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We hear a lot about the importance of a "no-blame culture" in Lesson-learning, but a no-blame culture won't work unless you have no-blame processes as well.
Learning lessons in an organisation requires a culture of openness, so that people are willing to explore honestly and openly what happened, and what might be learned. This is particularly important when learning from projects or incidents where things have gone wrong and where mistakes have been made. If people feel they are likely to blamed for the mistakes, and that their career or reputation might suffer as a result, they are unlikely to discuss the issue openly.
When we discuss the topic of lesson-learning with clients, we often hear the concern that lesson-learning meetings could be seen as "witch-hunts" - in other words, a search for someone to blame. To reassure them, we talk them through the lesson-learning process we use; the Retrospect.
The Retrospect is an externally-facilitated team meeting, held after the end of a project or project stage, where the team identifies and analyses learning points through discussion and dialogue, in order to derive lessons and actions for the future. The facilitator leads an inclusive discussion to identify
- What went well and what did not go to plan in the project
- Why the successful elements succeeded, and why the failures and mistakes happened (looking for root cause)
- How future projects can repeat the success and avoid the failure.
The key questions are therefore What, Why and How; very open questions which allow full exploration of the lessons learned.
Note that there is no Who question. We do not really care who was the hero or who was the villain. This is a no-blame process, as well as a no-praise process. We are searching neither for Witches or for Knights; only for the truth.
An open, no-blame culture requires open no-blame processes such as the Retrospect.
Contact us for more details


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In a thrilling come-from-behind victory, the McLennan Highlassies defeated the Cisco Lady Wranglers 74-70 in tonight's North Texas Junior College Athletic Conference matchup at The Highlands.
The Highlassies secured the opening tip and found Ashley Moore under the basket for an early two-point lead. Cisco got on the board with a Bri'An Washington 3-pointer from the corner to begin a 10-0 Lady Wrangler run. McLennan cut the lead to four on a Velma Mitchell jumper midway through the quarter, 12-8. Cisco led 14-10 with 4:16 to play in the first. The Lady Wranglers ended the quarter on an 11-2 run to take the 25-12 advantage into the second. The Highlassies stepped up the defense in the second quarter, holding Cisco to just 10 points in the period and cutting the Lady Wrangler advantage to 10 at the break, 35-25.
McLennan made some adjustments at halftime and started the third quarter on fire. Moore began the scoring with a bucket and foul shot followed by back-to-back jumpers by Mitchell and Jaylonn Walker. A Mitchell steal, drive to the basket and free throw after a Cisco hacking foul capped off a 9-0 run. The run trimmed the Lady Wrangler lead to three, 40-37, with 4:21 to play in the third. Cisco extended the lead back to eight, 45-37. Another Moore 3-point play jump-started the Highlassies' offense. McLennan trailed by three with 50 seconds remaining in the third quarter. Patrickia Daily stepped to the free throw line following another Lady Wrangler foul. The first shot was nothing but net, but the second bounced off the iron. McLennan's Chelsi Woodard chased down the rebound and found Daily wide open at the 3-point line to give McLennan its first lead since the opening minute of play, 47-45.
A Dariel Johnson steal on the defensive end with 8:18 remaining in the game and ensuing layup by Walker began the Highlassies' run in the fourth quarter. McLennan extended the lead to nine, 65-56, with 1:36 to play. Cisco began to score from 3-point range to chip away at the lead, pulling within two, 72-70, with 10 seconds on the clock. Mitchell drained two free throws in the final seconds to assure the Highlassie victory.
Mitchell, the NJCAA Division I Player of the Week, led the Highlassies with 26 points. Johnson and Daily added 13 and 10, respectively.
McLennan continues conference play Saturday at Collin. Women's action tips off at 2 p.m. followed by the men's game at 4 p.m.
McLennan 74, Cisco 70
Cisco: Bianca Hampton 5 1-2 13; Lyndsey Downing 4 1-2 13; A'Lachanon King 5 1-2 11; Jada Washington 0 0-0 0; Bri'An Washington 7 3-5 21; Taylor Hayes 2 0-0 5; Jakierra Drummer 3 1-2 7; Korin Overton 0 0-0 0; Kala Jones 0 0-0 0; Sha'Kendra Tilley 0 0-0 0; Totals: 26 7-13 70.
McLennan: Patrickia Daily 4 0-1 10; Colandria Haynes 0 1-2 1; Dariel Johnson 5 2-2 13; Jordan Mullins 1 0-2 2; Velma Mitchell 8 10-13 26; Jaylonn Walker 3 2-2 9; Chelsi Woodard 0 0-0 0; Ashley Moore 5 3-4 13; Totals: 26 18-26 74.
3-pointers: Cisco 11 (Downing 4, B. Washington 4, Hampton 2, Hayes 1), McLennan 4 (Daily 2, Johnson 1, Walker 1); Total fouls: Cisco 21, McLennan 12; Fouled out: Cisco (Hampton); Halftime score: Cisco 35, McLennan 25; Record: 10-9 (3-1).

subset: commoncrawl


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Last night we were working on verses. Bethany decided to write out her verses. She was so precious! Kneeling at the couch, she was copying down the verse in her little notebook. Without my prompting.
She's also learning to read. Without my prompting. She's asked to learn before. But, like most things, she finds them entertaining for a short period of time and then she's on to something else. She asked to learn to read so we started the lesson book for reading. It didn't last more than 10 lessons. In school, she's been learning all the sounds of the letters. Last week while working on her verses, I was scrubbing dishes and she was waiting for my help. While she waited, she was sounding out the words. It was so neat to hear! And tonight, she continues sounding out words. She doesn't have many sight words memorized. The ones she knows aren't the easy ones either. Regardless, she'll be reading in no time. I think it has recently clicked.
Thank you teachers are teaching Bethany to read. Her excitement to read is priceless!


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The show will include performances of talented Vietnamese musicians Tran Manh Hung, Nguyen Hong Kim Quang, Tran Vuong Thach, and Mat Troi Do (Red Sun) Band. They will perform under the baton of world-famous conductor Marius Stravinsky from the UK.
The concert will start at 7.30pm at 7 Lam Son Square in District 1. — VNS


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instead of dismissing a breakup proposal, judge t.p. jackson has asked the government to update its plan to break microsoft into smaller companies and present the alternative plan by friday. the judge also said there would be no more hearings, indicating that his decision will be made soon.
earlier in the hearing, jackson had indicated that a proposal to break ms into three companies was excellent. the three-way split was outlined in a friend-of-the-court brief submitted by two industry groups, including the software and information industry association (siia), a washington-based trade group (see our related news item). that brief proposed breaking ms into an operating system company (windows), an applications company (ms office, etc.), and an internet company (ie, msn, etc.). legal experts say that the judge's actions, questions, and responses show that he is clearly leaning towards a breakup.
the judge asked why the government's proposal called for a two-way split. the doj's lawyer responded that microsoft would be more cooperative in that scenario, but the judge stated that that should not be a factor, since microsoft will not be a willing participant in any breakup scenario. the doj lawyer also said that microsoft would be given a chance to plan its own breakup.
although microsoft has been asking for more time to prepare, judge jackson indicated that he found it "ironic" that microsoft wanted more time in court, since the company has been criticizing the proceedings so heavily and has continued to state that it will appear the original finding and whatever remedy is imposed.
as a further black eye for ms, the government presented two e-mails from bill gates that appeared to propose anti-competitive conduct to boost microsoft's pocket pc pda initiative. the e-mails mentioned making microsoft's advanced audio/video functions work only with wince, and not working with the symbian group (producers of the epoc os) on other projects if it worked deals with sun.
for more info and quotes from the hearing, check associated press articles and reuters articles. you can also see cnet's coverage.
sam's opinion
though some analysts appear to be surprised by judge jackson's actions (how poetic) today, i'm not. it seemed clear from the start that he believed microsoft had been monopolistic. i'm not saying he was anything but impartial in his proceedings, but he was involved in the earlier anti-trust case against microsoft and has been wrangling with the company for quite a while on this trial–remember when ms was trying to prove that one of the judge's fact-finders was biased against microsoft from the beginning by showing anti-ms e-mails he had sent (ironic that mr. gates e-mails showed up today, eh?)? there's certainly no love lost between the judge and microsoft.
the three-way split was what a lot of people were predicting before the doj put forth its two-way split proposal, since one of the main points of the case was microsoft crushing competition to push ie. leaving the ie folks with another dominant platform like microsoft office to act as a tie-in vehicle might not have stopped the "anti-competitive" behavior that so angered the doj and the judge.
i'll say it again: microsoft really messed up by not settling this thing earlier. it seems like the company is pushing for more and more time to take advantage of the shake-up from the impending change in administration (doesn't matter if it's bush or gore) and the consequent change in doj officials. who knows? regardless, whatever judge t.p. jackson decides on friday, microsoft will fight it for as long as it can. for me, the most interesting thing that will happen on friday is if the judge decides to impose those interim remedies the doj wants.


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Studio Motors
'07 Buell Ulysses XB12X – Studio Motors
Written by Ian Lee.
Nothing ever really goes to plan. The multitude of options available to us at any one time makes it hard to know where we will end up. Unless it's time to go to the pub, because that is a given. This indecisiveness through an excess of options affects the custom motorcycle world as well, with culture/drivetrain/performance/bike styling choices making it hard to settle on one result. This is what happened with today's feature bike, the latest offering from Indonesian bike builders Studio Motor. Over the course of the build process the engine capacity tripled in size and gained a nationalist motif, all while staying true to the café racer spirit. Built from the ground up using Indonesian ingenuity in the face of a limited custom bike scene, Studio Motor knows certainly knows the best options when it comes to bringing a bike to life. Ladies and Gentleman, we'd like to introduce you to 'The Patriot'.


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The U.S. Embassy Malaysia seeks to improve English Language learning and promote the effective use of English as a medium of global communication throughout Malaysia. Our activities also help to foster mutual understanding between the American and Malaysian people.
Some of the programs, services and resources offered include:
The English Language Fellow Program
The English Language Fellow Program – U.S. educators in the field of Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) participate in ten-month exchanges abroad at host country universities, ministries of education, and other educational institutions. English Language Fellows share their expertise and engage with the community, while participating in a professional development opportunity. Upon returning to the United States, they share their experiences and acquired knowledge with their communities and professional colleagues.
The English Language Specialist Program
The English Language Specialist Program – The English Language Specialist Program sends U.S. experts in the field of Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) to work on short-term projects that contribute to the host country's capacity to teach English and post's public diplomacy goals. English Language Specialists support two-week to five-month projects at a variety of institutions and levels, mainly in the areas of teacher training, materials writing, and curriculum development. The program can also provide specialists via digital video conference (DVC) or webinar, as a standalone program or as one element of a multi-phase program.
The English Access Microscholarship Program
The English Access Microscholarship Program – Provides a foundation of English language skills to talented youth from economically disadvantaged sectors through after school classes and intensive sessions. The program gives participants English skills that may lead to better jobs and educational prospects. Participants also gain the ability to compete for and participate in future exchanges and study in the United States.
The E-Teacher Scholarship Program
The E-Teacher Scholarship Program – Is designed for English language teachers, teacher trainers, and administrators of English language programs who are committed to their own professional development and willing to contribute to the mentorship and professional advancement of their colleagues as well. AE E-Teacher courses are offered at the U.S. University-level. In order to complete coursework at this level, you should possess English skills that are roughly equivalent to a TOEFL score of 525 or higher, or an iBT score of at least 70 (B2 or higher). If you are nominated and selected as a participant, you will take part in an online orientation that will include an English language proficiency test to assess your readiness.
The Fulbright English Teaching Assistant (ETA) Program
The Fulbright English Teaching Assistant (ETA) Program – Places American Fulbrighters in classrooms abroad to provide assistance to the local English teachers. ETA's help teach English language while serving as cultural ambassadors for the U.S. The age and academic level of the students varies by country, ranging from kindergarten to university level.
The American English Webinar Series
American English Webinar Series -The 6 online seminars of the course cover a variety of topics and are intended for teachers of English or future teachers of English around the world. Participants who attend 4 out of the 6 webinars will receive e-certificates. Participants are encouraged to join the associated Ning (http://www.shapingenglish.ning.com) to participate in discussions, view or download video and other materials from the sessions, and access recordings of the webinars.
American English Resources
The American English website provides links to multimedia resources and information on exchange opportunities for teachers and students of English as a foreign language.


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Challenge yourself on some of the best kayaking and whitewater rafting in Pennsylvania. Rafting tours are available on the Lower Yough's seven and a half miles of Class III to IV waters, an adrenaline-pumping adventure. This day trip packs in the fun on the busiest section of whitewater east of the Mississippi River.
River trips aren't just for the brave and adventurous! Take a family-friendly river trip on the Middle Yough, which offers nine miles of gentle rapids perfect for a leisurely float. These Class I and II rapids make are ideal for novice kayakers, families with young children and those looking for a relaxing way to cool off.
Hop on the Great Allegheny Passage, a 150-mile nearly-level rail-trail, at the Ohiopyle trailhead. Pedal east from Ohiopyle, along the banks of the Youghiogheny River, for a scenic 11-mile ride to Confluence, another charming trail town. Ohiopyle is also home to mountain biking trails for all skill levels.
Zip into summer on the Ohiopyle Zip Line Adventure Park by Laurel Highlands River Tours & Outdoor Center. Climbers ages 10 and older can challenge themselves on larger obstacles and a 200-foot zip line, while younger climbers can get acquainted with zip lining on smaller features. Be sure to check out the other adventurous zip lines and ropes courses in the Laurel Highlands.
Stay overnight in Ohiopyle at Kentuck Campground, which offers more than 200 campsites. Some sites offer electric hook ups, flush toilets and warm showers. With 27 walk-in sites that require a short hike, you're sure to find a secluded spot to get away from it all. Rustic cottages and yurts are also available for a unique overnight experience.
Let the experts show you all you need to know about rock climbing in Ohiopyle State Park! You will learn everything from the basics of climbing knots and belay systems to rappelling techniques and the best locations to climb for your skill level. There are also several spots in Ohiopyle, like the Meadow Run Climbing Area and Bruner Run Climbing Area, that are perfect for seasoned climbers.
The Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail spreads70 miles from Ohiopyle State Park to Laurel Ridge State Park.The first six miles from the Ohiopyle trailhead lead to an expansive overlook of the Youghiogheny River Gorge.
As summer thrives at Ohiopyle State Park, Ferncliff Peninsula, a 100-acre botanical reserve comes to life with lush vegetation. Four trails wind through the natural area, with Ferncliff Trail circling the peninsula, which offers excellent views of the Ohiopyle Falls and whitewater rapids of the Youghiogheny River.
In the heart of Ohiopyle, the Ohiopyle Falls stretches the width of the Youghiogheny River. This 20 foot drop is right next to the Laurel Highlands Falls Area Visitor Center, just above the put in for the Lower Yough whitewater rafting.
Cool off and have a blast in Ohiopyle's nature-made water park, two natural waterslides in Meadow Run. Sit in the creek bed and ride the water down these natural tubes.
Baughman Rock Overlook offers one of the most jaw-dropping panoramic vistas of the Youghiogheny River Gorge, and the view doesn't require a hike! Take a short drive from Main Street in Ohiopyle to the parking area, just a few yards from the rocky overlook. Or you can choose to hike the steep, difficult mile-and-a-half trail to the overlook!
Cucumber Falls in Ohiopyle State Park is one of the most photographed waterfalls in Pennsylvania, and is definitely a "must-see" during your visit. The waterfall is an easily accessible landmark! Park at the Cucumber Falls Trail Head (located off the Ohiopyle/Chalk Hill Road) and take a short path to the falls.


text: Located under the shadow of Mount Nicholson, Happy Valley has restaurants that rival almost any other part of Hong Kong. Whatever brings you to the area, be sure to explore the options and add some incredible dining to your itinerary. With everything from beef tartare and escargots to grilled puffer fish on offer, Happy Valley is a district that caters to just about anyone's tastes, and all of the best local spots can be booked easily via Quandoo.Show more


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For many businesses such as legal and medical practices, the inherent advantages that come with also owning the real estate used for your operation are plentiful. Along with the predictability of a stable fixed long-term mortgage payment rather than rising lease costs going forward, owning your facility can provide both potential tax benefits (e.g., mortgage interest and property tax deductions) as well as long-term asset appreciation which can help fund retirement goals in the future. If your practice isn't the sole tenant, ownership can also provide both a valuable income stream from other tenants as well as the ability to control the property's tenancy in the future.
Because it can be depreciated over time, commercial real estate can offer significant tax advantages. And given its illiquid nature, interest in a property often can be placed in trust at a highly discounted value, making it an excellent vehicle for transferring wealth across generations.
Additional diversification benefits
As technology, transparency and rapid communication continue to deepen the integration of the world's economies, what was once a high degree of non-correlation among various traditional asset classes has drastically diminished. Investors are finding it increasingly difficult to establish genuine portfolio diversification. Because of its relatively low correlation to equity markets and its ability to hedge against inflation, real estate is one of the few investments that can help minimize and smooth out the volatility of your returns.
So why doesn't every legal or medical practice purchase rather than lease their property? There are a number of factors and considerations that may make leasing rather than owning a more desirable option.
If your business is growing rapidly or a merger or acquisition is a very real possibility down the road, you'll likely want to avoid tying up assets in the purchase of space that may soon become inadequate for your needs, and thus forcing you to sell the property at a potential loss depending on market conditions. In addition, commercial real estate purchases require significant cash outlays for down payments, appraisals and potential improvements. So practices without sufficient cash reserves may want to avoid committing vital working capital to a real estate purchase. Lastly, being an owner rather than a tenant (especially if it is a multi-tenant commercial property) inevitably brings with it additional headaches that professionals who are already stretched too thin may want to simply avoid.
Real estate is a unique asset that can provide portfolio diversification, inflation hedging, positive tax treatment and overall risk mitigation. Yet direct ownership can be challenging — presenting purchase and ongoing operation complexities, as well as liquidity challenges. The opportunity for substantial returns is compelling, but extensive due diligence, expertise and guidance should always be sought to ensure that the risk-return tradeoff aligns with both the needs of your practice as well as your personal expectations.


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Author: Lakisha Spletzer
Publisher: CreateSpace
Publication Date: March 18, 2011
Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy
available @ Amazon | B&N | Smashwords
A Veil Recipe
3 clueless college students
1 magical dimension
1 Warrior Princess
A pinch of danger
Take three clueless college students, mix in a tobacco field. Combine one magical dimension and stir in a defiant Warrior Princess. Throw in a pinch of danger and slow cook until steaming.
Invite five angry deities. Open and serve your new heap of trouble.
Moonbeams by Lakisha Spletzer is the first book in the Beams and Light series. Since it's the first book it lays a lot of ground work in getting to know the characters. There are a lot of characters in this novel but not so much that it's confusing.
Rob, Cory and Megan are three college students in the Appalachian Mountains. They go out looking for some excitement one evening and by accident they step through the Veil. They are instantly transported into another dimension. They are rescued by Shayleah, an elf who is the peacekeeper of the Veil. Shayleah with the help of her entourage agree to help the three find a way back to their home. However dark forces are at work and cause trouble at every turn.
I like most of the characters in this novel. Rob and Cory are a bit naive but they're brave. Shaylah and her group are very diverse. They include just about every species you'd expect to find in a fantasy novel. They complement each other very well. The only character I really didn't care for is Megan. She is a big time brat. Her character reminded me a lot of Cordelia from Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Except I like Cordelia a lot more. Lakisha Spletzer gives a glimpse into Megan's insecurities which helps give an understanding into why she is the way she is. Honestly if I were one of the other characters I would have Duck Taped her mouth shut for most of this book. Megan is important to the story line though. Rob, Cory and Megan are part of an ancient prophesy. I hope in the next book Megan redeems herself.
The story line in Moonbeams is good. I thought Lakisha Spletzer did a great job in creating this fantasy world. I like how she combined magical elements with serious social issues. I did want to know more about the dark forces that are after them. I hope the next book will have further explanation into this. Overall I like this book. I thought it is a great introduction to the Beams and Light trilogy.
My rating:
For more information on the author, be sure to check out her:
*I received this book from the author in exchange for a review. This in no way influenced my opinion of the book.


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Investment Brokerage
Our extensive in-house computer analysis capabilities enable our agents to help the client determine specific investment strategies and goals for their property.
Using this valuable information, both seller and buyer are matched to allow for an intellectual, informed and smooth negotiation process. Our sales personnel follow through until act of sale and continue a personal client relationship to ensure client satisfaction and property performance.


text: We have updated the Resource Section to include most frequently asked questions about the use of medications to treat chronic opioid addiction. The answers are taken from two publications. The majority come from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) publication "Principles of Drug Addiction Treatment – A Research Based Guide". Several responses have also been taken from the New York State COMPA publication "Regarding Methadone Treatment… and other Pharmacotherapies". We will continue to supplement this section as new information comes to surface. It is our hope that this section will be helpful to interested parties in our field.


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Easter: The Resurrection of Our Lord (Year A)
Alleluia! Christ is risen!
The Lord is risen indeed! Alleluia!
Prayer of Confession
Almighty God, in raising Jesus from the tomb you have given us the sure sign of your power to deliver us from sin and death and to renew our whole creation. We confess that we still fall into doubt and fear. We continue to cling to selfish ways and doubt your power to make all things new. Forgive our lack of faith. Have mercy on our weakness. Raise us from the death of sin that we may live with Christ in the joy of his resurrection, now and forever.
Hymn Suggestions
"Christ Is Alive!"
"Lift High the Cross"
"The Strife Is O'er, the Battle Done"
"What Wondrous Love Is This"
Written by John Paarlberg, pastor of First Church in Albany, New York


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Fox Glacier
Located on the West Coast of the South Island, Fox Glacier is one of two famous attractions in the region known as Glacier Country.Fox is the name of both the glacier itself and the local village. While the glacier itself is the lesser known of the two in the region, it is definitely worth the visit. For a price, you are able to fly by helicopter and land on top of the glacier in order to explore its ice caves. Sadly on the day that we visited, the weather was too unclear to fly safely and all flights were suspended. The trail to view the glacier itself is short, but the scenery is stunning, particularly on a misty day. Be sure to bring a raincoat if visiting the West Coast, because you are guaranteed to experience plenty of it.
Franz Josef Glacier
Franz Josef, just like Fox, is the name of both the glacier itself and the neighboring village.To reach the glacier viewing point, a longer hike is required than that of fox glacier. The trail itself is absolutely stunning and gives you a clear view of the edge of the glacier. If you decide to stay in the Franz Josef village, I highly recommend Sir Cedrics Chateau Franz for accommodation, they're a great backpackers located right in the middle of the village center. If you need evening entertainment, I suggest visiting Snakebite Brewery, they're located on the main street of the village and have some of the best craft beers that I've had the pleasure of trying, along with the single best cider I have ever had, Cobra Berry Cider.
Blue Pools
The Blue Pools are very easy to miss while driving to the two glacier villages. There is a small roadside stop that is located part way between Wanaka and Fox Glacier that is definitely worth keeping an eye out for. There is a short forest walk that arrives at a fork in a bright blue river with some stunning scenery.


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Pavel, Hi,
Not a lot of use to answer your question, but I find:-
Air Ministry, 7th May, 1940. ROYAL AIR FORCE. The KING has been graciously pleased to approve the following awards:—
Awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross. Flying Officer Desmond Frederick Burt SHEEN (39474)Flying
3 Sep 1940 Prom Flt Lt
Air Ministry.21st October, 1941. ROYAL AIR FORCE. The KING has been graciously pleased to approve-the following awards in recognition of gallantry displayed in flying operations against the .enemy: —
Distinguished Service Order: Acting Squadron Leader Desmond Frederick Burt SHEEN, - D.F.C. (39474), No. 72 Squadron.
16 Dec 1941 A/Sqn Ldr to T/Sqn Ldr.
1 Jul 1944 Prom T/Wg Cdr
14 Jul 1949 Cmd Flt Lt(Perm) RAF GD
1 Jul 1950 Prom Sqn Ldr
1 Jan 1956 Prom Wg Cdr
1 Jan 1964 Prom Gp Capt.
It is a bit odd because although he is awarded a DSO on 21 Oct 40, it never appears in his post-nominals in subsequent LG entries.
It was a self-accounting Station so there must be files in TNA? They might not have been digitised?


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At Awesome Walls Climbing Centres we believe we can offer an experience a child will not forget. Time and time again we have being praised for our dedicated work helping children from very diverse backgrounds. Teachers, Support workers and Parents have seen the benefits of what we can deliver in a safe and caring climbing environment.
Awesome Walls Climbing Centres have a wealth of experience and knowledge in designing and delivering structured programmes to suit all ages and abilities. As you will know, outdoor and adventurous activities are now part of the PE national curriculum.
Our programs can offer the following:
- Intellectual and physical challenges
- Encourage positive interactions as part of a team
- Problem Solving
- Fun and exciting
- Improves confidence
- Accessible for all abilities and fitness levels
Whether you are interested in a single session to reward high achievers, or as an extended program of sessions to be run week after week, we have something to suit your requirements.
Our teams have extensive experience in mainstream and special educational needs and can tailor courses to the needs of your children.
We are also able to offer the National Indoor Climbing Award Scheme (NICAS). NICAS is the first ever nationally accredited climbing scheme and Liverpool and Sheffield are both Primary Centres with Stockport also being an awarding centre.
NICAS is now accepted by the leading examination boards of the UK for fulfillment of the GCSE PE Syllabus. Add link to NICAS website
All our centres are members of The Association of British Climbing Walls, Adventurous Activities Licensing Authority and members of the British Mountaineering Council, we work strictly to NGB guidelines and follow best practice at all times.
Looking for Qualifications?
We can provide training opportunities to your team to enhance their skills and experience.
We understand the pressures staff face and the need to provide challenging, appropriate and transferrable activities. We can help train your staff to achieve the following:
- Climbing Wall Award (CWA) training and assessment
- Single Pitch Award (SPA) training and assessment
- First Aid Qualification- 16 hours
- NICAS training for levels 1 and 2
For more information and enquiries about our programmes, please contact your nearest wall:
Liverpool: 0151 298 2422
Stoke: 01782 341 919
Sheffield: 0114 244 6622
Stockport: 0161 4949949


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LA archive wrote:Or we can do as a few of my Tei'Kaliaths have advised. What does not work could be taken down. Simplify our work and politics. To replenish our coffers and help pay for restructuration, I could give greater spotlights to our important bloodlines. By paying to be raised to nobility, they would gain some renown. Yet, this comes at the danger of reviving old grudges. Because of this, I would have to become harsher with those who would disrupt our peace, perhaps even institute banishment.
Personally, I was reading during the EARLY days of PTP but I never designed a character. The whole forced RP aspect kind of...killed my interest but it was fun to see the clan grow, so I stuck around until I couldn't afford it for ages. So, I have no idea what "grudges and politics" are being talked about here. SO, this is a discussion I will follow but I doubt I will post in beyond the OP.


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Growing Presence in Propane Distribution
Energy Distribution Partners (EDP) is a rapidly growing company in America's fast-changing energy landscape – with deep experience in retail and commercial propane sales, operations and finance. We are now providing safe, reliable propane service to residential and commercial customers in California, Washington, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina and New York – and actively seeking partners for growth.
Are You a Business Owner?
If you are a successful propane and fuels dealer, you should get to know EDP. We invest in quality businesses for the long haul. Our operating philosophy is to keep the business you've built – your brand name, your local management and the team in your community – to serve your customers. See what one successful business owner has to say
Extensive Propane Experience
With extensive experience in all aspects of the propane industry, our seasoned management team believes the opportunity is greater than ever for quality propane operators who know how to manage effectively to meet their customers' changing needs. We are excited about America's energy industry and propane's role in it.
Committed to the Industry
EDP doesn't just give lip service to its support of industry initiatives. Our team is actively involved in virtually all of the industry's organizations in the states and regions in which we operate, including the Propane Education and Research Council and the National Propane Gas Association.


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With an emphasis on bespoke, seasonal and statement floral design Sarah Loughrey-Jennings from Hiding in the City flowers is our go-to florist for directional and design led musings. With her flair for all that is attention-grabbing and gorgeous she takes us through what's en trend in the flower world as one of our resident Flower Guide experts.
Based in Shoreditch, East London Hiding in the City specialise in seasonal, fresh, wild, rustic shoots and striking colours.
Connect with Sarah and Hiding in the City flowers here:


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We are growing and our footprint is expanding.
Some Success Packages are still
"Under Construction."
"Under Construction" is a statement of our commitment to continue to provide you information so you can better recognize, understand and evaluate what solutions are best for you.
Join Us for a FREE Class
Explore Available FREE Classes
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Collecting petition signatures and picketing on public sidewalks are classic examples of freedoms protected by the First Amendment. But Bayshore mall security ordered people who were collecting signatures from voters to recall the Governor and Lt. Governor on the sidewalks in front of the mall to leave. In another example, someone protesting the business practices of one of the mall's merchants was arrested for picketing on the sidewalk. During the recall petition season, there were discussions around the state about where people had the freedom to collect signatures, including in the Milwaukee suburbs.
After mall management claimed it could control First Amendment activities because it "owned" the sidewalks along Port Washington Road and Silver Spring Drive, the American Civil Liberties Union of Wisconsin Foundation and volunteer attorneys took action to advocate for the rights of petitioners and picketers.
"A sidewalk is a sidewalk," said Jeffrey Perzan, who was ordered to move by Glendale police while he collected recall petition signatures on the sidewalk along Port Washington Road. "The First Amendment protects my right to persuade my neighbors and the public to take action in the public places where they already congregate." Another protester, Lincoln Rice, picketed against Trader Joe's business practices on the sidewalk outside its store and was arrested and issued a trespassing citation.
In December, the ACLU of Wisconsin opposed the actions by mall management and city police because every court to consider similar questions has held that private businesses cannot insulate themselves from criticism by artificially designating public sidewalks as private property. Despite a letter from the ACLU, mall security and Glendale police ordered Mr. Perzan to move from an allegedly "private" sidewalk along Port Washington Road as recently as January 6, 2012.
With the help of attorney Jim Gramling, citations were dismissed and negotiations with Bayshore Town Center and the City of Glendale resulted in an acknowledgement of citizens' First Amendment rights to picket and petition on public sidewalks.
"This is a victory for the most basic form of free speech," said Gramling. "Sidewalks and parks are places where people traditionally have exchanged ideas and tried to persuade their neighbors to adopt their views. And unlike other forums for expression, like television or the radio, they can be used without charge, so anyone, rich or poor, can seek an audience there."
The perimeter sidewalks where First Amendment activity is permitted include: (1) the entire sidewalk on the north side of and parallel to Silver Spring Drive from Port Washington Road on the west to Lydell Avenue on the east; (2) the entire sidewalk on the east side of and parallel to Port Washington Road from Silver Spring Drive on the south to Carrigan Drive on the north; and (3) the sidewalks on the west side of and parallel to Lydell Avenue from Silver Spring Drive on the south to Carrigan Drive on the north.
Although some portions of these sidewalks are owned by private entities and other portions are owned by the City, assembly and other expressive activity, as long as it is peaceful, and does not in any way disrupt access, or impede public health, welfare or safety, is lawful on all of these sidewalks, regardless of their ownership. The mall has not agreed to allow protest on the interior streets and sidewalks of Bayshore Town Center where the public gathers. Anyone attempting to protest in these interior spaces may be subject to arrest and/or citation or prosecution.
In addition to Attorney Gramling, Attorneys Holden Brooks and Michael Halfenger of Foley & Lardner in Milwaukee volunteered their time in this case.
This story was also covered on dane101.com and in the Proof and Heresay blog of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel with a lively comments section.
Help support the civil liberties news and opinion you get on Forward for Liberty. Join the ACLU of Wisconsin today or make a tax-deductible donation to the ACLU of Wisconsin Foundation. Your contribution keeps Forward for Liberty, action alerts via email and social media, and other nonpartisan watchdog efforts going.


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Our metering systems offer many solutions for oil terminals.
This article contains a gallery of some solutions and installations of truck loading systems, especially bottom loading.
four complete truck loading prefabricated bays
Truck loading system for aviation including special water separation filter
Typical old terminal
VegaT mounted on tank terminal
Trasportation into terminal of truck loading skid
Typical vertical metering block installation
skid for small terminals, cost effective solution 1300 l/min each arm
Blending meters for truck loading
Grounding unit in loading bay
Blending system for truck loading
Full stainless steel metering line
Truck loading on low temperature environment
VegaT installed in terminals
VegaT installed in terminals
Top loading old installation
Terminals in UK
Terminals in UK four arms
VegaII in terminal for truck loading
Special protected solution. Meter are protected by cage removable for manteinance only
Typical BMV400 MID approved installation for truck loading. Use of master meter for calibration on site
Calibration with 5000liters proving tank
Five arms trauck loading with vapour recovery and fire fighting system
three arms truck loading system
three arms with mechanical register and ticket printer for small terminal
three amrs skid for small terminal
three arms skid with old Vega controller
three arms loading system for small terminal including top cover
three arms skid
four arms skid ready to ship
Truck loading system for aviation use with water separator filter
Six arm truck loading
Master Meters are normally used to calibrate other meters
Isoil Impianti has recently supplied a specific Master meter for 3000 l/min. for Aviation use
it will be used inside airport but also versions for be used on pubblic road are available.
It is mainly composed by
- BM600 Master Meter 4000 l/min.
- compact road trolley
- flexible hose both for inlet and outlet
- segregation manual valve
- regulating manual valve
- pressure and temperature gauges
- high accuracy reading feature
- screw feet for on site positioning
- parking brake
- flexible hose locker for trasportation


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Anti-Spam Guide
Consider using an Internet service provider (ISP) or an email service that includes virus and spam filtering as your first line of defense. An increasing number of ISPs and email services are offering these services to their customers. If you need or want to keep your current ISP who does not offer virus and spam filtering, see our Secure Email Hosting Services page for some that do. In addition to or instead of an online service, you can install software on your computer to catch spam. Do your part when running an email campaign and use software that is CAN-SPAM compliant. For an overview of the spam problem, see Stopping Spam, Joshua Goodman, David Heckerman and Robert Rounthwaite, Scientific American, March 28, 2005; and 5 Ways To Lock Up Your E-Mail, Gregg Keizer, Information Week, August 11, 2006.
Comparative Reviews
- Spam Filter Reviews, Consumer Search, April 2010, the best web-based spam-filtering service is ClearMyMail, best anti-spam software is Cloudmark Desktop, and the best free spam blocker is SpamFighter.
- Spam Filter 2011, TopTenReviews -- SPAMfighter Pro, Cloudmark DesktopOne Pro, MailWasher Pro 2010, ChoiceMail One, iHateSpam, CleanMail Home, Spam Bully, SpamEater Pro, Spam Buster.
Individual Product Links & Reviews
- Cloudmark Desktop,
- Cloudmark DesktopOne-Pro Mode, Neil J. Rubenking, PC Magazine, August 9, 2010 -- editor's choice.
- Cloudmark DesktopOne [freeware], Neil J. Rubenking, PC Magazine, August 3, 2010 -- editor's choice.
- iHateSpam, PC Magazine editor's choice April 2008 (see comparative reviews above)
- I Hate Spam and So Do You! Doug Goldring, Gear Diary, March 6, 2008
- OnlyMyEmail Personal -- Personal, kid & business versions
- CA Anti-Spam [formerly Qurb]
- Comodo
- Anti Spam Software Comodo AntiSpam [free], Martin, ghacks.net, May 27, 2010
- MailFrontier Desktop
- Mailwasher Pro
- Spam-Reader
- Spam Butcher
- SPAMfighter
- Vanquish vqME


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The clock continues to tick down towards my leaving Napo in a few weeks' time.
So, let me ask whether anyone knows the answer to the following question which has troubled me for some time:
We read of the National Trust, the Erewhon Probation Trust etc etc (capital T used) but "the trust" (small "t"). Why is this? Surely it's a Proper Noun requiring a capital "T" whereas "trust" (small "t") is a verb?
Is there some solid thinking behind this? Or is it just another symptomatic sign of gaumless mediocrity at the top - too much managerialism and no real leadership?


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Channel news: Update deflates BlackBerry; Web 2.0 is unseen threat
"Insufficiently tested software" caused BlackBerry failure The installation of an insufficiently tested piece of software set off a chain reaction that eventually cut off BlackBerry service. [NYT]
Bulletin: Internet is risky: Staff use of Web 2.0 is unseen threat, survey says Companies underestimating leak risk. [TheReg]
March of progress? Dell is bringing XP back Amid significant customer demand, the computer maker said on Thursday that it has returned to offering the older Windows version as an option on some of its consumer PCs. [CNET]
Art of the deal: U.S. Joins kickback case against HP, Sun The government has joined in a whistle-blower case filed against Hewlett-Packard, Sun Microsystems and Accenture over improper payments connected to government contracts. [NYT]
Sun injects NetBeans into Ubuntu Spreading the word. [TheReg]
Apple plugs 25 security holes Patch dispatch. [NYT]
Big money in little screen…? Google, Microsoft and Yahoo have trained their sights on cellphones as the next great battleground in the Internet search wars. [NYT]
…but Nokia earnings fell nearly 7% in first quarter First-quarter earnings dropped nearly 7% as expanding sales of low-end models in emerging markets pushed down its average selling price. [NYT]
… profits up 69% at Google, exceeding expectations The company's core search and advertising business continued to outpace that of Microsoft and Yahoo. [NYT]
Google draws privacy complaint to FTC Three public interest groups are expected to ask for a government investigation into issues posed by Google's DoubleClick acquisition. [CNET]
Critical flaws found in Nortel VPN routers Nortel Networks warns of a trio of serious vulnerabilities in its VPN routers that could enable remote attackers to compromise devices and gain unauthorized network access. [ChannelWeb]
AMD posts $611 million loss In response, AMD plans to slash spending and reduce headcount but vows no major change in its technology plans or already announced products. [Computerworld]
Lenovo plans to lay off 1,400 The personal computer maker Lenovo Group said it would lay off 1,400 workers and move jobs to emerging markets to better compete with faster growing rivals. Lenovo, which leapt onto the world stage in 2005 when it bought the PC operation of I.B.M. for $1.25 billion, said it would cut a net 650 jobs worldwide. An additional 750 positions will be moved to Brazil, China, India and
Slovakia, countries with lower labor costs that are close to Lenovo's suppliers and manufacturing operations. [NYT]
Ballmer: SaaS to have a major impact on businessess Microsoft is expecting Web 2.0 and software-as-a-service (SaaS) to "have as profound an impact on the business market as on the consumer market," said Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer, in an address to a group of 80 or so Microsoft-identified "IT Pro community leaders" on the Redmond campus on April 18.
[All About Microsoft]


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For many crossfitters or frequent squatters, chair pose may seem like a confusing version of the quintessential movement known as the squat. During chair, I've caught myself wondering, usually after 4-5 breaths (what feels like an eternity) "geez louise when is this ever going to end? I don't get it, I thought yoga was supposed to make me more open, but this just feels like hard work!"
If you find yourself wondering this too, or in general wanting to avoid chair, you are not alone. And yes, this pose does feel like hard work. Because it is. And it is one of the poses where you may not always notice the benefits right away. Over time, it will seriously help you grow stronger in your practice, both on and off the yoga mat.
While it has a couple major differences from the squat that you know and love so dearly, there are several key elements to chair that will benefit your squat position. Namely:
- Weight in heels
- You can check this by lifting your toes and shifting your body weight back, so 80% of your weight is in your heels.
- Note: this is important to maintain safe positioning for your knees — weight forward stresses your knees.
- Chest lifted (i.e., upright torso)
- Keeping your torso upright requires a ton of motor-control and stabilization, which chair pose helps you develop.
- Core engaged
- Pull your belly button toward your spine and drop your tailbone down.
- Pull your lower ribs in.
- Tune in to the connection between your torso and your legs – the more deeply you bend your knees and drop down, the more you'll need to lift your belly to maintain the natural curve in your spine.
- Breathing
- Lifting your arms helps open up the muscles between your ribs, which can increase breathing capacity.
- By focusing on the breath as you hold this pose, you may start to notice the calming effects of the breath. The physical sensation starts to feel a little less intense and more manageable as you ramp up your breathing.
Now for the chair/squat show-down. Some differences between the two include:
- In chair, your feet and legs are together.
- Yes, this will limit your ROM. Practicing with your feet together, however, helps awaken your inner thigh muscles. The more you bend your knees and the lower you drop your hips, the more intense the pose. You want to find that happy medium point where you're dropping your hips as low as you can without compromising the alignment of your upper body — remember, upright torso.
- Arms. While squat has different arm variations depending on the squat iteration you're working on, in chair, the arm alignment is a little more specific, with the intention of creating a safe and open position for your shoulders. Some pointers to think about:
- Straighten your arms, alongside your ears. If you have tight shoulders, widen the distance between your arms (v-shape).
- Keep your arms and fingers straight.
- Spin your pinky fingers in and rotate your thumbs out. Palms face each other.
- Spread your scapulae, broadening through your upper back.
- Gaze. Is important in yoga. Setting a steady gaze helps set your focus so you can stay present and calm.
- In chair, you can gaze up through your hands, as long as you can maintain length through the back of your neck while doing so. You can also gaze straight ahead at the horizon, or at a point on the floor a few feet in front of you. Play around with this and see what works for you. The important thing is just that you pick one point and keep your eyes fixed on it, steady but relaxed. Soften the muscles around your eyes.
Fun fact: utkatasana (the Sanskrit name of this pose), translates to "powerful" or "mighty". An awesome side effect of taking the physical posture is it teaches the determination and perseverance required to meet a challenge and stick with it.
Because it is challenging, common tendencies that arise include clamping up and holding tension, often in places that are easy to overlook. Next time you practice, notice if you furrow your brow, clench your jaw, or hug your shoulders up toward your ears. If so, relax the area of tension. Also notice if your breathing turns into panting, or if you hold your breath. I love Baron Baptiste's excerpt on this in Journey Into Power:
"…sometimes your stress reduction program is going to be a little bit stressful! In moments of stress in life, we tend to tense up and breathe less. But when in the middle of stress — in life or in this pose — you have the perfect opportunity to reverse that pattern and rewire your nervous system. Rather than breathing less in stress, breathe more."
Since I started practicing yoga, I've really noticed where I tend to carry excess tension and hold my breath. Sometimes when I'm really focused or stressed, I breathe less. Now that I'm aware of this tendency, I find myself taking deep, ujjayi breaths during meetings at work. I may be known as "that crazy yoga girl" around the office, but this is a nickname I embrace wholeheartedly.


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Check out www.wilddog.za.net
This is a dedicated dual sport/adventure biking forum with abundance of information on these topics.
My trusty steed (F800GS) needs new tyres. I would love to go a bit more off-road oriented than the current Anakee 2's, but if I'm really honest with myself I do 99% tar and maybe once a year get an opportunity to go ride some dirt roads (which even then is not really technical). For safety's sake, grip on tar (wet and dry) is most important, but is it possible to go a bit more dual purpose without compromising on-road performance? If so, what tyres should I consider? I've made this shortlist (longlist?):
Heidenau K60
Shinko 705
Metzeler Karoo street/ Karoo 3
Anakee 2
Mitas E07
Pirelli Scorpion Trail 2/ MT90
I'd appreciate some guidance here.
2010 Nissan Navara 2.5 dCi 4x4
2015 Bush Lapa Miskruier (B503)
Check out www.wilddog.za.net
This is a dedicated dual sport/adventure biking forum with abundance of information on these topics.
I would stick with the Anakee. They suit the bike well.
I trust them
Lusted for a Landy but the Pajero was sexier and bigger in the right departments, just like my Missus.
2004 Gen 3. 3.8i petrol V6 (PAJTU)
X Factor Bundutop trailer (designed by me)
1998 Blister Fender Pajero 3500 24V (PAJ) (Sold)
Maybe I'm just looking for confirmation that I should stick with Anakee's. Or encouragement to go wild.
2010 Nissan Navara 2.5 dCi 4x4
2015 Bush Lapa Miskruier (B503)
Check in at Bike tyre warehouse, speak to Bruce himself. He is a bike tyre specialist and a supplier of most tyre brands. Got a branch in Midrand (Main) and Fourways.
Suzuki Grand Vitara Summit (2017)
(Previously owned (Only the Zooks really matter): Jimny 2010, Jimny 2013)
Beta 400rr Enduro
Wife: Suzuki Vitara GL+
(Previously:Suzuki Swift GLS, Suzuki SX4 GLX)
KTM 150 xc
Suzuki Grand Vitara Summit (2017)
(Previously owned (Only the Zooks really matter): Jimny 2010, Jimny 2013)
Beta 400rr Enduro
Wife: Suzuki Vitara GL+
(Previously:Suzuki Swift GLS, Suzuki SX4 GLX)
KTM 150 xc
I've used both the Anakee II and the E07.
The Anakee is good on tar and ok on dirt.
The E07 is ok on tar, good on dirt.
Both gets good mileage.
If you tend towards dirt, the E07 is the way to go.
You can never have the best of both worlds though..
Land Cruiser 76 4.5 V8
Speak to Henk Kotzee from Cape bike tyre
He will give you the best advice and good prices too.
Zero 82 Seven18 Four156
My personal preference would be Motoz Tractionator
Some car, some bike and two legs
What about TKC 70 good 70/30 compromise.
Have had them on my 1200Gs for about 5000ks and am impressed.
The Heidenaus will kill you in the wet - well known to be very slippery in wet weather
Anakee3 also good on road - made for 10% off road
Enjoy the hunt
It wasn't on your list but the Metzeler Enduro 3 Sahara also a good tyre. P,lenty of grip off and on road but you pay a price with it wearing fast.
Browse the Wilddog forum, theres a make and model specific discussion board http://www.wilddog.za.net/forum/index.php?board=94.0 - The guys will flood you with opinions.
Personally, Ive had the Anakee 2's, Anakee 3's, Metzelers and EO7's on my 800. All fantastic tyres. The EO7's will give you a little more confidence than the others off the tar, but if your only going to do a bit of gravel road then Anakee 3's or Metzelers are perfect
See it - Plan it - Believe it - Do it
I dont believe in dual sport but its too expensive to get another set of rims. I do it with my vehicles, road and muds.
Anakee 3 has very good grip, Karoo is good, had them on but now running anakee wild.
As with cars, less miles more grip
Turnkey Construction Projects, Commercial, industrial, Domestic
Importers: Diving gear, Compressed air cylinders for diving and airgun industry, 4x4 equipment.
Manufacturers: Pofadder Kinetic ropes, Recovery kits, Synthetic winch ropes
Vehicles: Modifications and installations, Special application vehicles
Driver training: 4x4, Defensive
[email protected]
The best tires i've ever fitted to my dual sport bikes. Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR.
fantastic wet grip, excellent offroad in various conditions. on tar 200+ runs perfect. all day cruising at 160 without delaminating.
I even get around 8000km on a rear on the 990.
BMW X5 3.0d ---
Vorige? FIAT Fullback 4x4, Wat 'n loutere stuk strooi voertuig en geen diens van FIAT af nie. Bly weg...
I have done about 90000km on my Gs800. I ride a lot!!! Use the bike mainly to commute as well.
I have found my favorite tyre and will stick to them through thick and thin. Mainly because that is what I tried and what worked for me.
When I bought my bike it was fitted with the front Pirelli which it came out with and anakee 3 on the back.
Pirelli is ### on the front Anakee 3 good on tar not to bad off it either. I even rode in the dune with the anakee 3.
Then I used the Michelin T63 on the front - great front tire even on the twisties never had an issue, but they discontinued the tire.
Rear I used a lot of different tires.
TKC 80 on the rear sometimes lasted only 1500km tire - Did I mention I was heavy on rear tires??
Heidenhau K60 was the next rear tire in line. Okish but poor on wet roads infact scary on wet roads not great grip but best I got was about 10000km. Had quite a few of them.
In the meantime I switched to Michelin Anakee wild on the front - great tire.
Now on my second MOTOZ tractionator adventure. Best 50/50 knobbly on the market in my opinion. Great grip on tar and gravel, wet or dry and milage great as well.
Now what would I suggest.
Look at a knobbly for the front, be mindfull that stopping distances on tar is a little more but when you are used to them no issues.
For city driving and the ocaasional dirt ride the MOTOZ tractionator GPS. A 50/50 dualspot tire. Apparently give great milage (25000km been spoken of)
Use it don't use it, just my experience and my suggestions
It seems this thread is still going. I fitted a new tyre in March already and maybe it's just appropriate that I give some feedback after a few months of use.
So I decided on the Shinko 705 and Henk from Cape Bike Tyre quickly got me a set. My findings:
Grip: Despite being quite a bit more aggressive than the previous Anakee 2's, the grip on tar is the same: very good. The Shinko's are still 50/50 tyres and I'm quite surprised by the good grip on tar. I've taken the bike off road and the grip is much better. It may be just because the Anakees are not really suited to proper off-roading but the Shinko's have all the grip I need.
Noise: The Shinko's have a nice hum on the open road. It's not bothersome but definitely more noticeable than the Anakee 2's.
Range: Reviews all indicate that the Shinko's last longer than average. I haven't done enough km's to test the wear so ask me again in a year's time.
Price: Very competitive. The front tyre was less than R1200 balanced and fitted. Rand / km this must be one of the "cheapest".
So thus far very happy with my choice but I guess time will tell.
2010 Nissan Navara 2.5 dCi 4x4
2015 Bush Lapa Miskruier (B503)
Sounds like the OP does 99% tar, so should be fine on Anakees 3s. Just deflate when you go on the gravel.


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San Francisco is in the United States and is a city that projects different cultures. It is one of the liveliest cities and offers people with all sorts of lifestyles something they can call their own. The stunning sights of the city attract tourists from around the world.
An Overview of San Francisco
The numerous beaches, the historical tourist attractions, the beautiful weather as well as the haunted houses make San Francisco highly attractive as a tourist destination. It is known as a place one has to visit at least once in a lifetime.
Tourist Places Of Attraction
1) Pier 39: The first place that comes to mind is the Pier 39, which hosts the Underwater World aquarium. You may not see as many sea lions in a single place, except here.
2) Ghirardelli Square: This company manufactures chocolate and has been famous for decades. Visitors are also allowed to savor the different chocolate and ice creams in the open plaza.
3) Lombard Street: This street has a 40-degree slope with 8 very sharp bends. It is an interesting place to visit.
3) The Cannery: This is the name given to a number of historic buildings that have a common courtyard in the center. This place with its ascending leveled walkways, balconies and bridges attracts tourists.
4) North Beach: Looking to get a taste of the local entertainment while you're there? North Beach offers plenty, with its eateries, bakeries, cabarets and jazz clubs.
5) Exploratorium: A museum that offers 700 activities is definitely worth taking your kids over to. Of course, it is fun for adults too.
Things to do while in San Francisco:
1) You can visit the Alcatraz-Island by taking a guided tour. This includes a notorious prison and lots of wildlife.
2) Rent a bike to visit the Golden Gate Bridge, which is a red hanging bridge. With the Golden Gate ticket, you can also visit the Legion of Honor museum on the same day.
3) If you're traveling with kids, hire a paddleboat and visit Snow Lake, where you can go to the botanical gardens and the conservatory too.
4) China Town is where hundreds of shops, antiques, museums depicting Chinese culture are available. The Chinese food here is the talk of the world.
Shopping and Sports
The Embarcadero Center 1-4 Shopping is visited mostly by business people, and this is the reason this can be the best place to shop for people who hate crowds. Filmore Street Shopping is best for beauty products and accessories.
Enjoy some sports by being a part of the Bay to Breakers footrace. Baseball games are offered at the AT&T Park. However, the best is the San Francisco Bay, where you get to enjoy a lot of activities such as boating, windsurfing and beach volley.
Looking for some wild fun in the nights? Nob Hill is where you should be heading. This is an upscale bar that gives a lot of excitement. Harry Denton's Starlight Room in the Union Square is another place. Champagne flows freely combined with caviar at the Bubble Room; all this with live music. Need hotter stuff? Then head over to SoMa: plenty of hot clubs there.
Famous Festivals
If there is one festival you cannot miss, that is Waterfront festivals. Plenty of celebrations during the day and brilliant fireworks at night. For music fans, Weird Street Fairs is a great music performing platform.
San Francisco as a tourist destination is well know. You will see what the craze is all about, when you visit the place as a tourist.
Read more about Top Tourism Destinations and also about Best Tourism Destination


text:
Hampton News
The Friendly Class will meet with Miss Mary Craig on Friday evening, Jan. 28.
Mrs. Carrie Pressey has entered a sanitarium near Worcester where she hopes to be entirely restored to health.
Mrs. E. D. Berry still continues very ill, being very tenderly cared for by her sister, Mrs. Brown and granddaughter, Mrs. Newton.
The H. G. T. Club observed guest day recently with about fifty present. A delicious buffet luncheon was served. Favors were won by Mrs. Walter Palmer, Mrs. Stillings, Mrs. Janvrin, Mrs. Mitchell.
Mrs. Charles Batchelder continues quite ill in her home and friends are all hoping for her return to health.
Mr. Milo Hooke has purchased a new Ford Sedan.
A special meeting of the Mother's Circle will be held at the Baptist Chapel, Thursday, Feb. 3, at 2:30 P. M. Mrs. Arnold Yantis of Manchester, N. H. will be the speaker for the meeting. Members please take notice of the change in the hour. All members may being guests.
The service in the Congregational Church on Sunday for the I. O. O. F. and Rebekah Lodges was very impressive. The pastor preached an interesting sermon and the singing by the choir was exceptionally good. The duet sung by Mr. Noyes and Harold Clark and the solo by Miss Mary Chase were much enjoyed.
Mr. Warren entertained his fiancé over the last weekend.
The Missionary Society will hold its next meeting on Wednesday in the chapel.
Mrs. Flora Wilbar of Newton spent a few days in town this week.
The installation of officers of the W. R. Corps passed off very successfully on Wednesday. Miss Edith Paul of Portsmouth, Deputy President, installed the officers assisted by Mrs. Fernald of the same city. Very interesting addresses were made by Mr. Warren Perkins, Mr. Paul, Rev. Mr. Buker and Mr. Rupert Lindsey. A fine dinner was served at noon. The Corps was pleased to have Mrs. Elsie Godfrey with it at the installation.
Mr. William Blake has had a telephone put into his house on the Portsmouth Road.Mrs. Herbert Perkins is suffering from blood poisoning due to a pimple which came on her chin.
The remains of Miss Nellie Merrill were brought here and placed in the tomb on Wednesday. The death of Miss Merrill was particularly sad as she was in perfect health. While crossing Commonwealth Ave. in Boston she was struck by an automobile driven by a lady, and instantly killed. Miss Merrill was a resident of Hampton from early girlhood until the death of her stepfather, the late Dr. Merrill and had many friends here. She is survived by a half brother, William Merrill, of New York.
The West End Club was entertained by Mrs. Helen Yeaton January 13. Four members were absent. We were delighted to have with us as guests Mrs. Freda Coffin, Mrs. Blanchard and Mrs. Philbrook. The usual business matters were attended to and the report of the last meeting read. The program was in charge of Mrs. Jessie R. Towle and was as follows: "The Spirit of Giving Is Still On," related to the Post Santa and the wonderful work he does and was read by Mrs. Jennie James. The Boy Your Mother Thinks You Are, was read by Mrs. Addie James. Mrs. Freda Coffin favored us with a selection on the piano from one of the operas. Some famous poems taken from the Youths Companion were read by one of the members. Singing by Mrs. Addie and Katherine James was then listened to. A social hour was enjoyed in which dainty refreshments were served. A very pleasant time was had by all.
Mrs. Annie B. Jenness, wife of John H. Jenness, died on Saturday at the Carney Hospital in Boston from the effects of a surgical operation. She was 60 years old and was widely known to Summer residents as a keeper of a boarding house. For many years she ran the Willow Tree House. The body was taken to Rye Beach for burial.


text:
What's the best thing about working here?
The best thing about working here for me has been the opportunities that I have been given to take on extra responsibilities and expand my skills. I started as an account manager and have progressed into training, which I might not have been able to do elsewhere.
Louis Jackson – Coaching and Development Trainer
What would you say to someone thinking about applying for a role with us?
If you're hard working and have the will to succeed and earn some great commission, then come and give us a go!
Tom Cosway – Head of Commercial Business


text:
About Us
Learn about our history! The Festival continues to be a family-oriented event, is always free to the public, and all members of the Festival Committee are unpaid volunteers.
We will have a variety of vendors. Great Caribbean food booths complimented by a marketplace of Caribbean fashions, souvenirs, arts and crafts.
Location & Map
The Philadelphia Caribbean Festival will be at: The Great Plaza, Penn's Landing, Columbus Boulevard at Chestnut Street, Philadelphia
Contact Us!
Check out our contact page to find the right person or department. Or Call (215) 879-9352 for general info.
The 33rd Annual Caribbean Festival
Part of PECO's Multicultural Series
Will be on
Sunday, August 18, 2019
From 12 Noon until 8:00 p.m.
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Photos from last year!
This was a huge amount of fun, packed into 8 hours!


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January Fourteen: Celebrating Her Son's Life After Death
Looking behind me, I twisted my torso and pressed down on the tin canister that sat in the passenger seat as I backed up the car. A horrid pop song played on the radio. I don't normally think the word "horrid", but I was in mom mode, so my mind ran towards affectations in hopes that my son, Hazen, would never reach my level of Midwestern banal. The tin canister contained his ashes, and today was his 14th birthday.
I squabbled with him in my head. I may have been underestimating his taste in music, but I thought that he for sure wanted to listen to that horrid song. All fourteen-year-old kids must have been listening to that song, so of course he would want to, even if he knew that it lacked merit in the areas of composition and vocal execution. Hazen would probably be too cool to take mainstream pop seriously. He'd like some obscure 80s crap his father listened to, but still, he had to listen to that song on the radio in order to laugh about it with his friends, tease the girl he had a crush on who genuinely liked that horrid song. It was really, really important that he listen to that song. And if I didn't let him listen to it, I was a mean, unreasonable. Dammit, I am the mother in this situation, I thought. "You can sulk all you want, but we're listening to NPR." I resolutely turned on To the Point with Warren Olney. I was doing us both a favor. Even if neither one of us liked it. Besides, given the current state of his matter, I was immune to Hazen's sulking. You can't sulk any further than being a canister of ashes.
I didn't know where I was going. I just knew I needed to get out. I felt that way often: cities, relationships, conversations. Even yoga. Sometimes I beat myself up for leaving scenarios, running away, and wished I could be one of those people who stuck with things, like a person who stays in one house and watches it appreciate in value with some hard work, or a person who falls in love with their childhood sweetheart, and is just as happy decades later as the day they met.
I was that kid lying in the grass looking up at airplanes. Wanting to go somewhere other than where I was. I spent my life looking at things from a distance, and part of it looking for things, but I didn't know what. I thought it was a family and a home, but that didn't turn out the way I decided it would. Since moving to Los Angeles from New York four years prior, I learned that I wouldn't explode if I faced things, like feelings. Some days, even, I could just be.
One of my places in Los Angeles to" just be" was at a theater group's cold reading series every Tuesday. Writers bring in 10 pages of a script they're working on, and actors read them aloud without any rehearsal. The actual theater company is based in New York, and I used to sporadically attend the same series there. In Los Angeles, the night was my Cheers, and I was Norm. Hazen's birthday fell on a Wednesday that year. So I did what I always do on a Tuesday, went to the theater. I almost stayed home to stare at the wall, but pushed myself through the waves of sluggish depression to go. There weren't a lot of female parts that week. Usually when that was the case, I would end up reading a character role, a larger than-life person with an accent or quirk. They're great parts. You're in, you're out, and have to jump in fully to do the role any justice.
This Tuesday, however, was primarily brimming with male roles, and the occasional ingénue. So one of the guys running it asked me if I wanted to read Stage Directions—the "We're outside a dark glass office building, she checks her watch," stuff in a script—I wanted to act, but reading stage directions beat sitting in silence. I'd get to read a lot of words, which is nice on quiet days when the only voice I hear is the one inside my head.
I sat in the very last row of the theater, next to an older writer I never really talked with before.
"Do you get nervous when you go up there and act?" he asked.
I thought about it, thought about what I felt. I didn't really feel anything much at that moment. Except tired.
"No. Not really," I said.
"I would think it'd be nerve wracking."
"You forget about yourself and help out the person who's saying the words."
His earnest smile revealed a boyish gap between his teeth. He kindly continued the conversation. Yet as much as I was sick of the day's silence, I didn't want to think about using my words that evening. I was searching for somebody else's. So I shrugged my head down with an apologetic smile.
I scoured the script. The smile disappeared. It was about a couple searching for their abducted son, whom they feared to be dead. I sighed. Not because the script hit close to home—my child wasn't abducted, my child died of cancer—but because the death of a child is the world's largest violin, and without the instrument, the piece would be pretty bland.
Personally, I could talk to a blind orphan quadriplegic who lives under a freeway and nine times out of ten he'd tell me, "But it isn't like losing a child." I could never verify the comparison, as I intended to keep my legs and never live under a bridge, God willing.
Although I understood that a deceased child is melodrama's version of a horror film, exploring horrible feelings in a safe environment, I rolled my eyes as I glanced at the pages. I could just picture the actors emoting with a glint in their eyes, thrilled about the opportunity to take an emotional shit all over the stage. "What a cliché," I thought, as I tossed the script on the floor.
The thing about reading stage directions is that it's a thankless job. Everyone knows that. That's why the group only applauds the person reading them. As my group settled in to read, I introduced myself. Everyone cheered wildly. Genuinely. I was taken aback by the love as a hundred clapping souls pushed away the boulder on my heart.
I read using my theater voice. I spoke from the diaphragm versus the chest, but I wasn't all there. My voice was strong but my mind was chasing the words as I read them. It was fine overall, though. "I'm in control," I thought, and lowered my voice half an octave to support the illusion. I read aloud that the father of the missing boy is at work. He's in a meeting. His boss is droning in numbers about quarterly reports, as bosses tend to do. The father's thoughts drift off. He is transported to his son's last birthday party at Griffith Park. There are children and cupcakes. The stage directions walk us closer into the party. I see the words "balloons" and "Happy Birthday" for a very long time before I say them aloud. All of a sudden I'm me again. And I'm the father. And I'm sad about our missing boy. And I so badly want to see the balloon again. And my son again. And it's his birthday tomorrow. And what are the chances? I stop mid sentence. "Sorry guys, I can't do this today," I said, sounding like I had a grapefruit in my throat, and quickly exit stage right. Crying. What a cliché.
After a morning full of "Thank you for your kind words." And "Yes, it's his birthday." And "Love you too", via phone, Facebook, and text, I felt like I deserved a cup of fancy coffee. So after I backed up the car, I drove through the alley and turned left. I drive everywhere now, after strictly taking the bus, or walking, or riding my bike for my first four years in LA. The best part about driving through the alley vs. riding my bike is that the Mexican auto mechanics across the street, thinking I'm Mexican, catcall a little less when I'm in the car. The Armenian auto mechanics on my side of the street, thinking I'm Armenian, never catcall. Although one did try to sell me his 1995 Infiniti Q45, white with gold accents, declaring the car was perfect for me. For some reason that felt creepier than catcalling. After all, I kept visiting the Armenians to ask their thoughts on the Toyota Yaris.
I turned right on Rosalia, left on Fountain and parked across the street from the old KCET studios. which are now owned and operated by Scientologists, much like everything else in Los Feliz. Lucinda Williams' "East Side of Town" was playing on the radio. I never heard it before, but it made me think of my boyfriend, who is Westside-centric, given the fact that it's a few degrees cooler over there and he lives alone/doesn't have three roommates like me. But the Eastside is far more interesting. More vibrant. Maybe a little douchey-hipster with its precious art and food scene, everyone spending a fortune on screen-prints and sauerkraut, but, there is hope in creation.
As I walked, I felt Hazen. Probably because his ashes are in your backpack, I thought. Hazen's remains, combined with my laptop, felt as heavy as when he was a baby strapped to my chest for the first time. We went to the Food Emporium, a grocery store on the ground floor of Manhattan Plaza's 10th Avenue tower. It was winter, so that was the best I could come up with. I remembered his eyes scanning the brightly colored packaged food, as if he were reading the labels, categorizing options.
That was before the Baby Bjorn. Instead, we had a cheap little Fisher Price carrier that wobbled and felt unsafe. I remembered running up subway escalator steps, in a hurry to catch the 6 train, immediately after the World Trade Center attacks. Running to my Aunt Hulya, who was in town from Istanbul. Wanting so badly to see her, please her, show her that we were all right, that I missed a step and nearly crushed Hazen from a fall. But didn't. We were both safe. At that moment.
I walked to Dinosaur Coffee, which was one door down from McDonald's on Sunset. Hazen liked Dinosaurs. Well, he tolerated them. He learned their names but could care less about seeing their bones whenever I dragged him to the American Natural History Museum on Central Park West. I remembered recently going to the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles for Biology class, a requisite to finish my Bachelor's Degree, and feeling an almost going to pass out numb because its marbled interior looked so much like New York's and had dimly lit dioramas. And dinosaur bones. Here it was just coffee. Loved by some, claimed overrated by some on Yelp.
The place was serene. White walls. Scales of sculpted plywood hung from a sturdy wood beams ceiling. Windows ate the walls North and South. In the back, the only greenery in the place, a wall of ferns, framed a pink neon sign that said, "Everything will be fine." I picked up the message like it was a note passed under a closed door, and decided to open it later.
I ordered a coffee for here and waited for the French Press to happen. As I waited, a regular from the McDonald's next door started walking across the benches of people sitting outside. The regular was a longhaired blonde homeless man wearing nothing but a full piece women's red bathing suit. His body was caked with soot, I noticed, as he walked in and started reciting gibberish.
"That's a dude," one girl, also waiting for her French Press, said in a disenchanted- ala-Ellen-Page sort of way.
The young manager didn't know what to do. She sent a male barista, short in stature but with a perfectly manicured beard, to chase him away. The blonde man came back, and started screaming at a patron's barking dog outside. So the manager finally called the cops. The blonde man went away, and people went back to the chitin of laptops and lattes.
I thought about how cruddy it was that Hazen saw the blonde on his birthday, as he lay hidden in my backpack. I felt bad for thinking the word cruddy. This wasn't very festive. Well. Maybe it was. He's seen worse. I thought about our time in Hell's Kitchen, New York. That was before the Pinkberry and American Apparel came in. Drug addicts smoked stuff on our playground. I didn't have the nerve to chase them away. Instead, we left, breathing in the secondhand smoke of whatever it was. In Los Angeles, there was so much more space. The air felt segregated. I drank my coffee and listened to grown men discuss wine country on the cheap. "It's time," I thought. I had been avoiding making a big to do, but it was time to acknowledge Hazen's Birthday, so I ran out as soon as my cup was empty.
The cashier at the 99 Cent Only Store rang up an avocado, a box of stevia, and a tri-pack of seaweed snacks. "Can I have one of those too, please?" I said, nonchalantly pointing to a Mylar balloon that said "Happy Birthday". He wiped his scanning hands on his sides as he looked at me. Maybe it was because he assumed I spoke Spanish, given my olive complexion, and was surprised to hear the word "can" with a Michigan "A" so hard you could open a bottle of pop on it. Maybe it was because I looked like the most somber person ever asking for such a happy balloon. Maybe he just knew. Whatever the reason, he ceremoniously untied one for me.
"Four fifty," he said. I gave him a double take. He knew exactly why. "Fifty cents to blow up the balloon. "
I looked at my receipt with skepticism.
"Nothing is free," I sighed. "Oh well. I've saved hundreds of dollars spending hundreds of dollars here." Besides, Hazen was on my back and we didn't walk down the toy aisle. No gift bag. No treats. No begging to go somewhere better, just a dumb balloon. What a cliché.
Balloons reminded me of Hazen's life. After treatment at Memorial Sloan Kettering, I would walk Hazen home in his stroller and cut through the park. We lived across town and twenty blocks down, but Central Park was our buffer between the hell of treatment and staking a claim in normalcy. One time, after a treatment that zapped all of Hazen's nerve endings, an experience so painful it may have been deemed too brutal by the Spanish Inquisition, we stopped at Sheep's Meadow for a rest. It was hard to stop moving. Stopping meant coming down from the high of happy—a forced personality hooked into the crapshoot of positive thinking thanks to all the Wayne Dyer, Joel Osteen, Florence Scovel Shin, etc. my cancer mom friends were giving me. I could love Hazen's cancer away. We could laugh it away. Laugh away the pain. The anxiety. The fucking hell of not knowing if we would be together next year. But Hazen had no energy, he needed to rest his body, so I entered the dank cage of reality. We sat in the meadow. It was fairly empty, even for midweek. I scanned the field. There were a couple toddlers and their nannies in the middle of the park with two balloons tied onto their parallel-parked strollers. The wind knocked the balloons into each other, making them look like a couple of discombobulated clowns. I pointed out the balloons to Hazen.
"Ouch! What are you knocking into me for?!? That hurts," I said, channeling the balloons.
"Who me? I can't help it. I wanna play with you, Bob."
They knocked into each other again. I felt Hazen's slight body rise and fall with laughter as he rested in my lap.
"Ouch! Quit it! That really hurts! I don't want to play, Roger!" "But, Bob! Bob! I wanna,"
"Owww, Roger!"
"Play, Bob!"
Boink. Boink. Boink.
The more Roger beat up Bob, the more Hazen laughed. We could both laugh out our frustrations. We were Roger. Bob was everything else. I wanted Bob to pop. After Hazen's funeral service, his father orchestrated a procession from St. Malachy's church on 49th Street to May Mathews, a playground park with basketball courts, on 46th. Hazen called it the "Choo Choo" playground because of its old jungle gym train. The park was sandwiched between tenement apartment buildings. A fading mural depicting the strength of the local community working together loomed over the courts. We have pictures of that mural: me, pregnant and pretending to make a basket, Hazen, riding his scooter. I wondered if anyone would take a photo now, as I watched hundreds of our friends and neighbors stand on the courts distributing red and blue balloons. I felt like a spectator at my own son's funeral. At his father's count, everyone let go of their balloons and watched them float up in the air. My friend's three-year-old daughter called out to Hazen as she watched a balloon fly through a basketball hoop then up into the air.
"There he goes. He's flying! Hi, Hazen," she said, about to timber backwards from waving uninhibitedly as she followed its flight. It didn't surprise me that she could see him. Hazen wanted to marry her.
This was the first year I had custody of Hazen's ashes. Eight years after his death. I promised his dad I wouldn't scatter them into the ocean. Even posthumulously he doesn't trust me to take care of our son, I thought, suppressing my bitterness about our still-pending divorce. Now that I finally had custody of Hazen's remains, it was important to do something special, versus live in the swampland of unidentified emotions. So, I bought a damn silver Mylar Happy Birthday balloon.
"Hold this," I said in my head, as I plopped Hazen's ashes unceremoniously on the ribbon of the balloon. We proceeded to argue.
"Mommm I'm not a baby anymore. I'm fourteen. I'm too old for balloons."
"Relax. It's just a dumb balloon," I thought, like a seasoned mom, immune to her teenage son's crap. Then I doubted myself and wondered if I was too curt. "Is that what he would say? Would we have teenage hormones affecting our relationship now? What would he say? I don't know what he would say." I had no idea. So I said something.
"I get that you're older, but, sorry kiddo, you'll always be almost-six to me."
Holding onto the last bastions of Hazen's life was a glue trap that kept me from communicating with him in my dreams. I wanted to see him as healthy and whole. Limitless. Ageless. But mostly I saw him as a really sick boy with a mind older than his years, and a body ravaged with cancer.
Cancer and Hazen didn't belong together, but I couldn't break them apart. I wanted to let go of the predatory nature of disease. Every time I would start to think of Hazen in happy ways, his painful demise would prey upon the happy thoughts, eat them bloody and raw, then shit them out to grow again. Like the Nitrogen cycle. They say, or I've been told, that once grief subsides a little less, your loved ones come to you in your dreams. I've seen him there once or twice, but always from afar. We never speak. He' s fine, or trying to be fine, but I feel melancholy, feeling remorse because he doesn't know how sick he is. All I'd want to do is hold him.
Despite seeing that it was closed, I parked the car by the carousel in Griffith Park. Hazen loved the one in Central Park. His favorite horse was Bubbles, a black lead horse who stuck his tongue out. I bet Hazen can walk through walls, I told myself, not knowing where else to go. It doesn't matter if it's open or closed. What matters is that I can talk to him here, I thought. Moommmmm, I'm too old for carousels. A strange man passed by as I walked down the hill.
"Hello there," he said. "I expected it to be open today."
He was alone, a spectator like me. I barely acknowledged him, unsure if he was a psychopath or just a simpleminded dude.
He could kill me. He could come back and kill me, I thought. No, that's not going to happen. You're protected. Especially today.
I plopped us down on a bench under a tree facing the carousel. We were sitting next to a dumpster, which helped make the bench feel like a private room. I appraised our party clothes. Me in my California casual wear, jeans and a fancy sweatshirt, Hazen in a tin canister wrapped in a purple Nepalese bag. I held on to the silver Happy Birthday balloon.
Well? Ya gotta say something, I thought.
"Happy Birthday, Hazen, " I said in a whiny, cheery voice, much like a kid forced to say "Thank you" when they don't understand why they have to say thank you and they just want to run away and play.
The balloon began to dance. Because of the wind. I'm grateful for the wind. Sometimes it's the only thing I feel.
"God, Angels, Saints, Universe, I look forward to the day that I can communicate with Hazen in my dreams without the sadness. Every time I see him, he's sick, or we don't talk, or both." I felt a great disappointment. Deeper than my grandmother's, who was sure that Hazen could become President. He was that kind of kid. I took a breath.
"Thank you for choosing me, Hazen."
That's what we used to say to each other. Only afterwards, did I discover on Youtube, or a snarky comment section on some blog that even saying that to each other was cliché, but I didn't care. We said that. That was us. That was ours. Besides, clichés exist because they're true.
"I'll always be your mom. I love you. I miss you. I know that you're right here." I folded my arms.
The balloon bobbed back and forth, so I let it go and watched it circle upwards.
The sun hit the silver Mylar as the balloon sailed away from the carousel, up across the 5 Freeway and up towards the mountains. I wondered if any drivers or bikers or joggers would see the balloon and say something like, "Ah. A kid lost his birthday balloon. Ya gotta hold on tight to those things," Without ever knowing that only by letting go can a balloon do what it is truly meant to do, bring random happiness to everyone who crosses its path.
5 Comments
Dori, that is such a huge compliment. Thank you. I love reading your stories, btw!
I believe this might be the most beautiful and poignant essay I've ever read.,I'm so happy you shared it on Feminine Collective. xD.
Thank you, Solveig. I appreciate your kind words.
I am so sorry for your loss.
This makes me want to give an extra cuddle to my daughter, but that would probably wake her from her nap.
This is such a beautiful piece, I am a bit lost for words.


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The newly released report says 114 cases of active TB were reported in King County in 2010, along with more than 100,000 people with latent TB. For every 100,000 residents of King County, 5.9 developed active TB, compared with a U.S rate of 3.6 and a Washington state rate of 3.5.
The report, entitled "Annual Report on Tuberculosis 2010," says TB rates are so high here because of a worldwide epidemic and the region's status as a global crossroads.
"As members of a global community, residents of King County are vulnerable to tuberculosis, a disease that infects one-third of the world's population and kills nearly 2 million people every year," the report says.
Roughly one out of five people treated for active TB in the county were identified as resistant to at least one medication and at least two people had multi-drug resistant infections.
The costs of treating multi-drug resistant TB can add up to $250,000 for each case, and public officials fear that proposed funding cuts could erode the health system's ability to treat TB.
"TB control is an essential investment in the health of our communities that helps us fight the local effects of this global disease," said Dr. David Fleming, Director & Health Officer for Public Health Seattle & King County. "In these difficult budget times, state funding support for this work is now threatened, but we can't afford to let down our guard."
Additional findings in the recent study:
The highest incidence of TB was among people who identify their race as Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander (48.3 cases per 100,000) or black (25.9 per 100,000).
TB incidence rates were also higher among Asians (20.2), American Indian/Alaska Natives (12.4) and Hispanics
(3.5). The rate among whites was 1.1.
Some 84 percent of infected individuals in King County were born outside of the U.S., primarily in Southeast Asia and India, East Africa and Central America.
Tuberculosis, also called TB, is an infectious disease caused by a bacterium named Mycobacterium tuberculosis. TB often involves the lungs but can infect almost any organ in the body. TB is almost always curable with antibiotics that are readily available in countries such as the United States.
People with active TB disease are made sick by bacteria that are active in their body. People with latent, or dormant, TB infection are not sick because the germ is inactive inside their body, and they cannot spread TB infection to others.
Visit the King County Public Health website for more information >>


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[ 2 syll. ko-ral, kor-al ] The baby girl name Koral is pronounced as KAOR-ahL †. Koral's language of origin is English and it is also used largely in the English language. Koral is a variant form of the English Coral.
Koral is unusual as a baby girl name. It is not ranked within the top 1000.
Baby names that sound like Koral include Kala (English, Hawaiian, and Indian), Karel (English), Karely, Karla (German, Scandinavian, Czech, and English), Karlee (English), Karley (English), Karli (English), Karlie (English), Karly (English), Karlye (English), Karol (English and Slavic), Karole (English), Karrole, Karyl (English), Karyll, Kerriel, Kerryl, Korall, Kreelee, and Kreely.
† Pronunciation for Koral: K as in "key (K.IY)" ; AO as in "ought (AO.T)" ; R as in "race (R.EY.S)" ; AH as in "mud (M.AH.D)" ; L as in "lay (L.EY)"


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The good news is that you can do something to help. Total Beauty Shops will donate 1 beauty product to Triple Step Toward the Cure for every new "Like" on the Total Beauty Shops facebook page! PLUS, Total Beauty Shops will donate a percentage of the proceeds from the Pink Embrace Collection to help Triple Step Toward the Cure support and empower diagnosed and at-risk women.
What's in the Pink Embrace Collection, you ask? Well here's a sneak peak:


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Masterfully hand carved with circular designs, florals, leaves and vines, this floor screen encompasses richness, sophistication and a dynamic flow. Crafted from mixed woods, this majestic piece showcases a stunning contrast of the black backdrop and central gilded wood designs. Detailed carving and rich mango wood give this piece an extra special touch. Imagine using this piece as a room divider, a piece of art, to hide appliances, damaged walls, to personalize your space - or gift to anyone!
From the Style at Home with Margie Collection.
Made from MDF (medium density fibreboard), solid wood and mango wood, this panel measures 72"H x 60"L x 7/8"D and weighs 57 lbs. Clean with a damp, clean cloth; dry with soft, clean cloth. No assembly required. For indoor use only. Made in India.
Please Note: This piece has been stained and polished by hand for your satisfaction. Carefully open this package on a safe surface to avoid any discoloration or tarnish to your carpeted areas. Gently rub the item with a dry cloth to ensure a clean surface before setting up. This solid wood item is handcrafted in India. The workmanship used to create this has been passed down through generations. The slight variations in color, design and finish gives this item its own uniqueness and should not be considered a flaw. In case this handcrafted item contains excessive varnish within the wood, gently rub the base before placing it on any surface. As screen is expanded, the piece becomes slightly more unstable; please exercise caution when opening and placing the screen.
Style at Home with Margie
The Style at Home Collection by Margie Commerford features distinctive global decor and home accents. The collection includes items such as rugs, furniture, floor screens and stained glass panels and lighting. Each item is carefully chosen to ensure high quality and exceptional style.
The lighting pieces offered by Margie are designed by some of the most innovative artists in the world of stained glass. Each is made using the highest quality materials and utilizing the copper foil technique, which is an authentic glass assembly method developed more than 100 years ago.
Many of the home decor items are made by traditional methods that have been passed down for generations in parts of the world such as India and Asia. Villages are often dependent upon these crafts for work, and it helps promote the continuation of beautiful goods.The Style at Home Collection was developed to provide exotic, high quality pieces at affordable prices. Each item offers a timeless beauty that is meant to be shared for years to come.
About Margie Commerford
Margie Commerford, the renowned "lamp lady" from Style at Home has been in the retail business with her husband for several decades. Margie explains, "We started our business from simple beginnings, selling stuffed animals from the back of our van in Miami. What a journey it has been!"
Eventually their business grew into one of the leading importers of stained glass lighting in the country. For years, she has been on EVINE Live offering magnificent stained glass lighting, exotic hand-carved furniture and home accents.
Margie works closely with her husband, Terry, who travels extensively to India, China, Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand. Together they hand-pick every item to ensure the quality and style is something to be cherished. Margie enjoys finding "treasures" from their travels to present on-air. She says, "Each piece I offer has a story to tell. I love to provide customers with these stories so they too can understand how special each item is."When Margie isn't working, she enjoys biking and spending time with her family and friends. She has two children, Rachel and Darrin, who she absolutely adores, so her schedule is always jam-packed. "I like to make sure that whatever I'm doing, work or play, I'm purely enjoying myself. That's what life is about."


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Boron is involved in cell wall formation, stabilization and lignification, and xylem differentiation. It is needed to ensure normal development of new tissues from roots to flowers and fruit. Boron is responsible for pollen germination and pollen tube formation and activation. Thus, poor boron supply results in poor flower and fruit formation. In severe cases it causes 'blossom blast' where flowers dry out and are shriveled at bloom.
Boron Deficiency in Plants Symptoms
Young leaves at the base color looks paler/faded; other daunan appear to roll up.
Growth hampered so that plants seemed dwarfs/small.
Failure in the formation of flowers and fruit.
Decay on roots and the formation of the imperfect.
In the event of lack of boron in apples, the professional HORTICENTAR team recommended to apply Oligo Borax 11% and Oligo Boron 150g/L Liquid , fertilizers product by Van IPEREN, Netherlands, for which official importer and distributor is Horticentar in Macedonia, Serbia and Croatia.
The way of their application, concentration and dosage and for more information on these remarkable products of the VAN IPEREN's program , you can get if you contact Horticentar – Greenhouse training center team.