text:
Current Location:GlobalChange Location
Home > Case Studies > NXP SemiConductor
Formerly a division of Phillips, NXP is a leading global semiconductor company with operations in more than 25 countries and 28,000 employees.
Headquartered in the Netherlands, NXP has a very lean Corporate Real Estate team that wanted support to take a more strategic approach to supporting the business and major projects' delivery.
NXP engaged Cushman & Wakefield in April 2010 to assist it in creating a global portfolio database, provide strategic account management, and transact management services. During contract negotiations, NXP set a challenging 30% cost-reduction target by 2013.
Cushman & Wakefield first supported NXP to gain a full overview of its real estate portfolio and take a more strategic approach to property decisions by helping to create a database. Our Lease Administration team abstracted all leases and populated the database on NXP's behalf. Then, Cushman & Wakefield Account Managers provided NXP with a portfolio analysis and jointly identified opportunities for cost reduction, looking at critical dates 18 to 24 months in advance, and overlaying this with market analysis to support NXP in taking action at the right time and in advanced budgeting.
Cushman & Wakefield also created a bespoke FUSION site, transaction process toolbox, and reporting dashboard for NXP, which includes a one-page, live property report linked to the database that is always accessible to the NXP CRE team.
The database allowed NXP to comprehensively understand its portfolio metrics, identify inefficient buildings where spatial savings could be achieved, and decide on target space metrics for future projects. In collaboration with NXP, this tool continues to be developed to provide NXP with real-time business unit reports and analysis.
Additionally, our team worked with NXP to identify innovative ways to reduce costs – conducting service charge audits, property tax audits, and offering Facilities Management consulting services to review all portfolio costs. Cushman & Wakefield also worked on a savings-based fee basis to help NXP achieve savings targets.
In 2011, our team completed 10 projects for NXP around the globe including leasehold acquisitions and disposals, freehold disposals, valuations, property tax audits, project management, and business consulting. Delivering a value-add equivalent to several million U.S. dollars via leasehold transactions, Cushman & Wakefield also helped NXP raise significant capital through freehold divestments in the United States and the United Kingdom. There are a further 11 ongoing projects, as well as multiple pipeline projects already identified that will continue to contribute towards the savings target.
Additionally, NXP has access to a comprehensive database containing portfolio metrics and critical dates, as well as a central reporting tool and standardized processes. As the NXP CRE team has evolved and changed, Cushman & Wakefield has proactively worked with NXP to restructure the account team to meet our client's changing requirements and ensure best-service delivery.
Regular and structured reporting has helped the team stayed focus on progress and achieving the agreed-to goals.


text:
Join our
mailing list and keep up on the latest news!
A Father's Day Remembrance
OK, so the good news is that I'm not going to have to battle for a parking space and shop at the last minute for a Father's Day gift, like so many of you. And the bad news is, yeah, my dad died just a few months ago. But, wait: I'm not gonna get too maudlin here. Sentimental, sure, but I'll do my best to skip over the breast-beating.
And this you should know from the start: Dad died the way he wanted to, peacefully, in his sleep. He had been struggling against prostate cancer for more than a year--did the chemo thing and was just about to enter into the "painful phase" of his cancer when he drifted away mid-slumber. There, I've given you a happy ending right from the start.
Ah, but it's those start-up years that trouble most gay men. For many of us, memories of the old man conjure a pain we'd just as soon leave on the shelf. Someday, someone far brighter and more insightful than I will conduct a landmark study about gay men and their fathers. Someone will shed some light on this miasma, break the taboos, and we'll talk about it. But for now, "dad talk" hardly rates among idle conversation. As gay men, we seem to either dismiss our fathers entirely, or merely chronicle their grievous sins. For many gay men, "Dad" is the person who is most unlike us, and we wonder, "How did I spring from him?"
And my father committed his share of sins. I remember the look on his face when he was finally convinced (I was all of 7 years old) that I would never be able to catch a baseball properly--much less throw it like a boy is supposed to. And I remember his flustered expression when he discovered me, in full animation, playing with a neighbor girl's Barbie dolls. To his credit, he didn't berate me, but the look of utter disappointment on his face seared the marrow in my bones.
I was 19 when I came out to my family during my sophomore year of college in 1974. My father's disdain and bitter disappointment landed me in a mental institution for a brief respite. My parents had taken me there for a "cure," I think. And I remember my father's purple rage when the shrink told him: "Your son is gay, but that's not his problem. His problem is that his parents don't accept him for what he is." And somewhere in all that drama, Dad said, "The dog at home loves me more than you do!"
But he was wrong, because I loved him as much as he loved me. As much as he was entirely opposite everything I craved and stood for, I loved him. Even when he banished me from the family and cut off all contact ("I don't want you polluting your younger brothers and sisters with your perversion!"), I knew that nasty Neanderthal dad of mine loved me. I don't know how I knew it, I just did. Never mind that he cut off all college funds. Never mind the Christmas and vacations they experienced without me, their eldest son.
But if there were sins, there was also redemption. About a year after the banishment, I was allowed back into the fold. He struggled then to learn how to love me anew, and with wiser eyes. Of course, my only task was to be true to myself, to be the "good son" I had always been. Though I was entrenched and preoccupied 10 miles away with a new lover, I visited my parents every Saturday. I complimented Mom's cooking and shared the mandatory beer with my dad. And somehow, my dad saw through my "perversion" and discovered that I was the same "good kid" he had raised--just different.
One night, after a visit with them, he followed me out to my car as I prepared to leave. He rushed out and appeared at my car-door window with tears streaming down his cheeks. It was the first time I had seen my father cry.
"I have to tell you," he began. "I'm so sorry for the way I acted when you told us you were gay. You're such a good kid, and your mom and I were crazy then; we said terrible things, and I wish we hadn't sent you away."
He went on and on, and I cried, and suddenly I saw him for the man he was: frightened, clumsy and terribly ashamed of himself. In short, he was feeling all the same things I had felt in revealing my "awful secret" to him. And I was helpless but to forgive him. "It's OK, Dad. We were all a bit crazy then."
In the end, it only took a certain amount of decency for this epiphany of a reconciliation. Two men, bound by blood, surrendering to a love that was always there in spite of the wide gulf that separated them--that was me and my dad.
Years later, he flew out to Los Angeles for the opening-night premiere of a gay play I had written. Never mind the scorching reviews; he was there in the front row and sweetly charming at the opening-night party my lover and I hosted. Later still, this life-long Republican voted against Ronald Reagan because of his clearly anti-gay stance. "He's mean-spirited," huffed my dad.
Finally, I moved from Los Angeles to Cleveland, in order to be near him during his last two years of life. It was a happy transition, and I craved it even before I left--even before I knew his diagnosis. During these months, I was privy to his fear of dying, his musings, failings and remembered triumphs. He knew he was destined for a hospice; he dreaded the tubes and helplessness that seemed his fate.
"I always figured I'd die in my sleep from a heart attack," he said wistfully. "Not this fucking cancer."
I watched his optimism fade, even as he girded himself for yet another chemo treatment.
When we found him that January morning, he was all tucked in his bed, his hands folded peacefully across his belly. His eyes were closed, and he appeared to be sleeping the sleep of kings. Whatever took him, took him gently. In the end, he got his wish after all.
Last fall, I landscaped his yard, and planted the tulips, irises and azaleas that he requested. "We could use a little color around here," he said. And I was only too happy to oblige him. He never lived to see those tulips bloom, but they comforted me. And you can be sure that some of those irises will grace his grave come Father's Day.
Yep, I was lucky. In an age where most gay men remain at odds with their fathers, we managed to maintain a truce that enriched us both. All this from a man I had too often given up on as a "lost cause." Did I ever want to emulate him? Not at all. Unless, of course, you factor in the tenacity of his love and his willingness, ultimately, to meet me on ground that was unfamiliar and sometimes frightening to him. Yeah, that's a quality not to be discarded.
And isn't it that "second look" we all crave? Isn't it peace and acceptance that might quiet our uneasy psyches, as we contemplate "Dad"? If you have even the most basic of ingredients, it can be a mix worthy of exploration.
I never did learn to catch a ball properly. But I learned that harmony between straight father and fey son can be achieved with the blessings of time and diligent effort. I presumed my gayness had cut me off forever from the pride and manly acknowledgment all sons crave from their fathers, but I was wrong about that--thankfully so.
I am sure my dad rests peacefully in his grave. And there is this extra little bonus: He has left behind a son who walks a little taller and is a bit more gracious and humble--simply because he loved me. In the end, this is why so many dads stick by us, this is why we strive to honor them in spite of their faults and failings. This is why we hope and yearn, and sometimes mourn--not just for our fathers--but for the adoring and trusting little boys we all once were, so very long ago.
James Bloor was a 29 year survivor of AIDS who died in early of March 2015.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
FAQs Frequently Asked Questions:
Date Due Labels:
1. We apply date due labels directly to our polyester book covers with a hand-held labeler like retailers use. The labels that we have tried either fall off too soon or must be removed with solvents & razor blades. Does Affordable Alternatives Inc have labels that would stay on for at least four weeks, yet remove easily with just a fingernail or plastic peeler? Would we have to buy new labelers?
A. Yes, we do have labels as you described. Check for the labels with our 'super-no-res' adhesive. We provide these labels for most of the popular library labelers. Please provide the brand name & model number for your current labelers & we will send you a sample to try.
2. Our old date labelers are hard to load & use. Does Affordable Alternatives Inc. offer a durable lightweight hand-held labeler that is both easy to load & use?
A. Our most popular model is the XLPro22D(L). We call it the Total Library Labeler. It will help with 17 or more library tasks, including DATE DUE labeling. The imprint is the easiest for the patron to understand "08/25/07". To see how easy it is to load, find it on the e-shop, scroll down the page to the price. Just to the right of the price, locate the link: LOADING INSTRUCTIONS. Click the link & scroll down the page to see about 10 full color digital photos & read the narrative on the right for easy loading.
3. We have seen the Affordable Alternatives Inc DATE DUE labels imprinted by your Total Library Labeler used by other libraries in our area. We have three branches. If we switched to that labeler, how could we distinguish the branch loaning the item?
A. Our libraries use two methods. One is to have us create custom agency labels for you. Please go to our custom label section of this e-shop where you may order & reorder these custom labels. Some libraries use different colors of date due labels to indicate the priority of return of the items:
21 or 28 day loan items may be marked with white labels with red, blue, or green imprint: DATE DUE
7 or 14 day items might be marked with any of the pastel colored labels & coordinating preprint: DATE DUE
3 day might be marked with fluorescent pink & navy DATE DUE labels.
Other libraries use the colors to represent the different branches.
FAQs Frequently Asked Questions:
Other needs:
1. You solved our DATE DUE label problem. We have tossed our razor blades, canceled our weekly Friend's session to scrape books, & have not had a workman's comp claim, since we switched to your unique 'super-no-res' adhesive DATE DUE labels. We need you to tackle our "NEW" arrival label problem. We need these labels to stick to the spine of the books for up to a year, show us exactly how new they are all of the time, and remove as easily as our DATE DUE labels, with a fingernail or plastic peeler. Can you help us?
A. It took a while, but we developed the snr2212YR-New n21 (or n21). It will stay on the spine of polyester bound books full term, a year or more. It may be imprinted & applied with our popular Total Library Labeler to show day, month, & year of arrival, yet most libraries use only the month/year, like this: 09/2007 or 12/07. When they reach the end of your NEW term, they may be removed easily with just a fingernail or plastic peeler (PLS-1). Check all of the NEW labels that begin with "snr" to find your favorite.
2. The books we loan on ILL often get mis-shelved by aides in borrowing libraries and may stay lost for a year or two. What can you do about that?
A. Our ILL labels when placed over the call numbers before the book leaves your library can virtually eliminate that problem. They remove easily upon return to facilitate proper shelving.
3. We build Special Displays of books to be maintained for two months, but after two weeks, they look like Charlie's Brown's Christmas tree. Books returning from browsing or circulating are placed in the shelf, not on the display. Help!
A. Using our snr2212GBk-Spcl 'super-no-res" adhesive SPECIAL labels in your Total Library Labeler, you may imprint the termination day of the display. That might be the Holocaust Memorial Day (05/05/05 in 2005). Affix it to cover the call numbers. The aides will compare the imprinted date with today's date & return it to the Special Display. After the imprinted date, the aides will ease the label off with a fingernail or plastic peeler (PLS-1) revealing the call numbers facilitating its return to the permanent position in the shelves.
4. Our multi-part assets are a problem. When one of the parts is lost, the whole asset may be worthless. We tried stocking them by departments, but patrons complained about time that the scavenger hunt took. We tried bar coding each part, the folks in Circulation rebelled at the extra work caused by that operation. Does Affordable Alternatives Inc have a solution for this?
A. Hundreds of libraries use our asset integrity labels for this purpose. Simply write the number of each type of media in the prepared blank. The total should equal the number of parts in the multi-part asset. Some libraries take this a step farther by imprinting the significant 8 digits of the bar code on a custom ownership with their Total Library Labeler. If circulation indicates to the patron that one or more parts are missing, the patron may return the errant pieces on a future visit. The 8 significant digits of the bar code will make a total reunion a snap.


text:
Keval Arora's Kolumn
The importance of being thin-skinned & sensitive
Above: a still from the Film 'A DAY IN THE LIFE OF PONGA PANDIT'
produced and directed by Sanjay Maharishi & Sudhanva Deshpande
During August-September 2003, India's pre-eminent theatre director, Habib Tanvir, and his troupe of rural actors, Naya Theatre, faced the wrath of stormtroopers of the Hindu Right for performing a traditional Nacha play, 'Ponga Pandit'. In town after town, wherever the actors went, they were greeted by slogan-shouting strongmen. Habib Tanvir and the actors of Naya Theatre, however, refused to stop. Vidisha, 21 September 2003. This film chronicles what happened in that city on that day
First, the facts. Habib Tanvir's theatre group, Naya Theatre, was commissioned by the Department of Culture, Government of Madhya Pradesh, to perform two plays in various cities in August 2003. The two plays were Jis Lahore Nai Dekhya Vo Janmya Hi Nai and Ponga Pandit (also familiar to spectators as Jamadarin). Activists of the RSS-VHP-Bajrang Dal-BJP combine regularly disrupted the productions at different venues. The plays were
attacked at Hoshangabad on 18th August, at Seoni on the 19th, at Balaghat on the 20th, and Mandla on the 21st, while the performance at Narsinghpur was cancelled. The protests weren't confined to shouting slogans or picketing the venues. Actors were physically intimidated at several places, the power supply at the Hoshangabad venue was snapped, and the police had to order a lathi-charge at
What happened? Were these plays by one of finest practitioners of the Indian stage so provocative that the spectators perforce experienced a kind of spontaneous combustion leading to a rash of violent protests? BJP MLAs justified the protests as a people's response to a "direct attack on our sanskriti". It's another matter of course that these spontaneous outbursts by people appeared thoroughly planned and co-ordinated. I suppose in an age of miracles, wonders need never cease. If mosques can be razed through a simple act of congregation by the people (with the appearance of pickaxes and crowbars from nowhere being proof of divine benediction rather than political conspiracy), a play being disrupted once in a while barely merits comment. So, why is it that these damned 'secularists' always misinterpret planned spontaneity as orchestrated vandalism?
The play that got the Sangh Parivar combustion engine going was Ponga Pandit. Revolving around a bumbling priest whose authority is challenged by the innate commonsense of low caste characters, this satire on untouchability, the caste system and exploitative Brahmanical practices is not designed to warm the cockles of the Sanghi heart. But, to see Ponga Pandit as an incendiary text that attacks "Hinduism" and foments communal hatred is, in fact, to defend the religion's moribund historical elements as aspects of its greatness and glory. Can there really be any takers for the argument that superstition, casteist prejudice and untouchability are aspects of a divinely ordained superiority (perhaps like the pickaxes and the crowbars)? It's difficult to imagine anyone with even half a brain espousing such causes. Maybe it's the 'half a brain' that explains the thin-skinned sensitivity of the Parivar storm trooper as he goes around trampling over Delhi, Mumbai, Gwalior, and all over India.
Even if one were to sympathise with the Sangh Parivar's epidermal insufficiency, it still comes as a surprise to learn that the mob also vandalised Jis Lahore Nai Dekhya Vo Janmya Hi Nai, Asghar Wajahat's play about Muslim fanaticism and bigotry during the Partition. Such was the quality of mind that reared its head this August that not only was it blind to these plays' evident arguments in favour of social amity and harmony, it was also unable to seize the advantage provided by one play to feed its own subcontinental variation of Paki-bashing.
These plays aren't at all provocative as claimed by their opponents. Nor are they new. Ponga Pandit was created in the 1930s by two Chattisgarhi folk artists, Sukhram and Sitaram — don't miss the delicious irony here, for the BJP, always alert to reaping benefits from a politics of denominational identity, had obviously assumed that the Naya Theatre plays had been authored by the muslim Habib Tanvir! In its 70 year-old performance history before rural and urban audiences, never has Ponga Pandit faced the sort of hostility that greeted it some months ago.
Several newspaper reports quoted leaders of the agitation arguing that their not having seen these plays did not in any way compromise their ability to sit in judgement over them. Now, wouldn't that be a wondrous skill for theatre critics to learn, for surely we need all the help we can get to catch each play performed in town. Jokes apart, it's glaringly obvious that these protests had less to do with the actual plays and more with a larger agenda, in whichever way you to wish to define it. Tanvir watchers have noted that Ponga Pandit, which has been in the Naya Theatre repertoire since the 1960s, came under attack only in 1992 following the demolition of Babri Masjid. In the past decade, the theatre director and his plays have been constantly targeted by the Sangh combine. As for the latest attacks, newspapers have attributed its timing to the impending polls in the state. In an editorial comment titled "Staged for the Polls", the Hindustan Times in fact predicted things would settle down "once the elections and its theatrics are over".
I'm not so sure. The attacks were of course politically motivated but to yoke their shelf life to an election schedule, or to imagine that the Parivar's propensity for coercion has an expiry date stamped on it, is wishful thinking. There's a pattern evident here. Nafisa Ali was accused of fomenting communal tension in
That's why at a protest meeting held in Delhi on 1 September '03 (the day Habib Tanvir turned 80), members of the theatre fraternity reiterated that such attacks are best countered through the most effective tool the performer has – the theatre. Of the several things said there, I was struck how some statements, notwithstanding their good intentions, need to be carefully articulated lest unintended implications be read into them.
For instance,, I'm slightly queasy about the way our condemnations of the violence have repeatedly highlighted the stature of the person/group being attacked. In one sense, it makes sense. I still find it unbelievable that Uma Bharati could have stigmatised someone as fiercely wedded to the secular ideal as Habib Tanvir when she declared in Parliament, without using names, that a certain theatre group was creating communal tension in Madhya Pradesh. Our regard for Tanvir's eminence will inevitably colour our outrage at his having been targeted. (It is equally probable that Tanvir's 'celebrity' status could be a reason why the goons were let loose on him.)
But, as the iterations of Tanvir's special place in the making of a modern Indian theatre increase, I begin to wonder just how much of our condemnation is tied to our regard for his achievement. How would we react if the artist attacked was small fry? What if s/he was not specially talented or significant? Attempts to proscribe artistic activity are contemptible irrespective of the stature of the artists concerned. That it happened to Tanvir is significant primarily because it reveals the vulnerability of the ordinary performer. That, to my mind, is the only reason why it is necessary to remember Tanvir's achievement and reputation. Else, our condemnations will always have an aura of celebrity politics about it.
Further, by discounting these attacks as the handiwork of political elements that couldn't care less what the plays were about as long as they could play out their game of political brinkmanship, or by trotting out the phrase "it's only politics", we can end up minimising the seriousness of what happened. "It's only politics" is a convenient shorthand for conferring innocence upon the Naya Theatre productions — for declaring that the plays didn't have anything provocative about them, that they were perfectly above board and, therefore, that this was an unjustified attack on the theatre.
Accurate though this diagnosis may well be to the facts on the ground, it's unwelcome for the simple reason that it is, in the final analysis, irrelevant. In the heat of the moment, the unreasonableness or otherwise of the saboteurs, their misconceived slogans or their playing out of a distant agenda, doesn't matter. All that matters to us, given our inability to stomach or counter the effrontery of the violence, is the very idea of such an attack, a form of protest that so vitiates the ideal of vibrant cultural expression that it becomes irrelevant to wonder if the protests were justified or not. It is alarming to see the growing intolerance towards the freedom that societies have conventionally accorded to cultural production; the increasing conviction that cultural works must be confined within an ever-shrinking circle of permissible articulations; and, the widening demand that artistic texts should be as inoffensive as possible. Not to mention the nauseating obscenity of small groups of vandals holding large peaceful assemblies to ransom through threats of running amok, and leaving you nonplussed as to how these hurt 'sensibilities' of some seconds ago could author such goondaism.
Given such assaults on the freedom of cultural expression, does it matter that the Madhya Pradesh agitators were clueless what they were raving and ranting about? Their knowledge or ignorance wasn't, at any rate, a factor in the launching of the protest. Their ignorance is relevant only to the extent that it forestalls any possibility of engagement through debate. Further, there is some risk in defending the Naya Theatre plays as completely lacking in provocation. To do so would suggest that plays which do have 'objectionable' matter in them are fair game for protests and disturbances, or that violence can be condoned when there is cause. Apart, of course, from denying the basic function of art — its obligation to ask questions, to push for change, to disturb.
An earlier version of this article was first published in FIRST CITY (October 2003)
To Know More About The Author Click on About Us Button above
Editor: Manohar Khushalani
Copyright © 2009 stagebuzz.info
Site designed & maintained by Dipesh Khushalani


text:
"I will be in my chamber. Will you be kind enough to fetch my veil" (Madame Vastra, Doctor Who, Series 8, Episode 1.)
I rather liked the veil aspect of this Doctor Who episide. It made me giggle and reflect. Personally, I enjoy wearin veils with my bonnets. I did not think I would. I thought I would feel claustrophobic, as I do with other things, or have difficulty breathing. This is not the case with either of my silk gauze veils. Instead, I find them a comfortable relief from the brightness of the sun and irritation of dust. I also find people's reactions to me or to the veil, I can not say for certain which it actually is, interesting. I find some people stear away from me, won't talk to me or even won't look at me as I walk by. This has its advantages and disadvantages in an interpretive setting. I get to the outhouse or office without delay. I also make people less comfortable, decreasing conversation. I need to initiate conversation.
Then came this excellent train of thought in the story-line. Happy me.
In the days following, I lost two online auctions for reseasrch items I Really wanted. Really, Really wanted in the very last seconds despite being the only watcher. Very unhappy me.
Sulking about, I stumbled across this piece being sold as antique lace yardage.
Now, I don't know much about lace, but I know a veil when I see one. Mine. Happy me.
It arrived today. I am quiet pleased with my cheer-me-up purchase.
This is the lower edge motif:
The side photo didn't come out as well:
The center (I would call this a field on a shawl) has dots and flowers:
The top is a tiny rolled hem:
I had figured the veil was drawn up (gathered) through the loops. Nope. I was estatic to see the tiny cord runing through the rolled hem:
As far as damage, these are the spots I found:
Not so bad for a cheer-me-up.
"When did you stop wearing your veil?"
"When you stopped seeing it."


text:
(FAYETTEVILLE, N.C.) – The 2013-14 season serves as the 50th for the USA South Athletic Conference. In an effort to relive 50 Years of great student-athlete performances, each current League institution was given the opportunity to submit names of student-athletes who have competed within the Conference, completed their athletic eligibility and excelled not only on their campuses but in the Conference as a whole.
The maximum amount of athletes an institution could submit for each sport was twice the typical starting lineup of that particular sport. Due to the short length of their presence in the USA South or sport-sponsorship, some current USA South institutions are not included in some of the sports.
The sport of baseball begin in the Conference in 1969 as a regular season championship was awarded. In 1994, the first Conference Baseball Tournament was conducted. The Conference has consistently been one of the nation's best Division III baseball leagues. The League has sent numerous teams to the NCAA Division III World Series and produced two national champions. N.C. Wesleyan is the lone Conference team to win a baseball national crown, capturing the 1989 and 1999 National Championships.
The USA South's 50th Anniversary Baseball Team Members follow (as chosen by the particular institution):
|Averett University
|Chad Anderson
|Ryan Ansama
|T.J. Bray
|Jimmy Carter
|Jerry Dallas
|Jason Dooley
|George Fisher
|Eddie Guessford
|Adam Higgins
|Jordan Kidd
|Andrew Kirks
|Terrell Merriman
|Jimbo Newcomb
|Kyle Newcomb
|Eric Phelps
|Desmond Pruitt
|Armando Reyes
|Eric Sibrizzi
|Ahmed Shelton
|Chris Stanley
|Greg Stevens
|Gene Yost
|Ferrum College
|Kevin Alger
|Jason Beale
|Heath Burcher
|Pat Daly
|Chad France
|Justin Franklin
|Jimmy Hamilton
|Doug Heagen
|Riley Hodges
|Paul Jaglowski
|David Jones
|Randy Lawrence
|Chad Maddox
|Wes Martin
|Keith Mayhew
|Thomas Meeks
|Eric Owens
|Grant Renfrow
|Jerold Smith
|Brian Strong
|Brett Thomas
|Billy Wagner
|Greensboro College
|Justin Allen
|Jason Bowman
|Pat Burgess
|Quinn Finnegan
|Jeff Gregory
|Kevin Jackson
|Andy Jankowski
|Brent Justice
|AnDrew Keever
|Taylor Kennedy
|Brian Kreher
|Larry Lockhart
|Jess Maloney
|Ray Michael
|Rick Michael
|Kit Mock
|Kevin Mong
|Jeremy Morrison
|Torrey Poholsky
|Daniel Poindexter
|Rick Reineke
|Terry Thompson
|Methodist University
|Jesus Adames
|Matt Boucher
|Mike Brewington
|Brandon Bridgers
|Robert Bryant
|Earl Bunn
|Bill Chapman
|Joe Corretjer
|Mike Currie
|Jansen Evans
|Brian Ford
|Doug Garner
|Dan Giles
|Danny Hartline
|Rodney Jones
|Jay Kirkpatrick
|Audwin Pellom
|Ron Proctor
|Ronnie Roberts
|Dave Roller
|Trey Such
|Sam Tolar
|N.C. Wesleyan College
|James Anderson
|Chris Bryant
|Greg Clark
|Tom D'Aquila
|Rusty Dail
|Erik Dube
|Steve Durelli
|Sean Fleming
|Doug Flowers
|Eric Jarman
|Rich McNee
|Frankie Moore
|Carl Payne
|Paul Prisco
|Jon Rardin
|Blake Rice
|Jayson Sigley
|Mark Silletti
|Charlie Simpson
|Matt Smith
|Jeremy Stewart
|Jamie Whiting
To view each of the USA South Anniversary Teams, please click HERE!
To view more ways the USA South is celebrating its 50th year, please click HERE!


text:
Savvy offshore anglers know when dolphins (and sharks) are thick around rigs and wrecks the snapper hold tight to the structure and will not bite.
I have found the opposite to be true around jetty systems in relation to bull redfish. I have a spot at the Sabine Jetties that my friends and I have caught reds 40 inches or over at all but three times in around 150 trips since 1996. On those three occasions there were no dolphins feeding in the immediate area. The rest of the time we had dolphins working all around us.
I believe it has something to do with a shared food preference (probably large mullet) of the dolphins and bull reds. Dolphins could certainly kill and eat the reds but items that big are not on their list of favorites.
I absolutely love catching big bull redfish and if you want to turn someone on to saltwater fishing letting them catch one of these beasts is a good way to do it. Here are some pics of a trip my neighbor Ronnie Toney ad I took awhile back.


text:
Here at Mobile Bar Hire we are proud of the relationship we have with the local economy and our home Mobile Bar Hire and the Bexley Crestborough of Bexley. Since moving from a small garage in Dartford to our 5000 sq foot warehouse and office in Crayford, Bexley, we have worked hard by employing local people and using a range of local businesses. Having such strong ties with the people and businesses of Bexley has led to a great relationship with Bexley Council as we have now provided them with a range of serves for an array of events. From Mayor Making ceremonies to charity cocktail masterclasses, Mobile Bar Hire have helped the London Borough of Bexley.
The close working relationship between Mobile Bar Hire and the London Borough of Bexley has resulted in a very prestigious moment for us we have been granted the use of the Bexley Crest and the phrase Made in the London Borough of Bexley on all of our manufactured bars. In recent times, we have increased our efforts to not just provide in the service industry but also to move into the manufacturing market. Our bar counters are being sold to a range of hotels, leisure facilities and event arenas throughout the UK.
On the 5th February 2015, the Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Regeneration and Growth at Bexley Council, Linda Bailey, officially marked the first bar to have the prestigious plaque at Mobile Bar Hires offices in Crayford. The LED curved bar was purchased by a prestigious hotel and spa on the coast in Kent.
Whilst pushing forward in the events industry, we are looking to also make a name for ourselves in the manufacturing market to bring the Bexley name to the masses!
For more information on Mobile Bar Hire and the Bexley Crest, simply contact a member of our staff who will be more than happy to help!


text:
Antonio "Bigfoot" Silva, who fought for the Ultimate Fighting Championship heavyweight title in
May, tested positive for an excessive level of testosterone after his Dec. 6 draw in Australia against Mark Hunt.
In addition to surrendering his $50,000 fight-of-the-night bonus following the bloody battle, Silva is suspended for nine months, the UFC said in a statement.
Silva (18-5-1) had been approved for the controversial testosterone replacement therapy
that some other UFC fighters receive.
Silva "had been in compliance with therapeutic guidelines on all pre-fight tests performed prior to the event," the UFC statement said. "The results of his test on the day of the event indicated a level of testosterone outside of allowable limit."
UFC President Dana White called Silva-Hunt the best heavyweight bout in UFC history after the pair exchanged knockdowns.
The 6-foot-4, 264-pound Silva said after the fight he injured his back a few weeks before fighting Hunt, but opted to keep quiet, adding, "I came here to fight and did my best."
In May, after beating previously testosterone-banned UFC heavyweight Alistair Overeem, Silva suffered a first-round technical-knockout loss to UFC heavyweight champion Cain Velasquez in a rematch of a May 2012 fight that Velasquez also dominated.
The UFC said Silva will be subjected to additional drug screening before he is allowed back in the organization. Hunt was given Silva's $50,000.
Hunt expressed disappointment to MMA Junkie on Tuesday that Silva had received a therapeutic use exemption for testosterone.
"I don't know how these guys are doing this," Hunt said. "I should get some of that … too."
Times' MMA rankings for December
U.S. Olympic delegation draws widespread reaction
Watch Southern Illinois Coach Barry Hinson's epic post-game rant
Twitter: @latimespugmire


text:
Travel & Tour Coordinator
International Specialist
I was born and raised in Bermuda. With tourism being one of the main industries on the island, I was attracted to the airline industry.
My experience began working with both Pan American Airlines and Air Canada in their reservation offices. After moving to Canada I opened a travel agency in Edmonton, that I owned and operated for nine years.
Working with Muskoka Travel Service, I am able to incorporate my experience with airlines, tour companies and cruise lines.
I was told by a gentleman, Mr. Fleming, at my first interview with Pan American, that if I loved people and loved travel, I would never be happy doing anything else…he was indeed right, I have found my passion.
Amy Fraser
Office Reservations,
Reception and Tour Guide
A few years ago, I was on a bus tour and throughout the entire trip I kept saying to myself, "One day, I would love to be a tour guide and help people with their travel plans". And here I am!
Born and raised in Muskoka, I've worked in our community's Tourism Industry for many years, including as a Tourism Consultant with a Chamber of Commerce, at various resorts and in retail tourism. In addition, I'm a qualified teacher, and enjoy incorporating that aspect into all of my tours.
I also enjoy being a traveller myself and have many adventures under my belt including backpacking across Western Canada, and many trips throughout the United States, Dominican Republic, Paris, and Italy.
Outside Sales Representative
I was born in the Owen Sound area but spent most of my school and working years in Toronto. I was in Real Estate for 7 years, a Dental Nurse for 18 years, then my husband and I owned and operated a Resort on Rice Lake for 12 years.
In my retirement, I am a line dancing Instructor at the Ramara Centre in Atherley.
I was employed by Fareway Tours for 3 years, arranging and Managing Tours, also Cardela Travel for 8 years prior to joining Muskoka Travel Service. I enjoy what I do very much, love working with people to make them happy and see them smile.
I am an Outside Sales Representative for Muskoka Travel working out of my home south of Orillia. I enjoy working for Muskoka Travel Service & Hammond Transportation and hope to continue working with them for many years to come.


text:
December 9, 2005
Public Health Advisory re: Body Piercing and Tattooing
Winnipeg Regional Health Authority Medical Officer of Health Dr. Margaret Fast today issued a reminder that anyone considering tattooing or body-piercing procedures should have them done only at facilities that are licensed and approved for that purpose.
The warning came after the WRHA recently learned of several young individuals who either developed infections at their piercing sites or required infection prevention treatment after having the procedure performed by an unlicensed operator.
"In this case the procedure was performed by an unlicensed operator whose standard of practice was not sanitary," Dr. Fast said, noting that the cases in question involved an operator working out of a residence. She added that in addition to the risk of obvious bacterial infections, un-sterile tattooing or body piercing also carries the risk of blood-borne infections such as hepatitis C and B and HIV.
This incident serves as a reminder to all persons that there are risks associated with these types of practices. Receiving a tattoo or body piercing at a reputable establishment significantly reduces these risks. The new City of Winnipeg Body Modification Bylaw, that comes into effect on January 1st, 2006, was developed in response to changing body modification practices within the industry and replaces the previous Tattoo Studio Bylaw. The new bylaw will regulate a broad range of body modification practices, including body piercing.
Version française de cette page


text:
Vacation Rental vs. Hotel: How to Decide What's Better for Your Next Trip?
Vacation rentals offer travelers unique accommodations, larger spaces, and cheaper prices, but they often fall short in terms of convenience. We'll help you decide what kind of traveler benefits most from booking a vacation rental.
You've heard of vacation rental websites such as Airbnb, HomeAway, and VRBO. But, now that it's time to plan for your next vacation, you're not so sure if renting from a private host is the right fit for your trip.
The rise of the sharing economy (when owners rent out something that they're not using) has led to dozens of websites catering to travelers who'd like to explore different places to stay beyond what's offered at your typical Hyatt or Best Western.
However, renting a privately-owned English cottage, Chicago penthouse, or beach-side bungalow comes with its own set of pros and cons.
Depending on your priorities, these could make the difference between a vacation that's memorable for all the right—or wrong—reasons.
To help determine if renting a privately-owned home suits your travel style, check out our comparisons on three points: traveling with kids, on a budget, and when convenience is a top priority.
Vacation Rental vs. Hotel: What's Easier When Traveling With Kids?
Are you traveling with one or more children in tow? Carrie Simmons, mom of two, writer and host of the award-winning TV show, Travel With Kids, has traveled with her family for over twelve years—and to over 40 countries!
"I wish I could say I have this hotel thing down pat," says Carrie. "But I still occasionally make a flub. One thing I do know, staying in an Airbnb or vacation rental can make traveling with family easier."
Carrie's first reason for preferring vacation rentals to traditional hotel rooms comes down to the simple equation of space and cost. "At hotels in most countries around the world, there are limited family rooms, so most families end up needing to get more than one room."
Not only does a vacation rental provide more space for Carrie's family of four, but it saves them money in having to rent only one place versus multiple rooms.
"In addition, most vacation rentals include a kitchen, which means families can choose to eat some meals at home versus out, which is a cost saver, and sometimes a sanity saver… as any parent knows dinner in a restaurant with kids after a long day of touring can be tumultuous!"
Another reason that Carrie's family prefers vacation rentals to traditional hotels? They offer a more authentic experience.
"The Airbnb rentals are also usually located in residential neighborhoods, which means more immersion into local life than at a hotel."
The Bottom Line for Those Traveling With Kids?
Vacation rentals give families more bang for their buck, since renting a single, larger space is often cheaper than multiple rooms. Be sure to choose a vacation rental with a kitchen for an extra opportunity to save. Additionally, staying in a local residential area allows for a more authentic experience for your family.
Vacation Rental vs. Hotel: Which Is Cheaper?
Vacation rentals like Airbnb and VRBO might be a more cost-effective choice for large groups and families, but are they a better choice for your average solo traveler or couple looking to save a few bucks?
We heard from Dr. William Frye, Associate Professor & CMAA Faculty Advisor at New York's College of Hospitality and Tourism Management, who recently sat on an expert panel comparing vacation rental websites like Airbnb, VRBO, and HomeAway with traditional hotels.
"Rental price per square foot rented is much less expensive in shared accommodations than most hotels," he says. Foot for foot, vacation rentals are the cheaper option.
According to Dr. Frye, it's because of the chance to save that so many potential hotel guests from budget or middle-incomes are switching to vacation rentals while traveling.
Dr. Frye also confirmed Carrie's point about where you're more likely to find vacation rentals. He states that, unlike hotels that are often located in commercial zones, vacation rentals are most often located in residential neighborhoods and suburbs.
Being located in a residential area has cost implications, too. Generally speaking, it's easier to find budget-friendly places to eat and shop in an area that's mostly residential, as opposed to a business district (where there likely aren't any grocery stores).
Vacation Rental vs. Hotels: Which Is More Convenient?
Checking into a hotel is so straightforward, that most travelers take it for granted. Finding the location might be difficult if you're staying in a small establishment or are in a foreign country. But typically, hotels are used as landmarks and are easy to find.
Unless you're booking with a mom-and-pop B&B, your hotel likely has someone at the front desk 24/ 7 to process check-ins and help resolve guest issues—which is a real relief if your flight gets delayed, and you don't arrive until 3 am.
Let's say that you walk into a hotel room and immediately notice that something isn't up to snuff. Maybe you got two queen-size beds instead of one king. Or, perhaps, the bathtub hasn't been properly cleaned. Either way, it's usually a simple fix: Just call the front desk and ask for assistance or to switch.
Need a toothbrush, a suit pressed, or a wake-up call? Those, too, are available by calling down.
You know what else is convenient about hotels? The staff likely speaks your native language. Despite all the flak traditional hotels get for providing a whitewashed experience, sometimes it's just darn nice to decompress from a long day of sightseeing by ordering room service in your pajamas.
Authentic Experiences Aren't Always Convenient
I've experienced some wonderful Airbnb, VRBO, and Home Away hosts, and have gotten to stay in accommodations that were far nicer than what the same cost could have afforded at a hotel. However, finding and checking into your vacation rental is rarely a straightforward affair.
As we mentioned above, vacation rentals are typically located in residential areas and can be difficult to locate.
Then, there's the matter of checking in. Vacation rental websites each have messaging options that allow you to communicate with your host, giving you the chance to set up how and when you'll meet to get the key.
However, sometimes plans go awry and if you're traveling to a foreign country (especially if you don't have international phone service), getting in touch with your host can create extra hurdles.
On a trip to Paris two years ago, we'd booked an Airbnb rental for our stay. The host was very helpful and gave detailed directions on how to find her city center apartment. However, she wasn't going to be available at the time of our arrival.
Instead, we were told that the key would be left in a specific spot in the hallway on her floor and that we could just let ourselves in. If only it had been so easy!
Upon arriving at the building, which was a historic business center with apartments on the top floor, we realized the front gate was locked during weekends. With no phone service, we were unable to contact the host and had to wait for someone to open the door. Then, upon gaining access to the building, we had trouble finding the key—only to realize that none of the doors were even marked with numbers!
The whole debacle of getting into our rental took upwards of two hours, at which point we were exhausted and somewhat soured on the otherwise charming little apartment. Not exactly a great start to a vacation.
The Bottom Line on Comparing Convenience?
'Convenience' is pretty subjective; one person might prefer to have hotel staff downstairs to take care of any dilemmas, while another might prioritize the opportunity to be shown around by a vacation rental host.
Do you have the patience and flexibility to weather a few bumps in the check-in process, or are you of the mind that, once the accommodation is paid for, everything should be smooth sailing? If it's the latter, a traditional hotel is probably your best bet.
A Strike Against Airbnb: Hosts Can Cancel at the Last Minute
Kate Bartlet, an innkeeper at The Henniker House in New Hampshire, knows a thing or two about how to deliver a great guest experience. As someone "who complies with local regulations," she says, "I am predisposed against non-compliant Airbnb properties."
When she's traveling, Kate prefers to support small businesses and choose B&Bs over franchise hotels and motels. However, on a recent trip with a family, she gave both VRBO and Airbnb rentals a shot.
According to Kate, the variety of accommodations listed on VRBO was helpful due to the large size of their group, and the three cottages they booked through the platform were all excellent. "The sites were well organized, the photos proved to be accurate, and they even welcomed our dog."
Airbnb, however, fell short.
"We had booked one whole house through Airbnb only to have an email from Airbnb (HQ, not the host) write two months after our confirmation and deposit—which was only four weeks before our trip—to say that the rental's owner had decided against renting the house this year."
The last-minute cancellation left Kate's group with limited options when looking for a rental that could accommodate their large group and pet.
Adding insult to injury, Airbnb fell short of helping Kate's group secure another rental. Instead, "they included a link to help us find another which was to the general Airbnb site—not specifically where we were going."
Airbnb did refund their deposit. "But, at that late date, it was a scramble to find something else in the area we wanted to be in."
Airbnb addresses host cancellations in their FAQ section, acknowledging that "cancellations disrupt guests' plans and impact confidence in the Airbnb community."
There are penalties for hosts who cancel: For cancellations more than seven days before check-in, your first fee is waived for any cancellation within a six-month period, and it's $50 for every subsequent one. Within seven days of check-in, Airbnb charges hosts a $100 fee per cancellation.
While $50 or $100 penalties aren't chump change, knowing that your host has been penalized isn't of much comfort to large groups or other travelers that have specific accommodation needs.
Which Is Better, Vacation Rentals or Hotels?
Vacations aren't a one-size-fits-all affair, which is one of the reasons that vacation rentals are becoming so popular with travelers. Need more space to accommodate a large group or want an in-suite kitchen? That's a lot easier to find when renting a private apartment than in a hotel room.
Given the pros and cons of each type of accommodation, frequent traveler and travel writer Kate Gilbert says she likes to switch it up depending on how long she'll be in any one spot.
Kate primarily stays in vacation rentals she finds on VRBO, HomeAway, and Airbnb. Her reasons being:
We like to cook, and part of our travel style is to pretend we live somewhere; going to the store and buying local ingredients is all part of the fun. Even if we don't cook every night, we'll normally at least have lunch or breakfast 'at home.'
We feel like we have a more authentic experience. We often don't stay in the tourist center, and we get to know a neighborhood as if we lived there.
Depending on where you are visiting it is often much more economical. We could stay in a nice home for $50 a night in cities where a hotel might be $200.
We have more space. For any more than a few days who wants to live in just their master bedroom!
When does she go with traditional hotels instead?
Kate's preference is to use hotels for shorter stays of less than a week, or in areas where tourism is underdeveloped and there are not many choices yet. "For instance, we just visited Myanmar and hotels were the best choices in this developing nation."
Which Vacation Rental Website Is Best?
If you find that your needs are more in line with Kate's reasons for choosing a vacation rental, you might find yourself wondering which website should you use to start your search. According to Kate Gilbert, not all vacation rental websites are equal.
"We find we have to be diligent with who we rent from—especially on Airbnb, more so than with VRBO and HomeAway."
In Kate's experience (which echoes my own), Airbnb has more entries that look suspect, don't have many pictures, or one person is renting out many units in the same building, but with only one set of photos.
"We always ask the host a few questions to make sure they are responsive. If they don't respond quickly or don't seem to know the answers, we choose somewhere else." Perhaps because she's been careful, Kate notes that she's had all good experiences so far.
However, it's not just communication and check-in times that vary when renting from a private host. The quality of each residence can vary widely as well—and the only way to glean information is by carefully reading previous guest's reviews.
Kate notes that there is one big positive to using Airbnb's platform: "They have non-filtered reviews, so you know you are getting honest feedback." Apparently, VRBO owners can selectively post reviews—something potential guests should keep in mind.
Beyond spammy postings or cherry-picked reviews, Kate prefers Airbnb for short city breaks, since there are more choices, and listings tend to be less expensive.
However, if you have the opportunity to book far in advance, Kate advises that VRBO is the way to go. Unlike Airbnb hosts, who frequently don't list prices out past the next few months, VRBO listings can more often be booked well into the next season.
Another reason Kate picks VRBO when planning ahead? VRBO doesn't require that you pay upfront, unlike Airbnb. "Paying in full a whole 12 months in advance, which is required to book on Airbnb, isn't very consumer friendly."
Finding the Best Fit Depends on Your Priorities
Bottom line, deciding which type of accommodation fits your vacation requires taking an honest look at your priorities: Sure, we all want to feel like Indiana Jones, but adventurous and carefree travel can be chock-full of uncomfortable moments.
If your hopes for your vacation include digging deep into local culture, eating foods you've never heard of, and lots of time walking around exploring (the fancy word for being lost), then vacation rentals might suit your travel style.
However, if your hope is to get away from it all, unwind, and even enjoy some crisp sheets and fresh towels that someone else has to wash, consider sticking with traditional hotels, either franchises or a smaller establishment.


text:
National Award winning film, Parzania, which hit the theatres on the Republic Day last year amidst a lot of controversy, is set to release again but this time in its dubbed Hindi version. The movie based on the communal riots in Gujarat is a sensitive real life story of a child who went missing in the whole fiasco. Director Rahul Dholakia believes that dubbing the film can get a wider reach among the Hindi speaking audiences and may even help in finding the whereabouts of the child who actually went missing during the Godhra incident in 2002 . The film which is dubbed and ready would be releasing around Feb 27, which incidentally also marks the anniversary of the Godhra riots. The director has even decided to focus more on single screen theatres so that audiences across the interiors can get to see his heartwarming film.. Rahul Dholakia
Parzania to be dubbed and released in Hindi
Bollywood Hungama


text:
I feel I need to dispel some commonly held myths...
- I have not fallen off the face of the earth.
- I have not given up blogging.
- I am not a pathological liar
- Neither am I avoiding writing my post about our first week in Uganda
Now, I know you thought all of those things were true...but seriously they are not. It is just that life happens around here at break neck speeds...and I have had my plate beyond full.
I just dropped my mom off at the airport. We thoroughly enjoyed her WAY too short visit...and I miss her already.
I am STILL working on our taxes...April 15 is still weeks away...right??? At any rate I am thrilled that it APPEARS, at this time, my check to the IRS this year will NOT CONTAIN A COMMA....oh the joy!!!! While we will still be be writing a check..the fact that it lacks a comma is simply a miracle.
Yesterday was my birthday...and I have some of the sweetest and best friends a gal could have. They came to my house picked up my mom and I, and took us out for some yummy Mexican food. They sweetly obliged my craving for a chimichunga, EVEN THOUGH they all wanted to go some place much more refined and eat some silly salad....I won't hold it against them though :) Cause I love them all so much....and they gave me cool gadgets for herb preparation and cooking.
I am about to get on the doctor treadmill again...we will have five doctors/dentist appointments this week...um...I thought we didn't go to the doctor at our house????? At any rate can you guess why I call it a treadmill????? Think REAL hard, I bet you can.
Speaking of doctors and STRANGE medical anomalies...which we have a multitude of around here...any of you adoptive mama's have issues with blisters...well I guess any mama really...Marissa gets blisters...pretty big ones too. They look like burn blisters, but she has not been burned. Looking for some direction to point the doctor to when we go...so maybe that visit will actually produce some results. ANYONE????
Did I mention that I got to spend some much needed time with my much missed friend, Emily? Ah, it was so nice to hang out with her again. I love friends that you can see rarely and it still feels like you never missed a day....although I prefer friends I can see whenever I want :) So she should move back here...or something like that anyway.
Post about Uganda coming soon...I PROMISE!!!
This is the last day for you to donate to the Guant family adoption fund for a chance to win and ipod touch....you can still give after today...but you aren't gonna have a chance to win this nifty little gadget...that to be honest with you I just don't understand...but I hear people want them??? So get in while you can...and GIVE and help bring two children home...help to give them a forever family...store up for yourself a little treasure that will last :) Keltie and Blake will draw the winning name tomorrow...so HURRY it's almost too late....


text:
River cruising has quickly become one of the most popular ways of traveling. From the waterways of Europe to sailing down the Mekong River, pack and unpack once and watch the beautiful scenery pass by. Find exciting itineraries for all tastes and budgets. Sail some of the most enchanting rivers like the Douro, the Danube, Rhine and many others. Hop on and off the ship for included excursions as you dock right in the heart of many of the world's most fascinating cities.
I can't wait for the next trip she will plan!!
Tina at Specially Designed Travel planned a trip for my friend and I this past December to take a Viking River cruise down the Rhine river to see the Christmas Markets. She handled everything for us even down to highlighting the information in the itinerary that we needed to pay special attention to. All details of the trip were carefully handled and everything went without a hitch. I can't wait for the next trip she will plan!! I know it will be great!!By Sharon B.


text:
The rain cleared just before the royals appeared. First came Prince William, Princess Kate – in a blue dress by Roksanda – and Prince Harry, all riding in an open-top car. Also in the convoy: the Earl and Countess of Wessex and their daughter Lady Louise and Prince Andrew and his daughters Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie.
Speaking with the crowd, Kate "was saying that George opened the door today and said, 'It's not very nice out today mummy, is it?' She said 'No, it isn't George,' " shared Ella Hunter-Gibbs.
"She said she felt sorry for us in the rain. It has been a fantastic day, she was so nice."
"They are such a gracious couple," says Stuart Rivers, who was there representing the Sailors' Society organisation. "Her heart is for young people and we shared with her the work we do with young people around the world particularly supporting the children of seafarers with schooling."
Adds Mel Warman, also of the group: "It's so lovely that they want to hear what you've been doing. It's so lovely that people in that position have that real genuine interest in what we are doing around the world. She looked amazing, stunning."
A near neighbor in Norfolk chatted to Kate about their rural life. "Kate was saying she enjoyed taking the children to the beach," Charles Farrow says. "The beaches near us are perfect if you want to be quite quiet."
Farrow, who's vice-president of Norfolk and Norwich archeological society, asked William to join them. "He said, 'I don't know anything about archeology.' He was interested. I told him I would give him lessons."
Then, about 40 minutes later, the Queen and Prince Philip arrived in the Mall in their open-top Queen-mobile, her cerise dress making her stand out above the crowd.
William was called on to make a speech, and used the occasion to prose the woman he calls "granny."
"My family has had plenty of reason to celebrate since the Queen turned 90 in April: the Queen's strong health and relentless energy; her sharp wit and famous sense of humor; and the fact that The Queen remains very much at the helm of our family, our nation and the Commonwealth.
"The Queen at 90 is the one Head of State that world leaders can turn to for a first-hand perspective of the arc of history over the last six decades. At 90, The Queen is the leader of our country, who we all look up to in good times and in challenging moments to set an example, and to guide the way ahead.
"But the reason we are here today is to celebrate a role that matters just as much to The Queen as the one that she holds on the world stage.
"We are here to celebrate The Queen as Patron. Her commitment to the more than 600 charities to which she lends her name and support is unwavering."
And he added, "Before I finish, I hope you won't mind if I say a personal thank you to The Queen – and to do so on behalf of all her grandchildren – and great-grandchildren. Granny, thank you for everything you have done for your family. We could not wish you a happier birthday."
The Queen made her own thanks to the patronages who were there in their thousands. And ended with a joke about the year of celebrations.
"I much appreciate the kindness of all your birthday wishes, and have been delighted and moved by the many cards and messages I have received. How I will feel if people are still singing 'Happy Birthday' to me in December, remains to be seen!"
Stretching out almost as far as Her Majesty's eye could see on the historic Mall in London was a massive feast of food and wine from the picnic hampers given to the $215-a-head guests.
That meant 33,000 cups of tea, 20,000 slices of bread making the 40,000 sandwich triangles and more than 5,000 jugs of English spirit Pimm's. And 12,500 ponchos were packed too, in case of seasonal showers – and good thing they were, as rain did come down.
"You can't get more British than this. Rain, ice cream and Buckingham Palace," guest Claire Connick said.
They were at the party after buying tickets, rather than coming via a charity affiliated to one of the Queen's charities.
Wearing a long dress in a Union flag design was Lucinda Partridge, one of 18 supporters of the Anglo-Belgian Society which was set up in WWII to help Belgians fleeing the war.
"The weather doesn't deter us. It's fun – and been hugely well-organised," she said.
Also in the crowd: Prince Albert of Monaco, who chatted with Prince Andrew and his daughters and later to Prince Edward.
"I'm having a great time," he told reporters.
"It's wonderful to be here to celebrate with friends from Monaco and from the U.K."
Of the Queen, he adds, "Of course she's very respected the world over but we have such an important British community in Monaco.
"It's wonderful to be able to join our British friends in the celebration." He said about the atmosphere: "It's very relaxed and the rain hasn't hampered the spirits here at all."
The food was certainly bountiful. Provided by Marks & Spencer, the wicker hampers handed to each guest included a Scottish smoked salmon mousse, Pembrokeshire chicken salad, mini Piccalilli pork pie and British Windsor Apple Juice.
Giving the mousse an extra special royal touch, the salmon was slow-smoked over wood chips from an oak tree grown on the Queen's Sandringham estate in Norfolk.
The Queen and Prince Philip (who himself celebrated a landmark 95th birthday on Friday) were joined by Prince William, Princess Kate and Prince Harry.
The brainchild of Queen's eldest grandson, Peter Phillips, the Patron's Lunch celebrated the 600 organizations with formal links with the Queen.
"It's a chance for them to herald her contribution to their work, as well as to let the world know about all that they have achieved during her long life," he wrote in The Telegraph magazine last week.
At the center of the lunch celebrations was a carnival-like parade in which 1,500 volunteers performed themed tributes reflecting the Queen's 64-year reign – with the procession headed by a replica of the Queen's favorite, now-decommissioned, Royal Yacht, the Britannia. (The Queen famously shed a tear when the boat was decommissioned, not to be replaced, by the government in 1997.)
The Queen's son and immediate heir, Prince Charles, and his wife Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall took the celebrations out into the country by heading to Gloucestershire, for the Big Lunch – an annual event started by the Eden Project to get as many people as possible to have lunch together with their neighbors.


text:
Inspired Homes is about to officially unveil a new era of urban living – and we'd love you to join us. But this isn't any old development. So don't expect any old open day.
Our flagship Green Dragon House is located at the heart of Croydon's art quarter. And over the past few months, the building has become a canvas for a number of eminent international street artists including Ben Eine, Fuel and, directly opposite, Dotmaster.
To celebrate, we're hosting the inaugural Green Dragon Club Lounge art exhibition, featuring studio pieces, prints and originals by a dazzling array of local artists including Ben Eine, Snik, Pam Glew, Bob Carlos Clarke, Harper Deyong, Miles Khan and Lauren Baker.
And at the same time, we're offering you the opportunity to see more of Green Dragon House – a work of art in itself that includes the 10th-floor sky garden complete with seating areas, BBQ, table tennis and air hockey and breathtaking views.
Click here to confirm your attendance!
We look forward to seeing you there.


text:
Details of practice
Stephen is a leading practitioner in the interrelated fields of regulatory crime, coronial and licensing law. He has been recommended in the legal directories for a number of years in the fields of Health and Safety and Licensing in which he is ranked as a "Star" in Chambers UK 2018.
Regulatory crime and inquests
Stephen's practice encompasses a range of regulatory legislation, particularly health and safety, food safety, environmental and trading standards. He prosecutes and defends in a broad range of cases, advises regulatory authorities generally on matters of enforcement, and provides guidance to corporate and individual clients on compliance. Stephen has appeared for both the prosecution and defence in a number of health and safety cases arising from accidents resulting in serious injury and death with particular specialisms in the leisure and construction industries and in fire cases. He advises and represents the London Fire and Emergency Planning Authority (LFEPA) on enforcement issues and is regularly consulted by leisure and construction companies in connection with enforcement proceedings arising from serious accidents in the work place.
Stephen has broad experience of coronial proceedings arising from major incidents including the Hillsborough Inquests (Stadium Safety Phase), the Lakanal tower block fire in south London and the latter stages of the inquest into the 7/7 terrorist bombings (in which he advised the London Fire Brigade).
Stephen's licensing practice is comprehensive. He deals with all forms of licensable activities and is the first port of call for advice and representation by a number of the most prominent operators of bars, night clubs, restaurants and casinos in the UK, while his advice on compliance with licensing law is also sought from manufacturers and suppliers to the licensed trade. Stephen also advises and represents a number of local licensing authorities and the Security Industry Authority for whom he has appeared on a number of appeals concerning "Approved Contractor" issues.
In the field of gambling Stephen has represented most of the notable providers of terrestrial betting and casino facilities in the UK for many years and regularly provides advice on the provision of both terrestrial and remote (internet) gambling products to financial traders and the media . In recent months he has been actively engaged in advising leisure and casino operators on the implementation of the Gambling Act 2005 and the competitive bidding process for new casinos.
Public Law
Stephen has extensive experience representing claimants and respondents in the Administrative Court and Court of Appeal in cases concerning regulatory enforcement, gambling and general licensing issues.
Directory recommendations
Stephen has consistently appeared in the legal directories as a leader in his fields of practice.
He was nominated as Health and Safety Silk of the Year in Chambers & Partners Awards 2014 and is ranked as a "Star" in the field of licensing.
Recommendations in the last three years include:
Health and Safety
'A very good advocate who is good with the clients.' 'Acts on a range of cases and has a particularly strong reputation in fire safety cases.' (Chambers UK 2015)
'An excellent advocate who articulates complex issues in an understandable way.' (The Legal 500 2014)
"fantastic and particularly good at representing individuals in health and safety prosecutions." (Chambers UK 2012)
"Stephen Walsh QC is esteemed as being able to connect with tribunals and juries that may not understand the technicalities of a case. His strong licensing practice has fed though a number of defence instructions from retail and leisure clients, and he now has a developing health and safety practice" (Chambers UK)
"Stephen Walsh continues to make a name for himself in the market, winning over commentators with his confidence and well orchestrated performance in court" (Chambers UK)
'Very cerebral and academically capable, he applies himself well to the legal arguments and has a fantastic relationship with the client.' 'A leading expert in his field, he takes a hard-working and commercial approach.' (Chambers UK 2015)
'An extremely effective and client-friendly advocate.' (The Legal 500 2014)
"outstanding and an all-round advocate. He 'knows the industry inside out and is always able to take a very commercial view'." Chambers UK 2012
"Stephen Walsh QC is universally respected by peers and, having taken silk in 2009, has gone from strength to strength. Commentators describe him as an exceptional advocate; he has a wonderful courtroom manner" (Chambers UK)
"Absolutely superb"…"has a good background in criminal law which is helpful for cross over between crime and licensing" (The Legal 500)
"Stephen Walsh is universally recognized as absolutely top class and the first port of call for any contentious issue…his greatest attribute is his approachable and easy going personality"
Education/professional qualifications
LL.B (Hons) 1981
Called to the Bar (Middle Temple) 1983
Direct access
Stephen Walsh QC is qualified to accept instructions direct from clients under the Bar Council's Public Access Scheme. This means that members of the public who seek specialist advice can come direct to him. In addition, he welcomes instructions from solicitors, in-house law departments, qualified foreign lawyers, and clients licensed by the Bar Council to give instructions direct to barristers under the Bar Council's Licensed Access Scheme.
For further information please contact our Clerks.


text:
A solemn opening ceremony of "Sea Cup-2018" international competition has been held at the headquarters of the Naval Forces in Baku as part of the International Army Games-2018.
The leadership of the Defense Ministry, veterans, servicemen and foreign military attaches accredited to Azerbaijan, as well as commanders of the Naval Forces attended the event.
Teams of the naval forces of Russia, Iran, Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan entered the square under the state flags and accompanied by military bands. Azerbaijan's state anthem was played and flag was raised.
Then, flags of the 4th International Army Games and "Sea Cup-2018" competition were brought to the square.
Addressing the ceremony, chairman of the Organizing Committee of "Sea Cup-2018" international competition, deputy Chief of the General Staff of the Azerbaijani Armed Forces – chairman of Combat Readiness and Military Education Central Department Nizam Osmanov said the competition aims to strengthen confidence, develop cooperation, foster friendship and competitiveness, and improve combat capabilities and psychological readiness of the military personnel.
Osmanov noted that this year's "Sea Cup" coincides with a remarkable event when Azerbaijani people mark the 100th anniversary of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic and the establishment of the Armed Forces.
As part of the International Army Games twenty-eight competitions will be held in Azerbaijan, Belarus, Kazakhstan, China, Iran and Russia from July 28 to August 11.
Along with the Sea Cup, Azerbaijani servicemen will also participate in the competitions Tank Biathlon and the Field Kitchen in Russia, Masters of Artillery Fire in Kazakhstan and Sniper Frontier in Belarus.
Representatives of the Azerbaijani Armed Forces will also join as observers the Depth and Army Scout Masters competitions to be held in Iran and Russia respectively. Representatives of Turkish, Pakistani, Bahraini, Saudi Arabian and US armed forces will also take part in the contest as observers.
Köhnə versiyamızdan xəbərləri izlə


text:
When Social Justice Warriors from the urban conurbation of northern Virginia and Maryland decide to visit West Virginia and Kentucky, they leave their work behind and travel to vacation homes or visit whiskey distilleries. In Hodgenville, Kentucky, sometimes they stop by the birthplace of the "Great Emancipator," Abraham Lincoln, for a cone of ice cream ("dry" county!) and a quick refresher on how great is our indivisible nation.
In West Virginia, they listen to, and perhaps even sing John Denver songs and talk about how coal mining has destroyed the air quality and otherwise pristine landscape. Equality and justice, they feel, should be reserved for everyone, not only the privileged capitalists. Upon return home, refreshed with new energy and ideas, they resume the fight for the common good in inner cities.
Figure 1. Smoke rising from tall chimneys in West Virginia landscape; a symbol of environmental degradation to some and jobs and progress to others. (All photos were taken by the author.)
Left behind are Appalachian hollows (hollers in local vernacular), veins and arteries of the once-prosperous region hoping to bounce back from obscurity and isolation. Yet, to notice life in a holler, travelers must leave the Interstate Highway System and drive on two-lane highways. The roads twist through seemingly never-ending hollers and a cultural landscape that consists of three integral features: A creek or a small river, a trailer with an occasional American flag posted, and a pile of trash in the front yard. In the backyard is a mountain.
Figure 2. Double single-wide trailer deep in a West Virginia holler.
Less adventurous travelers can remain on two-line roads of higher ranking and still achieve a similar experience. Take the right exit on the Country Music Highway in Williamson, West Virginia, arriving from Pikeville, Kentucky, and continue on the U.S. Highway 52 to Bluefield. An experience of observing the landscape on this 95-mile stretch may, perhaps, just lead to a moment of pause and reflection upon the topic of inherited privilege in contemporary America.
For other people, unfazed by surrounding cultural landscape and appalled with the apparent absence of recycling, comments such as "How can people live like this?" and "Why don't they do something about it?" may cross their mind. They ask questions, yet provide no answers or solutions, particularly solutions that would require their own participation. And it is exactly the lack of comprehensive participation that has contributed to the current state of an Appalachian holler, making it arguably the most culturally isolated space in the United States.
Physical and Cultural Isolation, Dependence
By definition, isolation is not a physical but cultural characteristic of a place. The South Pole is in the same area it was prior to Roald Amundsen's arrival there on 14 December, 1911. Today, we can fly to the South Pole in one afternoon from South America or Australia. Mount Everest is still not much taller than was in 1953, when Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay reached its summit, but note the number of climbers doing the same thing today. In these two and many other instances, it was the cultural factor that made the difference. It was the cultural factor that made an Appalachian holler such an isolated, remote space, not its physical distance to other places.
Unlike its urban equivalent in terms of lack of fortune, such as Detroit—whose current deplorable situation stems from a sad history of chronic mismanagement—an Appalachian holler's main reason for lack of fortune was the region's lack of skilled management. [Cynics would say that even mismanagement from outside would mean that someone cared to do something.] Since the beginning of the War on Poverty, championed by the President Johnson's administration in 1964, a comprehensively-designed and successfully implemented economic development of an Appalachian holler in Kentucky/West Virginia borderlands is yet to surface.
Meanwhile, the War on Poverty has contributed to establishing a generation of welfare-dependent population with very little potential of making it out of its socioeconomic rut. The casualties from the battles in the War on Poverty are visible in the landscape described above. Well-being of the local population has been stagnating for decades. Eastern Kentucky and southern West Virginia face a plethora of economic and social problems that have relegated them to the least prosperous area in the country. Compared to the growth of other regions, prospects for improving their condition are limited to non-existent.
Access to an Appalachian holler has always been one-directional—from outside in. This has prevented self-sustainability and further contributed to socioeconomic stagnation. Coal mining, a backbone of local economy, revolved around forces that the local population could not influence and change. Miners, who depend on outside factors in times of good and in times of bad (e.g., decision making on global and national environmental policies), live in a cultural system that keeps them sidelined. They do not have autonomy in creating their own productive socioeconomic alternatives and, in a way, live in a parallel society.
A New Stage in Access versus Isolation Dichotomy
"Re-discovery" of the Appalachian's mountains, hills, and lakes (but no hollers!) in more recent years has brought a significant level of transformation to the region. Affordable land and great vistas have attracted many property buyers and developers. Construction of new roads, hotels, boat launches, and restaurants that are not just McDonald's or KFC has increased in pace, leaving an impression of the land of opportunity.
Figure 3. Owners of million-dollar properties in the Appalachian region enjoy much better views than the owners of properties similar to that depicted in Figure 2.
Unfortunately, few opportunities are being built from within, and for people from within. As in the case of coal mining, this new access is again one-directional. It further contributes to the stratification of an existing cultural system. It may sound counter-intuitive that the development is contributing to stagnation of the local population, but consider who benefits from this development. By-and-large, it is not the segment of population who need the basic improvement the most. Employment opportunities revolve around the service sector, and are largely limited to low-paying jobs and with wages often barely above the poverty rate.
Meanwhile, the property and numerous other taxes are increasing, as are consumer prices. With each passing year, a dollar stretches less and less, which increases the burden even more. Obesity and diabetes epidemics show no indication of diminishing.
Million-dollar vacation homes scattered across the mountains are symbols of recent development. They display a trait of economic reality similar to that of a Caribbean island were impoverished locals serve foreigners during tourist season. There, too, exist two parallel societies that are unlikely to merge in foreseeable future.
Return of Dignity
One of the main problems in American society is the belief that a better quality of life can be achieved solely with continuous financial stimulus; in other words, fix something by pumping endless amounts of money into it. Even where staggering amounts of money have been spent, such as in Iraq and Afghanistan, they produced unsatisfactory results. The main reason? The absence of clear goals, combined with the inefficiency in delivery and implementation. No financial stimulus can elevate a region from peril without a comprehensive yet realistic developmental framework, regardless if that region is in Kentucky and West Virginia or around Kabul, Afghanistan.
[For the reconstruction debacle in Afghanistan, a bottomless money pit, please read about my own experience there in Tears-Soaked Afghan Roads: Reconstruction Potholes and Utter Incompetence.]
Furthermore, for an Appalachian holler's residents low self-esteem is a major obstacle. A widely held perception, particularly among young people, is that the only route to prosperity is a highway leaving the region. This belief severely limits residents' enthusiasm for improving regional well-being. Low expectations ultimately produce low results. After several decades of life in such a restrictive social environment, people's collective memory tends to be one of passivity and pessimism, which overshadows any potential for change and improvements.
On the other hand, to leave the region for some distant (and perhaps overly challenging) location can be difficult for many people regardless of age. It is not easy to leave the supporting environment of family and friends behind and venture on one's own (a situation no different than leaving an inner city neighborhood for the same reason). Thus, the majority always chooses to remain in their area of birth, thus perpetuating the existing social conditions.
Although there are not too many lights currently shining over an Appalachian holler, surrendering is not the only option. People—as individuals and together as a community—can overcome their collective lethargy. They just need to have a reason and ideals for it.
Holistic Geographic Approach
A framework for improvement of conditions should not be in the form of an infusion of resources into a patchwork of disjointed projects [This, too, was a signature approach to reconstruction projects in Iraq and Afghanistan, i.e., limiting a positive impact to a small area and population, while drowning it in a sea of failures from unsuccessful projects.]. Receiving medical care, for example, has a purpose of eventually healing an entire body—all the veins, arteries, and organs to work properly—not just small sections independent from each other. Otherwise, the symptoms will reoccur.


text:
Loading flight deals…
Flight Deal Finder
Departing from
Departure month
Slide to adjust your budget
Make your next booking with Webjet and enjoy unparalleled travel choice on cheap domestic flights with Australia and New Zealand's largest online travel agency.
Browse through flights from international airlines and local carriers including Jetstar, Qantas, Tiger Airways and Virgin Australia.
*Prices on this page are subject to change without notice, perform a search to view live pricing. Prices are inclusive of taxes and airline surcharges. Webjet fees per flight booking: Webjet Servicing Fee: Domestic $10.95, AU/Pacific $18.95, International $33.95. Booking Price Guarantee: Domestic $8.95, AU/Pacific $10.95, International $17.95. Varying payment fees are included in the price breakdown on Webjet's checkout page, once your payment method has been selected.
Award Winning Online Travel Service
Compare, combine and save with unparalleled choice on travel bookings with Australia and New Zealand's largest online travel agency. Leading the way in online tools and technology, compare the best domestic and international flights, accommodation deals, travel insurance, cruises and car hire worldwide.
Webjet offers instant confirmation and safe and secure bookings, allowing you to plan and book your next holiday with confidence. Whether you're travelling domestically or abroad, Webjet has a huge range of daily deals across the globe.
Need support? Webjet offers 24/7 customer service and a multi-award winning online travel service. Contact Webjet for any support, enquiries or cancellations.
Domestic Flights
Compare the best deals on domestic flights with Webjet. Whether you're booking ahead of peak travel season or looking for last minute flights, choose from the cheapest airfares within New Zealand and save on your next holiday. Choose flights from international airlines and low-cost carriers including Virgin Australia, Air New Zealand, Qantas, Jetstar and more.
Webjet has a huge range of domestic flights to New Zealand's major travel hubs. Choose from cheap domestic airfares to North Island hubs Auckland or Wellington, or adventure sports capital Queenstown, with a range of daily NZ services available at a great price.
International Flights
Travelling abroad? Use Webjet's travel tools to compare the cheapest international flights across the globe. Whether you're flying to London, escaping to Asia or heading to Australia, choose from Webjet's huge range of cheap international airfares. You'll find low-priced flights all year round, with thousands of cheap airfares available over the next six months.
Looking for a great seasonal international deal? Check out Webjet's international specials
Cheap Hotels
Browse through over 155,000 cheap hotels on Webjet and choose from great hotel deals on accommodation in New Zealand, Australia and worldwide. Enjoy low rates, instant email confirmation, and compare cheap hotels with Webjet hotels.
Travel Insurance
Webjet travel insurance is backed by Allianz Global Assistance, a world leader in insurance. Offering one of New Zealand's best ranges of travel insurance, choose from luggage protection to comprehensive cover. Partnering with Allianz, Webjet's ensures a world-class level of insurance cover, assistance and personal services for your next domestic or international trip.
Compare Webjet's varying levels of travel insurance - from comprehensive and essentials cover, to multi-trip travel insurance, recommended for those who travel frequently. When you're travelling, insurance is as essential as your passport. Before you head off on your next trip, ensure you're covered with Allianz. Book your travel insurance with Webjet and get a quote today.


text:
With any of our broadcast packages you can stream your program live on your site or share our network to boost your views. Our plug an play environment is equipped and ready to handle your DJ, your guests and more.
Audio Packages
When your talking Audio your saying conventional radio. We are ready to handle your shows programming from special broadcast, regular broadcast, or simple podcast where here to support and provide a professional environment to get it done right.
Video Package
One of the most powerful mediums to get a message out and entertain an audience is videostreaming. Have your show produced and handled by professionals who have credits in TV and Radio Production.
One Hour Block Audio
Block rate per/month
Two Hour Block Audio
Block rate per/month
One Hour Block Video
Block rate per/month
Two Hour Block Video


text:
Do you like to make frugal crafts at home? Do you decorate your home on a budget? Are you good at recycling ordinary household items into creative gifts? Would you like to earn some money by sharing your craft ideas with our readers?
If you answered YES to any or all of the above questions please read our submission guidelines below...
Original Crafts, Decorations and Homemade Gifts that Families Can Make on a Budget
You do not have to be a professional writer to submit a craft article, however, please review our submission guidelines to help ensure your article is ready for publication. (Please note: Articles previously published on the Internet cannot be accepted for this feature. We're looking for fresh ideas with first time publishing rights. :o)
We offer $25.00 (USD) payment per published article for first time publishing rights. Submission must include a good quality original photo (or photos) of the craft along with the article. Please send photo submissions in .jpg format. All submissions will be considered for publication.
Submit articles in plain text by copy and pasting them into the body of an email, along with a photo of the craft. Do not send your article as an attachment, we do not open them for security reasons. Proof-read and spell-check your work one more time before submitting (we will edit your article for spelling, grammar and punctuation if needed).
Please include the following information with your submission...
* Title of Craft or Gift Project
* Your First and Last Name
* Photo of Finished Project (at least 1 photo required, you can include up to 4-5)
* Introduction/Description of Project (first paragraph)
* A List of Items Needed to Make Project
* Detailed Steps for Making Project
All article submissions will be reviewed by the editor and considered for publication in an upcoming issue of Living a Better Life, and on the Web site, BetterBudgeting.com. Writers will be notified by e-mail if selected for publication. If you need more information regarding your submission please contact the editor at any time.
Published articles will include the writer's name under the title along with the copyright date and repeated name at the bottom of the article. Although we do not provide a link to Web sites a contact e-mail address can be included if requested.
As the original author of your article you will retain the copyrights and are free to offer it as a reprint in other publishing venues. However, please allow some time before offering your article as a reprint and include a note "First published by BetterBudgeting.com" when possible. This will help other craft writers learn about our submission opportunity!
By submitting an article to BetterBudgeting.com, you are verifying it is your work and you are the legal copyright owner of such work, and will hold us harmless of any and all copyright disputes or actions which may result because of any copyright infringement issues. (In other words, PLEASE do NOT submit craft and gift ideas copied from another source.)
SUBMIT your frugal craft or homemade gift article to the editor at:
* * *
Return to Frugal Living
Copyright © by BetterBudgeting. All rights reserved.


text:
Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) study: key findings from the 2013/2014 survey in the Russian Federation (2016)
Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC), a WHO collaborative cross-national study, has provided information about the health, well-being, social environment and health behaviour of 11-, 13- and 15-year-old boys and girls for over 30 years. The latest international report from the study, Growing up unequal: gender and socioeconomic differences in young people's health and well-being, presents findings from the 2013/2014 survey of 42 countries in Europe and North America. This brief summary highlights key findings from the survey in the Russian Federation.


text:
Most of my customers wear a splash of vintage with their everyday clothing. They pair it like this: a seventies owl pendant with a tee shirt or a fifties handbag with a modern dress.
Then there are Ray and Joanie. They wear full on vintage, all the time. They even have some fictional vintage alter egos. Joanie "plays" a movie star and Ray takes on the persona of her devoted photographer.
Follow along with this recent Ray-and-Joanie visit.
These two have way too much fun!


text:
23andMe Longevity Survey: Help Us Discover the Keys to Living a Long, Healthy Life
From alchemists and the Philosopher's Stone to Ponce de Leon and the Fountain of Youth, history is full of stories of people searching for a way to extend life indefinitely....Read More
Mouse Studies Show that Longevity Gene May Play a Role In Maintaining Stem Cells in the Brain
Even if you do everything right — exercise, healthy eating, no smoking– whether or not you'll make it to the century mark depends to some extent on your genes. One...Read More
SNPwatch: Mounting Evidence That FOXO3A Contributes To Human Longevity
SNPwatch gives you the latest news about research linking various traits and conditions to individual genetic variations. These studies are exciting because they offer a glimpse into how genetics may...Read More


text:
Please Critique Me
A web design firm based in North Carolina, OnWired, has set up a site called Please Critique Me, where "designers can submit their work and have it reviewed (albeit publicly) by one of their industry peers."
Seems like an interesting idea, especially from a recruiting standpoint.
Anyone used this yet?
What do you think?