text:
Virtual worlds fill the gaps our real lives leave behind.
Now, before everyone grabs their pitchforks and torches, do a little examining as to what baggage you're bringing to that statement, because in truth, the statement is neutral. I don't know anyone who has a perfect life. Even people who have "perfect" lives have moments where they wish something were easier or somehow different.
If you ask people why they maintain Second Life accounts, you will get as many different answers as the people you ask.
However, they all share that one commonality: Second Life allows us to do things that would be physically impossible, logistically difficult, and/or financially prohibitive in real life. What those things are, why they interest an individual, and why they are difficult in real life varies, but the principles remain the same.
That's not a value judgment. It's an observation. Put your torches down.
Several articles have come out recently talking about how in the past several years, Second Life has been actively courting corporate and other real world business concerns at the expense of the majority of residents (account holders) who are primarily there for play and entertainment, to the detriment of the user base. I can see that argument, and I don't really think it's largely untrue.
I think that the powers that be at Linden Lab (who own Second Life) were trying to ensure (perhaps misguidedly) that those same residents continued to have an ever-evolving place to be entertained, due to the influx of cash from big business.
Unfortunately, as Linden Labs has learned, with money from big business comes strings, and with strings come more and more restrictions as to what is acceptable and what isn't. With an entire platform devoted to not only unlimited creativity but unlimited freedom to do as you like (again you can't physically hurt anyone — there's no way to permanently "die" in SL unless your account is deleted), these restrictions haven't been met positively by the user base.
Most people are there to play. They listen to music, they socialize, they have romantic and sexual relationships, they shop, explore, and create. In short, they do a good many of the things they do in real life in their second life as well.
Extroverted people get to socialize with folks from all over the world, and participate in a limitless variety of activities essentially for free, without having to leave their homes (which is especially valuable if they live in remote areas or have a physical disability that limits their movement — I have a friend with a bad back, and SL allows her to get the social time she needs to be psychologically healthy while not endangering her physical health).
Also, it's a way to make up for the lack of the physical presence of your loved ones (I heard a story recently about a military serviceperson who comes into SL whenever he can to have family time with his RL family, including a house, etc. to maintain as much "normalcy" as one can under the circumstances).
It allows ways to experience other cultures and meet people from all around the world (there's a fantastic recreation of Dublin in SL) without the expense of travel, which may be prohibitive. It allows introverted people to control the amount of socializing and face-to-face time they're forced to endure while still allowing them to explore and be creative.
A lot of disparaging things have been said about the way people use virtual worlds over the years. Somehow, by virtue of the fact that [insert activities here" are being done in a virtual world somehow makes them "less," and brands those people as losers or worse. It's nonsense. So let's deconstruct that a little bit.
Sure, there's a lot to laugh about when it comes to pixelated sex, and there is no denying that it isn't the same thing as sex IRL.
But let's look at the upside. It is, 100 percent of the time, safe. No one is going to catch an STD. No one is going to get pregnant. No one is going to wind up with a life altering or potentially fatal medical condition.
In the case of sexual roleplay, such as BDSM or those which take place on some of the roleplay sims, no one will be physically harmed. There will be no trips to the emergency room. You can explore your fantasies (whatever they are) safely.
The slogan of the BDSM community is safe, sane, and consensual, and there's nothing more safe, sane and consensual than sex in a virtual world.
That being said, and because I promised I would mention it, problems do occur when people take their roleplay and decide that everyone on the grid is part of whatever that roleplay is (whether it's sexual or not.)
Just because you've decided you're Lord Gobbledygook and every woman on Earth is your slave doesn't mean that every woman will allow you to continue your little fantasy. Or just because you've decided you're a vampire princess doesn't mean that everyone on the grid is going to address you as "Your Blood Sucking Majesty." The real world rule of "the right time and the right place" still applies, lest you find yourself muted at best, and banned at worst, with a whole range of other things in between.
Still, there's no denying that sex and the industry surrounding it is huge in SL and an enormous money maker. Speaking of…
Most people never actually make a nickel out of Second Life. That doesn't mean that it's impossible.
Where SL differs from other platforms and games (I don't think of SL as a game, which is a long-standing philosophical debate that has been covered innumerable times, even within LL itself) is that it has a real, functional, two-way economy by design.
For most other platforms, you can use RL money to buy game money. That, by the way, is where it stops. Once you've converted real cash into game cash, there is no way to get it back out again.
This is not so in SL and it's very important to understand this. If you buy Lindens (the currency used in SL), you can also sell them back and cash that money out for US dollars.
When you sell things with your SL business, you can take the money you earn and cash it out for real world dollars. This is not only crucial, but really unheard of anywhere else.
Many people fund their entire in-world experience by working in-world, and never using any RL money to fund their second life at all. Several people make an actual, real life income from SL by being content creators. It can be done.
Hundreds of millions of dollars pass through the SL economy each year. But it's not a get rich quick scheme.
Where this falls into my initial premise though is simple: starting a business in real life usually requires a lot of paperwork, a capital investment, perhaps even a loan. It's subject to various strict regulations and taxes.
People can be very creative in SL and start a business with essentially nothing (really, we're talking about an investment of probably less than $5 at most) and if it fails, or you get tired of it, you don't lose much, either. You won't be financially ruined for life.
There's no limit to how many businesses you can own, or (with few exceptions) what kind of business it is. This simply isn't possible for most people in real life. They can't afford to fail, and many can't afford the start-up costs associated with whatever idea they may have had to begin with.
SL allows people to explore those ideas safely, but with little to no restriction on their creativity. That, folks, is awesome.
Sure, people get famous in SL. It's no different than in the real world, honestly.
SL has its celebrities of various types. Linden Labs employees (Hi Torley!), models, musicians, artists, DJs, designers. The list goes on.
But it's also a place where RL celebrities can simply be anonymous. They can interact with people who would otherwise treat them differently if they knew who they were in real life. It's a way to experience normalcy in a virtual world coming from a real life that is decidedly not typical.
Like I said, no one has a perfect life. It's just a matter of perspective.
Oh boy, does SL offer opportunities to be glamorous. You can look like anything you want — and you can change that infinitely on a moment's notice.
Male, to female, to furry, to robot, to animal, to cardboard box, to Kool-Aid man, to a banana. Whatever makes you happy.
Hair color and style? Sure! Eye color? Absolutely. Height, weight, skin tone? Go for it.
Most people in SL don't look anything like their real life self. The reasons why vary, of course, and you get as many of those as people you ask. Some people look quite closely like their RL selves.
A couple of years ago, a friend of mine referenced an academic study that showed a correlation between how closely you resemble your RL self and where you fall on a scale from extroverted to introverted (this theory holds up where I personally am concerned). But in SL you can be as outrageous or subdued, as glamorous or plain as you want at any given moment and what's more, you can do it inexpensively (as covered in my previous article about clothing).
What may be utterly financially prohibitive or downright physically impossible in real life is just a few mouse-clicks away in SL. What's not to like about that?
While it's true that SL can create problems that don't exist in the real world, the only thing that changes is the manner of their delivery, not the problem itself.
People may be unfaithful to their partners in SL, but they do that in RL too. They may behave in ways that get them in trouble in SL, but they do that in RL as well.
There are more similarities than differences, which I suppose is the entire point, and why they're ultimately so successful.
Related reading
Pre-made calendar with over 300 holidays to help plan editorial content
Looking for a holiday calendar to help plan editorial or social media content? Here's a calendar with more than 300 holidays to give you ideas and inspo.
Transformation of Search Summit 2019: Highlight reel
Highlights from the Transformation of Search Summit event, featuring particularly tweetable quotes, statistics, and other interesting insights.


text:
The creation of a template or a document are similar.
The only difference are the settings: for a template you choose the connection types (customer, sales document...), but if you create a document directly you choose the link itself (the client for example).
To create a template, click New redactor template from the Redactor menu.
You can then choose:
The type of contact related to the document:
This is the type of contact that you can link to the document (client, prospect or supplier).
The object type associated with the document:
You can, if you wish, combine data from other objects:
Once your setup made, click Continue. You land in the template design builder.
On the right you'll find the items that you can drag into your template.
These elements are detailed further in the FAQ, along with the page numbering and layout options.
To start, drag a Text block on the model:
To edit content, change the text in Block layout:
You can insert variables using the blue icons in the editor:
The variable is inserted, it will be replaced when the document is processed with real data:
Your changes can be viewed in real time in the template preview:
Save your document, your document is generated in PDF for control and ready for use via the New Document command.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
« Headed to Nashville... | Main | Five Days in Music City! »
July 2, 2007
Alex Ross
I have been following the writing of Alex Ross in The New Yorker, and on his blog, and find him one of the few writers who seems to have a sense of American orchestral life beyond the largest cities. His most recent writings are insightful and very much worth reading, which you can find by clicking here.
Posted by hfogel at July 2, 2007 9:40 AM
Trackback Pings
TrackBack URL for this entry:
I'm pretty sure that the journalists in those cities have a fair idea of what's going on with their orchestras. It's more accurate to say that Ross is one of the few writers with a national readership to have a sense of American orchestras, and one of even fewer whose publication gives him the means to cover such ensembles.
Posted by: Marc Geelhoed at July 3, 2007 4:47 PM
It's great to see that a critic like Ross has taken the time and effort to find out first-hand what's going on beyond the Hudson River.
On another point, how many read Bernard Holland's review of the recent NY Philharmonic concert, conducted by Bramwell Tovey? He touches on a point which Henry raised here a few weeks ago.
QUOTE: "Friday's program at Avery Fisher Hall, led by the conductor and amiable conversationalist Bramwell Tovey, was a chestnut roast from start to finish: a greatest-hits lineup calculated to soothe the brain and slow the heart rate.
It is embarrassing to say, on the other hand, that by avoiding very familiar repertory so strenuously, we end up not playing it much at all. Fearing the obvious, we make the obvious into the rare.
I can't remember the last time I heard Elgar's "Pomp and Circumstance" or Smetana's "Moldau." One noticed details in the Grieg Piano Concerto and Rossini's "William Tell" Overture that over long periods of absence had been forgotten." UNQUOTE
Could it be that Bernie Holland has been reading Henry's blog?
Posted by: Larry Fried at July 4, 2007 1:05 AM
I also read this article by Alex Ross. He illustrates the success stories amongst orchestras that had been ranked lower than their current standing. It is indeed a wonderful facelift to have either a new hall, new conductor or both. I've worked with the Alabama Symphony after it rose from the ashes, and return next January (Leroy Anderson's Concerto) and also see a similar success in the resurgence of the Honolulu Symphony. I worked with that orchestra as far back as 1988, and lastly in 2002. With Andreas Delfs as their new maestro, his presence and amazing abilities will catapult the orchestra to a new level. I agree with Larry Fried regarding familiar repertoire. As for the Grieg Piano Concerto, I performed the well-known work last season, and will play it again on July 11 with a relatively obscure summer festival orchestra in Point Pleasant, NJ--directly on the beach. Alphonse Stephenson, the maestro of Symphony of St. Peter by the Sea, is quite a brilliant chap. He draws huge crowds to take in the beach setting, with a beautiful moon shining over the Atlantic with the top players of the northern NJ region. Most people there know about this gem of a venue, and those in other parts may not. I've been there frequently, and Alphonse always includes those pieces that everyone adores and would expect to see on his programs--yet he always includes works they don't know as well.
Posted by: Jeffrey Biegel at July 5, 2007 6:27 AM
Good site! I'll stay reading! Keep improving!
Posted by: Doe at November 10, 2007 10:41 AM


text: Can I Buy More Domain Names? You can purchase as many domain names as you want. They can all be directed to your web site. Let us know which domain names you would like to purchase and we will acquire the names for you and direct them to your website. Tweet


text: The William D. Hall and Marybelle and Sebastian P. Musco Conservatory of Music is one of the few schools in the nation to offer an undergraduate degree in conducting (BM in performance, conducting emphasis - instrumental). The Hall-Musco Conservatory is unique in that conducting students have the opportunity to conduct a full size orchestra on a regular basis as part of their studies. Instrumental conducting students can potentially work with The Chapman Orchestra and Wind Symphony. In addition, a laboratory orchestra, comprised largely of instrumental performance majors, affords hands-on experience on a weekly basis.


text:
Inside the Zoom Meeting Interface
Stop/Start Video
Find on bottom toolbar. Click ^ next to the video icon to show video settings.
Mute/Unmute Microphone
Find on bottom toolbar. Click ^ next to the microphone icon to show mic settings.
Share Screen
Click Share Screen on bottom toolbar
- Choose to share your; desktop, specific application, whiteboard, camera feed
- All participants in your meeting can share their screen
- During screen sharing you and your attendees can use the Annotation tools for drawing, pointing, highlighting, etc.
Selecting Chat opens a window to the right, where you can chat with everyone or specific participants, and control the participants chat permissions.
Select Share Screen, then Whiteboard. Use the toolbar at the top for annotation tools.
Select Record to start recording. As a host, you can record the meeting to either the Zoom cloud or your local machine.
- Click on the "Record" icon in the toolbar
- Choose to record to the Cloud or Local machine
- Recording controls (Pause, Stop) will appear)
- Recording will process to an .mp4 file once the meeting ends
Leave/End Meeting
Select End Meeting to leave the meeting. If you are the Host, you have the ability to leave the meeting or end the meeting for all.
Additional Tutorials
Tutorial for Screen Sharing and Annotations:
Tutorial for Recording:


text:
"Uncle" Roy laid it down in our interview for the upcoming film "Diary Of A Decade". He got so excited by the end of the interview that he said he would ask Gil Scott Heron to interview with us for the film. It's a monumental piece on Black music and we look forward to everyone seeing it.
"FunkJazz Kafé®: DIARY OF A DECADE" [New Film Trailer] from FunkJazz Kafé®/Life Arts Films on Vimeo.


text:
Store Manager: Roberto Varela
Sonic, America's Drive-In started as a hamburger and root beer stand in 1953 in Shawnee, Oklahoma, called Top Hat Drive-In, and then changed its name to Sonic in 1959. The first drive-in to adopt the Sonic name is still serving customers in Stillwater, Oklahoma. As the nation's largest chain of drive-in restaurants, Sonic has more than 3,500 drive-ins in 43 states coast to coast serving approximately 3 million customers every day. With more drink combinations than any other quick-service restaurant (398,929), Sonic is Your Ultimate Drink Stop.
Location: Level Two


text:
The Scriptorium Pens Custom Order Price List is provided in a pdf format via the link below. Shipping is a separate cost and is not included in these prices.
♦ Click Here to View & Print the Scriptorium Pens Price List
♦ Click Here to View and Print the Customer Worksheet/Order Form to help you create your perfect pen!


text:
Interaction 2000
PRINT's Digital Design Annual – Interaction 2000, Rockville, MD, has included Tom Fowler, Inc. in its upcoming annual that specifically addresses today's emerging digital design area. We are pleased to have the animated version of the LYNX logo we created for Unilever Home & Personal Care – USA selected as a winner in this prestigious competition. The logo was designed for the in-house artwork management system at Unilever Home & Personal Care – USA.


text:
Bicycle Lights
The 2019 range of LED Bicycle Lights – called the+ (Plus) Range – are better equipped and purpose built with the South African cyclist in mind. What sets us apart is the detail going into the design. No other lights can compare in our conditions and uses.
The best of the best: 2019 Baviaans Bicycle Light launched. Our brightest bicycle light yet at 3600 Lumen - a wide hotspot fading into a 180-degree wide beam. More on the Baviaans.
Unsure which light is best for you?
Extreme Lights has a large selection of bicycle light accessories, which are interchangeable between all the lights.
Most of our LED Bicycle Lights are rechargeable and come equipped with a charger and a sturdy carry case, which is ideal for storage.
What runtimes will my bicycle light get on various battery sizes?
- Page 1 of 2
- Next


text:
Teri is a 5 month old black & tan bitch. She was bought from a pet shop just before Christmas.
Teri came into rescue due to not getting on with the other Dobermann bitch in the house, and therefore looking for a home where she will be the only dog. She's good with other dogs when outside the home.
Teri is good with people and used to children of 7 years old plus.
We are happy to announce that Teri is now in her new home.


text:
Hand Forged Wrought Iron Under Cabinet Mount Paper Towel Holder. Made to be Mounted to the Bottom of Kitchen Cabinets. Grape Leaves Flow From Solid Round Hammered Steel Bar. Hardware to Hang Under Cabinets Included. Designed and Handmade in the USA by High Country Iron LLC.
All High Country Iron Products are Solid, Forged and/or Welded Wrought Iron. They do Not Come Apart. They are Not Adjustable.
Ready to Ship Item.


text:
When bugsly is traveling, you can reach her via email.
The Day of the Packages
This morning my Dad, Michael and I went out to mail boxes home. What we found out was that it is really expensive to do that. But we had to, so we did. Then we went to see Chislehurst Caves and had a tour down into the deep caves. It wasn't cold at all, but the echoes were impressive. The layout is a grid, almost like New York City (giggle giggle), but it's much easier to get lost in. When we got back to Grandma Rachel's it was almost time for everyone to arrive for Passover dinner.
Dinner was great and there was lots of good food to eat. Michael and I helped Grandma Rachel make some chocolate chip meringue cookies that were particularly tasty. The time seemed to fly by and before we knew it, it was time to say our goodbyes and go to bed.
There are three types of "Kiwi's" in New Zealand. Kiwi birds, Kiwi fruit and the New Zealanders call themselves "Kiwis"!
Want more information? Check out my brothers blog travelingmichael.com


text:
C.O.O.L.™ Forest Project
SR1 works with Forest Elementary, which is located in Forest, MS. We work with K-4th grade students; mostly African Americans and Hispanics. The days we work with the students are Tuesdays and Thursdays. On these days, we tutor the students on a variety of literacy skills in the morning from 9 a.m.-noon, during class time. We also have members to work with the students in the evenings from 2:30-5 p.m. The great part is, we get to work with Forest on more than just literacy skills; we get to do Soccer For Success, promoting healthy lifestyles through soccer, as well.


text:
SpeedyCat express services
Brisbane City Council's new SpeedyCats provide more than 100 peak-hour express services along the Brisbane River each week (excluding weekends and public holidays). A range of services stop at UQ St Lucia, West End, Guyatt Park, North Quay, Riverside, Teneriffe, Apollo Road and Northshore Hamilton.
SpeedyCats provide the first-ever express services to UQ St Lucia and almost halve travel times for passengers travelling between Teneriffe and Riverside. Passengers can also go from UQ St Lucia to North Quay in as little as 15 minutes.
We're using our fleet of CityCats to deliver SpeedyCats, with the new services helping you get to your destination quicker and safer. SpeedyCats deliver on our commitment to provide residents with a world-class public transport network.
A new timetable, incorporating SpeedyCat services, is now available on the TransLink website.


text:
"The Steinway piano allows me to sound as good as I can, confident of having a great instrument to perform on. It allows me to articulate my musical ideas as I intend them. It brings out the orchestral quality of my playing. The sound inspires my musical ideas like no other instrument."
Mike Longo


text:
2017-2018 Maine Maritime Academy Men's Golf News
Moir Guides Mariners at Wildcat Spring InvitationalApril 22, 2018Joey Moir (Bangor, Maine) led Maine Maritime Academy golf at the two-day Wildcat Spring Invitational hosted by Johnson & Wales University.
Mersch Leads Mariners at Hampton Inn Collegiate InviteApril 14, 2018Maine Maritime Academy golf finished 18th out of 18 teams at the two-day Hampton Inn Collegiate Invite hosted by University of Massachusetts – Dartmouth, with an overall team score of 705.
Maine Maritime Student-Athletes Honored at Regimental Awards BanquetApril 10, 2018A number of Maine Maritime Academy student-athletes were honored at last month's Regimental Awards, held on Monday, March 26.
SCHEDULE ALERT: GolfMarch 20, 2018The McDaniel Invitational scheduled for Saturday and Sunday at The Bridges Golf Course has been cancelled due to weather. The Mariners were scheduled to travel to Pennsylvania to compete at the two-day tournament, but will now look to return to action on April 13 and 14 at the Hampton Inn Collegiate Invitational at the Allendale Country Club.
19 Mariners Named NAC Fall All-AcademicJanuary 31, 201819 members of Maine Maritime Academy's fall sports teams were named to the North Atlantic Conference Fall All-Academic Team.
Mariners Land 66 Student-Athletes on ECAC 2017 Fall Academic Honor RollJanuary 26, 2018Maine Maritime Academy landed 66 student-athletes on the Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC) 2017 Fall Academic Honor Rolls.
Moir and Whittemore Named in NAC All-Conference AwardsOctober 18, 2017Maine Maritime Academy's junior Joey Moir (Bangor, Maine) has been named to the North Atlantic Conference (NAC) Second Team and senior Chase Whittemore (Skowhegan, Maine) has been named to the NAC Sportsmanship Team for the second year in a row.
Moir Guides Maine Maritime to Fourth Place Finish at NAC ChampionshipOctober 16, 2017Maine Maritime Academy golf finished fourth at the 2017 North Atlantic Conference Championship at the Berkshire Hills Country Club, led by junior Joey Moir (Bangor, Maine) who finished in a three-way tie for 11th place with a two-day total of 161.
Moir Leads Mariners After Day One of NAC ChampionshipOctober 15, 2017Maine Maritime Academy golf is tied for fourth placed after day one of the 2017 North Atlantic Conference (NAC) Championship at the Berkshire Hills Country Club. Junior Joey Moir carded a 79 (+7) to tie for seventh overall among the 43 golfers.
2017 NAC Men's Golf Championship PreviewOctober 13, 2017Maine Maritime Academy golf prepares for the 2017 North Atlantic Conference Men's Golf Championship on Sunday and Monday, October 15 and 16, hosted by Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA) at the Berkshire Hills Country Club.
Mariners Finish Third at Colby College ClassicOctober 08, 2017Chase Whittemore (Skowhegan, Maine) and Chance Whittemore (Skowhegan, Maine) combined for a 73 to lead Maine Maritime Academy golf to a third place team finish at Sunday's Colby College Classic at the Waterville Country Club.
Moir Leads Maine Maritime at Mariner InvitationalOctober 05, 2017Joey Moir carded a 75 (+5) at Thursday's Mariner Invitational to finish second overall out of 37 golfers and lead Maine Maritime Academy to a fourth place finish at the Augusta Country Club.
Mariners Finish Sixth at UNE InvitationalSeptember 26, 2017Erich Klopfer (Palm Harbor, Fla.) and Joey Moir (Bangor, Maine) each carded a 79 to lead Maine Maritime Academy golf on Tuesday at the University of New England Invitational.
Mariners Finish Fifth at Husson InvitationalSeptember 24, 2017Erich Klopfer (Palm Harbor, Fla.) led the Maine Maritime Academy golf team during the two-day Husson Invitational at the Bangor Municipal Golf Course with a 12th place finish.
Mariners Sixth at MEIGA Championships; Chance Whittemore 12thSeptember 17, 2017Chance Whittemore (Skowhegan, Maine) shot 83 and a career-low 73 for a two-round total of 156, earning 12th place in the field of 50 golfers competing at the Maine State Golf Association Collegiate Championships. Whittemore paced Maine Maritime to a sixth place finish among the 10 Maine colleges competing.
Mariners Place Seventh at UMF InvitationalSeptember 13, 2017Maine Maritime Academy golf placed seventh on Wednesday at the UMaine-Farmington Invitational with a combined team score of 334.
D'Auria and Mersch Named NAC Rookies of the WeekSeptember 11, 2017Maine Maritime Academy volleyball's Jessica D'Auria was named the North Atlantic Conference Volleyball Rookie of the Week and golf's Connor Mersch was named the NAC Golf Rookie of the Week.
Klopfer Leads Mariners to Victory Against UMaine-Presque IsleSeptember 09, 2017Erich Klopfer (Palm Harbor, Fla.) carded a 79 to lead Maine Maritime Academy golf over UMaine-Presque Isle on Saturday.
Mersch Leads Mariners to Fourth at John Queenan Memorial TournamentSeptember 05, 2017Maine Maritime Academy golf finished fourth with a 325 card at the season opening John Queenan Memorial Tournament hosted by Saint Joseph's College of Maine on Tuesday at the Point Sebago Golf Resort.
Season Preview: Men's GolfSeptember 04, 2017The Mariners will kick off their 2017-18 season on September 5 the John Queenan Memorial Golf Tournament hosted by Saint Joseph's College of Maine.
2017-18 Maine Maritime Academy Golf Schedule ReleasedAugust 01, 2017The 2017-18 Maine Maritime Academy golf schedule has been announced.


text:
A will provides the heirs of your estate with instruction in how to distribute the assets of your estate; sounds pretty dry and uninteresting. Unfortunately for many, it is only after a person dies that the will, or lack thereof, becomes interesting. By then, it's too late.
Most people know they should have a will, but they tend to put it off, especially if they are young. They may have been to very few funerals and not known many people who have died. They think wills and estate planning are for the future and they have plenty of time before they need to consider such things.
Estate planning helps people anticipate and manage the legal and practical aspects of problems ranging from the inevitable to the unexpected: death in the family, incapacity, disability, long-term living assistance, business succession or care of minor children. Proper estate planning ensures you have a plan in place if something unexpected happens.
Stranger Than Fiction
Many people "never get around to it." Even those who should know better. Alwin Ernst, one of the founding partners of the national accounting firm of Ernst & Young, died without a will and an estate plan. His estate totaled $12,600,000 at his death, but due to the lack of planning, his estate paid $7,100,000 in tax.
What if I'm not Worth Millions?
You may think because you don't have an estate worth millions that you don't need a will or estate planning. You may think that the guidelines of the intestate succession statutes distribute assets in the same way you would, so there is no need for a will. Maybe, maybe not.
If you have children or if you have specific interests, such as charities, then you need a will. A will can indicate who would become the guardian of your children, and detail the charity you wish to benefit with a gift.
Who Gets What?
Another important, but little discussed, function of a will is the distribution of what is known as "personal property." Personal property is all the stuff that isn't cash, securities, bank accounts or real estate. Your furniture, china, jewelry, guns, tools, clothing, photographs, paintings and anything else tangible that belongs to you would be considered personal property.
While you are living, you may have told one of your children they can have a favorite aunt's china. Maybe a few years later, you tell another one of your children, they can have the same china. You forget about both conversations. They don't.
These scenarios are not infrequent, and cause a great deal of unnecessary strife in families. A will permits a person to provide detailed instructions for the distribution of such personal property. Children may be unhappy, but at least they can't argue it wasn't what mom or dad wanted.
Even if you have what you believe to be a simple estate, speak with an experienced estate planning attorney. They can review your situation and provide knowledgeable advice, allowing you to make informed decisions on the type of estate planning instruments you need.


text:
Sold Out
This longer and wider Athletic maxTowel is designed to provide the maximum absorbency and the largest coverage. Made with Towel Dry Tech technology, it absorbs twice as much as standard cotton towels and dries in half the time. At 30" wide and 84" long, this towel is bigger than traditional towels, keeping you covered. Ideal for hot yoga and traditional practices.
Measurements: 30" wide x 84" long
Materials: Hypoallergenic, non-permeable microfiber
Helpful Tip: Before practice, lightly spray the towel with water to enhance grip and performance.


text:
Zone 3 is the UK leading triathlon/swim wet suit brand, positioned right at the heart of the sports grassroots and worn by over 20% of triathletes at Britain. Zone 3 is currently available in some 30 countries worldwide through a network of distributors, retailers and direct sales (including Singapore).
Zone 3 was founded in 2007 and from day one, performance has always been primary. Zone 3 products have always achieved the highest industry reviews based on speed, comfort, price point and innovation; from 220 Triathlon Magazine's first ever 10/10 wet suit rating, to Triathlete Magazine's "Best in Class" award. Zone 3 work closely with athletes, putting customer at the centre of everything they do and this 'product-first' philosophy ensures that you'll be in the best performing product, whether that's on the start line, in training or leisure.
Zone 3 doesn't only use sports technology and lab testing but, more importantly, listen to customers and use their feedback to further improve the range. They spend a huge amount of time researching cutting edge materials to make sure that their customers are using the highest performance technologies possible.
Every fabric and panel is carefully selected and designed to maximize the customer experience and thanks to this attention to detail, Zone 3 have become the number one selling brand in the UK and one of the fastest growing in Europe.
Zone3 is now available at Durasafe Suntec store and www.durasafestore.com.sg
19 January 2020
2 August 2020
All year round!


text:
Though decriminalization doesn't guarantee an end to violent organized crime in the Americas, it could free up government resources and potentially divert profits away from traffickers, supporters say. And it's not only Latin American governments that are seriously contemplating the idea: regional business leaders are starting to speak out in favor of the controversial policy change as well." read more
The MexicoBlog of the CIP Americas Program monitors and analyzes international press on Mexico with a focus on the US-backed War on Drugs in Mexico and the struggle in Mexico to strengthen the rule of law, justice and protection of human rights. Relevant political developments in both countries are also covered.
Feb 16, 2012
Drug war debate: A new voice--businessmen who are feeling the pinch
CSMonitor.com: "Legalizing drugs in an effort to combat organized crime, narcotrafficking and gang violence in Latin America has gained traction in recent months. Presidents from Guatemala and Colombia have raised the possibility of legalization in their countries and the region, with politicians from Costa Rica, Mexico and El Salvador joining the debate.
Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)


text:
10Jun 2014
The Undying Voice of Julius Gordon – Part 9
Posted by Daniel Sharp / in Lore / 18 comments
[This is the last post/part to this collaborative story. You can start Part 1 and read it from the beginning. Thanks again to Josh Conner for working on this awesome story with me!]


text:
BAFTA Young Game Designers autism friendly workshop
This workshop will help 11–18-year-olds develop their game ideas in a quiet and relaxed environment.
From Early Years to Key Stage 4 and beyond, the National Science and Media Museum provides stunning opportunities to learn about the principles of light and sound and the science behind photography, film and television.
Inspire your class with our exciting interactive science shows, workshops and galleries, experience a documentary in our spectacular IMAX cinema, or explore our learning resources.
This workshop will help 11–18-year-olds develop their game ideas in a quiet and relaxed environment.
Experience a year in the life of hundreds of dinosaurs as they face the challenges of a changing world.
Follow orphaned orang-utans and elephants, and meet the extraordinary people who care for these incredible animals.
Enjoy technology in action in our brilliantly retro Games Lounge. Play your way through gaming history with classic games, from Pac-Man to Super Mario Kart.


text:
Have you ever tried mountain biking? Millions say that it's the most electrifying sport around the world and many people have started their career as mountain bike riders. It's not just a hobby, for many people it's more than a sport and passion toward the sport is eternal. However, mountain biking isn't just for experienced riders, even you can kick-start ...Read More »
Monthly Archives: March 2017
Schools and Colleges may follow a no-gadget move in the upcoming days
Many people these days think about the reasons behind the unequal distribution of successful educational institutions that do not properly contribute to inward migration to states where the best educational institutions available. They have to understand and bear in mind that the overall cut-off marks for selection in such educational institution touches 100% or near an ideal score in particular ...Read More »
Simple Hacks for Men's Fashion
When it comes to fashion, it looks like we always want more, more, more. Not every guyhas the time to do a major precondition so here are few fashion hacks and grooming tips and tricks that you can apply to improve your appearance without spending too much money or time. Maintain your jeans by freezing it Cleaning your denim regularly ...Read More »
Interesting Facts About Formula One
Do you know how "formula one" started? Formula one was officially recognized in the year 1946 and the world driver's championship was made official in 1947.The formula itself refers to the set of rules to the participants who owns the car for racing. It was originally called Formula A and was inspired by the ancient motor race which emerged from ...Read More »
Top 7 Adventurous Places to Discover in the US
You would be watching sports just for fun, sooner or later your passion toward the sports would be eternal. Generally, sports would make you compel, move, cry for loss, celebrate for the victory, and sometimes it might glower. Sports cause the best among everyone to blight your own root interest and turn irrational over the time and occurrence. Nothing can ...Read More »


text:
Due to the amount of water my tank evaporates each week I am going to put in a mains fed auto top up.
Now my question is as its going to be mains fed there is no way to put in Tap safe solution so I was thinking about an inline filter.
I have been looking at this filter from QVS as it would do 2 things fill tank and give me good drinking water but I can not find out what this filter removes from the water.
This is the product in question
http://www.qvsdirect.com/Bayhall-Filter ... 17926.html


text:
PE Update
Choosing a secondary school is a big decision and we know you will have many questions to ask about the academy and how we are going to give your child the best possible educational experience. We hope we can answer your queries in this prospectus but can we also take this opportunity to offer you an open invitation to come and find out more about what we have to offer at Workington Academy.
Workington Academy Prospectus 2016 (.pdf)
Related posts


text:
You can probably tell but I adore colors, especially pastel shades. I looked through my closet recently and counted 3 pink skirts and 5 pairs of pink shoes. I wasn't a big fan of pink growing up (I preferred blue) but somehow as an adult I ended up with a bunch of pink clothing and accessories.
I don't usually wear black unless it's an accessory like tights or leggings. But sometimes I do like the neutrality of black in my outfits because I can't be a pastel rainbow all the time. This particular outfit consists of a black sweater and one of my favorite skirts from ModCloth. I love the pale pink color and it instantly makes an outfit feel more like something you would wear for a special occasion, even if I'm wearing just a plain t-shirt with it. The sweater is from the label Dear Creatures, and I got it at a sample sale this past summer, which you can read about here.
Do you guys have a favorite color you tend to wear a lot?
Sweater: old, Dear Creatures
Skirt: ModCloth
Tights: old, Forever21
Shoes: Bait Footwear
4 comments on "outfit: pretty in pink"
I love this outfit! I actually have the same skirt, except mine's silver. And those tights are adorable–lately I've been getting more into printed tights, so these are right up my alley. 🙂
Hanh, this is such a cute outfit! And sorry for the random late comment lol. I love that skirt and top!
I love those tights paired with the shoes. This is a beautiful outfit! <3
– Anna


text:
Don't watch your electrical personnel troubleshoot by replacing components.
Gibbstown, NJ (PRWEB) May 23, 2014
The Delaware Valley Safety Council (DVSC), in conjunction with Shermco Industries, has released course dates for Shermco's popular "Troubleshooting and Electrical Print Reading" class to be held at both DVSC locations. From June 3rd through June 5th the class will be taught at DVSC-DE located at 130 Executive Drive, Suite 5, Newark, DE 19702. From July 8th through July 10th the class will be conducted at DVSC-NJ located at Gloucester County College, 1492 Tanyard Road, Sewell, NJ 08080.
Students can register by going online at http://www.dvsconline.org and accessing the "Electrical Training" section. Select "How To Register" and the registration form is available to complete, download and email. Further questions can be answered by contacting DVSC Administration at dvscadministration(at)comcast(dot)net.
Troubleshooting and Electrical Print Reading
Duration: 24 Contact Hours
Tuition: $880.00
Who Should Attend:
Electrical technicians, field engineers, electrical estimators, project managers, inspectors, contractors, and journeyman electricians who depend on effective skills and knowledge of print reading.
Course Description:
This 3-day course will prepare your electrical personnel to troubleshoot from electrical prints. Maintenance and technical personnel at commercial, industrial and military installations will benefit from this training. Don't watch your electrical personnel troubleshoot by replacing components. This program will teach them how to effectively interpret the most common types of electrical prints and drawings (one-lines and three-lines, legends and schematics) and slash their troubleshooting time. Attendees are encouraged to bring examples of their prints to use during practical exercises. Low, medium and high-voltage systems are covered, as well as specific needs of the students.
Lab Time and Prerequisites:
Hands-on (~30%) training program augmented with round-table discussions.
Course Outline:
I. Print Reading Basics
A. Legends
B. Electrical symbols
C. Basic layout
D. Practical exercise using example prints
II. One-Line Diagrams
A. Purpose
B. Types
C. Interpretation and use
D. Practical exercise using one-lines
III. Elementary Diagrams
A. Purpose
B. Interpretation and use
C. Practical exercise using elementary diagrams
IV. Schematics
A. Purpose
B. Interpretation and use
C. Practical exercise using schematics
V. Field Exercise Using Prints and Local Facilities


text:
Start teaching with 3D printing now
Make it easy and take your K-8 school's first steps into 3D printing with Makers Empire.
All the professional development, teacher resources, tools and equipment from the one place.
Makers Empire 3D Printing Learning Program comprises of:
– Software (iPad/Android/Win/Mac/Chromebooks) – easy enough for 5 year olds to use
– Teacher's Dashboard – to manage students and classes
– Professional Development – to understand not only how to use the hardware/software but also how it will fit in the curriculum
– Lesson plans – aligned to standards
– Data analytics – monitor students' progress and engagement with weekly reports
We also resell 3D printers (ask about HEPA air filtration) for a complete 3D printing solution for your school in US, Australia and selected countries
Take the next step and discover how easy it is.
What teachers think
"The lesson plans provide authentic learning experiences that help our teachers integrate 3D printing and encourages our students to print with a purpose. We appreciated that the Makers Empire trainers were dedicated educators, with former classroom teaching experience. They helped our teachers understand how to use the printers and program but most importantly how to thoughtfully integrate the application in the classroom."
"My department was searching for applications and curriculum that would align to the common core standards. We found reference to [Makers Empire] on the web and reached out to see if what they were doing would meet our needs... We were impressed that they were addressing the use of 3D printing not simply as an endpoint but as a true curriculum enabling tool. We simply had not found anyone else doing the work required to create quality educational activities... The New York State Teacher Centers and the New York Institute of Technology have been working with Makers Empire on what has turned out to be a transformational pilot with New York State Schools... The Makers Empire pilot has provided the beacon for schools to follow that are opening opportunities for students that simply were not on the table before the pilot."
"...wonderful day. I heard a few teachers talking about this being the best professional learning day they have done in their careers! Great job, we are planning to share with the Governing Council and run a parent information night to follow this up."
"Makers Empire has been a great tool for many of my students that find other CAD software difficult... Originally I started with my whole class using TinkerCAD. However, when given the choice many of my students gravitated to Makers Empire. I'm not sure if they prefer using the touch screen on the tablets to manipulate their designs, the gamification, or something else, but many have been successful with it and have made some great designs!"
"The teacher resources were comprehensive and supported the easy implementation of the lesson. The Makers Empire 3D design app made sophisticated designing available and accessible to young students. They were totally engaged as they designed their very own 3D Hungry Caterpillar."
3dprinting with no experience? No cad modelling skills required? Anyone can create a 3dprintable design in under 5 minutes? Sounds like a dream come true and that is now a reality with the release of Makers Empire 3dprinting software ... Makers Empire allows users with no experience of 3d design, to create models from scratch in a matter of minutes... a game changer. Every child can succeed regardless of ability."
"...when I started using Makers Empire with the kids they really took to it. I think that we had 5,000 designs within a month's time! What is really nice about Makers Empire is it's the first time that the students are actually creating something. We've had a 3D printer and stuff going on four or five years now (but) the students didn't really create (anything) original... But with Makers Empire, each student had all of these different unique creations... Makers Empire is a game changer... There's a lot of software out there but Makers Empire has incorporated so many different features. With the challenges and then the tutorials built in, no one else has that."
"At Scotch College Adelaide, 3D printing has been integrated into the Year 6 curriculum during the past 12 months. The pupils really enjoy utilising 3D printing technology in the classroom and the session provided by Makers Empire allowed the students to showcase their knowledge and creativity. This was yet another opportunity for our students to extend their learning."
"I have worked with several (different) design software but Makers Empire is the easiest to use... One of the best things students learned is that it is okay to not get the "right" answer the first time, or second time. Students know that "failing" is part of the design process and problem-solving. Students have expanded their problem-solving skills to think more outside of the box."
"I've been astounded at how much the students using (Makers Empire) have developed over the last 18 months. The kinds of design they're doing now are very sophisticated. I give them a design brief and the extent to which they take it always surprises me. Using (Makers Empire) has really accelerated their learning."
"It was an absolute delight to have you work with my Foundation (5 year old) students. They're still talking about the experience! ... What you presented to the children was fantastic! Thank you for presenting an age appropriate and engaging lesson. The lesson was scaffolded to suit the needs of Foundation students and the students felt so proud to have independently designed their own dinosaur and key ring."
"The Year 7 class at Westminster Preparatory School had a fantastic time... Students had the opportunity to design and create their own 3D object. This was a great way for them to learn about the design process from both concept to production. We believe this technology has a place in student learning and fits in nicely with the Australian Curriculum and many levels of primary education."
"As a school we need to ensure we provide as many broad opportunities as possible to promote and prepare our students to be life-long learners. Many of the jobs that exist today will be obsolete by the time our children enter the workforce. As a school we are excited by the creative and innovative opportunities the relationship with Makers Empire will bring through 3D design and printing."
"...we looked extensively for a software program that was inclusive of all learning styles. The 3D design & printing app is brilliant in the way it allows students to start at a level that's suited to previous learning and nurtures their journey forward. The developed lesson plans can be delivered explicitly to the class or used as individual tutorials and we feel confident in the notion that we are addressing the ACARA performance standards."
"I just wanted to let you know that Makers is up and running and the girls have come up with some wonderful ideas. I had them complete a design brief, first outlining something they'd like to design, create, manipulate etc. To help them do this I had them think of something that annoys them, they love, helps them, could potentially make life easier etc."
'I found Makers Empire to be incredibly user-friendly. In particular, it was very "school" friendly. There are very easy processes for children of all ages and literacy levels to log onto their accounts saving so much time and stress... the learning is in the process, not the product. You could very successfully use Makers Empire without ever actually printing anything (but it is a lot more fun and exciting when you can print it!)... All unit plans have direct links to the curriculum including the Digital Technologies curriculum. The deeper I delve into using Makers Empire the more opportunities I see for using maths in an authentic manner, particularly when using the Shaper app with measurements, shapes etc."
"This is an exciting initiative which we foresee will enrich the learning experience of Scots boys. The usefulness of the 3D equipment to the students is evident as their visualisations become reality."
"I loved that (Makers Empire) had built-in learning experiences for kids and that I could see their progress without having to touch their devices. The fact that it also had built in lessons with videos and standards was also a bonus... the challenges as you are setting up the account are great to let kids get their feet wet in the app... Students used Makers Empire during a party station and LOVED it… they then asked to stay in at recess to do more of it and skip(ped) the other stations of the party."
"We are currently using Makers Empire with the whole of year 5 at the moment and have brought a second 3D printer to keep up!! The Learning Support Platform and its new design looks awesome, the functionality, navigation and amount of information available is excellent. Thanks!"
"I have seen numerous benefits from our 'Nature Play' project and other 3D printing learning we have undertaken at Blakeview Primary School. During our 3D design lessons on the iPads using Makers Empire, the most significant benefit I have noticed has been the increase in student engagement. I have witnessed an increase in teamwork and positive interactions between students, which involved the sharing of learning and discoveries between groups. Students were able to work together to collaborate on projects and use each other's varying strengths. They offered guidance and gave each other constructive feedback on what they liked about other designs and gave helpful suggestions for improvement, which promoted the persistence required to perfect their designs. Students also developed their spatial awareness through the ability to transfer and manipulate their 2D design plans and reproduce them into 3D design models... The success and accomplishment that was felt by solving a real-world problem with our 'Nature Play' project was incredible. The students that were involved feel a strong connection to the space and are proud of how their small idea and hopes turned into something real that could be enjoyed by the whole school and members of the community."
"Students have been learning about creating stories and developing characters. The students designed a character on their iPads, which were then printed using the latest 3D printing technology. Together with their buddies from Scotch (College), the students videoed their stories using their 3D characters and backdrops as settings. The narratives that took place between the students as they created their stories were very entertaining."
"Though I plan to expand to other classes in the future, I predominantly use Makers Empire with my Science classes. I give students parameters and allow them to go through the Engineering Design Process. In Science classes, students have created plant and animal cells, aircraft, and aliens for classification... Since students have a variety of eye conditions and useable sight, we have had to become creative in using Makers Empire. Some students pair up together to share strengths. Some prefer using the iPad with zoom, while others prefer using the computer with or without assistive technology features like zoom, JAWS, and/or Fusion. Some students like using Makers Empire on the SmartBoard and others like to team up with a teacher and describe ideas... Our students really excel with 3D models, but using a 2D method to create 3D is a challenge for students... though Makers Empire is more geared towards students that are middle school and younger, I find that my students with Visual Impairments of all ages are able to use it because it is a bit easier to use with fewer complicated pieces that add to the visual distractions."
"We are certainly excited to begin investigating the possibilities this will open up to our students in multiple areas of the curriculum. The Makers Empire app makes it easy for our students to begin designing and appraising their creations and then gives them immediate feedback with the end result being their very own 3D model."
"...our staff were genuinely impressed... The Makers Empire 3D printing iPad app exceeded our expectations. The design and creative elements of this software have been carefully designed to engage children while opening up numerous educational opportunities and learning experiences. We loved the Teacher (Dashboard) with its support, ideas and integration of the Australian Curriculum. A great way to expose our students to this rapidly emerging technology that will have a significant impact on their lives."
From the beginning, the students had no trouble. They absolutely loved it... The students' favorite part was going from the computer screen to something they can hold in their hand...It's always better if you can give students an authentic reason to communicate."
"In the future 3D printing will be as simple as 2D printing... but its effect on industry will be much greater. Through designing 3D models and printing them out, students understand the importance of maintaining a balance between practicality and creativity. Makers Empire is a great app for students... and will lead to a brighter future."
"(Makers Empire) is another avenue that allows me to incorporate STREAM into my daily lessons. It adds another layer to the curriculum allowing us to dive deeper into the curriculum from a different standpoint – 3D printing... Makers Empire excites students. They love working with it and look forward to it... (it) allows students to feel successful if they do not feel successful in other areas. It is nice to see students who do not typically excel academically feel success... I love that the kids love it and that they are able to create and design in such a fashion."
"Our students study key concepts and discover knowledge of the world around them through an enquiry-driven approach to learning. Design and 3D printing with Makers Empire will help support our students develop important skills such as design thinking, problem solving and critical analysis."
"As part of their science studies, our grade 5 students designed their own pulleys in Makers Empire 3D design app using mathematical shapes. By allowing students to create 3D printing designs we provide them with an authentic learning experience whilst also working with tomorrow's advanced manufacturing technology in 3D printing."
"The kids just fly...The software makes it easy – if the software was more difficult it wouldn't work as well. It's at the right level for the reception students but it's also not too easy for the upper primary kids. It's a good start-off point... My class will go into another class — junior primary, middle primary or upper primary — and will partner one on one with the other students and help them learn how to use the software... My kids love helping the other students... Just to see the students faces light up during lessons is so good."
"It is important to prepare our students with a world-class education through a curriculum integrated with academic training and practical learning. Tomorrow's international currency includes developing skills in STEAM through society transforming technology such as 3D printing. Our students develop international perspectives, creativity, and social awareness for the 21st century."
"The (3D printing) lesson plans are really good. While they're designed around the Makers Empire software, they're actually designed around the design cycle. This is important is that it's actually saying to kids, here's a design cycle that has these steps in it: you have a thought, you make a plan, you design it, you print it, you check it, and then you go back and you improve it. It's driving kids to think about the design cycle."
"The Professor Garfield Foundation has been a leading advocate of high quality curriculum for over a decade. We strive to find outstanding educational partners who know how to connect with students and teachers alike. The last worldwide 3D printing competition Makers Empire conducted with us was a prime example of how they can make learning fun and meaningful by challenging students to use their creativity and ingenuity."
"We've been using Makers Empire throughout the college and in Technology lessons for a while now, but this was the first time we used it in our classroom with our year 7s. The students thoroughly enjoyed the game-like structure of the program and were keen to work through levels to unlock parts for their designs... when we found the Global Design Program that Makers Empire ran, we were incredibly keen to connect with other schools... The learning that occurred from this project was invaluable and more than just curriculum based. Whilst the students learned about livability from researching and designing parts of a city that adhere to Mercers Quality of Living Factors, they learned about what living and cities are like in China from first-person conversations and experiences – a far deeper intercultural understanding than what they could possibly gain from textbooks and the internet."
"The software has lesson plans based on many state standards with many modules to choose from. Maker's Empire can be used to teach science, math and even art, K-12. The 3D-printing course was not as challenging as the grade level I was given — first graders!... However, their enthusiasm and absolute thirst for knowledge is awesome to see. They blaze through the challenging 3D lesson plans… Seeing the students faces when the IT team at BPY brings the 3D prints to the classroom is just something I can't describe. The best part is while walking in the hallway with the huge iPad cart, some eighth graders ask who made that. I point to the first graders, who grin ear to ear."
"Our students were riveted by the magic of this new technology! Watching their creations come to life they were spellbound, and we had to literally pry them away from the computers when the session ended."
"Redlands has been using Makers Empire to support the students' creative writing efforts. Students were asked to design a character or an object using the Makers Empire software. After this creative process, students had to justify the design attributes of their character or object in writing. Students became actively involved in the creative process which helped inform their writing process. Makers Empire is a great hook before a writing task."
"I think it is great because it integrates so many curriculum areas that we have to do in a busy classroom. You have got your maths, science, you can do literacy, then you have also got your digital technology and design technology, and art as well... We are in an ever-changing world and we all have to keep up."
"The students love it. They picked it up very quickly. Now, they are better at it than I am!"
"Makers Empire is friendly towards all ability groups and help engage students who are less motivated to be working in the classroom. It gives students the opportunity to be creative and learn by trial and error in a digital format. On paper some students get disheartened when drawing designs and have to erase mistakes and makes their work look messy. Using this program it is simple to remove mistakes. I think this has been a fantastic tool to have in the classroom. I have many teacher friends and have actually shown them the program and they are all very impressed."
"This was the best PD that I have been involved in for ages... This whole project has been inspiring for teachers and students in empowering students to become change makers. Our students were so engaged and excited about solving a real world problem... The fact that they could see they could help someone through their own design, meant their learning was authentic and valued."
"I think the lesson plans are fantastic for teachers - especially those who may find the hardest part being the inspiration/ideas on where to start...The Makers Empire app is a MASSIVE value add to the learning. We could have taught children how to design an iPad stand, learn what makes a structure strong, what are strong 'shapes', how to keep an item balanced etc etc etc - but the ability to create their design in 3D AND then print it makes the learning so much more obtainable and relevant/real."
3dprinting with no experience? No cad modelling skills required? Anyone can create a 3dprintable design in under 5 minutes? Sounds like a dream come true and that is now reality with the release of Makers Empire 3dprinting software ... Makers Empire allows users with no experience of 3d design, to create models from scratch in a matter of minutes... The teaching resources have been written to meet both the (US) and Australian national curriculum with clear and concise lesson plans that are easy to understand and have easily achievable learning outcomes. This is the most important feature of all, it's clear what the students will learn and it's clear how they will learn it! Also, this app is fun! It has its own personality and gives users instant feedback when you have successfully achieved something new... Overall this app, and the teachers portal that supports the app, is truly a game changer. Every child can succeed regardless of ability and they can embark upon a 3dprinting journey of a lifetime."
"Students developed a range of design skills..They learnt what the design process looked like, learnt how to create their designs in Shaper, learnt about scale when printing their designs. Students learnt to measure their objects as well as problem solved to make their design as similar on Makers Empire as their initial design... the students were so engaged and thoroughly enjoyed the learning experience...(Makers Empire) is a wonderful program that engages all students well!"
"...when I started using Makers Empire with the kids they really took to it. I think that we had 5,000 designs within a month's time! I had seven classrooms at the school using it. And I had other teachers saying, 'I really want to get in on this. I want to try this with our kids,'... Clearly, Makers Empire was a hit!... What is really nice about Makers Empire is it's the first time that the students are actually creating something (original). We've had a 3D printer and stuff going on four or five years now. Previously, the students didn't really create (anything) original... But with Makers Empire, when they were all finished, each student had all of these different unique creations... I feel like Makers Empire is a game changer for 3D design for our kids. There's a lot of software out there but Makers Empire has incorporated so many different features. With the challenges and then the tutorials built in, no one else has that."
"A roadmap to start 3D printing at our school."
"The Makers Empire team came to run a session on 3D printing at our STEM day. It was the most popular session of the day and the students clearly had a fantastic time designing in 3D."
"I've started preparing for the @GEAdditive 3D printer that I'm receiving by working through the tutorials on @MakersEmpire. I can't begin to tell you how excited I am to use this program with my students!"
"Yessss! We have found the perfect application for Elementary Students to design and 3D Print on the iPad. Thank you @MakersEmpire!!
"Before I started with Makers Empire I had no idea how 3D printing worked. I avoided coding and anything to do with the DigiSpace... Definitely, do the PD (professional development) from Makers Empire. It was very clear and helped me put 3D printing into practice… I think it's wonderful for someone who is a bit fearful… it really helped me develop confidence in it."
"I'm sending you the very best wishes and enormous gratitude for connecting our students with your learning program. To say this purchase has been transformative might sound like an exaggeration but it's pretty darn close to the truth."
"I was trying to start 3D printing in our school for a while, but I found it very difficult to start from nothing. I needed a lot of resources and easy access to resources. This program has provided everything that I needed. It was wonderful!... All of my students learned how to use Makers Empire design software during my STEM classes. I used Makers Empire lessons: "Let's Get Decorated" with 5th-8th grade students and "Mazes" with 8th grade students. They all loved learning about 3D printing... I enjoyed teaching this, observing their enjoyment, learning and looking at their awesome designs,"
"I am so much better prepared and motivated to tackle our 3D printer dilemma. I am so glad you clarified that the goal is not necessarily to print but to be creative, have the kids explore and problem solve... This makes so much more sense. Of course, we will have a printing party to inaugurate our new journey through the Design Thinking Process in Makers Empire, but we will focus on having the kids grow into becoming better designers and problem solvers. Thank you!!!"
"I wanted to tell you how much I enjoyed your session and learning about Makers Empire. Your product is easy to use and beautifully designed. I think teachers are going to love it!"
"As a school, this has been a game changer in the 3D design game for our students of all ages. This is a great design and creation tool that teachers and students can use to be innovative and share ideas with a vibrant community of makers. With Makers Empire, students learn how to identify needs and opportunities and then create, prototype, test and refine designs of solutions using 3D printing."
"The software is easy to use and kid friendly... The curriculum has been great and it even fits into the objectives that I am currently teaching... When we first started using the curriculum I thought it was going to be a huge task getting my students to learn this. But instead of teaching, I have become a facilitator. They have really taken off and are helping each other solve problems. When we end our day I may about 20 designs that were created, but when we start the next day I see that number increase to about 50. They are even designing at home."
"After having tried several softwares I can say hands down that Makers Empire has been the easiest for my students in grades 3-5 to access and manipulate."
"I love Makers Empire software. It is great to use with elementary age students... I love teaching students how to design for 3D printing. It's so fun watching them problem solve to create a certain shape by adding or taking away."
"The software is fantastic! Very user friendly. The students enjoyed beginning with the challenges and it was a useful way for them to jump right in! ... The students are seeing the real life applications of math and engineering in the real world... (but) I think the best part so far has been the spatial reasoning - students are solving the problems they encounter and so I can really see some critical thinking happening."
"I use Makers Empire to enhance students' ability to demonstrate understanding across a wide range of topics. As we work through different curriculum, including geometric shapes, things we're scared of, plants and insects, and engineering design challenges, students create 3D models related to the content… We use the app to create 3D products that are printed as well as those that are not, but still viewed in 3D on the iPads."
"Exploring 3D objects using the @MakersEmpire software. The students of 2/1N didn't want to stop and kept asking when can we do it again!"
"I haven't started using Makers Empire yet as my class is on summer holidays until the end of January. However, my own children have used it at their school and they love it. It's engaging and allows them to be innovative and imaginative. I'm looking forward to using it myself when I get the chance next year in my own class."
"Makers Empire is a more student-friendly version of TinkerCAD for your primary kids. It's so much easier and there are games to teach the kids how to design and how to manoeuvre the build plate… TinkerCAD, Sketchup – they are all for upper grades."
"I have worked with several design software but Makers Empire is the easiest to use... One of the best things students learned is that it is okay to not get the "right" answer the first time, or second time. Students know that "failing" is part of the design process and problem solving. Students have expanded their problem solving skills to think more outside of the box... Before, my students were limited in their STEM applications and designs due to financial issues and materials available. Now each student is able to have an account for their designs and can work at their pace which is meeting them on their individual need. Through this, my after school STEM club has gained interested to where students had to be put on a waiting list. Students have discussed participating in STEM clubs in middle school and high school as well as more interest in engineering type careers."
"This has been a wonderful new way to teach and motivate my students. They are so eager and excited to learn in this new way!... They are beginning to see real-life implications to what they learning to do in class and how they could develop prototypes of objects that they could develop and then produce to sell... At first, I preferred Tinkercad because I knew this software better. However, now that I have had some time to work with Makers Empire it is so much better. It does a much better job of showing you how to build and create. The challenges help tremendously!...The overall enthusiasm towards school and learning has increased tremendously. Students who are typically reluctant learners have come to life. One student was chronically absent and has now improved his attendance. He asks me each morning if he can get on the computer!"
"Makers Empire has been a great tool for many of my students that find other CAD software difficult. Some students have difficulty visualizing in a 3D workspace; 3D modelling is great practice to build spatial sense... This is linked to a skill in our math curriculum, so it's great to give a real world application for students to practice... Originally I started with my whole class using TinkerCAD. However, when given the choice many of my students gravitated to Makers Empire. I'm not sure if they prefer using the touch screen on the tablets to manipulate their designs, the gamification, or something else, but many have been successful with it and have made some great designs! 3D printing tech lets my students see themselves as creators and how it can help others. They feel empowered by the possibilities of the technology and the leadership they are able to take in their school."
"I have been doing 3D design and printing for about four years. I have used many programs including Sketchup, 123dDesign and Tinkercad. I am always looking for new programs and ran across Makers Empire when searching for 3D programs and ideas… I immediately was interested in the idea of a curriculum and being able to have classes… I signed up for the trial first and fell in love with the format… I also loved the different areas that the students could explore and that they could work at home as well. It is very engaging and my students love it! I like that I can set challenges and that they can also follow the challenges from the curriculum. The interface is very easy and the students can master it quickly. I like all the things students can do such as monthly contests and the game zone. Being able to design in a 3D environment is key to their computer studies as they progress through the grades. They love designing in the 3D world. I think it is a skill that will be important to them as they grow. It inspires their creativity and put their ideas into reality. They have gained confidence in their creative abilities and their perseverance increased as well."
"The kids love it and it is a pleasure to teach with. It is easy to use and all the extra activities do a great job at developing the skills necessary to design printable 3d models in a fun, game-like manner. My students continue their learning at home completing challenges and developing new skills. This is the true value of software. It can provide a platform for students who are enthusiastic to keep learning after the school bell rings... The addition of the Australian Curriculum aligned challenges is fantastic and really encourages the use of this software in state schools throughout Australia... Giving feedback to students and rewarding great work is very easy using the assessment tools. I use this feature a lot."
"Software is great, very user friendly... Kids loved it."
We first began designing using Tinkercad, a terrific CAD program and widely accepted by schools. Some of my older students were able to grasp the mechanics of designing things but that's all it was, designing things. It had no connection to what we were learning and studying in school. It was isolated and, to be honest probably more trouble than it was worth. I hadn't found a way to connect this great tool to the needs of my students... I had been searching the blogs and chat groups looking for resources to teach the curriculum when I discovered the Makers Empire software... Clicking on their website and watching a few tutorials I immediately could tell I had found something special. There was something simplistic to Makers Empire's approach of complex design. The website offered video tutorials, downloadable resources, and an iPad friendly interface... It took me a while, but what I finally realized was that 3D printing and design is not what I am teaching, but rather how I am teaching... Sure, there are technical skills that both the teacher and students need in order to make a design and have it print out correctly but that's just the tip of the iceberg. The Makers Empire software allows kids to express themselves and to show what they have learned in the other realms of the curriculum.


text:
Stories that make a difference
Helping you Engage, Inspire, Educate and Inform
From Award-Winning Writer and Director Neil Ben
Production Services
Entertain and educate
Enthralling young audiences with great music, characters and animation
Find out more >>
Engage and inspire
Translating your experience into videos that engage and inspire your target audience
Find out more >>
Inform and Promote
A unique approach that significantly reduces the cost of video production
Find out more >>
"My video blog starts tomorrow. Thank you for giving me the confidence."
"Neil, you are a man of utter passion and dedication to your art. Your films capture the essence of my work, allowing others to see in an instant what my workshops offer"
"I got an enormous amount of value from your knowledge of self-shot video and the kit you can use to improve your filming."
"Within minutes, I started learning some amazingly useful things about the video camera on my phone, and it just carried on like that from there... Superb."
"There are lots of people out there with the technical skills to shoot a video. But being able to tell a story with what you shoot is quite a different skill set, and Neil has both.
The training DVDs that Neil produced for me knocks the socks off anything else out there."
"Neil has incredible ideas all the time. He's a genius at what he does."
Reassuringly Different
Being different helps you stand out
Albert Einstein has been quoted as saying "The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again, but expecting different results". Although there's truly no proof that Einstein really put forth this expression; it's still an awesome quote
Why Neil?
- BBC trained, BAFTA nominated Producer / Director
- 30 years working in Television and Video Production
- Royal Television Society & Japan Education Television Awards
- FSB Award for the Innovative way he helps Businesses use Video
- Expert at Transforming Complex Ideas into Compelling Videos
- Enjoys performing Improvised and Standup Comedy,
- Loves his two adorable kids.


text:
Haskell, Armitage And Foden Play In World's Largest Game Of Poker
Haskell, Armitage And Foden Play In World's Largest Game Of Poker
PokerStars.com who sponsor the England rugby team have staged the world's largest real money poker. The site are famous for their slogan of the world's largest Rakeback poker site but this was taking size to a whole new level. Enormous chips and cards were used by the England rugby players to play some heads up poker. Having suffered through the painful 15-15 draw between England and Scotland at the weekend it was good to get some light relief from the same rugby team as I found the youtube video of James Haskell, Delon Armitage and Ben Foden playing poker with some serious sized chips. I have to say I'm not entirely certain what Foden was doing in the hand before the Q and 7 came on the turn and river but nevertheless it was a good bit of marketing gimmickry by PokerStars. I think something like 30,000 have viewed the video. I found it whilst sorting out my new rakeback deal where they list all the current deals and also organise their own promotions. It is much better than some other sites as the freerolls and rake races are actually worth entering – they are offering a ,500 freeroll at Full Tilt. I'm getting 27% rakeback at Full Tilt now and after checking a few other sites this is definitely the best deal going.
I will be playing Rush Poker I think and trying to sort out some rake as I've been playing pretty well lately grinding out some good solid ROI so with the Rakeback I should be looking at a good month for once! I did also manage to go quite deep in the big Sunday tournament at PokerStars but I got to the wrong kind of deep as the money really started adding up just after I was eliminated. Still cursing a decision 10 hands previously when I squeezed the button who had raised and he turned over aces. Had one of those funny feelings going into it and still went ahead with the play. It cost me a lot of chips and completely changed my position in the tournament but you live and learn!
To know more please visit: http:// www.rakebackpoker.com/
Articles|Find More Game Of Poker Articles][/random]
Tags: Armitage, Foden, Game, Haskell, Largest, Play, Poker, World's
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.


text:
Skip to content. |
Skip to navigation
As NMR Spectroscopist at the Department of Chemistry of Penn State University, my functions encompass among others:
1. Assist scientists with interests in chemistry, biology, and materials science with NMR applications.
2. Maintain ten 7- to 20-T NMR spectrometers, overseeing their daily operation: eight Bruker liquid-state instruments (3 of them with LHe cryoprobe, 1 with Prodigy cryoprobe); Two solid-state instruments: one Bruker Avance-II 300-MHz, one Bruker Avance-III-HD 500-MHz instrument.
3. Assist NMR users.
4. Occasionally perform NMR service(s) for outside Companies.
5. Assist preparation of manuscripts for publication.
6. Presented to scientists/researchers aspects of NMR techniques and data processing useful for their research.
Directions |
Privacy and Legal Statements |
Copyright Information |
Site Credits
Penn State Department of Chemistry, 104 Chemistry Building, University Park, PA 16802
Telephone: (814) 865-6553; FAX: (814) 865-3314
Copyright © 2020 The Pennsylvania State University


text:
Click on a title, image or icon above to read or view contents of this site. There are also a number of hidden "hot spots" on some of the photos. Also be sure to click on links that appear in the text of these pages.
John White Howell
Over the course of his fifty years as an electrical engineer in the Edison Lamp Works (1880 to 1930), John W. Howell rose from the ranks to become one of Thomas Edison's many key men in the lamp works, ultimately earning the position as chief engineer of the Edison lamp works. During his years in the lamp works, John held over forty patents for his inventions relating to the incandescent lamp and electrical power industries.
In 1924 John was awarded the Edison Medal, which formally recognized him for his contributions toward the development of the incandescent lamp. (To this day the Edison Medal is awarded once annually for achievements in electronics)
In all the years the medal has been awarded (annually to this present time), John is only one of two recipients cited specifically for work on the incandescent lamp -- Edison's brilliant engineer William D. Coolidge being the other in 1927.
During his many years working for Edison, John had helped promote fellow Edison employees from beneath his level to above; John knew his place, and reveled in his engineering work. He was a team playing hands-on engineer who apparently preferred laboratory work over office work.
When he received the Edison medal John suddenly and unexpectedly found himself amongst a long list of notable recipients such as Alexander Graham Bell, George Westinghouse, Nikola Tesla, fellow Edison associate John Lieb (and three years later fellow Edison engineer William Coolidge).
Where William Coolidge was known more for his groundbreaking discoveries with tungsten filaments (a German invention that Edison bought) and x-ray technology, John Howell was known more for helping to improve filament designs and efficiency of the actual lamp manufacturing process. In 1886 John determined for the first time the relationship between a lamp's candlepower and its life, and through the years he was intimately associated with inventions which increased lamp manufacture from an initial rate of 35,000 lamps a year to 3,000 lamps a minute. This also greatly reduced the cost per unit of lamp manufacture.
In the years after Edison's incandescent lamp patent expired, this helped keep Edison's lamp works (General Electric) far ahead of the competition. John was also responsible for traveling to Germany with Dr. Willis Whitney, founding director of GE's research laboratory, where they tested the German tungsten filament, and then approved Edison's purchase of the tungsten filament patent.
In the years after Edison first developed the high resistance carbon filament lamp, a flood of legal battles hounded Edison. Although John W. Howell testified in many of these trials on behalf of Thomas Edison and his high resistance lamp patent, John is mostly remembered as being one of the key technical witnesses in the early 1890-91 patent infringement trial sometimes referred to as "the great filament suit". The trial was a key event in Edison's electric lighting industry.
Edison had taken The United States Electric Lighting Company to court over infringement over his original 1880 incandescent lamp patent. Many key Edison experts testified at the trial and provided tremendous evidence in defense of Edison.
One reason historians are drawn to John Howell's testimony, is because John provided one of the more tangible aspects of the 1891 trial; the hand-making of the delicate "tar putty" filament lamps themselves.
The opposing lawyers claimed Edison's original patent was invalid because a person skilled in the art could not make working lamps from the patent instructions, using only materials and methods described therein. A similar incandescent lamp case in England had been lost for this very reason. Edison & his lawyers knew this. They needed somebody to prove his patent by hand-making replicas of his 1879 "tar putty" filament lamps on which Edison's fundamental high resistance carbon filament was based.
Edison put two of his lamp technicians onto the task of making the original incandescent lamps for the court. They both failed to produce working lamps. John Howell then stepped in and subsequently produced thirty to forty working "tar putty" lamps, some of which burned on test stands for over 600 hours.
Other key Edison experts preceeded and followed John on the witness stand, including Charles L. Clarke, former Chief Engineer of the lamp works up to 1884 - a crucial period of early lamp development. Clarke was grilled for over three months on the witness stand. Together they all successfully defended Edison's lamp high resistance carbon filament patent. The resulting decision in favor of Edison led to the consolidation of infringing lamp companies into the Edison Lamp Works, into what we now know as the General Electric company.
Two of the 1890 trial "tar putty" lamps, and the tools used by John to make them, were displayed at the 1893 Worlds Fair in Chicago. Seven of John's 1890 "tar putty" lamps survive today in a rare collection of historic lamps now up for auction in London.
In his long career with Thomas Edison, my great grandfather John Howell did many notable things. But the thing I'm most drawn to is simply his single-minded devotion to engineering.
- John Starr (one of his many great grandchildren)
Other links:
and Volts: the story of General Electric" (c) 1941 John Hammond


text:
Fail Safe Jiggly Steamed Egg!
When I was a kid, my parents has always make me steam eggs. Sometimes it is steamed nice and perfect, jiggly and smooth. Sometimes they are rough and completely dry. So I did my homework to find out what cause that and how do we make the best steam egg that is smooth and melt in your mouth. Check this out for a fail safe steam egg technique!
Serve 2
- 4 nos of eggs
- Water – equal part to the eggs
- Salt to taste
- Crack egg into a mixing bowl.
- Thoroughly whisk it and then add salt.
- Continue to whisk until all the salt has dissolves.
- Bring your steamer to a full boil then reduce the a simmer.
- Plate a flat-bottom deep plate into the steamer.
- Then use a strainer and pour the eggs in as you sieve away the bubbles.
- Cover and leave a gap for excessive steam to escape.
- Steam for 6 minutes.
- Switch off the heat and remove steamed eggs from steamer.
- Serve with sauces or condiments of your choice
- Never steam your egg in a full boil, that would cause eggs to overcook.
- Use fine mesh strainer to better remove the bubbles. Bubbles will cause uneven surface after the eggs is cooked.


text:
I am excited to share this visual aid for anyone with disabilities – or without. It's important to be cognizant of the challenges disabled people have in getting a job, but also to understand that disabled doesn't mean UN-Abled.
If you know someone who can leverage this piece, please share this post with them. In addition, all credit related to this aid goes to Victoria Abbott-Fleming (My new friend from across the Atlantic – distance is no obstacle) the founder of a chronic pain charity called Burning Nights. She was kind enough to send this to share with the Bizzeebobber audience in mind, and I am grateful. The LINK to her site can be found in the graphic below (bottom right hand corner) or http://www.burningnightscrps.org/
Please note…
Disclaimer: Please use your discretion when clicking on any third-party links. Bizzeebobber.com, a White Elephants Ballyhoo Ink, LLC brand, shall not be held accountable for any malice or harm (Including worms or viruses) when visiting any third-party link derived from our website. If unsure about safety, please research or call party directly to mitigate any potential risks. By clicking any links, or engaging with any site or URL, you do so on your own volition.
YOU matter.
The competitive nature of today's jobs market makes it rather challenging for people with disabilities to succeed in finding employment, even though employers are prohibited from discriminating on grounds of disability. There are practical challenges which may need to be faced when candidates attend for interview, but these can be overcome with some intelligent thinking. A candidate with a mindset of 'Here's how I'll deal with this obstacle' is far more likely to be hired than one who doesn't believe the obstacle can be conquered.
How will YOU overcome ALL obstacles? #NeverStop
Thank you for reviewing this. Please share any poignant thoughts or sentiment below!
And reminder, if you know someone who can take advantage of this great piece – PLEASE SHARE.


text:
Rent4Succes®s is a win-win for the renter and property manager.
Riverside, CA (PRWEB) January 27, 2014
Residents of Maryland and Nevada now have an opportunity to learn vital information about their renters' rights and responsibilities thanks to a new rental counseling platform offered by Springboard Nonprofit Consumer Credit Management, Inc. ("Springboard"). The Rent4Success® rental counseling program is the nation's first rental counseling platform designed to educate and empower more responsible renters. As an interactive online course, the Rent4Success® program is designed to educate consumers on (1) how to understand the terms of a lease agreement; (2) how to calculate rent affordability; (3) how to manage a financial crisis and; (4) how to develop a realistic household budget. The online portion of the course is followed by a 30-minute personalized telephone budgeting session with a certified financial counselor. During this segment of the course, the counselor will evaluate the client's current financial situation, develop a personalized action plan and issue a certificate of completion. Participants will have access to additional resources such as Springboard's popular online financial education and budgeting tools.
"A new applicant who recently completed the Rent4Success® program has moved in and is a model resident. She is doing amazing and has been able to pay her rent early since moving in," said Kellie Gilkeson, leasing consultant for Park View at Dundalk, an apartment community for seniors located in Dundalk, Maryland.
Property management companies in Maryland and Nevada can benefit from the Rent4Sucess® program by partnering with Springboard to create stronger communities. Rent4Success® allows managers to register their individual properties and provides direct access to Springboard's counseling services for new applicants or struggling residents. Rent4Success® can also help improve the rental experience for current residents. More than 100 multi-family properties in over six states are now registered to take advantage of this unique program.
"This is a holistic program that will improve lives and change possibilities by providing a wrap-around service to address the financial education needs of the beginning renter to the prospective homebuyer," said Heather Shanahan, Springboard's director of program development. "Rent4Succes®s is a win-win for the renter and property manager," added Shanahan.
The Rent4Success® program is built on a series of four modules, with each step focusing on a different aspect of the rental process. Since the program is designed for both experienced renters and individuals and families seeking rental counseling for the first time, it includes a range of topics including how to best select a unit, how to understand complex lease terms, how to manage a personal budget, and how to manage credit in preparation for a future home purchase. Renters will gain from an increased knowledge of their financial obligations, while landlords will see the advantages of a well-informed renter through decreases in late or missed payments, longer rental terms, and a more stable property environment.
The Rent4Success® program is available nationwide to all consumers and property managers. Springboard was awarded funding from the Attorney General Settlement Funds in the states of Maryland and Nevada and has applied these resources towards the Rent4Success® program, which is available at no cost to these residents as an ongoing effort to help stabilize and improve the housing recovery progression.
For additional information on Rent4Success®, visit http://www.RentalCounseling.org or call 855-973-6847.
About Springboard Nonprofit Consumer Credit Management, Inc.
SPRINGBOARD® Nonprofit Consumer Credit Management is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit personal financial education and counseling organization founded in 1974 with the mission of improving the financial well-being of individuals and families. Springboard is a HUD-approved housing counseling agency and a member of the National Foundation for Credit Counseling and Association of Independent Consumer Credit Counseling Agencies. Springboard offers personal financial education and assistance in credit counseling, housing counseling, debt and money management, pre-bankruptcy counseling and debtor education through educational programs and confidential coaching. Springboard is accredited by the Council on Accreditation, signifying the highest standards for agency governance, fiscal integrity, counselor certification and service delivery policies. Counseling is available by telephone nationwide or in-person at office locations in California, Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, Massachusetts, South Carolina, Florida and Maryland. For more information on Springboard, please call 800-449-9818 or visit their web site at http://www.Springboard.org.