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What is your relationship to the youth being referred?
Social News
7 hours ago
Steven Tyler's Janie's Fund third annual GRAMMY Awards® Viewing Party was a night to remember! From the red carpet to dinner to the electrifying after-party performance by Gavin Degraw more than 500 passionate people joined together and helped raise more than $2.4 million for our important cause!
We are so proud of our girls who rocked the house with samples of therapeutic drumming and our very own Jennifer Rhodes, who was last night's featured speaker. Thank you to Terry Crews for being an amazing host, and of course, to Steven Tyler for making everything possible and giving a platform for girls and young women to amplify their voices! #jamforjanie
Click the links below to see some of the fun:
bit.ly/2RNzTgw ... See MoreSee Less
4 days ago
This weekend, we're heading to L.A. with some of our girls for @iamstevent's third annual private dinner and viewing of the GRAMMY Awards benefiting @janiesfund. Follow us on Instagram @youthvillages, and check out our stories this weekend for inside look including, rehearsals, activities and scenes from the red carpet! ... See MoreSee Less
5 days ago
Strengthening families and giving young people the support they need to move away from gang activity can make a difference in our communities. Special thanks to The Commercial Appeal columnist Tonyaa Weathersbee for highlighting this issue and interviewing Youth Villages foster parent Yolanda Tate and clinical consultant Katie Puckett in her story today.
www.commercialappeal.com/story/news/2020/01/21/weathersbee-can-federal-money-end-memphis-gang-vio... ... See MoreSee Less
Weathersbee: Can federal money end Memphis' gang violence? Not if G-A-N-G spells F-A-M-I-L-YMemphis will get $10 million to fight violent crime. Much of that crime is caused by gangs, and youths raised in gang families struggling to get out.
In an effort to promote positive parenting and prevent adverse childhood experiences consider making use of Advancing Parenting's fifty-four parenting norms bumper stickers. Parenting messages on vehicles will be read thousands of times by thousands of people of all ages for years to come...a unique and powerful way to get quality parenting information out to the community. Sets of the stickers can be put in holders and placed on counters and tables in doctors' offices, agencies, schools, and businesses so patients, parents, customers, and clients can choose one or more for their cars.
They can also be made available to attendees at events and meetings. The best strategy is to have them laid out on three tables... and it does take three tables! Tell the attendees that they may choose one or two for their car(s). Handing them out doesn't work as well. Some folks don't put stickers on their cars and everyone who wants one will appreciate the opportunity to make their own choice.
Visit advancingparenting.org for more information. 🙂
Youth Villages shared a post.
6 days ago
The countdown has begun!
We are so excited for this year's GRAMMY viewing party benefitting Steven Tyler's Janie's Fund. You can get an exclusive look at the festivities this weekend by following our Instagram page and viewing our stories (@youthvillages).
Steven Tyler's Janie's Fund
It's that time of year again!
We're just five short days away from @Steven Tyler's Janie's Fund 3rd Annual Viewing Party to celebrate the GRAMMY Awards.
#JamforJanie ... See MoreSee Less
Awesome video guys
Youth Villages shared a post.
1 week ago
We're just a little over a week away from Steven Tyler's third annual private dinner and viewing of the GRAMMY Awards benefiting @janiesfund!
Steven Tyler's Janie's Fund
Last year at our Viewing Party, the girls of Janie's Fund put on a spectacular performance.
Steven Tyler's Janie's Fund 3rd Annual Viewing Party in honor of the GRAMMYs is less than just a couple of weeks away and we couldn't be more excited!
For more info about this year's party, visit https://janiesfund.org/
#JamforJanie ... See MoreSee Less


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Delivery Information
Home delivery ~ areas covered
On receipt of your order, we will contact you by telephone or email to confirm a delivery date and approximate time.
We deliver firewood and Christmas trees, to the below areas using our own vehicles (we don't use carriers).
December is our busiest month, when extra delivery slots are added to our regular schedule.
OxfordPostcode areas OX1, OX2, OX3 (less OX3 9 outside the Oxford ring road)
Sunday to Thursday.
Abingdon, Boars Hill, Dry Sandford, Marcham, Wootton, Sunningwell
Postcode areas OX1 5, OX13 6, OX14 1, OX14 2, OX14 5, OX14 1, OX14 9
Sunday to Thursday.
Appleton, Botley & Cumnor
Postcode area – OX13 5, OX2 9 – Sunday to Thursday.
Kingston Bagpuize, Southmoor, Longworth, Fyfield & Frilford
Postcode areas - OX13 5 - Sunday - Thursday.
Faringdon, Shrivenham, Watchfield, Stanford-in-the-Vale
Postcode areas SN7 7, SN7 8, SN7 9, SN6 8 – daily, including weekends.
Postcode areas - SN6 7 – Tuesday – Saturday
South Marston
Postcode areas SN3 4, SN25 6, SN25 5 - Tuesday – Saturday
Postcode areas SN1, SN2, SN3, SN5 (excluding SN5 0, SN5 3, SN5 4), SN25, SN26, SN38 9 – Tuesday – Saturday
Minimum order is just £30.00
Booking a delivery slot
To reserve an available delivery or collection slot you need to login and then go to the delivery page. If you are a new customer you will need to register.
Do we deliver in your area?
Use our postcode checker to check if we will deliver to your address.

subset: commoncrawl


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Invasive Plants
Invasive plants are non-native plants that have been introduced to British Columbia where we lack the insect predators and plant pathogens that help keep them in check in their native habitats. They are the second greatest threat to global biodiversity, after habitat destruction.
These plants out-compete native vegetation and spread quickly if left untreated. They destroy food sources and take over important habitats for native plants and animals. Some are even hazardous to human health.
Invasive plants are not permitted for planting on municipal boulevards.
Invasive Plant Species in West Vancouver
There are 19 species identified in the District's Invasive Plants Strategy to target for management and control in West Vancouver.
- Blackberry species
- Butterfly bush
- Cherry laurel (English laurel)
- Clematis - old man's beard (traveller's joy)
- English holly
- English ivy
- Giant hogweed
- Gorse
- Goutweed
- Hawkweed - orange
- Knotweed species
- Lamium - yellow archangel
- Periwinkle
- Policeman's helmet (Himalayan balsam)
- Purple loosestrife
- Reed canarygrass
- Scotch broom
- Small flowered touch-me-not
- Spurge laurel (Daphne laurel)
Find out more about the target list and best management practices for these plants:
The top two invasive plant species are knotweed and hogweed. These two species have the potential to affect human health, damage infrastructure and degrade natural ecosystems. Learn how to identify them and what you should do in the event that you find one. (See the full list of targetted plants in West Vancouver.)
Giant Hogweed
This invasive can reach heights of five metres or more. Its large bracts of white flowers bloom in summer. Giant hogweed leaves are very large and have coarse, jagged edges. The hollow stalks have purple blotches with streaks or spots and stiff hairs. Hogweed is typically found on riverbanks and along roadways but is opportunistic and will grow where it can.
Giant hogweed should only be removed by a professional due to its toxicity. If you remove it yourself, do so when it's young, before it flowers. Wear goggles, gloves and protective clothing. Cut the root crown three to four inches below the soil surface. Double-bag it and place it in the garbage. Never compost hogweed; this plant is dangerous to humans. Once it flowers, you should contact a professional to avoid spreading the seeds.
Risks to human health: If hogweed sap comes in contact with skin, it can cause extreme dermatitis in the presence of sunlight that can lead to scarring, rashes and blistering. The sap can also cause temporary or permanent blindness if it gets into the eyes. If the sap gets on your skin, wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water. Keep the affected area out of the sun, and treat it as you would a surface burn.
Japanese Knotweed
Japanese knotweed is a bamboo-like plant with heart-shaped leaves and long, hollow stems. It easily reaches heights of one to five metres and grows showy plumes of small green-white flowers off the stem and leaf joints. It can grow just about anywhere, including in waste sites, meadows and wooded areas, as well as along roadways and stream banks. Knotweed spreads quickly and is often found in tall, dense thickets.
Thickets of Japanese knotweed can sprout from a small piece of root or stem. If you see knotweed, it's best not to dig it up and risk spreading it; call for professional help instead. Although herbicides and pesticides are largely banned in West Vancouver, knotweed should be treated by a professional using pesticide application. If you have knotweed on your property, contact a professional with a current BC Pesticide Applicator Certificate who can apply for an exemption from the District's herbicide ban. Most licenced landscape businesses can assist homeowners in this regard. The exemption application process is simple and free.
Contact the Parks Department for an application form:
It will take all of our efforts to stem the spread of invasive plants in the District. Here are some ways that you can help in your day-to-day life:
Don't dump garden waste. Dispose of all your garden waste and hanging baskets—including soil, dead plants and clippings—either into your compost or yard trimmings collection (except for Knotweed and Giant Hogweed, which require special attention and care). Check out the brochure to the right for more information on these two invasives.
Keep your plants under control and choose them wisely. If you have fast spreading invasives like ivy or lamium, please keep them cut back and contained. Better yet, don't plant them in the first place. Instead, choose native plants.
Help us control the spread. For removal of hogweed and knotweed, it is strongly recommended that you hire a professional. For information on specific plant removal and proper disposal methods, please visit the Invasive Species Council of Metro Vancouver. You can also call the Parks Department at 604-925-PARK (7275) to find out more about invasive plants in West Vancouver.
Invasive Plants Brochure: your quick guide to help stop the spread of invasive plants
Invasive Plant Working Group
Council created the Invasive Plants Working Group to develop a five-year strategy to manage and control invasive plants in West Vancouver.
The draft strategy was approved by Council June 16, 2014.


text: A White House of Cards February 27, 2014 1 Comment Share tweet Uttara Sivaram By: Uttara Sivaram Campus has been unusually quiet for the past two weeks. It would make sense to chalk it up to a protracted midterm season, but I have a feeling (and a Facebook newsfeed to back it up) that Netflix's release of the entire second season of House of Cards has something to do with it—heck, I even updated Microsoft Silverlight for the occasion. Indeed, I'd be a little suspicious of anyone who claimed immunity to Frank Underwood's honeyed Southern charm, which is why I've decided to pay homage to this fictional icon. So with my considerable power as a Stanford Daily columnist, I've arranged for a little meeting between two of the most powerful people to grace our laptop screens and our nation. Frank Underwood, meet President Barack Obama. NOTE: This is best enjoyed with a little imagination and a slow, syrupy South Carolinian accent. Barack Obama knocks on the front door of a small, stately townhouse somewhere in D.C. The door opens and Obama is standing face-to-face with Frank Underwood. UNDERWOOD: Mr. President, how nice of you to visit. OBAMA: Frank. Good to see you. Beautiful home. UNDERWOOD: Oh, it does its job. Come on in, Mr. President. OBAMA: Call me Barack. UNDERWOOD: Maybe after a few drinks, Mr. President. Now, what can I help you with? Actually, let's start with what I can't help you with, because that'll go by a lot faster. OBAMA: Listen, Frank— UNDERWOOD: I can't help you with your Healthcare.gov website. I have absolutely no idea how the Internet works, which is why I hire people who know people who can make a damn website. My God, man—if a Harvard dropout who wouldn't know a bespoke suit if he saw one can create Facebook, I'm pretty sure my 15-year-old neighbor can make a better healthcare website. OBAMA: Agreed, but I've got my best guys on it. UNDERWOOD: I'm pretty sure you just have Sasha and Malia on it, bless them, because they probably set up your LinkedIn profile for you a year ago and you were impressed. Speaking of, I also can't help you get that dog of yours to look more photogenic in pictures. I mean, I can get rid of the dog if you'd like. It's just such a poor choice of pet. OBAMA: Is that all? UNDERWOOD: Yes. I can probably help you with anything else at this point, since I've wielded more power from my bathtub than you currently do in the Oval Office. OBAMA: Right now I'm concerned about Karzai—if he doesn't sign the Bilateral Security Agreement soon, we'll lose useful territory in the Middle East when he leaves office. UNDERWOOD: Karzai is never leaving office—he's moving next door to the Presidential palace once his term is over. He's holding onto the last ace in his hand—the BSA—give himself a little leverage. So hit him where it hurts. OBAMA: Iraq? UNDERWOOD: Family. He's got his little brother, Abdul Qayum Karzai, up to bat for the coming elections. Make sure he knows we won't stand by a nepotistic, fixed election. Unless, of course, he signs the BSA, at which point we "get distracted." OBAMA: I don't plan on working with Karzai after his term expires—it's a waste of time. Plus, I really do hate the guy. UNDERWOOD: Don't. Invite him over to the residence, you and Michelle, for some BBQ ribs and sweet tea. He's in for the long haul. OBAMA: Ribs, Frank? Really? UNDERWOOD: Exactly. Shake with your right hand, but hold a rock in your left. OBAMA: Well, in this case, a pork rib. UNDERWOOD: Less poetic, but fine. OBAMA: How about surveillance reform? It's one of the biggest issues pulling my approval numbers down. UNDERWOOD: I'm a huge fan of what you've done with the NSA. Claire and I look through phone records during breakfast. Sometimes we just check each other's phone records instead of communicating. OBAMA: The American people don't like it, and I can't blame them. Plus, I made a promise to find an alternative during my State of the Union speech. UNDERWOOD: Which was tame, by the way. I was able to paint half my Civil War diorama while listening to it—that's how boring it was. OBAMA: Fine, but what am I supposed to do about— UNDERWOOD: Just get some private phone companies on the phone, tell them to keep the records we make and allow the government to periodically search them. OBAMA: How do we know the phone companies will agree to comply with our orders when we need them? UNDERWOOD: It's the government, Mr. President, not the AT&T CEO's daughter who wants to check her boyfriend's phone record. If the Pentagon asks them to bend for national security purposes, they will. And if they don't, make sure you store the records with multiple companies. OBAMA: Edward Snowden. UNDERWOOD: Should've gotten rid of him years ago. Blame it on the Chinese. OBAMA: He's a thorn in my side, Frank. He undermines every move I make in good faith. UNDERWOOD: Even Achilles was only as strong as his heel. Find a way to make Snowden disappear. He's not "opening the debate about national security and privacy." He's opening the floodgates of the Potomac to watch the White House drown. OBAMA: That's a little dramatic, don't you think? UNDERWOOD: Mr. President, have you even seen my show? OBAMA: I have, and I gotta say, Frank—I'm very glad you're fictional. UNDERWOOD: Me too. If you're the president reality has to offer, then I'd rather just stay with Netflix. OBAMA: I don't have much time left in office, Frank. I know I've been disappointing, but it hasn't been an easy eight years. I inherited a terrible economy and a pack of vengeful Republicans that don't want to do anything but tear me down. UNDERWOOD: Well, I inherited high cholesterol, a weakness for sweet tea and a mild intolerance for lactose. So I run, drink more sweet tea and forbid milk from coming within a 10-foot radius from my office. OBAMA: Not sure if that's relevant. UNDERWOOD: Me neither, I think I'm just hungry. Point is, you've got a Congress that's so rogue it would put that crazy tiger in India to shame. And you've showed your frustration, you've kicked doors, you've belittled them in speeches but you haven't drawn blood. Or at least, when you have, they've drawn yours as well. OBAMA: Bills need to get passed, Frank. It's a matter of diplomacy. UNDERWOOD: In Gaffney, we have our own brand of diplomacy— OBAMA: We're not in Gaffney, Frank, so whatever crazy saying you have about holding rocks and shaking hands and drawing blood isn't going to cut it. UNDERWOOD: Fine, Barack, FINE. You have Iran's disarmament bill you have to get past Congress and the P6. Don't mess this one up by doing something as stupid as hosting another damn fundraiser with Jay-Z and Beyonce instead of meeting with Netanyahu. Get Republican staffers to the table, brief the senators about what happened in Geneva and don't you dare lift one sanction—Iran hasn't shown a single act of good faith. OBAMA: I think I liked it better when you called me "Mr. President." UNDERWOOD: I think I don't like you either way. But if there's one thing for sure, you are not going to spend the rest of your presidency as the lame duck you have been for the past six years. You can fix this. OBAMA: Thanks for the drink, Frank. UNDERWOOD: Come back again when Claire's home. You like ribs, right? OBAMA: Love 'em. UNDERWOOD: Well now, that's a great step in the right direction. Note: this column was inspired by Maureen Dowd's 2008 column in the NYTimes in which Dowd arranges for a fictional meeting between The West Wing's President Bartlet and the real President Obama. Contact Uttara Sivaram at email@example.com. Barack Obama Frank Underwood House of Cards Maureen Dowd netflix 2014-02-27 Uttara Sivaram February 27, 2014 1 Comment Share tweet Subscribe Click here to subscribe to our daily newsletter of top headlines.


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'Bachelor In Paradise' Star Shades Josh Murray on Twitter
Bachelor In Paradise ended its most recent season with three couples getting engaged: Grant Kemp and Lace Morris, Josh Murray and Amanda Stanton, and Evan Bass and Carly Waddell. Of the three, only Evan and Carly are still together, as the other two couples have since dissolved in a stream of arguments, jealousy, and cryptic tweets. So leave it to Evan to throw shade at his fellow cast mate, Josh.
Evan joked about Josh's obnoxiously vague tweets about their relationship, in which Josh alludes to having broken up without ever actually confirming it. In its place are just empty platitudes such as "I can see clearly now …" and "I don't know all the keys to success, but one key to failure is to try to please everyone." Naturally, Evan's jokes on Twitter resulted in Carly coming in to join the funny back-and-forth:
I've been begging @carlywaddell to let me do a cryptic tweet about our relationship but she keeps saying no. Pleasseeeeeeee?!
— Evan Bass (@ebassclinics) December 28, 2016
@ebassclinics wait a sec? Are u breaking up with me on twitter?
— Carly Waddell (@carlywaddell) December 28, 2016
@carlywaddell How about something simple like "When one door closes another one opens"
— Evan Bass (@ebassclinics) December 28, 2016
@ebassclinics like when u close the fridge for beer and I open the freezer for coconut ice cream?
— Carly Waddell (@carlywaddell) December 28, 2016
Honestly, I didn't get Evan and Carly's relationship that much during Bachelor In Paradise, but they just come across as so well-matched now. And it doesn't come across as empty posturing for social media. They come across as though they genuinely love one another, and have fun being around each other. Here's hoping their relationship doesn't become another Bachelor Nation romance casualty.
But what do you think of what Evan and Carly had to say? Sound off in the comments!
And for more on The Bachelor, watch a beautiful contestant lose her cool in a sneak peek of the season premiere of The Bachelor 2017!


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Siva Karthikeyan's much awaited movie "Kakkai Sattai" is set for its massive release on 27 February. The movie, which will be releasing in over 750 screens, has received entertainment tax free clean "U" certificate.
Directed by Durai Senthil Kumar, the movie also has a cast of Sri Divya, Prabhu, Manobala, Vidyulekha Raman, Imman Annachi and Vijay Raaz.
Here we are listing five reasons which might put this grand flick as one of the best starring Siva Karthikeyan till date.
Siva Karthikeyan Screen Presence
Siva Karthikeyan's screen presence and his charm are touted as one of the major highlights of the movie. This is very well proved by the anticipation of the audience for the movie and by the overwhelming response that he has been receiving for the trailer.
The young star will portray the character of a cop in this action masala flick.
Anirudh Ravichander
If there is one thing that has been much talked about throughout the promotion of the movie, it is the music composed by Anirudh Ravichander. The songs of the movie are already a hit and has received some high positive reviews from critics.
The movie also has a song sung by Siva Karthikeyan and people associated with the movie believe that these songs can initiate audience to hit the theatres on its opening day itself.
Return of 'Ethir Neechaal' Team
"Ethir Neechal" is probably the biggest turning point of Siva Karthikeyan's career and "Kakki Sattai" is made by the same team of "Ethir Neechal", which includes Durai Senthil, Dhanush, Siva Karthikeyan and Anirudh.
So, all that viewers and fans can expect from the movie is nothing less than a blockbuster because of their track record.
Duration of the movie
When it comes to an entertainer, "Kakki Sattai" is said to be a well-packed one. The makers have already announced that the movie will be nothing less than a masala action entertainer.
The movie's duration is tightly trimmed to two hours and 30 minutes, which means the audience will not have any time to get distracted, but enjoy the movie.
Siva Karthikeyan-Sri Divya Chemistry
The chemistry of the lead pair is often considered to be a major ingredient for the success of any movie. When it comes to "Kakki Sattai", Siva Karthikeyan and Sri Divya have already proved their rapport with their last release, "Varuthapadatha Valibhar Sangam".


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Environmentally Friendly Rug and Carpet Cleaning
At Gallagher's Rug and Carpet Care we take pride in the fact that our green rug and carpet cleaning is proven safe for everyone, including children, pets, and individuals with allergies. We use product that meets the Environmental Choice Criteria for both Canada and the United States.
Are you concerned that your carpet can hold all sorts of contaminants such as dust mites, bacteria, foul odors, harmful organisms, and literally pounds of dirt? We can help!
We start every service with powerful vacuuming through our Pro Team Hepa filter system. Then we use truck mounted equipment to ensure that you are receiving the best rug, carpet and upholstery service for the money. EPA sponsored studies in the late 1990's clearly showed that the hot water from a truck-mounted system significantly reduced the level of harmful microorganisms in carpet. It works by using very hot solution pressure to agitate and create a flushing action to separate the soils from the fiber. Then it is extracted and removed from your home. At Gallagher's we strictly maintain all of our tools and equipment to ensure maximum cleaning results with minimal waste to the environment. Call us today for a free estimate and be sure to ask about our green rug cleaning and carpet cleaning options!
Contact Us
Gallagher's Rug & Carpet Care826 SE Belmont St.
Portland, OR 97214
Mon-Fri 9am - 5pm
Sat 9am - 2pm


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We met the mind behind the Rubik's Cube — Mashable Originals
He didn't want to solve one for us.
He didn't want to solve one for us.
Those with a penchant for puzzles will be pleased to know that there's a big crowdfunding campaign in the works. Quite literally, big. Liberty Science Center CEO Paul Hoffman, a friend of inventor Erno Rubik, has launched an Indiegogo project aimed a...


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Hey lovelies! I hope those of you who were in the path of Winter Storm Jonas made it through safe and sound. My neck of the woods was not hit too hard. Thank you God! Now, I am back to tell you all what my three makeup products that I can't live without are.
Any Brownish-Pink, Non-Matte Lipcolor
It can be lip gloss or lipstick but I always need a shade in a brownish-pink shade. It can be cool tone, warm tone, or neutral tone. as long as it is that color shade.
This shade looks most natural on me. It is because of this, that I can also wear a lipcolor in that shade as blush and eyeshadow. The result is a softly, subtle flush of color that enhances my looks without making me look like I am wearing makeup.
Black, Waterproof Mascara
Mascara didn't always make this list for me. Ever since my first gray-white lashes made an appearance, black mascara has been in my top three products to always have. The mascara needs to be waterproof because I have seasonal allergies and chronic sinusitis, which both cause my eyes to water. Also, waterproof mascara lasts longer without smudging.
Dark Brown Eyeliner Pencil
A dark brown eyeliner pencil serves two purposes for me: To line my eyes and define my brows. A pencil liner is more versatile because you can create a subtle lined eye, winged liner look, and an attractive smoky eye look.
These three makeup items are a must for me to always have. I can create a complete-looking makeup look with these items. So yeah; I would be lost without them.
Do you have any makeup products that you just can't live without?
Image Credit: Nordstrom Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED


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Pink apron in a 10oz cotton canvas. Read why our Original apron is so special here.
Full grain Italian leather straps and hem detailing.
Bib pocket sewn in two sections - there is also a small hidden pocket on the inside of the bib. Three large front pockets. Adjustable neck strap with nickel plated brass buckle. Adjustable belt strap with Sam Browne stud and bridle clip. Reinforced corners. Risdon & Risdon branded post rivets on pockets. Fully washable.100% cotton.
Choose between authentic screw rivets or handy poppers to attach the leather straps (models wearing screw rivets).
SIZES - top of bib to hem: Short 73cm, Medium 86cm, Long 100cm.BELT - Regular adjustable belt fits waist up to 45". Long sizes 45" - 51". Please enquire about custom belt lengths. CARE INSTRUCTIONS: The apron can be machine washed at up to 40°C. Wash dark colours separately. Dry away from direct heat. Gently pull the leather back into shape during drying time. Do not tumble dry. Iron on reverse. Reattach straps. For screw rivets use a screw driver for occasional tightening.
Subscribe to get 10% off your first order.


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Love Balm
LoveBalm is exactly what it says. The perfect go to all over balm with essential oils like lavender, chamomile, tea tree and rosehip with the help of our own infused calendula oil and natural butter like mango to help keep your skin moisturized and to heal minor cuts, bruises, dryskin & eczema relief so what's not to love about this balm?!


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It was when I first prepared Creole and Cajun cuisines that I learned about pairing proteins together that I hadn't discovered before. I mixed chicken and ham in a étouffé, shrimp and chicken in a gumbo, and ham and Andouille sausage in a jambalaya. All of these pairings go so surprisingly well together, that when I decided to make a soup today, I decided on the combination of shrimp and sausage, inspired by these cuisines.
Now, this sausage could have been Andouille, Italian, or even Chorizo, but I chose Polish sausage, otherwise known as Polska Kielbasa. I goes well with beef, chicken, and seafood.
I had no real plan when I started this soup, and it could have gone many different directions, but I'll share what I did because it came out so wonderfully! And even though it's summer, the shrimp and the veggies lighten it up.
Shrimp and Sausage Soup
Olive oil or bacon grease, about 3 tablespoons
1 purple onion, chopped
1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
1 pound Polska Kielbasa, sliced
1 – 28 ounce can diced tomatoes
2 yellow squash, chopped
Chicken broth, 2-3 cups
1 heaping tablespoon hot paprika
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon salt
Black pepper
Ground cayenne, optional
1 pound shrimp, cleaned, sliced in halves
Cayenne pepper flakes
Heat the oil in a Dutch oven over medium-low heat. You want to sauté without any caramelization. Add the onion and bell pepper and sauté for five minutes.
Then add the Polish sausage and turn up the heat. You want some browning on the sausage.
Then add the can of tomatoes and the squash. Add enough chicken broth to make it soupy, 2 cups at least.
Then add the spices. Bring the soup to a boil, then simmer and cook, uncovered, for about 20 – 25 minutes.
Add the sliced shrimp and cook just until they become opaque.
To serve, sprinkle soup with some cayenne pepper flakes. If desired, you can also serve the soup with avocado slices.
note: You could certainly make many variations of this soup. I chose the yellow squash because I have an overabundance in my garden at this time. And it could be definitely made more Southwestern with the addition of chorizo, chipotle peppers and lots of cilantro. Corn would be nice as well! And, black beans….
I encourage everybody to make a soup today. Once you get the hang of it, you can make soup in your sleep. Trust me!


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Everything you need for your next adventure! Are you itching to travel and feel the urge to go on your next big adventure? Do you want to discover new places, meet new people and take new challenges? Get ready now! Here are all resources and information you need for your next big trip: from the best flights and accommodations, reliable insurances and car rentals, to great backpacks and comfy hoodies!
Flying high
MomondoA great flight search engine is Momondo, which compares all flights for your preferred travel route and dates. You can also search for open jaw flights and thereby can book several flights for your next great adventure already, potentially also saving some money this way!
Sleep tight
AirBnBThere's nothing better than coming home. And thanks to AirBnB you no longer need to miss this feeling when traveling. With AirBnB you stay in real homes, in lovely apartments and hip districts amongst locals. So every day, after yet another great adventure, you are actually coming home.
Booking.comBooking.com is great if you are looking for last minute hotel deals. Especially if you are traveling through Europe or South Africa, for example, Booking.com sometimes offers real bargains. And the best part: you can still stay very flexible and even book your rooms on the day you want to check-in!
AgodaAgoda is like South East Asia's Booking.com. On this platform you can get the same great deals for cheap hotel rooms by maintaining your flexibility at the same time. If you book a few days in advance, or even on the day of check-in, you can safe up to 75% o your booking!
HRSIf you are looking for great hotel rooms in Germany, Austria or Switzerland, HRS is where you want to start looking. The platform also offers great holiday apartments and even houses, and it's perfect when you are planning a short city break in one of these three countries!
HostelworldYou love having lots of like minded people around you and are simply looking for a place to crash? Expensive hotel rooms and empty hotel bars are not quite your fit? Then Hostelworld is where you want to look for accommodation! From budget to design-navy and a little more expensive, Hostelworld offers the biggest choice of hostel rooms worldwide!
Free beds
CouchSurfingIf you love diving into foreign cultures and don't mind sleeping on a foreigner's couch, you should definitely try couch surfing! You stay at a strangers home, take part in their daily routine and often meet wonderful people who have great stories to tell! And even better: you stay absolutely for free!
GoCambioAre you a good guitar player, or do you perfectly speak French? Then think about exchanging your skills for a free bed! On GoCambio you can offer your skills and look for people who're interested in attaining them as well. You won't be paid for your teaching, but instead you get a comfy bed and stay with a local!
Trusted HousesittersOn Trusted Housesitters people are looking for people that take care of their homes and pets while they are hitting the road themselves. From small studios and apartments, to huge residencies and even castles, from cats, dogs, fish and birds, to even horses and big farms, you can find anything on Trusted Housesitters! And most of the times you stay for free – you just need to pay a fee for being part of the platform.
Great tours
STA TravelSTA Travel is the specialist when it comes to organising trips for young adventurers. The often have great flight deals and even offer great packages tailored to your needs. If you simply don't like planning your trip yourself, just go for STA Travel!
Roadtrip, baby!
SixtYou probably know Sixt from its funny and sometimes a little provocative commercials but also besides that Sixt has a lot to offer: It is not only one of the biggest rental car companies in Germany but also pretty big in the rest of Europe and the world, covering 105 countries in total! Additionally Sixt offers a huge selection of different car brands!
HertzHertz is rather a down-to-earth car rental provider and is present in 40 countries worldwide. With Hertz you can easily book online but also have the chance to pay on-site. You don't need to pay any cancellation or other hidden fees if your travel plans change. In addition you can earn points and miles with every booking you make!
Europe CarEurope Car is one of the leading companies in Europe and also offers good services worldwide. There are more than 10.000 Europe Car stations in about 140 countries. Further, you can register for the free privilege card program and earn miles, receive a couple of different discounts and your booking is secured even if you arrive later!
Britz CampervansAre you looking for the ultimate adventure and pure freedom? Then road trips with a camper are just right for you! We've already traveled in different countries with a camper and can definitely recommend you to book with Britz Campervans. You get a good camper here and a great service for a good price!
Cheap deals
Holiday PiratesIf you are looking for cheap travel deals check Holiday Pirates! Every day several new deals are posted, from single return flights, to accommodation or all inclusive packages. You can use the site both for last minute trips, but also if you are planning your next adventure well in advance. Just check it daily to not miss any great deal!
L'TUR Last MinuteL'TUR is also great for last minute deals and especially if you are looking to travel cheaply by train in Germany. You can get really cheap train tickets on this site, usually one week prior to the day of departure. As such you can get a ticket from Cologne to Berlin for as few as 19€.
No worries, mate!
Hanse MerkurHanse Merkur offers really great services and many different insurances for your travels. If you are traveling for less than a year, you can opt for an ordinary travel health insurance. In case you are planning to go on a bigger adventure that last over a year, Hanse Merkur offers a really great longtime travel insurance that coffers up to 5 years of traveling!
Know more
WorldNomadsWorldNomads is known amongst traveler for its great Explorer Plan. This is the insurance for adventurers, who love being on the road for longer without having to worry at all. The Explorer Plan not only includes a travel health insurance, but also a luggage insurance and a travel cancelation insurance!
Know more
STA TravelWith STA Travel you get both a classic travel insurance as well as additional insurances that can save you trouble and unplanned costs when traveling. In addition, you can choose between different packages, so get exactly what you need. And if you are traveling with your partner or friend, you can save even more thanks to the family rate!
Know more
Pay smart
DKB-Visa-CardWith DKB credit card you can withdraw money for free worldwide and don't need to worry about hidden costs at all. Even if the bank or the machine requests a fee you get it paid back from DBK. In addition, it's completely for free and you can easily apply for it. We've used this credit card since many years and saved a lot of money thanks to it! Definitely recommendable!
BarclayCard Visa GoldWith the Visa Gold BarclayCard you can withdraw in the Euro zone for free, outside you will have to pay a 1,99% fee for every transaction made. In the first year you don't pay anything for your credit card, afterwards a yearly fee applies. But: you have a great travel insurance included!
Miles&More MasterCard GoldThe Miles&More credit card is perfect if you really travel a lot and mostly travel by plane. You can pay with it like using a regular credit card and get one or two miles per Euro credited depending on the program. These miles enable you to get upgrades or even flights for free! However, this comes with a cost of 95€ per year.
Your backpack besty
PacsafeAs the name promises Pacsafe offers extraordinary safe backpacks. The backpacks from Pacsafe are equiped with an exceptionally good lock system that make it pretty hard for thieves to steal anything from you. We especially love the Pacsafe Venturesafe 45: it looks really great and you can even use it as carry on luggage for your trips!
Take along
Eagle CreekDid you know that there are bags who make packing easier for you and put your backpack in order? Packing cubes! Eagle Creek is especially known with travelers for its Pack-it Cubes: small bags you can pack your stuff in and thereby compromise the size. With these helpful little things you can even take more with you and keep everything in order!
Take along
Staying comfy
TatonkaIf you love functional clothes and equipment, have a look at German outdoor brand Tatonka! Their clothes are made from light materials and especially their shirts are very flexible and their hoody jackets always keep you warm and comfy! You can also find high-quality backpacks and tents from Tatonka – perfect for any outdoor adventures!
Pack it
Fjäll RävenThe classic from Schweden. Fjäll Räven offers cool outdoor clothes and especially the small daypack named Kanken recently became very popular in the whole world. Not only on the streets of hip Berlin Kreuzberg or on long hikes in the mountains, this backpack always comes handy! Actually, all their clothes are great for urban and nature adventures alike!
Pack it
GlobetrotterWith Globetrotter you get everything that make your adventurous heart beat faster. From perfect outdoor clothes of renowned brands to climbing equipment as well as small and big tents for a night in the wilderness – at Globetrotter you find what you're looking for, no matter which adventure you're planning to go on!


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Horses Corner Submits For Planning
Guy Hollaway Architects has submitted a planning application for a 120 bed hotel on the corner of Ethelbert Crescent in Margate, a stone's throw from the vibrant rejuvenated old town.
The buildings cranked form is a direct response to the site's prominent corner location and the desire to make the most of the outward sea views across Walpole Bay.
Full height fixed glazing allows the majority of rooms to benefit from maximised sea views, and many of the rooms have been designed to have the capacity to interlink to accommodate families.
The hotels unique multicolour metal façade reflects the famous Margate deck chair and plays on the regeneration of tourism and culture that is being seen throughout this eclectic seaside town.
Margate has seen a rise of artists taking residency in the town, which is rumoured to also include Tracy Emin's new studio, this is as a result of the success of the Turner Contemporary Gallery.
Visitor numbers are also increasing as a result of the success of the Turner Gallery, and more recently Dreamland, therefore creating a growing demand for quality hotel bedrooms.
Published on 4 August 2017


text: m0ebius 9 Posted March 19, 2012 Can the "secret tokens" found in Hinansho expansion used as regular bonus tokens in normal games? Im referring to Graven Shard, Globe Dossier, Chrysantemun Seal and Diva. For those that do not have the Hinansho Expansion: Union Globe Dossier:Ability: Before the game begins pick a character. Select two characteristics, two skills or one and one. Characteristics suffer a -1 and skills cannot be used during the game. (exactly the opposite of wolfs special ability) Shogunate Chrysantemun Seal: Hardware:Once per turn as sonn as this character activation is over, a character sharing his faction symbol may inmediately start their own activation before an enemy character activation. Reich Graven Shard: Occult: During this character activation he may take a mental test. If successful any character may pass through this character without a bull rush, and this character also rolls 2 additional dice on his shock rolls. These effects last until the beggining of his characters next activation. Matriarchy: Diva: Hardware, Ability: When this character activates he inmediately moves 3 circles before any action or movement points are spent. If anyone moves into the same path this character is inmediately moved one space away. Moving with this ability never counts as an action, does not remove overwatch status, does not use movement points. 2 of these would be the two first faction only bonus tokens for matriarchy and shogunate. I dont think they are overpowered, Graven shard is no doubt the best one by far although I dont know if taking the test implies spending an action, if it did it would nerf it a lot. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites


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A British soldier has been killed in an explosion in Afghanistan, the Ministry of Defence said today.
The soldier was from the 1st Battalion The Royal Gurkha Rifles.
He died in the blast while on patrol in Nahr-e Saraj District of Helmand Province yesterday.
The soldier's next of kin have been informed.


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Monthly Archives: June 2015
Studio offers hot yoga classes
By Carol G. Stratton CHARLOTTE – Mountain Island Hot Yoga opened its door in February with the goal of making yoga less intimidating. The studio, located inside of Mt. Island… Read more
PE teacher prepares to pursue Army Ranger dreams
By Chris Tittel DAVIDSON – Some people wear their hearts on their sleeves. Josh Wagner wears his on his arm. Literally. Wagner and his family, who live in Huntersville, sit… Read more
Area schools offering Cambridge program
By Chris Tittel HUNTERSVILLE – Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools and Cambridge International Examinations are teaming up to offer students in the North Learning Community the opportunity to take their education to a… Read more
Family pizzeria finds place in community
By Molly Reitter MOUNT HOLLY – Papa Sammy, also known as Sammy Gonzalez, had been making pizza at home for his grandchildren for many years. His wife, Ilse Gonzalez, was… Read more
How restaurants fared in health inspections
Health departments in Mecklenburg and Gaston counties inspected the following restaurants in April: Belmont • Beijing to Go, 1420 Wilkinson Blvd. – 90 • Bojangles', 6450 W. Wilkinson Blvd. –… Read more
Drivers, let's act responsibly on the road
By Stephen V. Gilmore It never stops. What, you ask? The impatience of drivers, and the risk they pose to others and themselves. Case in point: This past Friday, May… Read more
Hospital monument honors veterans
MOUNT HOLLY – CaroMont Health recently dedicated a new veterans monument on the campus of CaraMont Regional Medical Center. An initiative of CaroMont Health and the CaroMont Health Veterans Council,… Read more
Cruise benefits Big Day of the Lake
CORNELIUS – A three-hour cruise aboard the Yachta Yachta Yachta with music, open bar and food from five restaurants will benefit Big Day at the Lake. Big Day at the… Read more
Festival benefits Dove House
CHARLOTTE – Omni Wellness Center will host a family festival with free children's zone, discount vendor shopping and free lunch. The event takes place 10 a.m.-2 p.m. June 20 at… Read more
House painter wins $3M in lottery
RALEIGH – James Anthony Jr., a house painter from Cramerton, plans to use the $3 million prize he won playing the $120 Million Cash game to get a captain's license… Read more


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After months of wondering if I should do this or just focus on my Instagram and over 12 hours of trying to work out how to set it up and create a header (I'm not even kidding.. it's 2am!) I have finally decided to enter the world of nail blogging.
I will be putting a lot of my Instagram work up here and going into more detail on how I do it as well as trying to do some pictorials (because I really need to organise a tripod/stand to film with). I will also be swatching a whooole lot of polishes.. the normal nail blog thing but with my own taste and weirdness!
So please stay tuned..... This is going to be crazy.. Mostly just for me, trying to work out how to blog and what not!
I can't wait to start!


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Industrial Estate Development and Management
First Philippine Industrial Park, Inc.
What We Offer
FPIP provides highly reliable and world-class infrastructure, utilities and services that allow locators to focus on growing their businesses.
A dedicated Meralco 115kv substation has been built inside the Park for the exclusive use of FPIP and its locators, which is connected to three separate circuits in Canlubang, Los Banos and Mak-Ban, in the adjacent province of Laguna. With these in place, locators are assured of reliable and stable power supply. FPIP's underground power distribution grid system further enhances this stable power supply by minimizing the risk of power failure during inclement weather.
FPIP provides industrial water to its locators from the 15 deep wells and above-ground reservoirs strategically located within the Park. FPIP also has a modern waste water treatment and cetralized sewerage collection and treatment facility for secondary treatment of industrial and waste water. A centralized distribution system backed up by a full-scale generator system ensures uninterrupted 24/7 water supply to locators.
FPIP offers a wide concrete road system with 6-lane, 40m right-of-way (ROW) main roads and 23m ROW secondary roads. The Park's thoroughfares are enhanced by wide sidewalks, appropriate street lighting, directional signages, pedestrian and bicycle lanes, planting strips and an underground tunnel. An extensive modern underground drainage stystem ensures a flood-free environment, while a First-To-Stop, First-To-Go rule and other traffic measures are strictly enforced throughout the Park to ensure free-flowing traffic and maximum road safety for all Park visitors.
FPIP's best-in-class underground telecom cables and multiple telecommunications partnerships guarantee reliable high-speed, high-volume communication services.


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"The town burnt furiously, all these three days of rain failing in any way to impede the progress of the devouring element. The thick thatched roofs of the houses, dry as timber except just on the outside, blazed as though they had been ready prepared for the bonfire, and the flames ran down the framework which supported the mud walls. In the larger houses, more substantially built, only the roofs caught fire; but the destruction was practically complete. Slowly huge dense columns of smoke curled up to the sky, and lighted fragments of thatch drifting far and wide upon the wind showed to the King of Ashanti, and to all his subjects who had fled from the capital, that the white man never failed to keep his word." Henry Brackenbury (1)
Gold mask, 20 cm in height, weighing 1.36 kg of pure gold, seized by the British from Kumasi, Ghana, in 1874 and now in the Wallace Collection, London, United Kingdom.
We read with great interest the following from the Art Newspaper:
'The gold head is now to be displayed in the exhibition Sir Richard Wallace: the Collector (20 June-2 January 2019), the inaugural show in the museum's new exhibition gallery. Xavier Bray, the Wallace's director, says that he is "keen to work with scholars and researchers in Ghana and internationally to develop our understanding of this incredible work of art". The director is now making plans for a new permanent display of Asante art next year, after the temporary exhibition.' (2)
We have discussed in a previous article the history of the British invasion of Asante, Ghana in 1874 and the subsequent plunder of Asante gold objects and other precious artefacts from the Asante capital, Kumasi. (3)
Readers will no doubt recognise that the generous offer of the director of the Wallace Collection to work with scholars and researchers in Ghana and internationally to develop our understanding of this incredible work of art"
comes at a time that many European museums are busy discussing the issue of restitution of looted African artefacts in Western museums. There is no word about restitution in the interview. It seems the museum and its staff are living in a world of their own. They are still in the Pre-Ouagadougou period. They do not realise that an offer to work with scholars from the countries of origin of the artefacts can no longer be seen as a great step forward. It has been the norm for a while. The museum is making an offer that should have come long ago, that is, before the late Asantehene, Otumfuo Nana Opoku Ware II and the present Asantehene, Otumfuo Nana Osei Tutu II requested the return of the Asante treasures and were turned down by the museum and the British Government. (4)
What will be the use of collaboration now? To give those who have been holding illegally for some 125 years looted Asante treasures more information and knowledge about the objects?
Read full text via: WALLACE MUSEUM AND ASANTE GOLD..dot


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In order to further enhance and strengthen its range of automation solutions, Norgren is launching a new range of plug in subbase valves. With flexibility and configurability at the heart of the design, the new innovative VS series delivers competitive advantage to OEMs who are looking to make specification decisions quickly and effectively, thus helping to reduce the all-important time to market. Recognising development time can be costly, Norgren has designed the VS series to offer engineering advantage through the wealth of features including high flow, long life and I/O capabilities.
The new VS series fulfils the requirements of a variety of markets such as packaging, paper and printing, materials handling, machine tools and the automotive industry. Designed and manufactured at Norgrens Swiss facility, the system utilises proven valve technology to deliver long life and exceptional flow rates through two different spool technologies. The glandless spool and sleeve valve features high operational figures of 200 million cycles, whilst the soft seal spool valve delivers exceptionally high flow rates. This gives the customer the flexibility to select the appropriate spool for each application without the need to install a second valve system.
The VS series is also focused on delivering engineering advantage through its endurance and reliability figures. This focus translates to minimal maintenance for the machine user in the field and, if valves do need replacing, the system allows the user to make a changeover quickly and effectively with minimal interruption.
When it comes to fieldbus options the VS series has been developed to accommodate most of the industry-recognised protocols such as Profibus-DP, DeviceNet, CANopen, Interbus-S, AS-interface and AB RIO. The subbase of the system integrates the required electronics thus delivering advantage because the valve island size is the same for fieldbus and multipole.
Available in 18mm or 26mm widths, the VS series features 3 different port options (ISOG, NPTF and built-in push-in-fittings) and features a valve interface according to ISO 15407-2. The VS series has been designed to be extremely robust and durable and is manufactured from the highest quality materials to handle harsh operating environments. Accommodating two-valve size ranges with flow rates from 550 to 650 l/min (18mm) and 1000 to 1350 l/min (26mm), the VS series features a wide variety of sandwich plate accessories such as pressure regulators, flow controls, single valve shut off plates and intermediate supply and exhaust modules. With IP65, NEMA 4, CE, ATEX and UL 429 approvals and two supply voltages (24V DC and 115V AC), the VS series is suitable for all markets.
Utilising the Norgren online valve island configurator, the machine builder simply defines a set of parameters such as number of valves needed and flow rate to satisfy individual specification requirements. Available in any combination from one to 16 valves OEMs can configure a solution to match individual specifications and if the system needs to evolve, once installed, the VS system can be configured in the field to match the changes. This flexibility delivers advantages to OEMs through minimum machine downtime and reduced modification times.
Please contact Norgren for further information.
Previous: [New LC8 AC Servo Motor Amplifier / Controller from SMC]
Next: [VP51 Digital Proportional Control Valve with DeviceNet from Norgren Provides Flexibility and Functionality]
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last months
It could make your job easier.


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The most powerful Alfa Romeo ever created.
The Giulia Quadrifoglio offers abundant style, supreme comfort, high performance and superb handling. This muscular and modern-looking saloon honours Alfa Romeo's rich heritage in a number of ways, including its iconic V-shaped radiator grille. This car not only carries a sports badge that has a 106 year legacy behind but also represents something totally original today which is crafted with passion.
The Ultimate in Design
Quadrifoglio translates as 'four-leaf clover', hinting, perhaps, at the vehicle's number of doors, providing easy access for passengers in both rows. A high-strength-steel modular platform forms the basis for the car's lightweight carbon fibre and aluminium frame.
The vehicle boast a number of eye-catching features, including 19-inch alloys – and quad tailpipes which emit the vehicle's signature full-throated growl. The addition of carbon fibre on the roof, rear spoiler and sideskirts gives this car a sportier edge which you come to expect from an Alfa Romeo.
Sophisticate Interior
The car's sophisticated and plush cabin offers plenty of leg and headroom for up to five occupants. Each traveller can relax into lightweight leather-and-Alcantara-clad sports seats, each augmented with chunky side bolsters. The driver further benefits from a low-slung position, and the grip provided by a flat-bottomed three-spoke leather steering wheel.
The features inside the Quadrifoglio are truly unique. The leather steering wheel is surrounded by functional controls, infotainment system and the perfect driving position which leaves the driver in complete control so an exceptional drive is experienced throughout.
Cutting-Edge Technology
DAB digital radio, an AM/FM radio, Bluetooth connectivity and an Alfa Connect 3D navigation system (complete with an 8.8-inch colour screen) are featured as standard. A range of safety elements include front and rear parking sensors, Electronic Stability Programme, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Tyre Pressure Monitoring, automatic rain-sensing headlights, multiple airbags and seatbelt pre-tensioners and load-limiters.
Extraordinary Performance
A 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6 engine produces 503bhp and 600Nm of torque, and is paired with ZF eight-speed automatic transmission. This rear-wheel-drive vehicle delivers 0-60mph in a little over four seconds and is capable of up to 191mph. Also available are a 2.0-litre petrol and a 2.2-litre diesel engine options.
Enquire today
The pulse-quickening Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio is available at Johnsons Solihull and Swindon. Complete our online contact form, or phone or visit us any day of the week.
Take a closer look by using our interior and exterior tours


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Gata leitora
Inside by Noelle Adams #chapter thirteen
Here's Chapter Thirteen of Inside, the serial novel I'm working on. If you need to catch up, you can use the links to the earlier chapters below.
I'm almost to the end of this. After this chapter, I just have two more chapters and the epilogue to go, so I'm going to try to finish it this week. So you can expect frequent updates until this is complete.
Need to catch up?
You can catch up on the earlier chapters through the links below.
Chapter One
Chapter Two
Chapter Three
Chapter Four
Chapter Five
Chapter Six
Chapter Seven
Chapter Eight
Chapter Nine
Chapter Ten
Chapter Eleven
Chapter Twelve
Chapter Thirteen
The next morning, I woke up swelteringly hot. It didn't take me long to figure out why.
Will had a fever.
I knew he had a fever even before I reached out to touch his skin. He was sweating visibly and his cheeks were deeply flushed. He was evidently asleep, but he kept shifting restlessly. Uncomfortably. And heat was radiating off his body.
My heart started pounding as I blinked a few times and sat up in the bed. I pressed my fingertips against his forehead and sucked in a sharp breath at how hot he was.
Definitely a fever.
His injury might not have been life-threatening in itself, but despite what he'd kept insisting, it wasn't "nothing." It was serious enough to cause this fever. The wound was probably infected.
He needed a doctor. He needed antibiotics.
And he'd never let me take him to get them when it would alert Kurt and his guys to our presence.
I knew for sure he wasn't going to be up to going to the bank to get the diamonds today. We'd have to wait for tomorrow, assuming I could get the fever down by then.
It was just six-thirty in the morning when I woke up, and I spent the next hour trying to cool Will down. He wasn't exactly delirious, but he also couldn't seem to wake up for more than a few seconds at a time. I used cool, wet washcloths, applying them to his hot skin, and I tried to pour a few sips of water into his mouth whenever he was halfway awake.
We didn't have a thermometer in the apartment, so I couldn't tell what his temperature was or how much it was changing. But after an hour or so of treating him, he seemed to settle down. He wasn't writhing so much, and his skin felt cooler.
His temperature must be going down.
At least, I hoped it was.
It wasn't even eight in the morning, and I was already exhausted. I'd paused to make myself a cup of coffee, but that was all I'd had time or energy for. I was so anxious for Will that my body was tight, and I was all alone with it.
I wasn't any good at this kind of thing.
I couldn't deal with life-or-death crises or imminent danger.
I was a normal woman with a normal life, and it felt like I'd been thrown into some sort of never-ending action movie I simply wasn't prepared for.
I needed Will to get better so he could help me.
There was no way I could do this alone.
On that thought, I heard a knock on the door. It startled me, although I knew it was probably Bryce.
I ran to check the peephole and then relaxed and opened it up quickly when I saw Bryce's familiar face in the hallway.
Bryce might not be Will, but he was sure as hell better than nothing.
My relief was short-lived, however. Before I'd even locked the door behind him, Bryce was muttering, "We've got to get out of this apartment today."
"What do you mean?"
Bryce was shaking his head with an uncharacteristically sober expression. "They've closed in on the building somehow. I saw three of his guys on the block this morning. It took me ages to get around them and get into the building without being spotted. They're going to find this place by the end of the day."
My stomach had dropped on his first sentence, and it kept dropping even more as he spoke. "Oh no."
"Why oh no? We can do the bank this morning and be out of here by lunch. We'll manage okay."
"No, we won't manage okay. Will is sick. He has a fever. He can't do anything this morning."
Bryce turned his eyes to the bed and muttered, "Shit."
The one word pretty much summed up our situation.
We walked over to stare down at Will's sleeping body. He did look better than he had earlier, but his face was still flushed and damp, and he hadn't woken up.
"Is it bad?" Bryce asked.
"I don't know. I managed to get him cooled down so he seems more comfortable now. But what if that wound is infected? He needs a doctor."
"I'm sure he does, but the minute we set foot inside an emergency room, Kurt is going to know about it. We might as well shoot off a flare gun to announce our presence."
"Do you think we can just wait until tomorrow to go to the bank? He might feel better tomorrow." There wasn't much hope in my tone because I wasn't feeling much in my heart.
Bryce's frown didn't raise any optimism. "It'll be risky. They're going to be inside this building by the end of the day. Maybe we can find somewhere else to stay."
"I'm not going to try to move Will in this condition unless we know it's genuinely safe." I paused, looking at the strain on Will's face, even as he slept.
Then I made up my mind.
"No," I said. "I'm not going to wait for him. He's already nearly gotten killed for this, and I'm not going to let him die all the way. Not if I can help it. We'll go get the diamonds without him."
Bryce winced. "He'll raise hell if we try it."
"It will be over and done before he knows. I almost lost him yesterday, and I'm not going to risk him again. Even tomorrow, he's not going to be up to going into the bank and facing whatever danger is waiting there. I don't care what he wants. I'm not going to let him do it." I swallowed hard, cold with a chill of awareness.
I was going to have to do this without Will after all.
It was the last thing I wanted to do.
I added, "So will you help me?"
Bryce made a face. "You know I'm willing to help, but I don't think you understand what I'm going to be facing when Will gets well again and learns what I've let you do without him. He's going to completely lose his shit. I'm not getting paid enough to deal with that."
"I'll pay you more," I said without hesitation. "Whatever he's paying you, I'll raise it fifty percent." I actually had no idea how much money that would be, but I was happy to drain my bank accounts if it meant keeping Will alive. "If you'll come with me to get the diamonds this morning and leave Will here, I'll give you fifty percent more."
Bryce had lifted his eyebrows at my urgency, but he said in his normal, relaxed tone. "Fair enough. It's a deal."
I let out a breath and hugged my arms to my belly, trying to hold back the jitters of fear. My eyes were on Will's face. "I hate leaving him alone when he's like this. What if his fever gets worse?"
"That's a risk you're going to have to take. Our options are to wait it out until tomorrow and pray he gets better and that we're not found before then. Or else leave him here alone and go to the bank ourselves. There's no third option here. There's no one else to call in for help at this point, since Dax is still too far away to get here in time."
"Okay. Will stays here then. The bank opens at nine, so I'd like to be there as early as possible so we can get this over with. I really don't see how they could possibly be watching the bank. It has no connections to anything in mine or my dad's past. They can't be watching every bank in the city, can they?"
"I wouldn't think so, but Kurt is so tech-savvy, there's no telling what he might have in place to alert him. But I think we have a decent chance of getting in and out okay."
"All right." I took a deep breath and let it out. "Then let's make a plan and do this."
I hated leaving Will by himself when he was so sick, but he seemed to be sleeping comfortably when Bryce and I left, and I kept telling myself that we'd be back soon and that Will wasn't likely to get much worse until the afternoon, when fevers tended to rise.
He was going to be so upset when he finally got better enough to know what was going on and when he found out that we'd left him behind. But hopefully by that time the whole thing would be over, and Will would no longer be in danger because of me.
I could deal with him being angry with me if it meant he was still alive.
I was silent and sick to my stomach as I sat in the passenger seat of Bryce's car. We'd had to take a round-about way out of the apartment building and then sneak three blocks over to where Bryce had left his car. The fear and exhaustion and the disorientation of being outside for the first time in more than a week were combining to daze and paralyze me.
I felt dizzy, ice cold. I wasn't sure how I was going to be able to walk into the bank, pretend to be a normal customer, and then walk out again with twenty million in stolen diamonds without simply passing out in the middle of the lobby.
But if it meant the danger would be over—for me and more importantly for Will—then I was going to do it, even if I fainted in the process.
"You going to be okay?" Bryce asked after several minutes of silence. He was some kind of expert driver, taking turns and quick maneuvers with such ease I could hardly follow them. If someone had been following us before, there was no way they could be following us now.
He'd obviously been part of my dad's crew because of his driving abilities, and they sure were coming in handy now.
"You're freaking me out with how white and frozen you are."
"I'm nervous. But I'll be okay. I'm going to do this."
"You need to try to act casual when we get inside. This isn't a high security bank. You'll have no problem getting in with the ID and the box key. The staff there will have no reason to suspect anything unless you act all nervous and jittery."
"I'm not going to act nervous and jittery." I was annoyed with Bryce now, and it was actually helping. Better to be annoyed than terrified. "I've got this."
"All right. I'll be with you, and I'll try to cover if you mess anything up."
"I'm not going to mess anything up," I gritted out between clenched teeth.
"If you say so."
"I do say so. Now shut up for a few minutes before I wring your neck."
Bryce just chuckled, and the distraction at least had broken me out of my frozen paralysis.
This was as simple a task as could be. I just needed to walk into a small bank. Show my fake ID and ask to be shown to my safety deposit box. Open it with the key. Take out of the diamonds and put them in my bag. Then walk out of there with Bryce and get back into the car.
Compared to what Will had already done for me, it was nothing.
I could do it.
I was doing it.
Bryce had pulled into a metered parking place about a block away from the bank and we were getting out of the car.
The world had faded into a dim blur around me as I walked next to Bryce toward the bank building. He'd put a hand on my back, giving the semblance that we were a couple. Even though I knew it was just for show, I appreciated the support his hand offered, the knowledge that I wasn't alone.
I had absolutely no awareness of the blue sky, the cars on the street, the people on the sidewalk, the door to the bank as we entered. But my feet were moving in the right direction, so I figured my body was doing what it was supposed to despite the blurred tension in my mind.
To tell you the truth, I can't even remember specific details of what happened next. I know we approached a pleasant-looking blond woman and asked her about accessing the safety deposit boxes. I know she asked for an ID and I showed her the driver's license and the key. I know she took us to a small room in the back with two walls full of boxes.
I had a momentary panic about which box I needed to open, but she took care of that for us. She pulled a box out from the wall and put it on a table.
It was locked.
I had the key.
She said, "Take your time. I'll be just outside. Lock the box and come on out when you're ready to leave."
I might have said something. I can't remember. I know Bryce said, "Sounds good. Thanks."
Then we were alone in the small room, and I unlocked the box with trembling fingers and the key my father had left for me.
There was a small black case inside the box.
I pulled out of the case and flipped the latch.
"Fuck," Bryce breathed when we both stared down at a glittering collection of diamonds. They were all different sizes, and each were positioned in a small slot in the case.
"I can't believe we finally found them," I said.
"Good thing I'm a trustworthy soul, or I could just snatch them right now and have myself a fortune."
"I don't think you'd do that." I didn't know Bryce very well, but Will trusted him and that meant something to me. "But if you want to, I wouldn't stop you. You could have Kurt on your tail instead of mine, and I could get Will to the ER and be done with this whole thing."
Kurt snorted. "Nah. I wouldn't do it. And if I did, I wouldn't just have Kurt on my tail. I'd have Will too. And, believe me, Will is a lot scarier than Kurt is."
I almost smiled at this. Then I lifted the first tray in the case to find another one, also full of diamonds.
I was pleased with our success until I glanced over at Bryce, who was frowning down into the case. "What is it?" I asked.
"This isn't all the diamonds."
My spine stiffened. "What do you mean?"
"I'm not an expert, but I don't see how this is all the diamonds. Not twenty-million's worth. This is maybe half of them."
I groaned out loud. "You're kidding me. This isn't all of them?"
Bryce was shaking his head. "I don't think so. Would your dad have split them up or something?"
"Yes! He would have. It's just like him. Half for me to get and half for Chance to get. Damn it, Dad. I thought we were done." I put down the case and then looked into the safety deposit box to make sure there was nothing else there.
There was an envelope, so I grabbed it and tore it open.
Written on a slip of paper were two lines.
Blue jays don't build nests like sparrows.
They just want to fly.
"What the hell does that mean?" Bryce asked, clearly as frustrated as I was.
"I don't know. I have no idea. This is meant for Chance. It's some sort of clue, but only she can figure it out. We'll have to get it to Dax and Chance."
"Okay. We can do that. But first we need to take these and get out of here."
I closed and latched the case and then put it in my leather saddle bag. I closed the bag, slung the strap on my shoulder, and straightened up. "I'm ready. Let's get out of here."
I was scared again, but in a different way now. The world wasn't a blurry haze as Bryce and I walked through the bank lobby and out of the front door. All the details and colors seemed sharper, more vivid. All my senses seemed heightened.
We got to the car without any problem, and then Bryce was pulling it onto the busy city street.
I really thought we were going to manage to get back to the apartment without incident.
It seemed too good to be true, but we'd managed so far. We just had a few minutes to go.
But then Bryce started looking into his rearview mirror. He did it so often that I turned to look at the road behind us. "What is it?" I asked, when I didn't see anything suspicious.
"I think we're being followed."
"What? How did they find us?"
"The hell if I know, but Kurt knows what he's doing. They must have caught us as we were leaving the bank."
"Shit." I kept turning behind to look until I saw the sedan that Bryce must be worried about. There were two guys in it, and they looked like professionals. I knew the type.
"Can you lose them?" I asked.
"I'm going to try."
I folded my arms in front of me and hung on as Bryce suddenly accelerated and started swerving around the traffic in front of us. He took a quick left turn and then another turn just on the edge of a red light.
The sedan was behind us, though, and they simply ran the red light, causing oncoming traffic to slam on their breaks.
I didn't say a word. I didn't move. I just clung to my seatbelt and prayed to anyone who might hear me that we'd live through this.
After several minutes, Bryce muttered, "Damn it. I can't shake these assholes."
"What should we do? We can't lead them back to the apartment."
"I know. If I drop you off somewhere, do you think you can get back on your own? I can lead these guys away."
I nodded. "Yeah." I had no real confidence in this claim, but what else could I say?
We couldn't keep living through this ridiculous car chase for much longer. Something had to give.
"Okay. Sit tight for now. In about three minutes, I'm going to turn a corner and then stop, and you jump out. You'll have fifteen seconds to get out of sight, or they'll see you. You need to duck inside the parking garage that will be right in front of you before they turn the corner too. You think you can do it?"
"I can do it."
"Okay. I'll give you thirty-seconds warning so you can be ready to get out."
My heartbeat was pounding in my ears and my fingertips as I poised tensely and waited. When Bryce gave me warning, I unhooked my seatbelt and put my hand on the door latch.
Then he made a sudden turn and stopped abruptly. "Now," he barked.
I jumped out, stumbling slightly as I closed the door behind me and raced through the entrance of the parking garage in front of me. It was a car entrance, and there was nothing inside but parked cars.
Bryce had started up again immediately, and he was halfway down the block when the sedan chasing us turned the corner and passed by the entrance.
I was already inside the parking garage, so I didn't think there was any way they could have seen me.
I stood and caught my breath for about thirty seconds before I was able to move again. Then I hurried through the parking garage. I remembered it from a week ago when Will and I had gone through it on our way to the apartment.
I also recognized the two other buildings I needed to pass through to get to the apartment.
I didn't stop. I didn't hesitate. I moved as fast as I could.
I had the diamonds now, and Will was sick and injured, all alone in the apartment.
I needed to reach him as quickly as I could.
Six minutes later, I caught the door to the apartment building as someone was leaving and then entered the stairwell that led up to our apartment.
I'd made it this far. All I needed to do now was walk up the stairs to the third floor and then go down a short hall to the apartment door.
I had the key.
I could finally get back inside and make sure Will was okay.
I was almost finished.
Walking up the first flight of stairs, I heard someone tramping down the steps above me. I immediately tensed up and ducked my head.
Chances were it was just an innocent person who happened to live in this building, but Bryce had said Kurt's guys would probably start searching here before the end of the day, so it was possible that it was one of the bad guys, looking around, trying to find us.
If so, he'd recognize me.
I paused momentarily, thinking about turning around and going back the way I came to avoid him. But before I could actually do it, I caught a glimpse of the guy on the flight of stairs above me.
If I could see him, then he could see me.
I couldn't turn around now or he'd know something was suspicious.
I took a deep breath and kept climbing, desperately trying to fake a pose of casual normalcy.
It might not be one of Kurt's guys. And, if it was, maybe he was stupid or distracted and wouldn't immediately know who I was.
I glanced up as I reached the landing, just as he was about to step down onto it too. I managed to murmur, "Good morning," in a voice that was shockingly natural.
I sounded like anyone, doing anything, living a regular life.
It was definitely one of Kurt's guys. I recognized the type even from a quick glance. It was clear he was hired muscle from his hardened expression, his bulky body, and the way he held his right arm, as if he had a gun holstered beneath his jacket.
Kurt's guys were in the building.
But hopefully they hadn't found the apartment yet. It wasn't like they could bang on every door and demand to be let in. There were dozens of apartments in this building. Hundreds of people. And if they were too obvious someone would call the cops.
I was sweating beneath my clothes, and my skin was chilled and clammy, but maybe he wouldn't be able to see it.
I'd actually gotten past him and was starting up the stairs when he reached out to grab my arm.
His grip was strong, rough. It hurt. "Hey, wait," he demanded in a gravelly voice.
"What are you doing?" I tried to shake off his arm. "Let go of me."
His eyes searched my face. "You're one of the twins, aren't you? We've been looking for you."
Shit. He recognized me. He knew who I was.
Which meant I needed to get away from him. Right now.
I pulled as hard as I could, trying to pry my arm out of his grip, but he just grabbed me with his other hand as well. He was much stronger than I was. There was no way I could win a tug-of-war with him.
So I did the only thing I could think of.
I tried to scream.
I don't know if you've ever tried to scream when you were genuinely panicked, but it's not as easy as it sounds. Maybe some people are naturally screamers, but I'm not. I never scream—even when I'm angry. And panic makes everything harder. On my first attempt, my throat closed up. Only a stretched squeaky sound came out.
The guy actually laughed at the pitiful sound I made, which made me so mad I reacted without thinking. I stomped on his foot with the heel of my shoe.
He didn't let go, but he did grunt, and as he did, I tried screaming again.
This time was better. I actually made a real sound.
The third time, I managed to get out a loud bellow. "Help! Help! Fire! Fire!"
My dad had taught me and Chance long ago that when you're calling for help, you should always yell fire. If you scream out about theft, assault, or rape, then people might not risk leaving the safety of their homes. Fire got people outside.
The man made a growling sound while I screamed, and he slapped me hard with the flat of his hand.
It hurt. Stunned me. I'd never been hit before.
But I kept screaming.
"Shut up, you little bitch," the man said, giving me a painful shake.
He wouldn't be so mad at me if my screaming wasn't doing something, so I kept it up. The stairwell was bleak and empty with concrete floors and thick walls. But maybe someone would hear me. Maybe someone would call the police.
The man tried to pull me down the stairs, and I resisted as much as I could. I couldn't get away from him. He was simply too strong. But at least I could make this as hard for him as possible. I writhed and kicked out and kept screaming, and the guy got more and more exasperated with the struggle.
He was going to hit me hard soon. He was going to knock me out so he could take control of my body. I couldn't let him do it, so I fought him like a tiger, scratching and kicking and doing everything I could.
"Bitch," the man bit out.
I prepared myself for the blow I knew was coming, still struggling as wildly as I could.
"Get your hands off her!"
It was a new voice, and it was coming from the flight of stairs above us.
I gasped and looked up to see Will.
He was still wearing the shorts I'd left him in, with nothing covering his abdomen but his bandages, and his face was damp and wan. But he was on his feet, and I'd never seen anything like the cold steel in his eyes, on his face.
He was holding a gun.
I could suddenly see what would happen now. I'd witnessed it in movie after movie, television show after television show.
There would be a standoff. And this guy would use a threat to me to keep Will from advancing any farther. There might be two of us, but we had the disadvantage because Will would never let me get hurt.
Those standoffs never ended well. I wasn't going to let it happen.
So I readjusted while the man was distracted by Will and kneed him as hard as I could in the groin.
He made an oomphing sound and doubled over, and his grip on me loosened enough for me to yank myself free.
I ran.
Down the stairs, as fast as I could, trying to get distance between me and that horrible guy.
The man chased me, and he was bigger and faster than me. Evidently, I hadn't hurt him enough to slow him down. He grabbed me again when I got the bottom landing. I felt his fingers close around my upper arm.
But then something changed. The man let me go.
Because Will had reached him, hauled him away from me, and thrown him against the wall.
I gasped and froze as I watched the two men grappling. It was raw and intense and ugly, nothing but grunts and body parts and visceral pain. Normally, I was sure Will would be able to take care of this other guy with no problems, but Will had been shot yesterday. He'd had a fever all day. And he wasn't even wearing shoes right now.
The other guy was getting the better of him.
For a minute, I was too dazed to do anything, and in one irrational part of my mind, I heartily sympathized with all those females in action movies who just ducked out of sight instead of going to help the hero fighting with the bad guy. Every instinct in my body was saying to get out of there, to hide, to shrink away from this primitive violence.
But this was Will. And he was sick and injured. And this man would kill him without a second thought.
I couldn't let it happen.
I knew from my dad's training that the best self-defense was always aimed at vulnerable parts of the body. The man was hunkered over Will, his hands around his throat, so the only vulnerable part of his body I could reach was one knee.
So I kicked him there, as hard as I could.
I heard something crack. The sound almost made me vomit.
The man howled, and Will finally got an advantage. He threw the man off him and knocked his head against the concrete floor.
The man went limp.
"Will," I rasped.
"Sweetheart." He was sitting on the floor now, ghost white and dripping with sweat. I could see blood on his right arm and blood seeping through his bandages. "You left without me."
"I didn't have a choice." I reached down to help him up, and he gave me a sudden hug that was so hard I lost my breath.
Then he pulled away. "We need to get him out of this building or they'll know we're here."
"What should we do? You can't carry this guy in your condition."
He hesitated, wiping sweat off his face with his forearm. Then said, "We'll do it together. Help me."
The next ten minutes were painful and unpleasant.
We got the guy up between us and supported him like he was drunk. Fortunately, we didn't run into anyone who was close enough to see the man's real condition as we took him through back hallways and a parking garage to deposit him in an alley. They already knew what neighborhood we were in, so it didn't matter if they found him and deduced what had happened to him.
The guy wasn't going to regain consciousness any time soon. Not with that blow to the head.
When we got rid of him, Will and I went back to the little apartment.
"Did you hear me scream?" I asked as I locked the door.
"Yeah. But not from the apartment. I'd woken up to find you'd left without me, so I called Bryce and he told me you were on your way back alone. I'd already left to look for you when I heard you scream." He shook his head as he gazed at me. "I can't believe you did it without me."
"You were sick."
"I wasn't that sick."
"Yes, you were."
Will took a shuddering breath, using one hand to prop himself up against the wall. "So did you get them?"
"Half of them." I pulled the case out of my bag and then opened it to show it to Will.
He stared down at the diamonds for a long minute. Then he parted his lips like he would speak.
He didn't get anything said.
He collapsed to the floor in a faint.
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Step into simple speed and position control
Highly accurate & smooth motion that is easy to design
TI offers a comprehensive family of stepper motor driver solutions with industry standard step/direction and PWM control interfaces. Advanced features such as smart tuning, integrated current sense and integrated micro-stepping, deliver quiet, efficient and smooth motion profiles.
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Vinyl Express Q-Series
Vinyl Express Q Series, professional grade vinyl cutters that are the ultimate solution for a high volume shop. They're specifically designed for cutting long jobs without skewing, saving material and time. We offer a wide variety of package options to suit your needs, from 24" to 64" vinyl cutters, many with additional software upgrades, stands, heat presses, and starter supply kits.


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Israelis widely back militants-for-soldier swap
JERUSALEM - Israelis overwhelmingly support a lopsided prisoner swap in which 1,027 Palestinian prisoners will be released for a single captured soldier, a poll showed Monday, one day before the exchange between Israel and Hamas was slated to take place.
The poll showed that 79 percent of Israelis support the deal under which the soldier, tank crewman Sgt. Gilad Schalit, will be released by the Hamas militants who have held him in Gaza for more than five years.
Only 14 percent said they opposed the deal.
Family: Israeli soldier to be freed Tuesday
Israel: Politics behind the prisoner swap
Israel, Hamas OK deal to free captured soldier
The poll was carried out by the Dahaf Institute and published in the daily Yediot Ahronot on Monday. Pollsters interviewed 500 respondents, and the margin of error was 4.4 percentage points.
The level of support is striking, not only because of the uneven nature of the exchange but among those to be freed in return for the soldier are Palestinian militants responsible for some of the deadliest attacks against Israelis in recent memory.
Several families of victims filed court appeals against the prisoner swap, and Israel's Supreme Court convened to hold a hearing on them Monday.
Relatives of Israelis killed in Palestinan attacks were present in the courtroom, hoping the judges would halt the exchange. Noam Schalit, the soldier's father, also attended.
The court was not expected to accept the appeals, however, or delay the implementation of the swap.
The prisoners to be released include Ahlam Tamimi, a woman who drove a suicide bomber to a crowded Jerusalem pizzeria in 2001. The bomber killed 15 people, including seven children and teenagers.
Also on the list are Abdel Aziz Salha, who was photographed raising his bloody hands to a cheering crowd after killing two Israeli soldiers who accidentally drove into the West Bank city of Ramallah in 2000; Nasser Yateima, a mastermind of a hotel bombing that killed 30 people celebrating the Passover holiday in 2002; and Ibrahim Younis, who planned a 2003 suicide bombing in a Jerusalem cafe that killed seven people, including an American-born doctor and his daughter who were celebrating on the eve of the young woman's wedding.
Palestinian politicians have largely tried to portray the swap as an achievement for all Palestinians, playing down the deep divides between Hamas, which held the soldier and negotiated the deal, and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas' Fatah movement. The two groups lead rival governments, Fatah in the West Bank and Hamas in Gaza.
However, some Palestinians have attacked the deal for excluding prominent prisoners and for favoring Hamas members over Fatah.
One imprisoned Fatah leader left out of the swap, Marwan Barghouti, who was sentenced by an Israeli court to five life terms for directing deadly attacks, criticized the deal in remarks relayed by his lawyer.
Barghouti has been seen as a possible successor to Abbas, but his exclusion from the swap could jeopardize his leadership ambitions.
Barghouti "thinks it was possible to achieve something better," said lawyer Elias Sabagh after meeting with the imprisoned leader on Sunday. Barghouti noted that "the deal excluded about 120 prisoners with long sentences in Israeli prisons, including the leaders."
Another Fatah official close to Barghouti, Kadura Fares, also criticized the deal in an interview with Israel's Army Radio. He said that only several dozen of the 477 prisoners to be released Tuesday were from Fatah, and the rest mostly from Hamas.


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Road Conditions Deteriorate Quickly with Heavy Snow and High Winds
AMES, Iowa Feb. 21, 2013: 1 Iowa travel conditions are expected to deteriorate rapidly late this morning in southern Iowa, this afternoon in the central part of the state and this evening in northeast Iowa. Significant snowfall and high winds will cause visibility to diminish very quickly, with periods of whiteout conditions.
The Iowa Department of Transportation's road weather information system, WeatherView, is available to the public at weatherview.iowadot.gov/; it offers valuable travel information like pavement temperatures, precipitation and wind speeds, aswell as camera views.
For traveler information anytime, visit www.511ia.org, call 511 (within Iowa) or 800-288-1047 (nationwide).Be part of Iowa's traffic information social media network. Help others by sharing your travel experience, photos and video once you have stopped in a safe location. Use the hashtag #iatraffic and mention @iowadot in your posts. Do not attempt to use mobile devices while driving.


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The Star Wars Storytime Tin is a boxed set of young-readers books. It was published by Disney–Lucasfilm Press on July 20, 2015. The set's contents include the Star Wars Galactic Adventures storybook, the Star Wars Doodles coloring-and-activity book, the Star Wars Super Stickers storybook, a poster, a picture frame, and a code to redeem the Escape from Darth Vader eBook.
Notes and referencesEdit
- ↑ Michael Siglain (@msiglain) on Twitter "that's courtesy of the fine folks at @Pilot_Studio. They're also responsible for awesome art in the recent SW Early Readers."
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 Star Wars Classic Storytime Tin (BTMS custom pub). Hachette Business Portal. Hachette Book Group (2017). Retrieved on May 27, 2017. (Screenshot)
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Sometimes no amount of diet and exercise can rid your body of stubborn fat deposits like muffin tops and love handles. CoolSculpting® is an innovation in fat reduction that allows you to eliminate those problem areas without surgery, without anesthesia, without needles, and without downtime. Blair Plastic Surgery can treat all these FDA approved areas; fat under the chin, around the knees, upper arms, inner and outer thighs, back fat, bra fat, flanks, muffin tops and the abdomen.
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Cleared by the FDA for fat reduction, CoolSculpting works by targeting fat cells with cold. Fat cells are particularly susceptible to cold, so they are affected by the treatment whereas your other healthy cells remain unaffected. Typical treatments last from one to three hours, depending on your specific goals.
During treatment, we will place a gel pad in the treatment area to protect your skin during treatment. Then using vacuum pressure, the CoolSculpting applicator will apply pressure and cooling to the targeted area. Exposure to extreme cold will cause the natural death of your unwanted fat cells.
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How CoolSculpting Works Animation from CoolSculpting by ZELTIQ on Vimeo.


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There is no bad weather
Designer Emma Jorn designed a truely feminine rainwear collection and dubbed it Takaokami after an old japanese rain godess. I designed the visual identity and Kickstarter campagin that help her recieve the necessary funding. The visual style captures Emma's playful approach to her work and her qwirky spirit.


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Think about Christ's disciples on that first Ascension Day some two thousand years ago. Jesus was supposed to be the Messiah who threw off the rule of the Roman government. Instead he died on a cross. Then, unbelievably, Christ rose from the dead and appeared to them. Their hopes were restored. But he still wouldn't talk about restoring the kingdom to Israel: it seemed he had other things in mind.
It was in this time of transition that the followers of Jesus stopped everything and prayed! What was his will for them now and how would they carry it out? Before he ascended, Jesus told them:
"Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit . . . But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." Acts 1:4,5,8
So the disciples waiting and praying together in the upper room knew they were supposed to be Jesus' witnesses, that they were to spread the good news. The Bible does not describe the original disciples as being especially gifted or powerful or eloquent, so how could God move through them to change the world? They needed the empowerment of the Holy Spirit to so.
Though many centuries have passed, we are not so different today. We want to see change in our nation, in our community, our church, our families and ourselves. We want to see people come to God through the good news of Jesus Christ. But how can simple people like us do this? We need the empowering of his Spirit just as the first disciples did.
Father in heaven, send the wind of your Spirit and blow away all the dirt and dust that clogs our spiritual eyes and ears. Jesus, pour out your promised Holy Spirit again and turn simple people like us into your hands, your feet, your voice in this world. God change our families, change our church, change our individual hearts and may the things of this world become utterly pale and tasteless to us. Let our families, our community taste and see and that the Lord is good!