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Take Immediate Action To Protect Your Children, Your Property And Your Safety
Divorce can be a lengthy process. While your divorce is pending, you may need emergency court orders to protect your children, your property and your safety.
Attorney Dorie A. Rogers is a board-certified family law specialist with more than 30 years of experience representing clients in the full spectrum of family legal matters, including divorce, child custody, child support, spousal support and property division. She has helped hundreds of clients obtain emergency court orders to protect their families and property during the divorce process.
For more information about emergency orders during divorce in Orange County or Riverside County, California, contact us today to schedule a consultation.
Experienced Attorneys Dedicated To Helping You Through This Difficult Time
If you have an urgent family law or divorce matter that requires an emergency court order, our firm can assist you. At The Law Offices of Dorie A. Rogers, APC, we can help you obtain emergency orders in situations involving:
- Restraining orders: When the health, safety or welfare of you or your children is jeopardized, we can help you obtain a restraining order. If you have been falsely accused of domestic violence, we can work to protect your rights.
- Temporary child custody orders: If you have recently separated or you are in transition regarding your living situation, our attorneys can help you establish or respond to temporary child custody orders and visitation orders.
- Relocation/move away: We can help you obtain a temporary order preventing your spouse from removing your child from California.
- Property and finances: We may be able to place a lien on your home or freeze joint credit card and bank accounts to ensure that marital assets and debts remain in place until they can be properly addressed through settlement negotiations, mediation or trial.
- Temporary child support orders: While your divorce is pending, your children may need financial support to maintain their current lifestyle. Our lawyers can help you pursue temporary child support from your spouse.
Tustin Emergency Custody Orders Attorneys
To learn more about how we can help you obtain the emergency orders you need, please contact The Law Offices of Dorie A. Rogers, APC, at 714-602-1492 to schedule a consultation.


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Believe me, there are days that is the only appropriate question! Especially in the middle of the summer season when no-one in the team has slept for 72 hours.
I run the best escort agency in Marbella. And compared to most jobs I have had, including time in major corporate ones, it's pretty enjoyable.
I'm English. I like people. I like to please. But it's best not to cross me as I have an extremely long memory.
I got into the sex industry sort of by accident. Even now that's true of most people, even though some girls at the very top of the industry choose this as an insanely lucrative alternative to anything else they could do.
I like sex. I like men. I like women. So I'm kind of in the right place at the right time. Most of the time it's good fun.
But then every so often something happens that just reduces me to sighs and head shaking.
I'm planning on sharing both, plus some other things I find interesting. Be warned. As well as being keen on sex and everything that goes with it, I'm also a shameless geek.
I hope you like what I have to share with you.
Ione x

subset: commoncrawl


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Jason Marchesano's Articles
Data Center
VDI "The Missing Questions" #9: How many storage IOPs?
Hello fellow VDIers…if you are reading this blog first in the series and wondering why we are on Question 9, then check out the following posts to see the entireRead More
Data Center
VDI "The Missing Questions" #6: What do you really gain from a 2vCPU virtual desktop?
So you've decided you are going to run 2vCPU VMs in one, or all (GHAST!) of your VDI pools. Why did you decide this? Because your application is multi-threaded andRead More
Data Center
VDI "The Missing Questions" #3: Realistic Virtual Desktop Limits
So this is the Million Dollar Question, right? You, along with the executives sponsoring your particular VDI project wanna know: How many desktops can I run on that blade? It'sRead More


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Bringing Your Vision to Life
We are Winnipeg's custom jewellery experts. From engagements and weddings to births, birthdays, Mother's Day, Christmas and every life event in between, we can help you craft the perfect treasure – a gift that can be passed down for generations. Whether you're repurposing family heirlooms or starting from scratch with only an idea and a budget, we'll help bring your vision to life.
How the process works:
| 1 | We have a first meeting to discuss design ideas, budgets and timelines. | 2 | We will create a series of sketches to refine the idea. | 3 | When a design is chosen, you can browse our collection of precious stones. | 4 | We create a 3D rendering and a wearable 3D wax model. | 5 | We create your new treasure and get it legally appraised on your behalf.


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My Story
My name is Leah Weber and I live in a small town right outside Atlanta, GA with my husband and one year old little girl. I work alongside my husband in college ministry and it is one of my greatest joys to mentor young women. I love crafting and have probably tried every different craft out there at some point or another. I'm an introvert and need my alone time, but I also love hanging out with people.
The Story Behind Scenes from Cedar Street
I started this blog as a creative outlet for myself, and as a way to share what I love to do with others. My main passion in life is to bring beauty to a broken world. What do I mean by that? Everything in this world has been tainted by sin. Because of this, everything that was once beautiful has been broken in some way. Relationships, cities, people, governments, are all broken. There is so much pain and suffering in this world, but the good news is that Jesus lived a perfect life and died a perfect death on our behalf, so that we don't have to experience eternal separation from God. God is the ultimate restorer of beauty. It is my hope that this space will bring a little loveliness back into people's lives. I hope this blog will inspire you to create beauty in your sphere of life.


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Fight or flight. A flash of anger when we run into a table. Wincing when we hear a baby screaming behind us on an airplane. The rush of adrenaline when we barely miss being hit by a car.
Humans are reaction machines. Our entire biology is structured to respond to our environment. Our body temperature raises or lowers depending on the external temperature or internal infection. Our irises enlarge or contract depending on how much light enters our eyes. Our metabolism slows down or speeds up depending on how much energy is available to it.
It's no surprise then that we are emotional reaction machines as well. When an unexpected or unpleasant event happens, we feel a visceral sensation in our bodies. We might call that "anger" or "anxiety." We might call it "shock" or "panic." Whatever we call it, we feel the sensation first in our bodies and then interpret it as an emotion.
In his book Getting Past No, William Ury explains a concept that he calls, "Going to the balcony." When we are dealing with conflict, Ury urges us to take a step back to short circuit the default emotional reaction that we feel.
For example, if we get a text message or email that makes us feel the sensation we call anger, "going to the balcony" would mean saving our hot-headed reply as a draft and revisiting the next day after we've had some time to cool down.
If we are having a face-to-face confrontation with someone, "going to the balcony" could involve rephrasing the other person's argument to show that we're listening. This action slows down the confrontation speed and gives us some time to consider our response instead of escalating the conflict.
This method is not designed to win an argument; it is designed to keep us from saying or doing something in an emotional moment that we will regret. We might still disagree with the person's position, but at least we haven't compromised our own position by pushing them into an even more irrational or combative stance.
Since we need to "go to the balcony" in moments when we are in an emotionally volatile state, it can be helpful to develop a quick reminder that triggers us to pause before reacting. Some people dig their fingernails into their palm to remind them to wait before reacting. Some people count down from 10 to give themselves time to cool off.
My personal strategy is to clear my mind of any responses and just focus on listening. Once I was in a very intense situation when a businessman was unleashing all of his frustrations on me. He was practically shouting at me about all of problems he had with the organization that I was supporting and how his work wasn't being appreciated by the organization.
My instinctive reaction would have been to tell him that he was wrong and ask him why he hadn't mentioned any of these issues before. But I knew I needed to "go to the balcony," so I cleared my mind of all my objections and asked him for more information. I empathized with his feelings and asked him to show me all of the work he had been doing.
After spending several minutes listening to him walk me through all of his contributions, I expressed my sincere gratitude for his bringing this hard work to my attention. I asked how I could support him in meeting his objectives, and we identified several areas where our goals overlapped. We shook hands, and I walked out of the office on better terms.
If I had yelled back at him, it would have temporarily satisfied my ego but would have destroyed the business relationship.
Practice the trigger gesture or action that will stop you from immediately reacting in high conflict situations. When you're in the moment, tell yourself, "go to the balcony" or any phrase that helps you pause. For example, my friend KBJ always says, "Be the cloud" and let the other person's emotions and arguments pass through you.
How do you resist reacting in high conflict situations? I'd love to hear your strategies below in the comments section!


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May 25, 2016 - May 25, 2016
Time: 7:30-9 a.m.
Type: Power of More Chamber Event
Join us for a Power of More Speed Networking event on Wednesday, May 25 from 7:30-9 a.m. at Montrose Kia in Sheffield. The event is free to attend, but an RSVP is requested to firstname.lastname@example.com.
Register online for free »
Montrose Kia
5033 Detroit Road
Sheffield, OH 44054
Learn the advantages of becoming a Chamber member and why "Members use Members" is important.
Find a comprehensive list of North Ridgeville Chamber of Commerce members along with their contact info.
See our galleries for snapshots of Chamber events and activities as well as community businesses and locations.


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The UW-Green Bay, Manitowoc Campus bookstore is your one-stop shop for textbooks, course materials, fan gear, gifts, t-shirts and more.
The University Bookstore is operated by Follett Bookstore Management, please contact the bookstore with any questions regarding book purchases, rentals, shipping, returns and store hours. Books can be purchased online or at the bookstore which is located on the UW-Green Bay, Manitowoc Campus campus across from the Solution Center.
Monday - Thursday: 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Bookstore Phone: 920-683-4680
Follett Bookstore Management: 262-524-1378
The required books for each course and section at UW-Green Bay, Manitowoc Campus can be viewed, rented or purchased on the bookstore's website.
Required books for online courses can be viewed, rented or purchased through The Phoenix Bookstore.


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This installment of 'Where are they now?' looks at the team that managed to preserve League status for another season, after beating already promoted Rochdale 1-0 at Underhill. Of course it was also with thanks to Burton Albion who smashed Grimsby (the only other team threatened with relegation) at the Pirelli stadium.
|Jake Cole: Ever reliable
Jake Cole
Jake joined from QPR after never starting for the then-Championship side. He quickly cemented himself as the Bees first choice goalkeeper, pulling off many a match-winning save! After January of this year, following a hip injury he fell out of favour with the manager – rumour has it there was a bust-up of some form, and it was probably understandable, yet unfortunate he left at the end of last season. Considering the defence in front of him over his time with the club, Jake was definitely a fan's favourite, and wasn't usually to blame for any of the silly and unnecessary goals conceded. At the time of writing, he is currently having a trial at recently relegated Plymouth Argyle, yet to seal a contract anywhere.
Joe Devera
Joe joined the Bees first team squad after being a member of the Protec Youth system. He quickly cemented his place in the squad and over six seasons with the Bees racked up just under 200 appearances. He also won the Player of the Year title for two seasons, firstly in 2007/08 and most recently in 2010/11. He rejected a contract at the end of the season and consequently joined recently relegated, Swindon Town.
Gary Breen
Former Republic of Ireland defender, Gary Breen ended his career with Barnet after appearances with many clubs, most notably Sunderland and Coventry City; as well as playing in the 2002 World Cup. He joined the Bees in 2008, where he signed as player/coach and the following season signed on as a player/assistant manager to Ian Hendon – leaving in June 2010, when he hung up his boots.
Kenny Gillet
French left back Kenny joined Barnet back in 2007 after a year at Caen which saw him never play. He lasted three seasons before being released in 2010; however when new manager Mark Stimson took over, he offered the previously released players contracts. Kenny rejected the offer and ended up joining SPL club Inverness Caledonian Thistle.
Ahmed Deen
Sierra Leone international, Ahmed Deen joined Barnet in 2009 after being released by Macclesfield Town. Despite signing a two-year deal, he only lasted a season before being released at the end of his first year at the club. After leaving the Bees he joined Hayes and Yeading, in 2010 and lasted six months – he now plays for Dulwich Hamlets, a side in the Isthmian League Division One South (the eighth tier of football).
Albert Adomah
Albert was a much-loved member of the squad in his two years with the club. His tricks were something special and his performances were the highlight of what was, a terrible season. He always played with a smile on his face and his runs and flair were unpredictable – the majority of the time he was double marked by opponents, but he always managed to get passed them! He left the Bees in 2010, and now plays for Bristol City where he features regularly. Glad he's been given the chance to play at a higher level, and he can only go on to bigger and better things!
Mark Hughes
Mark Hughes joined Barnet in 2009, from Chester City, where he was a regular starter with the club. He's managed to continue that feat with the Bees and is now, an integral member of the midfield. As well as appearances for the Northern Ireland under 19 team, he has also two full international caps to his name. He is still with the Bees and was the first member of the squad to put his name to paper and commit his future to the club last month.
Micah Hyde
Jamaican International, Micah Hyde has been in the game for just under twenty years and will probably be best known for his days Cambridge United, Watford and Burnley. He joined the Bees in the 2009/10 season at the age of 35, and only lasted a year before being released. Now at the age of 37, he's at Billericay Town.
Ed Upson
Ed joined on loan from Ipswich Town where he never made an appearance for the club. After a largely unsuccessful loan at Stevenage in the previous season, Ed only made nine appearances, scoring a solitary goal. After returning to his parent club, he was released at Portman Road and snapped up by Yeovil Town where he continues to play.
|JOF: Barnet's number nine
John O'Flynn
JOF was a definite fan's favourite and joined after spending six years at Cork City, his home town club. It's fair to say he definitely lived up the number nine shirt, racking up the goals in his two years at Underhill. He rejected a £100,000 offer to join Shrewsbury which was to the delight of the majority of fans. However, the elation turned to disappointment when he left, after rejecting a contract at the end of the 2009/10 season. He went on trial with Bristol City, but was unsuccessful; consequently joining Exeter City where he remains today.
Mauro Vilhete
Young, hot prospect, Mauro Vilhete was a result of the club's youth system – he joined in 2009, after rejecting a scholarship from Aston Villa. A tricky winger/forward, Mauro was called up to the first team that same season, but only ever made the substitutes' bench. However, he broke through to the first team last season, becoming the club's youngest ever player, at the age of 17. He's still with the club, and will hopefully continue to progress!
Next week's 'where are they now' will look at the players involved in the most recent great escape of 2010/11 – the starting XI that managed to beat Port Vale in the final game of the season to preserve League status.
If there are any squads from yesteryear you would like to see included in this feature - whether it be from a season, or particular match – don't hesitate to let me know.


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Adjustable vest made of black, soft gummy leather.
Graphic piping detail.
Logo embroidery in the back.
Black metal pieces and high quality zip fastening.
Double height mesh on the interior.
Pockets on the side and smaller pocket on the right.
Gummy Leather
Double Height Mesh
Use a brush to remove superficial dust


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Modern Glass make the best sealed units in Staffordshire
This is down to our investment in new machinery, attention to detail and our use of the finest materials available. Thats why we are the supplier of choice for the discerning home owner and the areas best tradespeople.
Modern Glass has been trading uninterruptedly since 1947 and we honour our guarantees.
- Our units carry the British Standard Kite Mark and are regularly tested to BSEN1279.
- Our units achieved 99 out of 100 on our recent independent CE quality audit. (Dec 2015)
- Our units are manufactured in house on our state of the art assembly line.
- Our units are dual sealed as standard for a longer service life.
- Our units use so coat low "E" glass for maximum energy efficiency and optical clarity.
- Our high quality, longer lasing units offer exceptional value for money.


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Community transport schemes pick you up at your house, or the nearest safest place and provide a door-to-door service.
All you need to do is ring up and book a time that suits you.
Transport Plus - your local voluntary transport service
There are also five Flexibus services covering key areas in Norfolk.


text: I just enjoy finding textures that are interesting to photograph. I find garlic's husk texture very cool. I used window light and two reflectors to take this picture. The first couple of pictures I took came out a bit monocrhomatic. Then I added a kitchen towel to the background. I chose the garlic to be the main actor in the shot and the reflectors helped to brind a bit of light to it.


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State Colleges
Attorney for three former UM assistant coaches wants to publicly reveal why NCAA case should be dismissed
The attorney for three former University of Miami coaches involved in the NCAA case told The Miami Herald he sent a letter on Wednesday to NCAA Committee on Infractions chair Britton Banowsky, asking for permission to release their side of the story – and let the public know why the case should be dismissed.
"I can tell you we are barred from discussing [details of the motions to dismiss]," said Jim Zeszutek, who is representing former UM assistant basketball coaches Jake Morton and Jorge Fernandez, and former UM football assistant Aubrey Hill. "We filed a request with the committee to give us an opportunity to publish and disseminate our position.
"[NCAA president] Dr. [Mark] Emmert keeps taking different media opportunities to talk about the position of the NCAA and he keeps talking about tainted evidence vs. good evidence, and that they're going to go forward with the good evidence against my clients, despite us asking that Dr. Emmert cease doing that. If you're a reader, jeez, you might be thinking, 'They must have done something wrong because the NCAA is using the good evidence against them." '
Zeszutek, who works for Dinsmore & Shohl in Pittsburgh, told The Miami Herald by phone Thursday that he filed two motions to dismiss the NCAA case. The first, he said, was filed "early in March.
"Then we had a meeting with the chairman of the Committee on Infractions and we filed a second motion March 29 supplementing it, with more information on why the case should be dismissed."
Also on Thursday, CBSSports.com first reported that Zeszutek sent a "notice to preserve evidence" in January to NCAA general counsel Donald M. Remy so that the governing body of college athletics doesn't get rid of any UM case-related evidence should his clients choose to sue the NCAA.
In confirming that notice, Zeszutek told The Miami Herald, "Now they have a notice of a potential lawsuit and they're required to protect that data. It seems because of the NCAA's allegations against my clients, they are not able to secure employment in college athletics, professional athletics or anything to do with athletics. They have no opportunities, although they have the credentials.
"People just won't hire them because the NCAA is so powerful the prospective employers won't pull the trigger."
Morton resigned Thursday from his position as Western Kentucky's director of basketball operations. The Associated Press reported that school spokesman Michael Schroeder said he left "to pursue coaching opportunities."
The "notice to preserve evidence," which The Miami Herald obtained, demands that the NCAA preserve any and all items and evidence, including but not limited to, written, electronic and voice recordings regarding the use of former booster Nevin Shapiro's lawyer Maria Elena Perez in bankruptcy proceedings related to the investigation; instructions given to Perez by the NCAA regarding the collection of information for the investigation through the bankruptcy proceedings; communications between Perez and the NCAA and general counsel's office regarding the scope of her retention by the NCAA; all communications between or among the NCAA regarding the UM athletics department; any information the NCAA has regarding of the leaking of information or providing information to the media concerning the case; the communication the NCAA has had with potential employers to bar or discourage the employment of coaches alleged to have committed NCAA infractions.
Zeszutek said he hasn't gotten a response from the letter he sent Wednesday, but expects he will get one.
"I've been a lawyer for 38 years and have been practicing before the Committee on Infractions for 30 of those years,'' he said. "This isn't my first rodeo. I've had experience dealing with these issues before. But this is probably the worst situation for my clients I've ever seen, and it's frustrating.''
Meanwhile, NCAA president Mark Emmert addressed the media at an NCAA Final Four news conference Friday, answering some questions related to the Miami case.
"The Miami issue had some enormous foul-ups in it," Emmert said. "We've acknowledged that. We've addressed those issues. The enforcement staff and all the people that work in enforcement are continuing to do their jobs, and they do a terrific one."
When asked about ongoing litigation against the NCAA, not specifically related to UM's case, Emmert said, "If you're not getting sued today, you're not doing anything. I don't know anybody that doesn't have litigation pending, so I'm not going to apologize for the fact we have a very litigious society, and there's plenty of reasons to file suit against large organizations."


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With Somalia in the Throes of Famine, UN Warns of Worsening Crisis
With famine already ravaging Somalia, the U.N. warns South Sudan, Nigeria, and Yemen are also in danger.
Internally displaced men and children shelter from the sweltering afternoon sun under a tree beside a hut on March 14 at a makeshift camp on the outskirts of Baidoa, in the southwestern Bay region of Somalia, where thousands of people arrive daily after they fled the parched countryside.
The United Nations warned of an unprecedented global crisis with famine already gripping parts of South Sudan and looming over Nigeria, Yemen and Somalia, threatening the lives of 20 million people. For Somalis, the memory of the 2011 famine, which left a quarter of a million people dead, is still fresh.
An elderly woman weakened by hunger lies on the ground as her daughter watches over her at the Baidoa camp on March 15.
Women carry firewood on March 15 as they walk back to a makeshift camp on the outskirts of Baidoa.
A dust storm sweeps through the makeshift camp in Baidoa on March 26.
A woman leads her donkeys loaded with jerrycans in the drought-stricken Baligubadle village near Hargeisa, the capital city of Somaliland, on March 15.
Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but is not recognized by any other country.
A man walks in a dry underground water pan in Baligubadle village, Somaliland, on March 15.
A young boy fills a water drum loaded on a donkey cart before selling it on March 15 in Baidoa.
A malnourished child is fed a special formula by her mother on March 15 at a hospital in Baidoa, part of a UNICEF- funded health program for children and adults displaced by drought.
A malnourished child is examined by an aid worker in Baidoa on March 15.
Women carrying jerrycans of water from a collection point set up by a U.N. aid agency walk on March 14 toward the camp on the outskirts of Baidoa.
The carcass of an animal that died from severe drought lies on the ground in Bandarbeyla in Somalia's semi-autonomous region of Puntland on March 24.
According to locals, the area has seen only two days of rain in more than a year.
Somalia's drought is threatening 3 million lives, according to the U.N. In recent months, aid agencies have been scaling up their efforts but they say said more support is urgently needed to prevent the crisis from worsening.
Ali Asair, who left his family behind and traveled hundreds of kilometers in search of a pasture for his animals, tends to his camel in the Bandarbeyla district of Somalia on March 24.
A displaced Somali woman who fled a drought-stricken region prepares a meal outside her shelter in Baidoa on March 26.
A malnourished young boy with a mental disability lays inside his family's shelter in a camp on the outskirts of Qardho, in Somalia's semi-autonomous region of Puntland on March 26.
East Africa has been suffering from a severe drought since 2015 due to the El Nino weather phenomenon.
Children drink water delivered by a truck in the drought-stricken Baligubadle village in Somaliland on March 15.


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CA District One Media is Here
Sometimes the work of changing a district from solidly red to blue feels impossible. It is especially challenging when allies tell you it is impossible too. This is why I'm so grateful for my friends who look at the numbers and say "What?! Easy! We can do that!" and get to work doing something about it.
In the spirit of a true, grassroots, effort, please welcome to the airwaves "CA District One Media" which premiered on KVMR this week.
Listen here:
Awesome, right? Gives you all sorts of ideas and inspiration, right? Wondering how you can help, right?
This is only the beginning of what many smart, committed, and talented people are ready to launch. Here are 3 ways you can get involved now:
1. Know a fresh voice in CA District One who is fired up about the state of our current politics and wants to use their voice to make real change? They need someone who is camera ready and willing to commit to regular taping sessions now through the 2018 mid-term elections. Maybe it is you! If so, contact Stephanie Nix, email@example.com. Let her know your skills or share a great YouTube video that reflects your talent. This is an unpaid position.
2. Tune in to KVMR news hour 6-7pm PST every Monday to hear the latest on elected officials' actions in Congress, their votes, and public comments. Talk to your friends about what you learn. Share your concerns.
3. If you have some extra money lying around, make a donation to KVMR. Community radio is more important than ever.
Stay tuned for more!


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The M-Squared team is a collective of passionate, creative, committed and highly qualified experts, dedicated to providing our clients with first-rate workmanship and service. Have a look at our team bios and be assured that each member has been chosen for their professionalism, exceptional skill and alignment with the M-Squared philosophy of providing unparalleled service and quality.
Michael Lawrance
Owner / Project Manager
Michael holds a degree in Project Management. His job: to structure the job from conception to completion. He prides himself on the accuracy of his estimates, the reliability of his scheduling, and his easy rapport with clients.
Mark Pelzl
Owner / PROJECT MANAGER
A certified trade carpenter, Mark has a craftsman's eye. His meticulous attention to detail — to getting the job done right and to the highest standard — is reflected in his exceptional work and the positive work environment he creates.
David Cook
Dave made the unlikely leap from acting to construction after he and his wife bought a fixer-upper. Tackling the renovations himself sparked his passion for carpentry, and since then he has thrived in the industry, first, as a carpenter, then, as a site supervisor and now, as a project manager. Dave prides himself on his ability to creatively mesh new work with the existing – which is not an easy task. When he's not at work building houses, he's at home finishing what's left to be done on his.
John Maher
John's background includes studying Architecture at the University of Toronto, which has helped him turn the visions of clients and designers into reality. John has a decade of experience transforming houses in the GTA, and is a qualified hands-on guy who can handle the various day-to-day challenges that being on-site can bring. He's not complaining though; he loves the sense of accomplishment that comes with seeing concepts from a blueprint evolve into beautifully crafted homes.
Nathanael Lichty
Nathanael, or "Nat", as everyone calls him, has exhibited a knack for building since he was a teen while working with his uncle on old homes in Port Dalhousie, St. Catherine's. As a supervisor, Nat gets great satisfaction from admiring the results of his hard work at the end of each workday.
Brian Fox
Meet Brian: his background with experience in all areas of the trade is what makes him so great at what he does. Brian got his start in the industry in Ireland. He has been a successful Carpenter, working his way up the ladder to a Supervisor since starting in the field over 10 years ago.
Nathan Fitzgerald
"Fitzy", as the team has nicknamed him, tells us that he grew up with toy carpentry tools that made realistic noises, but, didn't actually work. Talk about an unproductive day! Since childhood, he has had a passion for carpentry. Whether it was building decks and sheds with his father, a custom home with his grandfather, or fishing charters that roamed Georgian Bay with his friends, it's no doubt that Nathan is very talented at what he does and we are very lucky to have him on the M-Squared team.
Stephen O'Hanlon
A member of the M-Squared team since early 2014, "Stepho" (pronounced "Steve-O") would describe himself as a 3H kind of man: Honest, Hard-working and Handsome...and we're so very thankful that his skills and ability outweigh his modesty. Stephen embarked on his carpentry career 10 years ago in his native Ireland, where he worked on the first French Benedictine monastery to be built in the country in 300 years. In the years following, he worked on many large-scale projects, eventually settling in Toronto to lend us a hand here at M-Squared.
Bryan Vanier
Bryan has been part of the team from day one. His 12 years in the trade, keen eye for detail, and hard-working ethos are just a few of the many reasons why he's such a valuable member of the team. Prior to joining the M-Squared team, Bryan honed his skills by timber framing on Canada's west coast.
Sean Kirwan
Sean is a talented carpenter with close to 10 years experience in the industry. Growing up surrounded by carpenters, it's no doubt that Sean is now following in his families' footsteps...and boy are we thankful for that! He has quite a keen eye and pays close attention to detail. Since moving to Toronto he's given ice-skating a try and says he won't be drafted by the Toronto Maple Leafs any time soon.
Liam Devlin
This here is Liam. He's been doing carpentry for over 12 years, staring with a housing estate. It was quite the task dragging anything else out of Liam for the purposes of this bio, but he did mention that he likes to play football and travel. Since moving to Toronto he says he's really enjoyed working with the M-Squared team and seeing the different ways things are done.
Martin Connaughton
This is Martin, but you can call him "Mack". He has been working in carpentry since he was 18 years old. Mack's love of music is no secret, he's typically in the background singing away while hammering (and we don't think he should quit his day job). He has a great sense of humour and a passion for the business, working hard each day to gain more knowledge and experience in the trade.
Andres Lingbanan
His name is Andres, but we call him "Way Way". His interest in carpentry began many years back and for him, he's most passionate about seeing the final result of the art of carpentry and being part of a team. Andres is always seeking to learn from the best and describes his time so far with the M-Squared team as "memorable". When he is not working you can find him outdoors and camping.
David Gibson
David is the newest member of the M Squared team and comes with 10 years experience in the construction industry. He got into his family business and found a love for the job while building his home with his father. When David is not on-site with the M-Squared team, he can be found training Jujitsu and kickboxing. So don't get on his bad side!
Nigel Wilkinson
Nigel has a background in property restoration in his native Jamaica, where he was the lead hand of emergency response crews for natural disasters. He says he's always liked working with his hands, and drawing. Since coming to Canada in 1988, the avid sports fan says that one of the best things about working at M-Squared is the people.
Onofre Colos
His name is Onofre – which actually means "defender of the peace" in Spanish. That's one long title, so we just call him "Ople" for short. A construction worker and a cabinetmaker in his native Philippines, his interest in carpentry began in high school, where he worked for his neighbour's furniture-making company. Now that he has joined the M-Squared team, he is eager to expand his knowledge and learn new skills.
Beth Anne Quinn
Beth Anne, our talented designer, holds a master's degree in the History of Art and Architecture. Beth Anne studied in Europe and focused on the principles and precedents of Italian design. She owned and operated several modern furniture stores on Canada's west coast for 10 years before joining the M-Squared team and moving into residential design. She approaches each project with architecture's forbearers in mind; always looking for ways to integrate the basic tenets of their work into the modernity of how we live today.


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Some choice points or thresholds can determine the trajectory of our future.
For example:
• Discerning whether or how to enter into a partnership,
• Deciding how to respond to a loss or a set back,
• Determining what's really "yours to do" in your family or at work, or
• Discerning what to do when you hit the end of the road in your career or in a crucial relationship.
The key is having the ability to respond so we shape our destiny instead of merely being shaped by events or circumstances.
To cultivate this capacity for self-renewal, we employ a unique blend of individual practices for tapping the wisdom of your body, use of the group as a dynamic art form to help develop and test new moves for complex or conflicted situations, and improvisational arts to help reveal and anchor what can so easily slip past our facile minds.
Leaders and change agents in organizational settings, and those in the healing professions will find numerous applications. We also offer in-house programs, with the content tailored to meet the needs of this in organizational settings.
"Mitch & Maryliz created a wonderful milieu for us to learn new ways of assessing past, current & future relationships. We now have some very practical tools that will enable us to either move beyond relationships that aren't necessarily productive, or revisit them with a new language to create a truly healthy & generative relationship."
David P.


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Two days ago I had a wonderful opportunity to try out the new MASCHINE MIKRO. This amazing fusion of hardware and software really inspired me. Native Instruments still follows its slogan: The Future of Sound. Now I can say that MASCHINE MIKRO is just another step towards the future of sound. Earlier I dedicated the post to the new MASCHINE. MASCHINE MIKRO is even more perfect than that version of MASCHINE since it gives extra control on your music recording software.
Maschine Mikro consists of the portable hardware controller which is fully integrated with the good old MASCHINE SOFTWARE. The controller is just amazing. I had all the desired hands-on workflow as MASCHINE MIKRO let me to control almost all the software functions via the controller. The thing I like most with Native Instruments' products is that they always work in an intuitive way. It was my first encounter with MASCHINE MIKRO but I could explore all the grooves and rhythms in a way I desired. Native Instruments promises to provide the updates for MASCHINE MIKRO software frequently. Hopefully it helps the software to meet our needs further.
The key functions of the Maschine sofware can be easily accessed by either using the shortcuts provided by the MIKRO hardware controller or your mouse and keyboard. MASCHINE MIKRO hardware comes with a master knob that gives access to several software functions and 16 back-lit pads with after touch and velocity. I like the sensitivity of these pads. It is extremely lightweight so that you can take it anywhere you like.
Maschine Mikro's built-in sequencer is just another wonderful thing about it. I thing creating and arranging patterns have never been this easy before. The sequencer provides two modes: MPC style live recording and XOX drum machine. It provides all the classic groove box functions combined with clip-based concept that allows to work with it intuitively.
Maschine Mikro can record audio from external and internal sources as well as it allows precise sample playback. You just need a sound card to experience the advantages of high performance sampler. The only limit for the length and the number of samples is the capacity of your comuputer's RAM. Besides, I think that this is the most convenient sampler for slicing. It also lets you import your own samples: MPC programs and REX2 files. If you use high-quality audio interface the sampler supports up to 24bit/192khz audio.
MASCHINE MIKRO can actually act as a host for any VST or audio units plug-ins from NI. It can host even the VSTs of 3rd party manufacturers. It is fully integrated with brand new KOMPLETE 8 so that you can browse and load all the presets of this Virtual Instruments Bundle. Maschine Mikro provides 16 sound slots that are divided into two groups. Each slot can hold 4 effects plug-ins and one instrument. So you can calculate yourself the power you get when you use MASCHINE MIKRO as a host. Plug-ins of KONTAKT, Guitar Rig and REAKTOR are included so that you can start by using the new hosting possibility just when you get your MASCHINE MIKRO.
MASCHINE MIKRO has incredibly user friendly library browser that allows you to access instantly any sound from the extensive MASCHINE library which consists of 6GB of sounds. There are 300 drum kits with 1400 patterns, 18000 samples, 7000 one-shots, 388 sampled instruments, 400 loops, 170 FX/multi-FX presets, 60 demo projects in the library. You virtually get just any sound you may need with MASCHINE MIKRO's extensive library. The thing that caused my admiration were the multi-sampled acoustic instruments: organs, strings, pianos brass and more. 3 GB – more than 1000 sounds of the MASCHINE MIKRO's library comes from the compiled elements from KOMPLETE 8.
The effects section of MASCHINE MIKRO was extremely interesting personally for me. Its arsenal is quite powerful consisting of 22 high-quality effects starting from classic effects like reverbs. Eqs and filters advancing to more creative tools like ICE Verb, Freq Shifter, Grain Delay.
MASCHINE MIKRO can be completely integrated with your music recording software. Its software can be used as a VST inside the host sequencer of your DAW. MIDI files can be drag-and-dropped directly to your music recording software as well as you can bring the sample directly from your pc to MASCHINE MIKRO. A single controller can be used to switch between the several instances of MASCHINE MIKRO that are open in your host sequencer.
You can have a look at the tutorials, overview and even more at MusicRecordingSoftware.Blogspot.Com's Youtube Channel (click here).
Instead of official NI price - 399$ - you can purchase MASCHINE MIKRO for 349$ exclusively on MusicRecordingSoftware.Blogspot.Com


text: Children of Paul's, troupe of boy actors, one of the children's companies popular in Elizabethan England. Affiliated with St. Paul's Cathedral, the group performed in a biblical play as early as 1378. The theatrical company as such was formed under the direction (1577–82) of Sebastian Westcott. The Children of Paul's frequently performed at court, often in plays written exclusively for their production. The troupe's repertoire included John Marston's What You Will, George Chapman's Bussy d'Ambois, and John Lyly's Sapho and Phao. The Children of Paul's also staged plays in the cathedral's courtyard and school hall. Their last recorded performance was in July 1606 before James I and King Christian of Denmark.


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We need routines to exist!
The downside is that we prefer to hold on to routines that hinder us from success. Man's nature is to pursuit happiness and to do that he needs to be in some control of his own destiny. The odd thing is that to maintain happiness you need to constantly change and develop and this implies loss of control. You have to let go of control to truly pursuit happiness otherwise you will get stuck in your routines.
The art of living a happy life is to create good routines that contribute to your development. The complete routines are, by nature, inflexible but you have to build in some flexibility in your routines to make sure they can be changed without crumbling. This is why change has to be done in small steps.
The same routine will not make you happy forever and if you hold on to that routine it will eventually become destructive or at least lead to stagnation. If your life is a mess then start building a good foundation of routines that will support your development. Continue questioning how your routines can be better so that you will feel happiness.
For the past 3 years I have been working hard to get my business running. From the beginning there were no customers and no income. Today I have enough work and I try to spread work to prevent exhaustion. Wednesdays are always packed and although the work is important for my economic foundation I feel that the routines on Wednesdays are increasingly destructive. I now ask myself – What can I do to get a good Wednesday?
Whenever you feel that one of your routines starts to affect you in a negative way then ask yourself what you can do to change that.


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Make a Difference by Becoming a University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center Volunteer
Volunteers are an integral part of the team at University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center. Our volunteers are exceptional individuals who take the extra steps that make a difference in the lives of our patients, their families and our visitors. They help in countless ways, from delivering flowers and reading materials to hospitalized patients to comforting families who are worried about loved ones. Through their deeds, direct and indirect, volunteers are an essential extension of the UH Cleveland Medical Center team.
Whether volunteers are interested in supporting patients and families on patient divisions, lowering families' stress levels by helping them find their way around the hospital, or supporting staff behind the scenes in a clerical capacity, we may have an important role for them that will impact the hospital experience for UH patients and families.
Our Programs
Volunteer programs available at UH Cleveland Medical Center include:
- Summer youth volunteer program (high school students)
- College volunteer program
- Observation program for those interested in a medical career
- Pet Pals pet therapy program
Learn more about the volunteer opportunities available at UH Cleveland Medical Center.
Application Process for UH Cleveland Volunteers
Individuals wishing to volunteer at University Hospitals are expected to:
- Complete a volunteer application.
- Provide two completed reference form from someone in a leadership/advisory role; this is an interactive form that can be saved and sent to us.
- Have an interview with a member of the Volunteer Services Department staff.
- Complete a PPD/tuberculosis test; some areas of the hospital may require additional testing.
- Attend a new volunteer orientation and training.
- Complete background screening.
Volunteers at University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center should be willing to commit to a minimum of six months or 50 service hours. Volunteer assignments typically require three hours per week. Please consider carefully whether this time commitment will fit your schedule or other life commitments.
Benefits to Volunteers
In appreciation of the support and time our volunteers contribute, UH Cleveland Medical Center offers benefits to volunteers which include, but are not limited to:
- Free parking
- Annual volunteer appreciation event
- Summer youth volunteer reception
- Letters of recommendation
- Discounts in the gift shop, cafeteria and pharmacy
- Meal ticket after each four-hour shift (not to exceed three per week)
Join the Auxiliary of UH Cleveland to Help Improve the UH Patient Experience
The Auxiliary of UH Cleveland Medical Center is currently accepting new members. The Auxiliary is a volunteer organization within the hospital that seeks to improve the patient experience by providing funds to support the patient's environment, education and overall hospital experience. If you like to take on new projects, organize events, or serve in leadership roles, consider becoming a part of this vital organization.
Individuals who would like to join the auxiliary should indicate their interest on their volunteer application. They will be contacted by a member of the Volunteer Services Department with more information.
Other Ways to Help
Volunteering is not the only way you can contribute to the comfort and well-being of the patients, visitors and staff at UH Cleveland medical center. Learn about other ways you can help. If you would like to learn more about fundraising opportunities at UH, please see our fundraising vendor calendar.
Child Life Special Events
Groups are invited to sponsor child life special events at the hospital for our pediatric patients and their families. For consideration, please visit our child life special events page and fill out an application.
Contact Us
Have questions or want to learn more? Contact Volunteer Services at UH Cleveland Medical Center.


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Scores 32 Highway MPG and 23 City MPG! This BMW X1 delivers a Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4 2.0 L/122 engine powering this Automatic transmission. WHEELS: 18 X 7.5 Y-SPOKE -inc: Style 569 (STD), TRANSMISSION: STEPTRONIC AUTOMATIC (STD), JET BLACK.
This BMW X1 Features the Following Options
CONVENIENCE PACKAGE -inc: Auto-Dimming Interior & Exterior Mirrors, Auto-Dimming Rearview Mirror, Ambient Lighting, Comfort Access Keyless Entry, Lumbar Support, Power-Folding Mirrors, Panoramic Moonroof, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, 1 year All Access subscription, Universal Garage-Door Opener , HEATED FRONT SEATS & STEERING WHEEL -inc: Heated Steering Wheel, Heated Front Seats, BLACK, SENSATEC UPHOLSTERY, Window Grid Diversity Antenna, Wheels: 18 x 7.5 Y-Spoke -inc: Style 569, Valet Function, Trunk/Hatch Auto-Latch, Trip Computer, Transmission: STEPTRONIC Automatic, Transmission w/Driver Selectable Mode.
Visit Us Today
Come in for a quick visit at BMW of Wichita, 11000 E 13th St N, Wichita, KS 67206 to claim your BMW X1!
As a first time buyer, I honestly didn't have a clue what I was doing, yea I did my research, but still was lost. My sales person, Michelle, helped me out tremendously and guided me into financing my first vehicle. I'm incredibly happy with my decision and am now knowledgeable with how this process works. For my next vehicle, ill definitely be back.
We requested Jesus because of his positive reviews. He will not disappoint! Everyone we dealt with was super nice. Jesus is not pushy. Is super helpful and knowledgeable. Very seamless transaction from start to finish. Would highly recommend.
Great experience. Mandi Calderon has been extremely helpful and provided a superb customer experience from beginning to end.
Excellent!!! Deal with Mandi. She is Great!!!
Matt and Mason are amazing to work with! Got me into my new Clubman super easy! Love my car! Time to start customizing and accessorizing this gal!
I just bought my third MINI and had such a fabulous experience! It was bittersweet because my previous car was the cutest Cooper S convertible but it was totaled in an accident a month ago and so I sadly had to say goodbye to my precious baby! Fortunately, the wonderful team at BMW led by Mason helped me fill that void and I found another sweet car to drive. Thank you Mason, Michelle, and Katrina for making the process fun and rewarding! I love my new Mini Cooper 4 door (need a bigger car due to a new grandbaby!) and I'...
Super Easy transaction. This is our 2nd Walser vehicle. Both purchased via internet, super easy, super quick and awesome service.
Auto-Dimming Interior & Exterior Mirrors, Auto-Dimming Rearview Mirror, Ambient Lighting, Comfort Access Keyless Entry, Lumbar Support, Power-Folding Mirrors, Panoramic Moonroof, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, 1 year All Access subscription, Universal Garage-Door Opener
Heated Steering Wheel, Heated Front Seats
Style 569
If you're searching for the true luxury car experience in Kansas, there's no other place to look than BMW of Wichita. Our BMW dealership in Wichita, KS, is staffed with a dedicated team of BMW professionals who are driven to find the right new luxury car for every driver. Whether you're looking to buy a new BMW, get expert service or ask about BMW lease options, we'll be there to help!
New vehicle pricing includes all applicable offers and incentives. Tax, title, license, registration, lien fee and documentation fee not included in vehicle prices shown and must be paid by the purchaser. While great effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information on this site, errors do occur so please verify information with a customer service rep. This is easily done by calling us or by visiting us at the dealership.
*Although every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained on this site, absolute accuracy cannot be guaranteed. This site, and all information and materials appearing on it, are presented to the user "as is" without warranty of any kind, either express or implied, including but not limited to the implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, title or non-infringement. All vehicles are subject to prior sale. Price does not include applicable tax, title, and license. Not responsible for typographical errors.
**Our Walser Best Price/Upfront Price may include discounts & rebates that you need to qualify for; see dealer for details.
**With approved credit. Terms may vary. Monthly payments are only estimates derived from the vehicle price with a month term, % interest and % down payment. Taxes and fees not included in payment estimate. See dealer for details.
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Don't hunt my son: WikiLeaks mum
The mother of WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange says she is distressed by news that international police agency Interpol has put out an alert for her son's arrest.
Interpol has alerted member states to arrest the 39-year-old Australian on suspicion of rape on the basis of a Swedish warrant.
Christine Assange, who lives in Queensland, says she is concerned for her son's welfare and does not want him "hunted down and jailed".
WikiLeaks is under intense pressure after its mass dump of sensitive US diplomatic cables, which US officials have denounced as a "a serious crime" and an attack on the whole world.
The warrant for Assange's arrest was issued by Sweden's International Public Prosecution Office in Gothenburg on November 18.
That warrant cites "probable cause of suspected rape, sexual molestation and unlawful coercion".
"There is a public 'Red Notice' on behalf of Sweden," an Interpol spokeswoman confirmed today.
The spokeswoman confirmed Interpol had posted Sweden's request for assistance in tracking down Assange on its website.
Assange, who was born in Townsville and whose current location is unclear, contested the warrant in a Swedish appeals court, but his first bid to get it thrown out was rejected last week and he has lodged a second appeal.
In the meantime, he could now face arrest and extradition to Sweden from anywhere in the world where local authorities decide to act on the warrant.
Today, Ecuador's president, Rafael Correa, backtracked on an offer of residency to Assange, insisting no such invitation has been extended.
"There has been no formal offer to the director of WikiLeaks," Mr Correa told a news conference in the coastal city of Guayaquil.
"That was a personal remark by the deputy foreign minister; he did not have my authorisation."
Yesterday Ecuador had offered Assange residency with no questions asked.
"We are ready to give him residence in Ecuador, with no problems and no conditions," Deputy Foreign Minister Kintto Lucas told internet site Ecuadorinmediato.
"We are going to invite him to come to Ecuador so he can freely present the information he possesses and all the documentation, not just over the internet but in a variety of public forums."
- ABC/wires
Topics: sexual-offences, defence-and-national-security, security-intelligence, world-politics, internet-culture, crime, sweden, australia, qld, maroochydore-4558
First posted


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The noise heard from at least West Ocean City to Bishopville was a sonic boom, according to Worcester County Public Information Officer Kim Moses, but officials don't know what agency the associated aircraft was from.
Shortly after the roughly 9:30 a.m. sound, Maryland State Police said a variety of agencies sent officers out to investigate the loud sound that shook roofs but no one was able to determine the cause.
Comment: Another meteorite exploding in the atmosphere perhaps?


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Nouriel Roubini in Madrid today for policy meetings and a keynote speech on the Eurozone at the Fundación Rafael Del Pino , Roubini's keynote speech is entitled "Can the Eurozone survive or will we attend its final collapse?"
On October 22, 2012, Professor Nouriel Roubini pronounced in the Rafael del Pino Foundation conference entitled "Can the Eurozone survive or will attend their final collapse?".
Nouriel Roubini is a professor at NYU's Stern School of Business and chairman of Roubini Global Economics.
Professor Roubini is one of the premier authorities in the fields of macroeconomics and finance, as well as in the study of the challenges facing the capitalist system.
Nouriel Roubini is known internationally for having anticipated in 2008, the subprime mortgage crisis. He has published over 70 theoretical and empirical and is coauthor of the book "Political Cycles: Theory and Evidence", "Bailouts or Bail-ins? Responding to Financial Crises in Emerging Markets "and" Crisis Economics: A Crash Course in the Future of Finance "(published in Spanish with the title" How to get out of this "by Destiny.)


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Classic white dishes with a distinctive edge.
Use as a dinner plate or as beautiful serving pieces for your favourite Provisions and cheese!
White collection: white clay white glaze
Handbuilt plates. Organic shape.
All of the pieces electric kiln-fired wares are food safe. Almost all pots are also safe for use in the microwave and dishwasher. However to ensure the longevity and brilliance of the luster, we strongly suggest washing these wares by hand and refraining from putting them in the microwave.


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Client Accounting Solutions
Many of Lifespan's representatives are accountants in public practice and are able to offer a range of accounting services to clients. Their experience and dedication to each client ensures a professional and personal service you can rely on.
Each accountant aims to support their personal and business clients to ensure goals are achieved effectively and efficiently.
If you are in need of accounting services a Lifespan aligned accountant can offer you a high standard of personal service and vast industry knowledge. Services may include:
Individual Tax Returns and Advice
Enhanced tax planning and optimisation is an area of focus, where a Lifespan aligned accountant can help to optimise your tax refund, and put tax plans in place to boost your overall after tax returns
SMSF and Trusts Tax Strategies
Accountants are able to provide administration and advice services on Trusts and Self-Managed Superannuation set-up to ensure you understand your obligations and responsibilities as a trustee as well as assisting you with all legal and regulatory requirements.
Business Tax Compliance & Accounting
Having a Lifespan aligned accountant behind your business will help you minimise tax obligations and retain the maximum amount of earnings, by benefiting from their tailored tax and accounting strategies.
Other areas of service you can access include:
Business Registrations and start ups
Book keeping – Financial Records Management
To speak to a Lifespan aligned accountant or to find out more contact us today.


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Community Creations
What began as a creative challenge between Red Dot Sculpture artists has evolved into a wide-spread community art activity with the goal of motivating everyone to explore their own imagination and push the boundaries of what is possible with a single sheet of foil.
We want to celebrate the creativity and innovation of those who have taken the challenge to create their own foil masterpieces. Share your sculpture with us using #FoilSculpting or @SamoDucky (twitter) and it could be featured on this website.


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In their forthcoming book Enforcement in the EU Single Market (http://ssrn.com/abstract=2160236) Jacques Pelkmans and Anabela Correia De Brito provide an interesting overview of the laws and regulations of the single market of the European Union, the current EU enforcement landscape and its functioning, with a particular focus on compliance with public procurement rules. This is a very topical and relevant field of inquiry and their book sheds some interesting insights into the actual level of compliance with EU public procurement rules and the potential gains to be obtained if the current modernization process is correctly driven towards simplifying and promoting compliance.
As the authors rightly indicate,
Among all types of EU single market legislation, the problems with public procurement are undoubtedly the harder ones. The potential market is huge: there is still an enormous potential of cross-border competition for contracts and the economic welfare gains can be very substantial. The European Commission's proposals of December 2011 should be of some help. There should be more harmonization, including in the national review and remedies systems.
In their book, Pelkmans and Correia De Brito offer a short but useful typology of enforcement barriers that stress some of the main areas of difficulty, such as administrative barriers [which include include "the incorrect application of EU directives, conformity assessment barriers and enforcement issues in (intra-EU) public procurement, especially non-publication (when above the value thresholds in EU law)] or the maybe more implicit restrictions derived from gold plating and an improper application of the rules controlling technical requirements in public procurement procedures.
Further than that qualitative analysis of the enforcement landscape, some of the data provided by Pelkmans and Correia De Brito is also worth highlighting. They provide a statistic of the cases handled by the Commission concerning the enforcement of public procurement rules (p. 89, please note that the most recent year is to the left, which makes the reading of the table slightly counter intuitive):
As the authors derive from those numbers:
[...] the number of public procurement infringement files handled by the European Commission each year has progressively decreased in the period 2007-10 (155 in 2010, 258 in 2009, 333 in 2008 and 344 in 2007). Most of the files opened by the Commission were closed during the pre-administrative/administrative phase of the infringement procedure (76, 127, 163 and 142, respectively). However, in comparative terms, the number of cases referred to the Court of Justice of the European Union increased slightly in 2010 (7.5% of the cases in 2010 had been reported to the CJEU, compared with 2.3% of the cases in 2009, 2.4% in 2008 and 3.5% in 2007).Even if the number of infringement procedures opened by the Commission in the reported period had decreased in relation to previous years, the case load of public procurement infringement complaints still remains high and indicates that compliance levels should be improved in a number of member states.
In my opinion, the analysis of the data also offers other interesting hints, since it shows that there seems to be a significant amount of backlog piling up in the Commission's docket (ie the number of cases closed is less than 50% of those open for any year in the 2007-10 period) and that only a small fraction of those cases are referred to the CJEU (which means that political negotiation remains the paramount enforcement tool in the public procurement field).
I also find it interesting to compare the relatively low number of public procurement cases based on Article 258 TFEU and the increasing number of Judgments of the CJEU and the GC in the field of public procurement. A quick search for the words "public procurement" with the case-law search engine of the curia webpage retrieves over 730 documents, most of which were produced after the adoption of the current 2004 Directives. Such a contrast in numbers indicates that public procurement enforcement is running trough two very different roads when one compares its enforcement based on the "law in the books" (Commission enforcement) and the "law in action" (references for preliminary rulings and challenges to procurement decisions of the European Institutions). This seems, then, a worthy area were to focus future research efforts.
In their conclusions, Pelkmans and Correia De Brito find that the source of the massive litigation in public procurement is basically the heterogeneity of the rules. They submit that:
There are still numerous 'barriers', real and perceived, in the internal public procurement market. Member states have (too) much regulatory discretion because the procurement directives are 'coordination' directives, with insufficient harmonization. The 'regulatory heterogeneity' in the area is far too costly for the businesses interested in cross-border or even EU-wide operation. More harmonization and/or disciplines of national 'special or extra' rules and requirements should urgently be pursued. Also, the national review and remedies systems are vastly different in terms of rules, procedures, ease-of-access and effectiveness. Such complications go squarely against the justified desire of business to have prior confidence in cross-border tenders. Quick access to national reviews of public procurement is an asset, but its utility is dramatically diminished by the overly fragmented arrangements that confuse business and undermine a level playing field. Harmonization here is tough given the incorporation in national legal systems, but EU-wide performance criteria might be introduced to enhance confidence for cross-border entrepreneurs (pp. 130-131).
This may be a call for a shift from having public procurement Directives to the adoption of proper public procurement Regulations (although many scholars, such as Arrowsmith or Treumer, have already indicated that the EU public procurement directives just fall shy from being disguised regulations due to their high degree of prescriptiveness).
Be it as it may, the findings of the authors may be worth taking into consideration in the last steps of the modernization process of EU public procurement rules, which still seems to be scheduled for completion before Summer of 2013. Having enforcement considerations in the back of the policymakers' heads when finalizing the drafting of the new rules seems definitely desirable.


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Ways to Go Green
These resources and ideas on how to GO GREEN in school, at home and at the office were assembled by Calhoun students, parents and staff beginning with yearly theme projects. Ongoing efforts continually bring us back to the questions: Are we doing all that we can do? Are we doing what we set out to do?
Carbon Emissions and Energy
- Establish a plan to reduce the carbon emissions or "footprint" of the school. One way to determine your carbon footprint is using this website: www.carbonfootprint.com/
- Utilize solar power and other forms of alternative energy. The Green Power Network at www.eere.energy.gov/greenpower lits what's available in your area.
- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's online calculator estimates greenhouse emissions that result from your household energy use and waste disposal. Get your number at www.epa.gov/climate.
- Find out which electronics and appliances are energy efficient at www.energystar.gov.
- Work with companies and organizations listed in Co-op America's National Green Pages - a directory of green businesses across the U.S.
Paper Reduction
- Use more e-mail and other electronic forms of communication. Make print mailings (or paper copies) only one option.
- Use technology more in the classrooms, at home, etc.
- Reuse paper products--both sides of paper, one paper cup throughout the day, etc.
- Purchase paper products made from recyclable materials. Ask for these at your local vendor. http://www.newleafpaper.com/ and http://www.greendotprint.com/ (the latter, based in Manhattan) may be able to meet your paper needs.
- Stop catalogue delivery. The following info is helpful with this task: Mail Preference Service, Direct Marketing Association, P.O. Box 9008, Farmingdale, NY 11735, 212-768-7277
Reuse and Recycle
- New York City's Sanitation Dept offers numerous tips on how to reuse, repair or donate second-hand items. Click here.
- Reuse materials, donate clothing, toys and other items in usable condition. Debbie Aronson, Director of Community Service, works with many students and their donating ideas. Contact her to see if there is a current collection that interests you.
- Textbook donation: The first thing to do is contact the specific teacher to see if she/he wants the book back for a classroom set. If he/she does not want the book back, textbooks can also be donated to Project Cicero. The school organizes a book collection in the Spring. Contact Debbie Aronson, Director of Community Service, if you have any questions.
- Recycle paper, plastic, bottles. (Calhoun has renewed its recycling efforts with new containers around the both buildings and more student involvement.)
Food Co-ops and Sustainable Choices
- Join Calhoun's Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program or a food co-op near your home.
- Focus on ecologically sustainable agriculture/animal husbandry as you make your food choices. http://www.slowfoodusa.org/ has tons of info about what their program and activities.
- Buying locally saves fuel and helps farmers nearby. Find lists of local farmers markets at www.localharvest.org or www.usda.gov.
Private automobiles are a leading source of greenhouse gases and other pollution. Here are some steps that the Calhoun community is taking to do its part to "go green" en route to school:
- When possible, bike, walk or use mass transit. There's a bike rack on the plaza of the 81st Street building.
- Donated bicycles are now available for faculty/staff to commute between our two buildings!
- Join other Calhoun parents/students biking to school in the morning (group bicycling is safer because the adults can escort in front and behind). Parent Steve Vaccaro is interested in this topic; contact him at email@example.com to talk more.
- The DOT has just marked two bike lanes, running the length of West 77th and West 78th Streets. This is the first cross-town "Class II" bike lane south of Harlem and north of Greenwich Village. Class II bike lanes are protected from motor vehicle traffic by a solid line and carry heightened penalties for persons driving, parking, or standing in the way. These new lanes help make biking to Calhoun much more safe, convenient and viable.
- If you are driving, please do not leave your car idling (or please ask your driver not to idle) while you escort your child to class.
- Campaign for greater pedestrian/bike safety for the Calhoun community.
- There are other efforts underway, to make Central Park completely car-free and otherwise improve pedestrian/bike safety in our community. For info, see site: www.transalt.org. We hope to involve Calhoun students in these and other projects. Please email Josephine or Dana if you are interested in getting involved.
- Compare fuel-efficiency rates and learn about green tax credits at www.fueleconomy.gov.
Projects You Can Do With Kids at Home
- Have your children sign up at www.mtv.com/thinkmtv for daily green tips via text message.
- Spend more time outdoors, connecting with nature — i.e. at Black Rock Forest, Central Park.
- Create an outdoor / environmental activity.
- Include environmental issues as they relate to other topics of discussion at the dinner table: current events, politics, science, math, economics, social studies, cultural studies, etc.
- Find out how to get involved in the project to measure the speed of cars traveling on West End using a radar gun.
- Create and disperse a survey to the school community about how people get to school. Share the results.
- Weigh the garbage each week and try to reduce the weight.
Ask Yourself These Questions
At assemblies for Middle and Upper School students, guest speaker Juliet Leeming suggested we each ask the following questions before we make a purchase:
- Is it necessary?
- Can I find it second-hand?
- Can I find products that were produced without harming the environment?
- Can I find products that were produced by companies that provide workers with a fair salary and working conditions (Fair Trade)?
- Can I donate materials, clothes, or toys?
Also see: Green Resources


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M. John Harrison continues to think out loud in paragraphs. Maybe it's overreaching (or underreaching?) to say this is a new format but regardless, I find myself enthralled. This latest graf is such a winner, and this one on science fiction's secret nightmare has been bouncing around inside my brain since I read it earlier this month.
Update: Here's another blog-graf, kinda. Whatever it is, it's lovely.


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Critics blast $3M mining handout
A mining company owned by Goldman Sachs and two private equity funds is in line to get a $3 million earmark for work at a rare earth elements mine in Mountain Pass, Calif. — raising questions as to why Congress would take on some of the risk for a bailed-out investment giant that's already making a profit.
Molycorp Minerals's open-pit mine is one of the world's richest sources of elements that are used in the production of powerful magnets for precision-guided missiles and smart bombs, handheld communication devices, wind turbines and hybrid cars.
Rep. Jerry Lewis (R-Calif.) inserted the earmark for the mine into the House Defense appropriations bill, and backers say it's a legitimate national security concern. The military needs rare earth elements, and China — which is rich in them — has threatened to cut off exports.
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But some government watchdogs question whether taxpayers should be asked to prop up a project that is already funded by wealthy investors who expect to make a profit.
"It's probably good business, and we probably don't need to subsidize it," said Ryan Alexander, president of the nonpartisan Taxpayers for Common Sense.
Moreover, Alexander said, if getting the elements from the mine is really a national security issue, then the funding request would have come through the Department of Defense — and not through a lawmaker's earmark.
"If this is critical to national security, and the private equity firms that own Molycorp can't find another $3 million to meet the needs of the Mountain Pass mine, there still is no excuse for this being an earmark," Alexander said. "DOD can request programmatic funding so those funds are weighed against other security priorities rather than being singled out by one member of the House Appropriations Committee."
Lewis, the top Republican appropriator in the House, insists that both the project and the government backing are necessary.
"The United States has some of the most extensive deposits of these minerals in the world, but the cost of production has made it difficult to attract private investment," said Lewis's spokesman, Jim Specht. "The $3 million from the Department of Defense will jump-start this investment, as well as provide a clear signal that domestic production of rare earth metals is a national security priority."


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OurEyes Collective
OurEyes Collective is a contemporary classical ensemble founded by violinist Courtenay Cleary and composer Benjamin Heim. Their performances incorporate live signal processing, looping and electronics, creating expansive textures and soundscapes which underpin virtuosic violin and electronic performances. OUREYES Collective push the boundaries of electronic performance practice, utilising 3D motion trackers, touchscreens and modified MIDI controllers to produce experiences that engage audiences in an immersive chamber music experience.