or provide a list of Lansing committee members.
One of those who quit, Jerry Jennings of East Lansing, declined to comment on whether the resignations were connected to Patterson's departure.
"I felt my services to the VOA had reached an end," Jennings said about his own resignation.
The other three who quit are local developer Kevin McGraw, who was the committee chairman; attorney John Pepich; and Samuel Johnson, an executive with NorthWest Initiatives. They could not be reached for comment.
Jennings was the only committee member who also served on the board, from which he also resigned. Jennings said he was the only board member not from southeast Michigan.


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**Drum roll please!!!!!!!!*********
Together, with a WORLD WIDE effort.... we had an amazing number of 8,862 mummies latch on! This smashed last year's number! WAY TO GO MUMMIES!
Here are some photos...... you can check them all out here.... more will be added as I get them in!
(Cookies, then Milk... fresh baked Lactation Cookies!)
(Sarah's Diaper Parties!)
(Ferguson Family Chiropractor)
(Mae Wares!!!)
(Awesome items for everyone to take home)
(Table 1 of door prizes!)
(Table 2 of door prizes!)
We also had Le Leche League, Best Natural Birth, WIC breastfeeding Peer Counselor of Cartersville and Sweetamagoos!
(Hehe! That is ME!!!!!)
(All of the Mummies... and Mr. Mummie...... Look at this group of Mummies!!!)
(Me, Mr. Mummie, Pooker and Kit Kat)
(We got a Mummie foto! I love my Mummies!)
And...... I just could not resist some of these Nummie Lovers! So I made a collage!
(Look at me hold we wee little Nummie Lover!!!!!!!!!!)
When it came down the BIG moment.... my amazing husband (Mr. Mummie) took this awesome video.... it is short.... but awesome!
Now who is ready for next year?!
Thank you!!!!


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Columbia Public Schools Ready for Tornadoes
COLUMBIA - The spring weather brings tornadoes sweeping across the nation, but the Columbia Public School District says its teachers are ready to keep students safe in case of an emergency.
Michelle Baumstark, a spokesperson for Columbia Public Schools, says the district sent out a letter to parents informing them of the procedures used by teachers to take care of their students in the case of a tornado. She said after the news of the tornado in Oklahoma, the district wanted to make sure parents knew the schools are doing what they can to be able to keep students safe.
"We were getting a lot of questions this morning, and we really wanted to be proactive and let parents know how Columbia public schools deal with such a situation," Baumstark said.
She said the schools all have different areas away from windows that are safe for the children to go to in the case of an emergency.


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What is reiki?
Reiki means Universal Life Force. In common usage, reiki is a therapy that is safe, gentle and effective.
How does reiki work?
Reiki is an energy blockage release system. The Practitioner directs the flow of reiki, through his hands. The hands may make light contact with the client's body; or may simply hover near the client. There is no preasuure or manipulation of the body. Massage is not used.
How is reiki used?
Reiki is useful for releasing pain and stress. There is no medical diagnosis. Specific medical conditions are not treated.
My Reiki Training
Jin Shin Tao Reiki Master
The Human Touch
A one year course ending on November 11, 2007
Instructor: JSTRM Caroline Frank
Traditional Reiki Master Practitioner
The Human Touch
2001 -- 2002
Instructor: RMT Caroline Frank
My Master Lineage: Usui, Hayashi, Takata, Iris Ishikuro, Arthur Robertson, Samuel Strauss, Caroline Frank, Shoshana Blickstein, Jonathan Lobl
Karuna Reiki 1 and 2, Karuna Reiki Master
Instructor: KRMT Joan Michalaros
Joan Michalaros is now Director of LTC of Frankfort, ILL.
My Karuna classes are registered with William Lee Rand's
the International Center for Reiki Training #36079
Reiki 1 and Reiki 2 Practitioner
The John Harvey Gray Center for Reiki Healing
Instructor: RM John Harvey Gray
John Harvey Gray was one of the 22 Reiki Masters trained directly by Hawayo Takata.
Traditional Reiki Advanced Practitioner
Loving Touch Center
LTC Training: Reiki 1, Reiki 2, Advanced Practitioner
Instructor: RMT Margaret Ann Case
Reiki 1 and Reiki 2 Practitioner
Barbara Auora Agni (Formerly Barbara Balk) and Katherine Lenel, respectivly
American International Reiki Association, now known as TRTIA
The head of this lineage, Barbara W. Ray, Ph.D.; was the last of the 22 Reiki Masters trained by Hawayo Takata.
The instructors of the Barbara Ray lineage, continue to insist that only they have the complete reiki system taught by Hawayo Takata. There was a time when I believed this.
Note: This reiki lineage is a seven degree system. The other reiki lineages are three degree systems. I do not know the content or source of the additional material.


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Sign up to receive info about our hottest deals,
exclusive specials + much more!
Whether you're stopping by for business or leisure, the guest facilities at our Brisbane Airport Family accommodation will make your stay with us one to remember.
After a busy day in the city or exploring the great attractions in the area, you are sure to appreciate a dip in our inviting outdoor swimming pool.
Free WiFi access in every apartment keeps you connected throughout your stay.
There is off-street parking available for guests at Hampton Court Apartments North Brisbane, with lock-up garages available upon request.
Need to hire a car, book a restaurant or secure tickets to the best show in town? Just chat to the friendly team at our reception desk.


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I'm moving the polls to a new page at top of this site.
I have turned on the option so that you can see the updates on the polls automatically.
Voting is still the same.
I've decided that I will take down the political polls after 7 days.
I will repost them a new set of polls in a few weeks to see if peoples views have changed on candidates.
Filed under: Uncategorized Tagged: | Poll Talk


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Court orders LimeWire to cease file-sharing business
P2P software maker had been accused by music industry of enabling massive piracy
by Jaikumar Vijayan
Oct 26, 2010 07:15 pm | Computerworld
In a major victory for the music industry, a New York federal judge has ordered embattled P2P software maker LimeWire to immediately and permanently stop distributing and supporting its file-sharing software.
In a 17-page injunction (PDF document) issued on Tuesday, Judge Kimba Wood of the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York ordered LimeWire to cease the searching, downloading, uploading, file trading and file distribution functionality of LimeWire's P2P file-sharing software.
The injunction instructed LimeWire to immediately communicate the court's decision to all users of the software and to all of the company's employees, principals and other stakeholders. It gave the company 14 days to report back to the court on the steps LimeWire has taken to comply with the order.
A spokeswoman for the company today stressed that the court's order does not mean that LimeWire is shutting down and said that it only prevents LimeWire from distributing or supporting its P2P software.
It does not prohibit the company from going ahead with its previously announced plans to launch a subscription based music service and neither does it prohibit the company from operating its online store, the LimeWire spokeswoman said.
"While this is not our ideal path, we hope to work with the music industry in moving forward," the spokeswoman said by e-mail. "We look forward to embracing necessary changes and collaborating with the entire music industry in the future."
The court injunction is a huge victory for the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), which has been trying to get the court to shut down LimeWire for quite some time.
The RIAA and the music labels it represents have accused LimeWire and its chief executive, Mark Gorton, of willfully enabling widespread copyright infringement.
For more, visit Computerworld.com


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Nordic Life Science Days is the largest Nordic partnering conference dedicated to the life science industry. Since its inception in 2013, the event has nurtured a community of people from the world of life science, and created a unique place to do business.
Most attendees express their delight in the informal atmosphere, combined with an organised approach to meeting highly relevant people. Return visitors come back because they feel they belong to our growing community.
We create a space for meaningful encounters, with one-on-one meetings being one of the main features of NLSDays. Additionally, the high quality of topics and presenters provide insight into the most recent trends in science and business.
NLSDays attracts leading decision makers from biotech, pharma and medtech as well as finance, research, policy and regulatory authorities.
MORE INFO: http://www.nlsdays.com/
Stockholm Waterfront Congress Center
Nils Ericsons Plan 4
Stockholm – Sweden
More information on the registration fees can be found on https://www.nlsdays.com/registration-fees/.
FLANDERS.BIO MEMBER BENEFIT: flanders.bio members are entitled to a 10% discount on all registration categories and periods as well as on company presentations (upon availability).
Contact us to obtain your discount code.


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Bateaux-Mouches: the best boat trips along the Seine
All the information and booking online.
Personal Shopper Puces de Saint-Ouen
An immersion in the Puce de Saint-Ouen, discovering its unique atmosphere and art galleries.
Paris and its Arrondissements
Tours, accommodation, stay : discover all the districts of Paris to choose better.
What not to do in Paris
Enjoy your time in the capital to discover an off-beat and unique Paris
What to visit by arrondissements
Every gardens, museums, monuments and sightseeing by arrondissements
Best places to shop in Paris
Recommended shopping itineraries in Paris. Discover the city and shop at the same time !
Père-Lachaise Cemetery map
Map of Père-Lachaise Cemetery with the place of the main celebrities.
Montmartre cemetery map
(Français) Plan du cimetière de Montmartre et emplacement des principales célébrités inhumées.
Choose which Museum to visit
Sciences, arts, paintings, history… Which museum to visit in Paris ?
One week in Paris – What to do, and what to see
A 6 days programme mixing Paris discovering, shopping, culture and party, and reveals the only beauty of the City of Light…
3 days in Paris, what to do and what to see
A 3 days programme to discover Paris and its unique atmosphere.
Guided Tours
Un Jour de Plus à Paris also organizes guided tours. Walks that will introduce you to an original and out of the ordinary Paris. All the information about our visits.
Guided Tours in paris Museums
(Français) Château de Versailles, Le Louvre, Orsay, mais aussi le Musée de Montmartre ou l'Opéra Garnier, découvrez en profondeur toute la richesse des musées parisiens.
New contemporary architectures in Paris
Triangle Tower, Samaritan Courthouse … All new contemporary architecture projects in Paris.
Best watering places and fountains to chill in Paris.
Paris is full of magnificent fountains and watering places for a pleasant moment of freshness.
New museums and monuments in Paris to (re)discover!
Musée Picasso, Louis Vuitton, Paris Mint Foundation … Many new museums to discover in Paris!
Digital exhibition : "Paris 1940-1944 The daily routine of Parisians under the Occupation"
A digital exhibition about Paris nazi occupation between 1940 and 1944
Grand Palais renovation project
See the great renovation project of the Grand Palais and the Palais de la découverte running from 2018.
Save up to 50% off – tickets theatre paris
(Français) Les kiosques à Paris, tarifs réduits pour les théâtres, café-théâtres et cabarets
Paris' best museums for kids
Having fun in a museum while learning in the same time is definitly possible…
Where to drink spring water in Paris
A water drawn over 500 meters deep for more than a century !
Which museums are free ?
List of free museums and cultural centres of Paris
Art gallery in Paris
A various selection of artistic and cultural places in Paris
Specialized and Foreign-language bookshops in Paris
Specialized and Foreign-language (English, German, Dutch, Asian) bookshops in Paris
Tourist information desks in Paris
Addresses and schedules of tourist information desks of Paris.
Find your bearings in Paris
All the Useful information to get around Paris with complete peace of mind


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Antaira Technologies' unmanaged Ethernet switches are engineered for outdoor and tough industrial environments found in security and surveillance, traffic monitoring, mining, power utilities, water treatment plants, substations and factory automation. Unmanaged switches are the perfect solution for quick setup and deployment. The come in a range of port densities and features. Select port speed (Fast or Gigabit Ethernet), number of ports (up to 18), connections (RJ-45, M12, SFP, LC, ST or combination) and Power over Ethernet (PoE). All switches feature a 5 year warranty, accept redundant power input and offer an optional extended operating temperature of -40 to 75 degrees Celsius for extreme heat or cold conditions.
Unmanaged Ethernet Switch Features
Antaira Technologies has a complete line of unmanaged Ethernet switches to choose from. Switch port capacities range between 5 to 18 ports. Common features include dual power input, reverse polarity protection, a relay that outputs port and power failures, jumbo frame support and hardened electronics mounted in a durable case.
For example, the Antaira LNX-0501 has 5 PoE ports with a fiber optic port that may be configured with an SC or ST connector. Select single-mode or multi-mode. The fiber optic port provides network connectivity to locations that are up to 2km using multi-mode and up to 30km away using single-mode fiber. The switch is built with high ESD, EFT and EMI protection and has a metal IP30 rated case.
For a simple and affordable solution, Antaira LNX-800A 8-Port unmanaged Gigabit Ethernet switch provides reliable, fast communication without the extra cost and burden of a sophisticated, managed switch. It operates in extreme temperatures and is capable of handling industrial power loads offering 2,000V of EFT and 6,000V ESD protection. Input voltage is redundant 12 - 48V DC, and it consumes an efficient 5W of power.
If you're looking for more port capacity and high performance, then look to the LNX-1204G-SFP switch. The unit is designed with 8 Gigabit Ethernet ports and 4 dual-rate (100/1000) SFP slots. It's ideal for applications that demand high bandwidth and long distance communication.
PoE Injector
Antaira Technologies also offers PoE injectors such as the PA-48-48-US. An injector eliminates the need to run a separate power cable to PoE enabled devices such as IP cameras, wireless access points, fire alarms and digital signs. The PA-48-48-US complies with IEEE 802.3af standards.
Learn More
Unmanaged switches from Antaira Technologies are designed for quick deployments and simple networks. They offer the features required for harsh, industrial locations. Contact a knowledgeable Westward Sales representative today to learn more.


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06.27.2017 Press Release
Kaminario Gains Significant Channel Momentum as Demand for its Innovative Storage Solution Accelerates
More and more SaaS companies are turning to Kaminario's channel partner network for all-flash solutions for cloud-scale, on-demand applications
NEEDHAM, Mass., June 27, 2017 – Kaminario, a leading all-flash storage company, today announced its ACCELERATE global channel partner program has grown more than 105 percent year-over-year Q1 2016 to Q1 2017. In addition, momentum for its all-flash storage array solution continues to accelerate as Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) providers continue to adopt Kaminario K2 technology to power and protect their mission critical applications and digital ecosystem. A large percentage of Kaminario's global growth is attributed to new SaaS customers secured by its channel partners.
Highlights include:
- More than 200 channel partners globally have added Kaminario K2 to their offerings to increase profitability and gain direct access to the all-flash market estimated to be growing over 30 percent year-over-year, reaching more than $10 billion by 2020.
- Kaminario is seeing significant growth in business from partners offering managed private cloud services.
- Kaminario launched an Authorized Support Partner (ASP) program that allows select Kaminario partners to offer end-to-end support on Kaminario solutions. This program is particularly important to partners offering fully managed storage services to their end customers.
- Kaminario continues to expand its business with SaaS and on-demand application providers with more than 60 percent of its business coming from this category – including healthtech, fintech, ecommerce and enterprise applications-as-a-service companies.
- The rapid adoption of its all-flash solution by SaaS companies is being driven by growth in cloud-scale, database-driven applications; U.S. federal government cloud-first policies; a shift toward private/hybrid cloud architectures; and an increasing interest by enterprise buyers in artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning and Internet of Things (IoT) – enabled applications.
"We are seeing phenomenal growth in channel-driven business as our partners experience Kaminario's unique value for on-demand business and the chance to differentiate their own offerings within this high growth segment," said Itay Shoshani, chief revenue officer, Kaminario. "A channel-only go-to-market strategy is central to our plans for a sustainable, growth-oriented company, with a clear path to profitability."
"InterVision delivers solutions for Software-as-a-Service companies that are building their own cloud infrastructures," said Jamie Lee, vice president of sales, InterVision. "Kaminario's all-flash platform uniquely delivers the scalability, agility and performance demanded by these customers."
"Kaminario helps Atlantix Global deliver agility and simplicity to customers who are managing rapidly changing business requirements," said Brian Glahn, chief executive officer, Atlantix Global. "Kaminario K2 sets the bar for mixed workloads that include the most demanding performance, reliability and scale storage requirements."
"The rapid adoption of flash storage is being driven by need for flexibility at the application level," said Gildas Paul, manager, Storage and Backup Business Unit, ITS Group. "While storage has always been a focus of IT, the applications are now defining how storage is acquired. Being able to control storage investments costs has also become a MUST. The combination of an agile software defined architecture and the ForeSight assurance program makes Kaminario unique in the industry and a key player in delivering private and hybrid cloud strategies."
The ACCELERATE partner program enables businesses globally to adopt, implement and manage Kaminario's products with trusted technology advisors. Kaminario is committed to making ACCELERATE the most profitable partner program in the storage industry with a combination of discounts, rebates and incentives that allow resellers to earn the highest overall margins industry-wide. Partners have access to a variety of additional benefits including technical and market training, dedicated marketing resources and discounts on demo systems. The program also includes consulting to help technology resellers craft business strategies around the all-flash datacenter.
About Kaminario
Kaminario, the leading all-flash storage company, is redefining the future of modern datacenters. Its unique solution enables organizations to succeed in today's on-demand world and prepares them to seamlessly handle tomorrow's innovations. Only Kaminario K2 all-flash array delivers the agility, scalability, performance and economics a datacenter requires to deal with today's cloud-first, dynamic world and provide real-time data access — anywhere, anytime. Hundreds of customers rely on Kaminario K2 to power their mission critical applications and safeguard their digital ecosystem. Headquartered in Needham, MA, Kaminario works with an extensive network of resellers and distributors, globally. For more information, please visit www.kaminario.com.


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Coffman Engineers
North Idaho College's career technical programs were so popular that they didn't have enough space and had to turn away students. Coffman solved this problem by designing a $20,000,000, 109,500 sf facility to accommodate the growing programs such as Diesel Technology, Collision Repair, Welding, HVAC, and more. The College is now able to serve more students and waiting lists to get into courses are a thing of the past.
Coffman provided mechanical engineering for the design of the Career Technical Education facility on the North Idaho College Campus. The building includes spaces for welding, diesel, automotive, and collision repair education and classroom instruction. Mechanical systems include specialty exhaust for welding booths and vehicles, compressed air, and emergency plumbing fixtures.
Coeur d'Alene, Idaho
Traci A. Hanegan, P.E., FASHRAE, HFDP, LEED BD+C
©2012 Coffman Engineers, Inc. Site Design ©2012 Klündt | Hosmer. All Rights Reserved.


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Top Security Firm Sued in Target Data Breach
A new lawsuit resulting from the Target data breach at puts a spotlight on Trustwave, a private firm that does the majority of payment security checks in the U.S. Danny Yadron reports on the News Hub.
This transcript has been automatically generated and may not be 100% accurate.
I ... the ... you'll sit in the wake of the massive target data breach last year ... with a spotlight on that that that does the most caught in the security state in United States ... the afternoon and welcome the New Saab on Michael Casey ... joining me now is cybersecurity reporter Danny Advent ... by Danny ... and thanks for having me know the less you must welcome thanks adjoining us ... so it will tell us about this the trust with what do they do ... Smoot Trust Holdings is a Chicago outcry that cybersecurity firm ... and then actually I started doing a lot of ... payment card security assessments ... and they are you know by all accounts a Gucci new company for this American Express JPMorgan Chase PNC recommends using them ... but given that are good for each eye on that there are new questions about the job they doing in in the way some of the business is run ... on their mentioned as he said in a lawsuit in Chicago ... accusing them of being liable ... in the chart the case because they signed off on Target security ... so sir I'm cool with these people are selling them in and and what are the alleged failings ... oh it's to use smaller banks ... and they accuse the company ... is saying in Target's payment system was secure but it wasn't ... I'm a trusted also provide AIDS ... and chic security services ... and answered a these banks argue that makes the company actual liable to now in talking to lawyers in an alliance you know it's pretty unusual for banks to see the security company after breach ... often because you know trust with has no direct relationship with these banks ... so it's a bit of a new test under the law here ... it ... is tousled itself commenting on the carrots ... I they are not set up and they have said they don't comment on pending litigation but I've talked to trust with executives ... in the past or previous stories ... and what this is a lurking and they tell clients that ... the security standards are a diesel I mean are you the deal mean you're hacker proof by any means ... so this doesn't ring a day when the majority of securing six of us running at how big a company we talk about it ... well Trevor companies so we don't know revenue time but I mean ... his account is big enough that one American Express and this is a retailer ... and hasn't had one of these ... require security checks before they recommend a ... these trusts way ... PNC N J said similar things on their websites ... the other things some the security industry are asking questions about ... is that ... you ... trusted doesn't just be these securities has helped found PCI data security assessments ... they also re offer consulting and the services so in no way you know that sometimes assessing their own work ... some people say that the conflict of interest ... a sign that this is done the damage discuss whether the platter in this particular industry ... we are not in Allah meaning in this is the first lawsuit after the Target breach and mention them ... I mean you know they're they're still widely used partly because you know they are there that due to clearing here ... Danny will thank you so much to time


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Capitol Office
My Capitol Office is available to assist you with legislative inquiries, requests for Capitol tours, Capitol scheduling requests and matters of statewide concern.
State Capitol
P.O. Box 942849
Sacramento, CA 94249-0020
Tel: (916) 319-2020
Fax: (916) 319-2120
District Office
My District Office is available to assist you in working with state agencies, casework, certificates and/or resolutions, scheduling local meetings and events, and any matter of local concern.
22320 Foothill Blvd, Suite 540
Hayward, CA 94541
Tel: (510) 583-8818
Fax: (510) 583-8800


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You create an array with (array ...) but it mostly acts like a list.
I've often wanted anonymous rb-trees.
Often, I'd like to have a list of "objects", but want to access the data in them with the same syntax as with rb trees. It is nice that we now have anonymous objects; can we have anonymous rb-trees?
Also, I'm still trying to wrap my head around the way that contexts and rb-trees are crumpled together. They seem like unique and independant contexts.
Lutz, would it be possible to separate them out? When I use rb trees, I don't usually need the other stuff that a context implies. Not saying there is any overhead speedwise. It is just grappling with it in my head.
A lot of times I deal with data where I need to stash it in rows, and there is a lot of self-similarity, but there is also odd data that pops in which I also want to stuff into the data structure and save.
How about (rbtree ...) ?
This would fit in with the default functor; right now there is no way to access the "default functor" other than with (define), but with an rbtree, the default function could be used without generating a context.


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Most workplaces in Alberta are governed by provincial human rights legislation. However, certain workplaces are governed by the federal Canadian Human Rights Act, which covers workplaces such as:
The Canadian Human Rights Commission website has described the work of the CHRC as follows: The Canadian Human Rights Commission administers the Canadian Human Rights Act and is responsible for ensuring compliance with the Employment Equity Act. Both laws ensure that the principles of equal opportunity and non-discrimination are followed in all areas of federal jurisdiction. For more information, visit the Canadian Human Rights Commission website. If you are unsure about whether a human rights issue falls under provincial or federal legislation, contact the Commission for more information.Reviewed: March 27, 2013
The Alberta Human Rights Commission is an independent commission of the Government of Alberta.
Due to confidentiality concerns, the Commission cannot reply to inquiries about specific situations by email. Please call the Commission's Confidential Inquiry Line if you have a specific question.
You can access information about making FOIP requests for records held by the Commission on our Contact us page.
The Commission will make publications available in accessible formats upon request for people with disabilities who do not read conventional print.


text: I was asked by Ellie and Steve to capture their intimate Tenby wedding in Pembrokeshire. The weather was blowing a hooley but this certainly did not dampen anyone's sprites! The ceremony was at the Giltar Hotel followed by a very quick dash down the hill to the fantastically placed South Beach Bar & Grill. The newlyweds were even brave enough to battle the elements for some quick photographs on the promenade. Impressive! It was a lovely afternoon and a huge congratulations to the Ellie & Steve!


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BBC crisis: Now head of news and deputy ordered to 'step aside'
THE BBC's director of news Helen Boaden and her deputy Stephen Mitchell have stepped aside, according to reports.
The departure of two more senior BBC staff comes ahead of a report into the Newsnight programme which mistakenly implicated Lord McAlpine in a sex abuse scandal which is due to be published today.
The BBC responded by saying the pair had 'stepped-aside' in order "to address the lack of clarity around the editorial chain of command, a decision has been taken to re-establish a single management to deal with all output, Savile-related or otherwise.
"Consideration is now being given to the extent to which individuals should be asked to account further for their actions and if appropriate, disciplinary action will be taken," the BBC continued.
Ms Boaden is expected to be questioned by Nick Pollard for his investigation into possible failings of BBC management over the axed Newsnight investigation into Savile.
The BBC said Ms Boaden "has decided that she is not in a position to undertake" her responsibility as director of news "until the Pollard review has concluded".
The latest losses to the news corporation follow the resignation of BBC director general George Entwistle on Saturday which has left the embattled corporation in crisis, amid calls for BBC Trust chairman Lord Patten to follow suit.
• BBC chairman Lord Patten faces calls to quit in wake of Newsnight crisis
• BBC gives director general a £450,000 payoff after only 54 days in the job
The director of BBC Scotland Ken MacQuarrie has prepared a report into the botched Newsnight broadcast with the findings due to be made public later today.
Before he quit, former director general Mr Entwistle warned that Mr McQuarrie's report could result in disciplinary action against staff, and over the weekend MPs demanded that those directly involved in the broadcast were held to account.
The scandal will also be one of the first issues tackled by the acting director general of the BBC Tim Davie as he prepares to rebuild trust in the corporation.
He held his first meeting last night with the BBC Trust since being drafted in as a stand-in for Mr Entwistle.
But his efforts to move on will be hampered by a row which has erupted over the disclosure that Mr Entwistle - who served just 54 days in the post - was to receive a full year's salary of £450,000 in lieu of notice.
For now, Downing Street appears willing to give the BBC a chance to get its own house in order in the wake of the crisis triggered by the disclosures of the Jimmy Savile child abuse, with 10 sources saying ministers would not be "jumping in" to intervene.
Lord Patten, however, acknowledged that the corporation needed to "get a grip" and turn the situation around or his own position would be on the line.
"If I don't do that and if we don't restore the huge confidence and trust that people have in the BBC then I'm sure people will tell me to take my cards and clear off," he said.


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Gondwana Game Reserve is situated near Mossel Bay in the Western Cape Province of South Africa. It falls within the Cape's renowned Garden Route – an area of unparalleled beauty. Of course, there is no better way to experience the delight of the region's landscape that from the comfort of five star luxury. This is exactly what Gondwana promises, and delivers.
This extensive reserve is an impressive 11 000 hectares in size. Here you can see the all-important Big Five as well as an incredible range of other fauna and flora. Gondwana is an ideal location for an African safari: it offers the height of luxury in a malaria-free region that enjoys a year-round temperate climate.
I arrived at Gondwana in time for lunch. The menu changes daily, with an emphasis on fresh local ingredients. The three courses that day consisted of gazpacho, fish cakes, and chocolate brownies with ice-cream. It was a delicious and refreshing meal on a swelteringly hot day and, fortunately, we enjoyed our meal from the shady terrace that overlooks the unspoilt African wilderness. Despite the heat, the scenery was a clear signal that we were in the wilderness and it was time to relax and enjoy Nature.
I then checked into my accommodation: one of fourteen huts in Kwena Lodge. Whatever I was expecting from a 'hut' didn't come close to my deluxe suite measuring approximately 70 square metres. It is certainly an opulent interpretation of a traditional Khoi-San home.
The generous suite featured a large open-plan bathroom, private dressing area, wood fireplace, and a private patio overlooking a breathtakingly beautiful valley. The decor was a refreshingly stylish interpretation of the usual African theme. A natural palette was complemented by the use of natural materials such as wood and woven fabrics.
Later in the afternoon I was treated to a delightful afternoon tea before heading out on the afternoon game drive. The game drive lasted for approximately three hours, allowing us to appreciate the reserve at dusk. The expert field guide conducted the game drive in an open vehicle, providing optimal opportunity to view game in the colourful Cape flora. Between viewings of rhino and lions we stopped for sundowners and snacks in a breathtaking setting. Just another little touch of luxury at Gondwana Game Reserve.
Returning to the lodge we were treated to a gourmet dinner. The cuisine at Gondwana is distinctly Pan African in nature, combining both European and African styles. Dinner that evening was distinctly African in influence. There was an extensive buffet allowing guests to sample a wide range of culinary delights.
All this was delivered with true warm African hospitality. There was a convivial atmosphere as guests sat around a fire outdoors, enjoying a drink together under the stars. Later that night, lying in the king size bed, a skylight provided me with an uninterrupted view of that same starry African night sky. Bliss.
Although I am most certainly not a morning person, I woke up early the following morning for the morning game drive. Again, it was a three hour excursion led by a passionate and knowledgeable guide. Throughout our drive and the stop for tea and muffins, she informed us about the local birds, animals, plants, and conservation issues. The focus was on the elephant and giraffe that we sighted that morning.
Then it was back to the lodge for breakfast, where we were again faced with a mouth-watering buffet.
The service at Gondwana was truly excellent. Everything ran smoothly and efficiently, and the staff were always friendly and helpful. I think it was probably the unbridled passion of our guide, Melanie, which truly stood out and made our stay such an interesting and informative one. It's this kind of zeal that makes a difference to guests and makes a stay at Gondwana Game Reserve such a memorable one.


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|Our Rating:
|Great Roku interface
|Review Date:
|October, 2016
|Check price on Amazon.com
It was a very sad day in our house. Our Roku 3 device died after three great years together, and we were all devestated. How was I going to watch the rest of Boardwalk Empire? Enter a Target special on the Roku Streaming Stick, model 3500x. I was thrilled - I wasn't sure the exact difference between the Roku 3 and it's sister product "Stick", but it was time to find out.
Roku has a few different types of products that span a wide price range. The streaming stick (which is being reviewed here) is usually the cheapest device, with the Roku 4 Ultra being the most expensive. The difference is quite simple: POWER.
I outline some more in-depth differences below, but the bottom line is that the Roku Streaming Stick is much slower than the more full-powered devices like the Roku 3 and the Roku 4 Ultra.
One of my favorite things about Roku is its very mature and user-friendly interface. It is friendly, accommodating and easy to navigate around. My kids do it daily, including my 5 year old. Thankfully, the Roku Stick comes with the exact same interface. Same usability, same great channels.
Installing a Roku device is easy. It connects wirelessly to your Internet, but also has a power cord and HDMI port that needs connected. Power was easy, but you would need to purchase an HDMI cable if you don't already have one. Once you pair your device with the remote (done through dead-simple prompts on screen), the next step is to register the device. Roku isn't looking for your details, but presumably just registering the device on their network. They provide a really simple way of doing this through a website URL and a 6 character code provided on-screen that will activate your account.
There are only two significant things different between the full Roku device and this streaming stick:
The stick is MUCH slower than the full device. This was the killer for me. While still completely usable, this device was slower than molasses at times. This might not be a problem for someone looking for a cheaper alternative to the Roku 4, or for someone that only occasionally streams shows.
This slowness is mostly when navigating around the catalogs of each service (i.e. Hulu, Netflix, etc.) and not when playing the shows. Maybe starting a show was a little slow, but once the show started, I did not have any problems with it.


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- roll over image to zoom
Small Black Galaxy Teardrop Pendant
Enameled Necklace
Created by Anna Tai
This unique and playful cloisonne pendant is hand fabricated with enamel, fine silver, sterling silver, and 24k gold. The black opaque enamel is etched to create a matte finish that contrasts dramatically with the high gloss of the colored enamel. A 1.0mm sterling silver cable wire with tension clasp is included. Each piece is made by hand and colors may vary slightly. Chain is available in 16 in. L or 18 in. L.
Clean with liquid soap and water and pat dry with a soft cloth.


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I wrote a new healing spell this morning to deal with my issues, and I thought I would share it with those of you who need it. Feel free to send anyone here that might benefit--it is my gift to you. This spell isn't in any of my books, so this is the only place you'll find it.
You might want to light a blue candle (white is fine) when you say the spell, but you certainly don't need to. Remember to spend some time visualizing yourself as you wish to be: healthy, energized, and free of pain.
Blessed be.


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Less Than 1/3 of IT Asset Management Reports Include ROI
Canton, OH (PRWEB) December 17, 2013
Less than a third of IT asset managers include return on investment (ROI) information in their executive management reports, according to a new IAITAM[1] industry survey, ITAM as a Priority. More than half (53%) did not know if there was a monetary savings from the ITAM program due to lack of measurement.
IAITAM's new survey unveiled that only half of C-level executives have asked for a report detailing the results from the ITAM program. More than two-thirds (67%) of ITAM reports show ITAM gaps and conflict resolutions and over half (54%) show a proposed budget for any new or ongoing ITAM initiatives. A little less than half (49%) outline the potential results for new ITAM initiatives (from cost savings to creation of new efficiencies to increased productivity).
"IT asset managers need to realize that the senior most executives have a different bar for measureable results," said Barbara Rembiesa, CEO and President, IAITAM. "While reporting gaps and conflict resolutions are invaluable and vital, a CIO or CTO will be much more focused on strategic, bottom-line results such as ROI, increased efficiency, reduction in risk and the like. Bottom-line or ROI results are not necessarily about cost savings. It can be attributed to improved productivity, operational effectiveness or costs avoided."
One out of five companies holds quarterly ITAM meetings with the C-suite, followed closely by 17% with monthly meetings. There are still 35% of organizations where there are no meetings between the ITAM team and the C-suite.
"ITAM is getting a seat at the senior table, but the industry has to step up and start thinking the way the C-suite does to keep the attention," continued Rembiesa. "Otherwise, the hard-fought 'seat at the table' becomes a lost opportunity. IT Asset Managers must begin to understand and convey information pertinent to their executive audience. ITAM has a real chance of become relevant to the entire company and more than IT Asset Managers believe that they have the support of the C-level executives."
IT asset managers believe nearly two-thirds of C-level executives (63%) visibly show support. These senior executives show support by providing non-financial resources (49%); publicly enforcing ITAM policies and procedures (47%); include ITAM as part of the overall business plan (44%); and by safeguarding or increasing the ITAM budget, as needed (40%).
Other findings from IAITAM's ITAM as a Priority survey include:
- Nearly 40% did not know what their total ITAM budget is when asked.
- Nearly two-thirds of organizations have been audited or been contacted by a software vendor for an audit in the past 12 months with nearly one of five having been audited twice within that time and 14% having had three audits.
- 40% of organizations currently have a SAM program. One out of four is currently implementing a SAM program and over one-fifth plan to implement a SAM program within the next 12 months for the first time.
- Nearly 70% of organizations are using automated software asset management tools. More than 60% are still using an excel spreadsheet or equivalent to track software.
- Over half use barcode or RFID asset management tools to track hardware assets (not including mobile devices). Less than 30% use barcode or RFID management tools to manage mobile devices. Nearly 40% use an excel spreadsheet or equivalent to track software on mobile assets.
- Nearly half (47%) believe that the ITAM program has impacted the IT organizations overall cost, but over half (53%) did not know if there was a monetary savings from the ITAM program as they did not measure.
The top 10 ITAM priorities in the next 12 months (in order of importance):
1. Cost reduction in IT
2. Creating standards
3. Enterprise cost reduction
4. Contract management
5. Policy and procedure
6. Software license optimization
7. Software audit readiness
8. Increasing productivity
9. Migration of legacy systems
10. Mobile asset management
About the ITAM as a Priority Survey
IAITAM conducted a survey of 273 IT Asset Managers during August and September 2013 through SurveyMonkey®. The majority of participating respondents come from large, multi-national or global enterprise with 55% having revenues of over $1 billion. Respondents are ITAM practitioners and nearly 60% are responsible for the ITAM strategy. Nearly two-thirds are influencers and nearly one out of five is a decision-maker for ITAM procurement. Nearly half have been working on their organization's ITAM program for three to 9 years.
About IAITAM
The International Association of Information Technology Asset Managers, Inc. ("IAITAM") the professional association for individuals and organizations involved in any aspect of IT Asset Management ("ITAM"), Software Asset Management ("SAM"), Hardware Asset Management, Mobile Asset Management, IT Asset Disposition and the lifecycle processes supporting IT Asset Management in organizations of every size and industry across the globe. IAITAM certification is the only IT Asset Management certifications that are recognized worldwide. For more information, visit: http://www.iaitam.org[2].
- ^IAITAM (www.iaitam.org)
- ^http://www.iaitam.org (www.iaitam.org)
Source http://www.prweb.com/releases/2013/12/prweb11427664.htm


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All Our Names
Hardcover, 255 pages, Random House Inc, List Price: $25.95 |purchase
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NPR Summary
Coming of age during an African revolution, a brilliant student-turned-fighter flees the escalating violence of his country to resettle in the U.S., where he is haunted by his past.
NPR stories about All Our Names
Dinaw Mengestu Embraces The Vastness Of Love And War
From Uganda To The Midwest, 'All Our Names' Draws Portraits Of Love
Note: Book excerpts are provided by the publisher and may contain language some find offensive.
Excerpt: All Our Names
When I met Isaac, I was almost what my mother would have called "a woman of a certain age." That in her mind made me vulnerable, though I never felt that way, not even as a child growing up in a house where it would have been much easier to be a boy. My mother was a whisperer. She spoke in soft tones, in case my father was upset or had entered one of his dark moods, a habit which she continued after he had left. We lived in a quiet, semi- rural Midwestern town, and decorum for her was everything. What mattered most was that the cracks that came with a family were neatly covered up, so that no one knew when you were struggling to pay the mortgage, or that your marriage was over long before the divorce papers were signed. I think she expected that I would speak like her — and maybe when I was very small I did, but my instincts tell me that, more likely than not, this was never the case. I could never have been a whisperer. I liked my voice too much. I rarely read a book in silence. I wanted to hear every story out loud, so I often read alone in our backyard, which was large enough that if I yelled the story at the top of my voice, no one in the house closest to us could hear me. I read out there in the winter, when the tree branches sagged with ice and the few chickens we owned had to be brought into the basement so they wouldn't freeze to death. When I was older, and the grass was almost knee-high because no one bothered to tend to it anymore, I went back there with a book in my hand simply to scream.
That Isaac said he didn't mind if I raised my voice was the first thing I liked about him. I had driven nearly three hours, across multiple county lines and one state line, to pick him up as a favor to my boss, David, who had explained to me earlier that morning that, although, yes, tending to foreigners, regardless of where they came from, wasn't a normal part of our jobs, he had made an exception for Isaac as a favor to an old friend, and now it was my turn to do the same.
I was happy to take Isaac on. I had been a social worker for five years and was convinced I had already spent all the good will I had for my country's poor, tired, and dispossessed, whether they were black, white, old, fresh from prison, or just out of a shelter. Even the veterans, some of whom I had gone to high school with, left me at the end of a routine thirty-minute home visit desperate to leave, as if their anguish was contagious. I had lost too much of the heart and all the faith needed to stay afloat in a job where every human encounter felt like an anvil strung around my neck just when I thought I was nearing the shore. We were, on our business cards and letterhead, the Lutheran Relief Services, but there hadn't been any religious affiliation — not since the last Lutheran church for a hundred miles shut down at the start of World War II and all of its parishioners were rechristened as Methodists.
It was common among the four of us in the office to say that not only were we not Lutheran, but we didn't really provide any services, either. We had always run on a shoestring budget, and that string was nipped an inch or two each year as our government grants dried up, leaving us with little more than a dwindling supply of good intentions and promises of better years to come. David said it first and most often: "We should change our name to 'Relief.' That way, when someone asks what you do, you can say, 'I work for Relief.' And if they ask you relief from what, just tell them, 'Does it really matter?' "
Mildly bitter sarcasm was David's preferred brand of humor. He claimed it was a countermeasure to the earnestness that supposedly came with our jobs.
I knew little about Isaac before I met him, except that he was from somewhere in Africa, that his English was most likely poor, and that the old friend of David's had arranged a student visa in order for him to come here because his life may or may not have been in danger. I wasn't supposed to be his social worker so much as his chaperone into Middle America — his personal tour guide of our town's shopping malls, grocery stores, banks, and bureaucracies. And Isaac was going to be, for at least one year, my guaranteed Relief. He was, in my original plans, my option out of at least some of our dire weekly budget meetings and the mini- mum of two hospital visits a month; last and most important, he secured my right to refuse to take on any new clients who were terminally ill. I had been to twenty-two funerals the year before, and though most were strangers to me when they passed, I felt certain my heart couldn't take much more.
My first thought when I saw Isaac was that he was taller and looked healthier than I expected. From there, I worked my way backward to two assumptions I wasn't aware of possessing: the first that Africans were short, and the second that even the ones who flew all the way to a small college town in the middle of America would probably show signs of illness or malnutrition. My second thought — or third, depending on how you counted it — was that "he wasn't bad-looking." I said those same words to myself as a test to measure their sincerity. I felt my little Midwestern world tremble just a bit under the weight of them.
Isaac and I had known each other for less than an hour when he told me he didn't mind if I sometimes shouted; I had already apologized for being late to meet him, and for failing to have a sign with his name on it when I arrived. Later, in the car, I apologized for driving too fast, and then, once we arrived in town, I apologized for my voice.
"I'm sorry if I talk too loud," I said. It was the only apology I had repeatedly sworn over the past ten years never to make again. The frequency with which I broke that promise never softened the disappointment I felt immediately afterward.
"You don't have to apologize for everything," he told me. "Talk as loud as you want. It's easier to understand you."
I couldn't hug Isaac or thank him for his attempt at humor without making us feel awkward, but I wanted him to know that I wasn't normally so easily moved, that I was a woman of joy and laughter. I tried my best to give him an animated, lively description of our town.
"It's pronounced 'Laurel,' like the flower," but I suspected that wasn't entirely correct, so I pointed to the hulking brick factory, which, other than a grain silo, was the tallest object on the horizon.
"That used to be a bomb factory," I said. There were rumors that it would be converted into the state's largest shopping mall, but I wasn't sure he knew what a mall was, so I left that out.
Excerpted from All Our Names by Dinaw Mengestu. Copyright 2013 by Dinaw Mengestu. Excerpted by permission of Knopf.


text: Chemotherapy What Is Chemotherapy? Chemotherapy ("chemo") uses medications to destroy cancer cells in the body, including cells at the original cancer site and any cancer cells that may have spread to another part of the body. In some cases, chemotherapy is given before surgery to shrink the cancer. There are several different chemotherapy medicines used in breast cancer. In many cases, a combination of two or more medicines will be used. Learn more about the benefits of chemotherapy. How Does it Work? Cancer cells tend to grow and divide very quickly with no order or control. Because they're growing so fast, sometimes cancer cells break away from the original tumor and travel to other places in the body. Chemotherapy prevents cancer cells from growing and spreading by destroying the cells or stopping them from dividing. Who Needs Chemotherapy? Chemotherapy is used to treat all stages of invasive breast cancer, including cancer that has come back in the breast area and breast cancer that has spread to other parts of the body (metastatic disease). Chemotherapy treatments are tailored specifically for each person's unique situation. When deciding on which chemotherapy medicines would be best for you, you and your doctor will take into account the stage and other characteristics of the cancer, such as hormone-receptor status and HER2 status. Chemotherapy is NOT recommended for non-invasive, in situ cancers such as DCIS. When is chemotherapy given? After surgery (adjuvant chemotherapy): Surgery is used to remove all of the cancer that can be seen, but adjuvant therapy is used to kill any cancer cells that may have been left behind but can't be seen. Even in the early stages, cancer cells may break away from the primary breast tumor and spread through the bloodstream. These cells don't cause symptoms, they don't show up on imaging tests, and they can't be felt during a physical exam. But if they are allowed to grow, they can establish new tumors in other places in the body. Before surgery (neoadjuvant chemotherapy): In most cases, neoadjuvant therapy uses the same medications that are used as adjuvant therapy, only they are given before surgery. In terms of survival, there is no difference between giving chemo before or after surgery. The major benefit of neoadjuvant chemo is that it can shrink large cancers so that they are small enough to be removed with less extensive surgery. The other advantage of neoadjuvant chemo is that doctors can see how the cancer responds to the chemo drugs. If the tumor does not shrink with the first set of drugs, your doctor will know that other chemo drugs are needed. For a list of the common side effects of chemotherapy and what to do for them, click here. Many patients are able to work full/part time during chemotherapy, and maintain most of their normal daily activities. For advice managing chemotherapy, click for a list of daily tips. Many of the immediate or acute side effects of chemotherapy will resolve once chemotherapy ends. However, some of the side effects may last longer. Our Accolades


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If you struggle with feeling conflicted over how to spend your time and money, this article's for you.
Here are 6 questions to ask yourself about a New Year's resolution.
What kind of woman are you resolved to be?
January is one of my favorite months. Not only is it a new calendar year (and I love new calendars, planners, pencils, pens, anything to make...
Here's how you can change your life with a simple 10 minutes a day.
Are you striving to be Supergirl?
What do work and pillows have to do with boundaries? This.
Keeping the Sabbath holy -- or set apart -- ultimately reminds us that salvation is a gift and eternal rest waits for us in Heaven.
You can make your minutes count. Set a timer to five minutes, and start changing your life, one interval at a time. Here are some ideas...
Here are 7 easy tips on how to sleep better and feel more rested.
As a creative mother who in turns wants to nurture creative children, I want to cultivate a home that allows time for creativity.
Here are 5 ways to maintain personal balance and stay engaged in your present routine.
Don't let the next day go by without creating a memory to relish for the rest of time.
Here are 10 creative gift ideas for expectant parents that you won't find on a typical baby registry.
Here are a few ways we can seek and find our rest in Christ in the midst of our crazy days.
Here are 6 ways to start saving for your next family vacation.
Hi, I'm Ashleigh Slater, founder and editor of Ungrind. Here at Ungrind, it's our goal to churn out biblically-based encouragement for women. We strive to be honest and transparent about our struggles in a way that inspires hope, faith, and perseverance.
As you read, we hope you consider us friends, the kind you feel comfortable sitting across the table with at the local coffee shop. You can read more about me HERE and our team of writers HERE.
Hi Readers, If you've noticed that we haven't published any new content recently, it's because we're taking a publishing break....
If your compassion far exceeds your capacity, here's one way you can be sure to do justly, love mercy, and...
Do you have fears tied to motherhood? If so, here's encouragement for you.
If anxiety is a struggle for you right now, remember that He gives shade to the weary.
I want to live a more uncomfortable, dangerously vulnerable life — even if it means a few "blood-sucking worms" (or...
Are you so concerned with being a great mom, that you've fallen into this trap?
Just as a physical pain grows and is gradually felt throughout the body, it is the same when one suffers...


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Together we are stronger events
Next date: tbc
Everyone is welcome to attend either of the above at Reanne Masters' house, Oakridge, 1 Bath Road , Cricklade.
If you wish, please bring someone with you who might enjoy some company. However, this is not a must!
Please contact Reanne on 752207 or through the Contact us form.


text:
Data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) revealed wide regional variations. Knowsley in Merseyside had the highest rate outside London, BBC reported on Thursday.
Barking and Dagenham had the highest overall abortion rate, at 29 for every 1,000 women aged 15 to 44.
The ONS said the total number of abortions was "fairly constant" at 185,824 in 2015, a rise of 0.7 percent on the year before. In some areas, almost half of all cases were "repeat" abortions.
The highest rate was among 20 to 24-year-olds, with 53 abortions for every 1,000 women.
Since 2005, abortion rates for women aged 30 to 34 in England and Wales have gone up from 14.5 per 1,000 women to 17.1 in 2015 - an 18 percent rise.
Ann Furedi, chief executive of the British Pregnancy Advisory Service, said: "The proportion of women having abortions who are in partnerships or married has increased markedly over the last decade, and more than half of women having abortions are already mothers."


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I discovered Audible.com at about the same time I learned I would no longer be taking the Metro North to work, but driving instead. In fact, the two may have had a corollary relationship.
Unfortunately, listening to the news was not an option– at least, not once I sickened of NPR's ceaseless repetition. I'm sorry guys, but I just cannot listen to the same half hour news segment on the way to and from work…for five days in a row. I mean, from how many different angles can we examine the NYC mayoral primary?
Robbed of my choose-your-story options so thoughtfully provided by the NYT iPad app, I turned to Young Adult fiction. I figured that since I spend most of my free time on my own fiction, this could be good writing research. Right? Okay, whatever. I just love the thrill of a good plot. So sue me.
Listening to an audiobook is an interesting experience, not only because I can now eat while reading without any discernible difficulty. The voice of the reader makes such a difference; for example, listening to Tamora Peirce's full cast audio books was more like watching a play with many different actors whereas Sunshine's narrator, Laural Merlington, became intrinsically entwined with the protagonist, Rae.


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The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing – Edmund Burke. I know, I know, this quote is painfully overused, but I couldn't think of a more appropriate one here.
So, yesterday myself (and himself) went to Seanad Éireann (the Irish Senate) to witness the second stage of a bill to amend the Coroner's Act (called Jake's Amendment). Jake Lynch is the forever-14 year old child at the centre of all this. His parents, Stephanie and John Lynch, assisted by Senator Pádraig Mac Lochlainn, have worked tirelessly on this bill since 2015 – a proposal to amend the Coroner's Act to include a verdict of 'iatrogenic suicide' (treatment-induced suicide). Sadly, the bill failed at a vote of 12-19. However, there were many surprising elements to yesterday's Seanad Shenanigans. Firstly, few showed surprise (or denied) that antidepressants can cause suicide; that is a major shift in opinion in a few short years. Secondly, among the senators who voted for Jake's Amendment, several were willing to put their heads above the parapet and publicly support Jake's Amendment. Lastly, the only one who argued a 'causal' link was the Minister for Justice, Charlie Flanagan, and he seemed to be directly quoting from Irish Psychiatry's statement following Shane's inquest – so hardly a surprise. Indeed, it seems all may not be lost with him either – as following the vote, he approached Jake's family and expressed an interest in meeting up to discuss the issue. I have a feeling that little Jake Lynch (and his parents) will make a difference – and I for one, am very proud to call them my friends.
You may remember that Jake Lynch was a 14 year old boy (diagnosed with Aspergers syndrome) who was prescribed fluoxetine, aka Prozac, to 'help with his exams'. Five weeks after being precribed fluoxetine (where the dosage was doubled without his or his parents' knowledge), off-label and with nil informed consent, Jake ended his own life. As his mother Stephanie said – the only thing that changed in his short life was the prescription for fluoxetine. Available literature from the Irish Drug Regulator (the HPRA), provides that 'Prozac is not for use in children and adolescents under 18', due to the increased risk of side effects such as 'suicide attempt, suicidal thoughts and hostility'. However, it provides that in the case of a child aged 8-18 with 'moderate to severe depression', a doctor may prescribe it off-label (not licenced for that indication) – if he/she decides it is in the child's 'best interest'. While the pros and cons of off-label prescribing have been oft-debated, it should be remembered that Jake did not have depression and was prescribed the drug 'to help with his junior certificate'. Clearly, as he is now dead, it seems that Prozac proved to be in 'his worst possible interest'.
Notably, Jake had no history (or diagnosis) of depression and his death came out-of-the-blue to all who knew him – seemingly inexplicable. Indeed, after a long and protracted inquest, the coroner concluded that Jake was not in his right mind on the night he died (resulting from the prescribed fluoxetine) and returned an 'open' verdict. This was largely due to an email that Jake sent shortly before he died, saying he felt 'drugged out of his mind' and further (demonstrating a shocking lack of consent), he expressed that he was never told that the drug was an antidepressant.
While the Seanad vote was disappointing, it was hardly surprising. Although 12 Senators voted to support the bill, the majority (19) voted against. The general reasoning was that an inquest cannot apportion blame and thus, a prescribing physician might be held accountable (imagine the horror!). However, this was addressed in the proposed bill and was not the intent of Jake's Amendment. Indeed, this particular reasoning does not explain why 'medical misadventure' or 'unlawful killing' are permitted – and surely a 'suicide' verdict blames the deceased? It was also mentioned that there were other alternatives in circumstances where medical treatment causes harm, such as taking the legal route. However, this failed to consider that in Ireland (and indeed, Europe), taking a case against a pharmaceutical company or medical establishment means that a plaintiff must have the means to meet the costs of the defence if the action fails. Thus, for the majority of plaintiffs with relatively 'normal' means (who haven't won the lotto), a legal action is nigh on impossible. This is not justice.
It was both humbling and inspiring to see
ordinary extraordinary family members, stand firm with the courage of their convictions, in the face of any establishment. Senators like David Norris, Francis Black, (the very kind) Maire Devine, Trevor Ó Clochartaigh and Rose Conway-Walsh, were all thoroughly inspiring.
While Senator (and doctor) James Reilly was among the opposers – it was hardly a revelation. Indeed, he took umbrage with Senator Norris stating that Prozac was contraindicated in 'those with Aspergers' – which he said was untrue. Hmm, let's see, shall we?
Definition of contraindicate – To indicate the inadvisability of something, such as a medical treatment.
According to a 2010 Cochrane literature review 'Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) for autism spectrum disorders (ASD)' – There is no evidence of effect of SSRIs in children and emerging evidence of harm (I have full text if required).
According to the NICE guidelines (section 1.4.22) – Do not use antidepressant medication for the routine management of core symptoms of autism in adults.
And again, per NICE (reviewed in 2016) – Do not use antidepressants for the management of core features of autism in children and young people.
It seems pretty clear to me that Senator Norris was actually correct when he said that the SSRI prozac was contraindicated for 'those with Aspergers'. What is not clear, is why Dr Reilly was unaware of the NICE guidelines or the Cochrane review.
So, back to business as usual, the families fight on for justice and Jake, the 14 year old child at the centre of all this, remains irrevocably and needlessly dead. There is little doubt that this is not over – at least until the
fat skinny lady sings (aka Stephanie).
The recording of the Seanad can be seen here from 26 minutes and concludes here.


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The History of London's Housing Stock
London has grown exponentially as it's evolved into the megacity we know today. The 32 boroughs that make up this thriving metropolis are unique in their own right and from a historical perspective, each one has a notable and unique story. From the luxurious pre-1900 houses and garden squares in Knightsbridge, to the housing expansion and regeneration around Canary Wharf in recent years, London's homes are as diverse as its inhabitants.
With this in mind, Knight Frank is pleased to launch a new, interactive report aimed at sharing unique insight into the Capital's housing history for both residents and visitors alike. Our interactive tool uses housing data from the past 120 years, to visualise 14 unique stories connected to some of the Capital's most notable areas. These boroughs showcase the dramatic changes in that area, while also highlighting their significance to the overall landscape of London's housing.
To begin, click on an area or select a borough from the drop-down list.
Understand and compare complex data with our helpful infographics and read the full narrative to learn all about each London borough.
More Information
Touted as one of the oldest parts of London, the borough of Southwark has a rich and diverse history.
Age of Housing Stock in
Pre 1900 24.78%
During the 1500's, the area was home to the capital's red light district, before giving way more reputable entertainment, housing a large of number of London's public theatres, the most famous being Shakespeare's Globe.
By the start of the 19th century, the area's significance as a cultural hub began to wane. Shipping, trade and industry transformed riverside wards with ever-expanding wharves, docks, factories and warehouses.
As a result of the new trade and industry, the capital's population had rapidly increased and, in tandem with an influx of workers servicing the river, streets were soon full of row upon row densely populate tenement dwellings. Sub-divided Georgian and early Victorian houses fell into disrepair, prompting middle classes to relocate to newly emerging suburbs such as Dulwich and Clapham.
Southwark was particularly afflicted by bombing during the Second World War, but it was the decline and eventual death of manufacturing that most deeply scarred the riverside's urban landscape.
By the 1970's, the age of the riverside industry was almost over; wharves were abandoned, factories closed and warehouses left empty. It is estimated that half of the manufacturing jobs in Southwark were lost in the period from 1971 to 1986.
By the mid-Eighties, all of Southwark's major manufacturing factories were gone leaving large areas of industrial wasteland and housing estates which were often isolated seemingly in the middle of nowhere.
The first wave of Southwark's riverfront urban regeneration and land redevelopment took place in the 1980's when the derelict warehouses of Shad Thames were converted into luxury residential apartments much like in New York's Meatpacking District. Exemplary redevelopment of old warehouses include Butlers Wharf where building names attest their original warehouse storage purpose - Tea Trade Wharf, Cinnamon Wharf, Cardamom Building, Spice Quay, Vanilla and Sesame Court.
Today, regeneration in Southwark d £4 billion. Award-winning luxury apartment and state of the art new build properties include NEO Bankside, Benbow House and One Tower Bridge. Elephant and Castle – a 1960's collection of office blocks, housing estates and a defunct shopping centre - is currently being redeveloped to include 170 acres of 2,500 new homes, including a landmark 37-storey skyscraper named One The Elephant.
One Tower Bridge's riverside location makes it an obvious stand out development. Positioned directly across the River Thames from the Tower of London and adjacent to the iconic Tower Bridge, it enjoys stunning views of the City skyline.
Contact our Tower Bridge office to find out more about this historic borough!
Explore the history of this borough
View London Properties
Click on the links below to explore other boroughs in London


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Title: Unwrapping Hank
Series: Unwrapping Hank #1
Author: Eli Easton
Genre: New Adult / MM Romance
My Rating:
Sloane loves a good mystery. He grew up as the son of two psychiatrists, so he finds most people tediously easy to figure out. He finds his way to Pennsylvania State University, longing for a rural experience, and ends up being lured into joining a frat by Micah Springfield, the hippest guy on campus.
Nothing in Sloane's classes is as intriguing as Hank Springfield, Micah's brother and fellow frat house member. Hank looks like a tough guy—big muscles, tatts, and a beard—but his eyes are soft and sweet. He acts dumb, but he's a philosophy major. He's presumably straight, but then why does Sloane feel such crazy chemistry whenever Hank is around? And why does Hank hate Sloane so much?
When Sloane ends up stuck on campus over Christmas, Micah invites him to spend the holidays at their family farm in Amish country. It's a chance to experience a true Americana Christmas–and further investigate the mystery that is Hank Springfield. Can Sloane unlock the secrets of this family and unwrap the heart hidden inside the beefcake?
My Review
The Story
Sloane and Hank are quite opposites – not only in appearance, but in personality too. Sloane is interested in Hank, seeing him as a puzzle to solve, and also attracted to him. Hank is totally unaware of his sexuality, he is so deep in denial that he doesn't even admit it to himself. The openly gay Sloane irritates him, makes him uncomfortable, his mere existence provokes animosity from him toward Sloane.
So Hank's brother, Micah, determined to smooth this situation over, makes them to organize the Christmas party together, hoping if they get to know each other, maybe they will get along better.
It's partly a hate-to-love, and also an opposites-attract story.
Sloane and me, we were like oil and water, or maybe a bottled home-made brew and some prissy champagne.
Sloane is extroverted, very social and everyone likes him. He is intelligent, sharp-tongued and perceptive; trendy, cute, and delicate.
Hank is introverted, more silent, deep thinking, a huge guy with big muscles, tatts and a beard. He is also very smart, majors in philosophy, and according to Sloane, he is full of contradictions. But I didn't find Hank as intriguing as Sloane did.
I liked Micah though, and his little intrigue. I always like situations where characters are forced to be together, to interact and to get to know each other.
Writing Style
The writing is great and engaging, filled with humor, witty and smooth dialogues, and fun banters. The dual point of view in first person is nicely done too.
Romance and Erotica
I have a problem with the structure of the plot.
The main part of the story is the build-up, the anticipation. Actually we are just waiting for Hank to pull his head out of his ass. It is very elongated and I don't like to wait.
In order to set the wheels in motion, the jealousy card is played – I don't like that either.
The first kiss is at 82%!! It is amazingly written, yes, but… at 82%??!!
The first (and only) sex scene is at the end. Actually, it is the last scene. It is not credible. After years of denial, ignoring and oppressing his feelings and desires, Hank wants it all – for the first time. Not really believable, but hey, maybe he wanted to make up for the long wait.
Hank admitting himself he might be gay, admitting his attraction to Sloane, acting on this revelation and attraction (first kiss and first sex), becoming emotionally committed, and being out and proud all happened pretty much in a couple of days. After that much build-up and denial it is just too fast.
All in all, 2.5 stars for the enjoyable moments and for the great writing.
See my favorite quotes on my Tumblr page,
Daily Quotes by Exina.


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Sunday, November 29, 2009
IF: Entangled
The Tire Pile surrounding Ava's doggie yard is an entangled mess. This is a 4 page panorama that will have the book title on the far left, then two pages in center, with dog on right, and a bit of the tire pile overflowing in to the next dog's page. the book has been reflowed (reflown?) with the pacing and relationships out in front. I picked up a lot with viewing the Disney archive while out in Burbank CA. The backgrounds are going to lead, one into the other... one big panning motion.
This piece isn't finished (didn't get as far as hoped this holiday weekend), but it goes well with the IF word of the week.
Click to Enlarge - The top one is nearly 11,000 pixels wide, so it's pretty small here at 800px.
Digital Illustration - pencil, pen & ink, Photoshop and Painter 11
Posted by zillustration at 5:13 PM 9 comments: Links to this post
Labels: childrens books, digital, dogbabies, IF, Illustration Friday, mfa, Painter 11
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Six doghouses
Six humble hound hovels - variations on A is for Ava's doghouse. She needs to be sitting in the middle of the tire pile. still debating which one to use.
winsor & newton black ink on vellum
click to enlarge
Posted by zillustration at 6:45 PM No comments: Links to this post
Labels: childrens books, dogbabies, mfa, pen ink
Saturday, November 21, 2009
IF: Music
two variations on the piano plinking theme. The Elephant is a bit of a juxtaposed player, since his grandfather's tusks are what he's pounding on to make the song.
the other is from the impression i had on one of our recording stars while at the classical record company. He looked a bit like the un-dead... perhaps from practicing on pipe organs in dark cathedrals.
pencil to digital
click to enlarge
Posted by zillustration at 6:57 PM 9 comments: Links to this post
Labels: digital, elephant, IF, Illustration Friday, music
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Feliz Natal
-- for my Brazilian cousin - Fabiola
She requested a Christmas Card illustration - I may ditch my Jello Mold version and fly with this one myself... loosing the Portuguese.
pencil to digital - Painter 11
Posted by zillustration at 10:58 PM No comments: Links to this post
Labels: christmas card, digital
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
web tips for artists
10 years online isn't worth much, but I have found a few useful tips during that time.
- Stay away from Flash portfolios (i know... they're so cool, my V.2 was entirely flash) - flash is a deterrent to some users - they bale out as the progress bar crawls.
- Try a background image: You can see a background image used here my blog. it's only around 20 px wide, but is 2000 px or more high, this is then set to repeat horizontally and create the argyle pattern fade.
- If you need to break the grid, try floating transparent PNG images via CSS placement (breaking borders) - The distorted image above is a PNG with a transparent background. It can float seamlessly over other images or tables to break the edges. The fine line around is a blogger template issue, but with a bit of code, i could remove it, too. Check out Air Pulp Cutie's position as you shrink the width of the page - she will overlay the screen shot if you shrink it small enough.
- If something looks to be navigation, be sure it functions as navigation.
- DO AWAY WITH IMAGE-BASED NAVIGATION - Make live HTML type - Aids with accessibility and special needs visitors.
- Use descriptive text within the "title" tag on your images and navigation thumbnails (on mouse over, the descriptive text shows below the pointer) - Google likes this, and will raise your rating. Mouse over the image above and see what I mean.
- If your download speed suffers a bit - either the images are too large (in Kb), or the server is too slow.
- You need COPY within the image display regions. Web searches cannot make sense of images alone. You need to place some body text within the pages - like a brief about the job, sizes, challenges, client results... anything to aid in search engines returning your site as a viable option.
- News regions should be current. An issue with painters and illustrators is a desire to be hands off. The web is about fresh and recent information. The more you update, the higher your results will be within a web search. Even if it's the occasional quip or art tip - three sentences... you have to commit to your public face on the web.
- Keep painting and adding to your site. This may mean flipping images and weeding out the old stuff, but do it. Fresh and new... like bread from the oven. Keep folks looking to return to your site. - Yeah, I know - Practice what you preach! I'm in the midst of a full redesign of zillustration.com
- Don't shy from letting your friends and fans know when you've made a major update or change to your site. This provides feedback and possibly viral exposure from folks that want to share your talent with their friends. The occasional email does good.
- If you don't want to mess with a site, start a simple blog, like this one! Blogger, Word Press, etc... - They offer many options to display your work with minimal effort or cost. I use the blog for my current thoughts, commentary and process entries, but a site as a standard portfolio.
- I house all images on my own server space, and import them into the blog - partly for my copyright paranoia... if Google houses it, I'm concerned they may be able to source it in the future from some database. Secondly, to keep track of numbers. If you view the source code on this page, you can see where I house them in a "blogger" folder. This way, I'm able to track visitor numbers in addition to my Google web stats. There are very few concrete numbers on the web, including Google's stats. I use multiple metrics to monitor my sites.
- Create and be sure to UPDATE an XML sitemap on the top level of your website. This is a valuable tool for the spyderbots that are roaming the web and sniffing your site for new content. If you have an updated page that you think they should know about, place the "lastmod" tag on that particular page entry with the date you pushed the new content to the live site. here is a place for you to generate your own, with minimal effort
I hope this is useful, but if you have more tips, let me know and I'll add to the list.
Posted by zillustration at 10:47 AM 1 comment: Links to this post
Monday, November 16, 2009
Back from LA
My flight out and back were on Virgin America - nice airline. I had flown them to SF and made sure to book with them again to the Pasadena session. I was messing with the iphone camera a bit... really think it's a piece of crud, but good for snaps. I noticed a couple of funky distorted images that were taken while moving the phone. It may be something to mess with in a more controlled effort. The areal photo is of LA with what I think is San Pedro in the foreground (marina and navy base)
Highlight of the trip was arriving at Dulles International, hitting the restroom at 5:30 am... walked in on some old Muslim dude washing his feet in the sink... brown toenails, no soap. No doubt a religious ritual for his Saturday devotions... but I still gave his groady flappers a wide berth.
Posted by zillustration at 12:42 PM 2 comments: Links to this post
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Yvette's Yak
Yvette's Yellow Yak is munching on some Texas grass. The enclosure is a funky Y shape, less obvious unless you study the picture. I picked a subdued pallet, but i think they go well together. This was drawn in pencil, ported into Corel Painter 11 for painting.
The rest of the MFA project can be seen here: dogbabies.com
-- I'm at my RAM limits, and no ability to add more to my box. Nothing in the budget for an upgraded box, either. I may try dumping programs and see if that frees up any extra computing power.
Click to enlarge the piece.
Posted by zillustration at 7:28 PM 1 comment: Links to this post
Labels: alphabet, digital, dogbabies, mfa, Painter 11
Sunday, November 1, 2009
2 Pup Weekend
Colored Daniel in a near to finished sense. I think I have to throw some gradients into the broad flat regions to give it a bit more sophistication, but it's nearly there.
Yvette has been adjusted to show off her Yak, not her Ewe. I like this idea better, rather than tossing confusion into an alphabet book by having a Ewe in the letter Y page.
Check out the whole MFA project here: dogBabies.com
Click to enlarge the images.
Posted by zillustration at 8:22 PM No comments: Links to this post
Labels: childrens books, digital, dogbabies, Painter 11
Commie Soldier
Sitting tall for his full dress portrait, Comrade Soldier is ready to defend the the principles of Engels, Marx and Lenin - to spill his blood on the altar of the October Revolution.
Commie Spud Card Number One, revisited.
Here's the original sketch idea - the little images of Sputnik and Mig 15 have migrated to the back of the card design, with many revisions and tweaks. The banner and star have also gone through big changes. Honing those thoughts...
Digital painting in Corel Painter 11 then ported into Photoshop for assembly with the Illustrator EPS pieces. Click to enlarge.
Posted by zillustration at 10:12 AM No comments: Links to this post
Labels: communist, games, Painter 11, soviet
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Dumb Ways to do branded content
Whilst we in Australia are busy making long ads and calling them branded content, the rest of the world is busy making series, shorts and feature films. It is a shame that we seem to be missing both the boat and the point.
Let's look at some of the local highlights in branded content over the last couple of years.
Dumb Ways to Die picked up a Gold Lion in Cannes for branded content. Really it's a long ad, a really great long ad but a long ad nonetheless. The Ship Song was terrific and also a long ad, this time in music video format.
Both these examples were fantastic pieces of content but my point is this – we seem to be making lots and lots of long ads but bugger all series and films. You know with character development, story arcs, and layered narrative all that good stuff. Is it time we thought more broadly about what is possible?
In Australia, we as an advertising and marketing community have tended to stay on safe ground. We stick to what we know, which is making ads. And why not? We know how to do it and have years and years of experience. Plus we have to hand off exactly no creative control to anyone else. Low risk, right?
And freed from the shackles of 15, 30, or if we were really lucky, 60 seconds, we have made some great stuff. Dumb Ways to Die and The Ship Song again being great examples.
However whilst we are busy making long ads let's look at some things happening elsewhere…
A Short – 'Desire' by Jaguar (USA)
'Desire' is a 13-minute short film that debuted at Sundance created to promote Jaguar's F-Type sports car. 'Desire' was created by Ridley Scott's company, stars Emmy Award-winning actor Damian Lewis (Homeland) and is directed by Adam Smith (Doctor Who). 'Desire's soundtrack includes none other than indie pop songstress Lana Del Rey.
Here we have a beautifully crafted short film with great actors, direction and narrative. Anyone that sees 'Desire' can't help but at least want a spin in the F-Type. It sounds expensive doesn't it? Well, wait for this – the whole thing was done for $US92K.
A Series – 'The Beauty Inside' by Intel (USA)
The much-celebrated Cannes Grand Prix series that really is great. The series uses metaphor in order to illustrate the product strengths. The basic plot is boy meets girl, girl and boy fall in love but unfortunately boy changes into a completely different body every morning yet he is the same person on the inside. Have a look its worth watching.
'The Beauty Inside' is a great idea that has been executed incredibly well and whilst computers are seen organically in the vision it is the narrative that is selling the product. This is such a great demonstration of how it is not necessary to jam your product into the front of every frame to get your message across.
Watch episode 1 here.
A Feature Film – 'Love in the End' by Lacta Chocolate (Greece)
Not only did the brand commission a full-length feature film, they actually asked the public – via a Facebook promotion – to provide the storylines. Based on the idea of 'unfulfilled love', Greeks sent in their stories, three of which became the foundation of the film. In this case they then took these dramas and ensured there was a happy end for the protagonists.
The film debuted in cinemas all over Greece on Valentine's Day and beat out Hollywood blockbusters including Silver Linings Playbook, Lincoln and Argo, claiming 65% of all ticket sales on that day.
The 20-minute trailer was seen by 20% of the total population of Greece and the film was ranked third of all films released in Greece last year. Wow.
Watch the trailer here.
Another Feature Film – 'The Movie Out Here' by Kokanee Beer (Canada)
A feature film based loosely on the brand story was produced for the Canadian market. Look, it's not a great flick but it is certainly true to its audience's interests and features plenty of boobs, beers and bigfoot.
Kokanee is known as 'the beer out here' (referencing its Western Canadian roots). They also crowd-sourced much of the films content – from extras via auditions (both online and live) to venues, music and even props. The audience played a big role in helping to produce the film. And those that helped were acknowledged in the longest credit role the world has ever seen.
Here's the trailer:
So, whilst we are making little more than long ads, people in other parts of the world are doing some pretty amazing stuff. It would seem that we are lagging a bit and, as a result, missing some pretty big opportunities.
Generally here at home we're not big on risk and it feels very risky to hard over creative control and final cut to somebody else which is exactly what you have to do when creating films or series.
However when it really comes down to it the people that we hand this control to are the ones that should have it. Directors, producers, writers – they are the ones that went to film school and have worked their entire lives hungry to entertain people.
Branded content must always start by being entertaining. Just because a company is footing the bill rather than a network or government body doesn't suddenly mean we should abandon content's primary goal, which is to entertain. Branded content is merely content with a new sugar daddy.
Strong and respectful collaborations between incredibly skilled storytellers and creators will lead us to amazing places. We just have to want to go there and want to listen to these people. With open minds.
Then anything can happen.