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Christmas is over and the budget has felt the pinch. It's time to add a little spice to the summer heat with another top ten Asian eats on the Gold Coast. Whether it's curry or pho, there's a place in our hearts for a cheap feed, especially one where we can share with friends and BYO. Here are some of our picks:
Petro's Corner Shopping Centre, A2/1 Tibbing St, Nerang Ph: 5500 4748
If you're a bit partial to Tandoori Chicken, then you'll be keen to know that you can get a whole bird cooked in the tandoor for under $16 at Foodie Indiya! We don't really care if you don't like the name; this is one of the best Indian restaurants around with some of the keenest prices to boot.
Perched up on a hill of Petro's Corner opposite Coles, once inside your doubts will be put aside. With a ruby feature wall and sheer curtains giving privacy to each table, this is a pleasant little affordable restaurant. Curries are really tasty, naan is perfect, and service is pleasant. There's takeaway and delivery too, of course, and the venue allows BYO.
Kenny's Malay Kitchen, Broadbeach Waters
14 Kalimna Drive, Broadbeach Waters Ph: 07 5538 6941
If you want the best Roti channai in town, you can't go past Kenny's Malay Kitchen. Relocating from Mermaid Waters Shopping Centre to the unassuming Gold Coast Lawn Bowls Club has been a win win for both the club and owners Kenny and Tracey Foon, their Malaysian food adapted to the Western palate well loved by locals to dine in or take away.
It's our local which we visit for casual meals with friends, noteworthy for its generous sized dishes of sizzling duck, beef or prawns, duck salad or satay chicken skewers accompanied by a $3 bowl of coconut rice, Malay and Penang curries, a few Nyonya dishes and Thai red and green curries. Drinks are available from the bowls club next door, a quaffing shiraz setting you back $15 if you are a member. No BYO.
1/33 Tallebudgera Creek Road, West Burleigh Ph: 5520 2433
West Burleigh holds a little enclave of restaurants – a bit of a local secret. Wazen, a cute little Japanese restaurant, is among them. Fairy lights beckon, but walk inside and it's restrainedly cosy. Better still, you'll receive a warm welcome.
There are no set rules for dining at Wazen, so you can choose a selection of tapas and sides or mains from the Sashimi, Sushi, Nigiri, Curry bowl or Main meal plates section. All dishes are MSG free.
The Tapas menu has some interesting choices, but beware – the mains are large, so it's a good idea to share the starters. Many main course dishes have common sides, a time-saving formula for a one chef kitchen, however it also ensures that all patrons are well fed! Want more? You can upsize the rice, or upgrade to organic brown rice for a little extra. We're dining with gluten-free friends, who are obligingly catered for, a quick swap of freshly steamed veg in place of the tempura beside the free-range Teriyaki chicken, rice and salad and everyone's happy! The chef's specials hold interest for regulars.
Wazen is a charming little restaurant in an accessible location. It provides value dining and delightful service; and you certainly won't go away hungry! Although licensed, Wazen accepts BYO wine.
Kubo's Café Bar & Grill, Southport
Australia Fair Centro, Young St., Southport Ph: 0449 556 981
Owned by Jake and Clifford Gutierrez, Kubo's Café Bar & Grill is a rare Filipino food presence on the coast, finding its audience immediately.
Breakfast is a big deal in the Philippines, one of Kubo's customers tells us. Following their custom in the Philippines, Sunday brunch is a communal feast at Kubo's after church, just a short walk away in Scarborough Street. Dishes on offer include typical Filipino breakfasts such as tapsilog (marinated meat or sausage served with garlic fried rice and two fried eggs) or tsokolate served with puto (hot chocolate made from raw cocoa served with sticky rice cooked in a banana leaf – the Filipino breakfast in a hurry) through to kinilaw (a raw fish salad), grilled pork skewers and pig on the spit, the extensive menu covering many Filipino favourites.
It's a cuisine where pork and sugar feature prominently and there are lots of sweet treats at Kubo's, the cabinet full of gorgeous Pinoy cakes with swirly icing and other sweets treats. Topping off the feast we spot the famous Halo-halo on the menu, the Filipino dessert that's sweeping the world, a colourful mix of shaved ice and evaporated milk with toppings of boiled sweet beans, coconut, sago, jelly, fruit, and purple yam ice cream. 'Mix mix' as its Tagalog name implies, and you have a light, refreshing treat; perfect to share on a summer's day.
Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, Hooker Boulevard, Broadbeach
Motto Motto is one of our favourites for a healthy affordable quick eat if we need to do a night time shop.
Part of William Liu's empire (Sono and Nagomi), Motto Motto is notable for its top quality fresh and healthy casual Japanese cuisine. Choose from traditional donburi rice bowls (which include Wagyu beef or sashimi bowls), Japanese curry, 12-hour Ton-kotsu Ramen bowls or Japanese-style bread rolls stuffed with fillings such as softshell crab as well as sides.
There are lots of sets and deal upgrades, one of the best being the Motto Motto Super set, a Bento set with a difference: five small interlocking bowls of goodness giving you a taste of the menu for $19.80: miso soup, karaage chicken with seaweed salted fries, potato salad, crunchy crab croquettes served with edamame and teri-teri chicken with rice. It's an absolute hit!
Mermaid Waters Shopping Village, 90 Markeri Street, Mermaid Waters Ph: 07 5554 5888 or 0424 868 949
If you wondered what had happened to Quan Ngo, former owner of O-Me-ly Broadbeach, he's opened another restaurant almost next to Yuen's in Mermaid Waters. Employing the former chef of O-Me-ly, there are many similarities in the menu: a pretty good Pho ($14.90) accompanied by a bowl fresh Vietnamese mint and bean sprouts, chilli and sauces (as well as several other soups), vermicelli dishes including Sugarcane Prawns, other hot dishes with rice, as well as other entrées and mains. Summer rolls ($9.90 for a plate of four) make a great meal or light lunch to share, while the Banh Xeo (fried crepe filled with prawns and bean sprouts $16.90) was a good version of the dish.
At Saigon 101 there's always plenty of chance to get involved in dining, either with a steam boat or wrapping fresh sprouts and herbs with your meat or sugarcane prawns into a crisp lettuce leaf. Alternatively, choose some Lemongrass and chilli beef on rice if you like a spicier dish. Fresh juices can accompany your meal, Viet coffee or a Tri-colour shake (Che Ba Mau), or it's $1.50 for BYO.
Saigon 101 is a clean but unpretentious 'laminate café' venue with friendly genuine service. While it's possible to dine in for under $20 per person, most dishes are also available to take away.
4/77 Scarborough St., Southport Ph: 5503 0899
While we felt a little 'lost in translation' at Soba Soba, there are so few places to buy soba on the Gold Coast that we're going to include this little Japanese diner. Centrally located just outside the Scarborough Street entrance to Australia Fair, the venue is ambient enough, the main feature being the hanging plants and upside down orchids from Brisbane florist Hanasho. Original art works for sale will soon join the plants in a permanent display.
Soba Soba bridges the language barriers by posting photos of dishes on both the menu and restaurant walls. Choose from Rice meals, Soba, Udon or Teppanyaki noodle dishes.
Our two dishes, the Oz Special (teppanyaki noodles with beef, chicken, cheese and a fried egg), as well as the Tokyo Mix (Soba noodles topped with a ring of stir-fried pork mince with BBQ sauce and sesame oil, bean sprouts, seaweed and bonita flakes, topped with a poached egg) were tasty, if unusual. It's rather a different addition to the multi-Asian street food dining scene in Southport.
Suite 28 – 29, 137 Scottsdale Drive, Robina Ph: 5575 8365
It has been over six years since Arjun Jaiswale opened Agnee Indian with his father Inder, however it soon established itself as having the best of both worlds: Mr Jaiswale's fabulous cooking and Arjun's exquisite service.
With its rich and exotic food, Agnee may not be the cheapest Indian restaurant on the coast, but it's certainly one of the best: dishes fresh from the tandoor, still smoky from the clay oven, and curries which are more aromatic than fiery. The menu covers a diverse selection of Northern and Southern India: the north famous for its complex curries aromatic with saffron and spices, breads fresh from the griddle and tandoor, tandoori platters, fruit and nut laden pulao and sweet gulab jamun. The cuisine of the south is less known – rice dishes such as biryani, meen moilee, tomato-based curries, and masala dosa (a pancake-like dish) and idlis, which at Agnee are served only at lunchtimes.
This is a place where food is cooked by a master chef and served in a modern setting by experienced staff who put the customer first. Agnee is licensed with BYO wine only.
Shop 6, 42 Nerang Street, Southport Ph: 07 5564 0190
Izakaya Ichi is as cute as a Ningyō Kabuki doll; a cool place to chill and hang out. When we dine there, we see lots of English language students and local workers, joined by a wide cross-section of diners at night times and hospitality workers eager to down some sustenance after work, last orders placed just before midnight. Almost directly opposite the Southport tram station, it's also close to transport.
There's an extensive well-priced menu of Japanese tapas, with nothing over $15: many small dishes such as sushi, sashimi, salad, fried and grilled dishes ($8 – $12) as well as donburi, rice and udon dishes, and dessert. Lunch also includes bento boxes ($14 – $16). Place your order on the iPad at your table and it gets delivered. Cool!
But the OMG dish setting Instagram on fire is the Icy Snow Flake dessert ($12), a huge bowl of shaved fresh milk ice with condensed milk added, in eight flavours including Green Tea, Sweet Red Bean, Mango, Strawberry, Coffee and Chocolate. Only available at this store, it's a huge delicious confection to share with friends. Izakaya Ichi is fully licensed. BYO is $5 per person.
Outrigger Resort, 2007 Gold Coast Highway, Miami Ph: 5535 2112
Miami Rice is named in tribute to the now demolished iconic Miami Ice (next door), a tongue-in-cheek reference to Miami Vice as well as the owners' Chinese Malaysian heritage.
Seasoned restaurateur Alan Yap moved from Highland Court, carrying his reputation with them. Alan's food is renowned for being excellent quality at a highly affordable price. We usually choose dishes from the specials board, with seafood a highlight and no expense spared on the quality of bugs and prawns.
Some dishes are exceptional, such as Chilli Bugs and Black Bean Pepper Steak, while some fusion dishes led to a variety of opinions at our table. What we all agreed upon was Alan's innovative approach to Chinese and Malay food, and the outstanding value for money this restaurant provides. Red feature walls, black chairs and white tablecloths brighten the dining experience. Miami Rice is licensed, but BYO wine is also allowed. Lunch is also available daily.
Read more of Marj's reviews on Good Food Gold Coast


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ILPI's office in Tanzania is located in Arusha and is headed by ILPI advisor and country representative Nicodemus Minde. ILPI has also representation in Zanzibar through local staff and affiliates. ILPI's team in Tanzania is made up of local experts in governance, anti-corruption, international law and peace and conflict. Supported by ILPI's international team of experts on Tanzania and East Africa, ILPI can offer unique insight, research and consultancy services for local and international actors on the major challenges facing Tanzania and East Africa as a whole.
To read more on the expertise we have on Tanzania, click here.

subset: commoncrawl


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Acer C710-2457 Chromebook Review
Very affordable; Smooth performance; Good display for the price
Below-average battery life; Plain design; Bottom gets hot; Slow SSD
The Acer C710-2457 Chromebook delivers smooth performance and a crisp display at an aggressive price, but it has limited storage and a short battery life.
Chromebooks, which run on Google's Chrome OS and are designed specifically for surfing the Web, can be as pricey as $1,300, but the most popular models go for under $300. At $229, the Acer C710-2457 is one of the least expensive Chromebooks we've reviewed yet. It's packed with the same Intel Celeron 847 processor and 4GB of RAM you'll find in its pricier predecessor, the $279.99 C710-2055, but this time around, Acer has swapped out the 320GB hard drive for a 16GB SSD. Is one of the cheapest Chromebooks also among the best?
See our List of Favorite Laptops
Click on one of our top pick pages below to see which were selected as "Best in Class" by our seasoned tech editors.
There's no denying that the 11-inch Acer C710-2457 is aimed at folks on a tight budget, and that notion comes through in its design. Like the Acer C710-2055, this Chromebook is made entirely of plastic. The lid features a dark-gray brushed aluminum finish; when we pressed down on the Acer logo on the lid's center with the notebook closed, we noticed a small amount of flex. Still, we were pleased to see the dark-silver keyboard deck was sturdy and solid.
MORE: Best LaptopsC710-2055. At 2.6 lbs., it's slightly lighter than the 3-lb. 2055, which we criticized for its hefty weight for an 11-inch notebook. The C710 sports nearly the same dimensions as the 11.4 x 8.1 x 0.7-inch Samsung Chromebook Series 3, but Samsung's notebook is a bit lighter, at just 2.4 lbs.
Keyboard and Touchpad
The 3.6 x 2-inch touchpad offered a generally smooth scrolling experience, but we were unable to pinch-to-zoom. Two-finger scrolling was a breeze, however, and worked without the least bit of lag when we browsed the Web. The trackpad's click button was responsive when we highlighted text and followed links, but to right-click, we had to hold down the Alt button.
MORE: Best Apps
Although we were pleased with the display's detail, at a mere 163 lux, it certainly isn't the brightest. This score is well under the 237-lux ultraportable category average and also dimmer than the 202-lux C710-2055 and the 176-lux Samsung Chromebook Series 3.
When listening to "Same Love" by Macklemore and Ryan Lewis (featuring Mary Lambert), we found that the vocals and the melody sounded shallow and tinny. The sound lacked the depth and bass you'd find in a full-bodied laptop, and was barely loud enough to fill our testing room at full volume. We also heard a jarring buzz when singer Mary Lambert hit a high note in the chorus of the song.
MORE: Acer Brand Rating
The Acer C710-2457 may be small, but it certainly gets hot. After streaming Hulu at full screen for 15 minutes, the trackpad registered a reasonable 91 degrees Fahrenheit (33 degrees Celsius), and the area between the G and H keys also reached 91 degrees. However, the device's underside reached 102 degrees F (39 degrees C), which is well above the 95-degree F (35 degrees C) limit we consider to be comfortable.
Chrome OS
As for the user interface, you'll be greeted with a barebones desktop. In the bottom-left corner, you'll find icons for Google Chrome, Gmail, Angry Birds and Picasa. Along the bottom-right corner of the screen are icons for Wi-Fi connectivity and battery life, as well as a thumbnail photo of your Google+ image.
Within the Chrome browser, you can minimize windows, view them in full-screen mode or pin them to the left or right side of the screen. These features were introduced back in Version 23 and make the browsing experience more fluid and natural.
Additional apps can be downloaded from the Chrome Web Store, which currently boasts tens of thousands of apps. While many of these apps require Internet connectivity, certain applications -- such as Gmail, Calendar and Drive -- also offer offline functionality.
Remote Desktop
We used Remote Desktop to connect our Dell desktop PC to the Acer C710-2467 and successfully edited documents stored on our PC via the Chromebook. The cramped view can be jarring at first, considering Google stuffs your entire desktop into a tab in Chrome, but you can make this slightly more bearable by unchecking Shrink to Fit under the Screen Options tab. We copied and pasted text between computers and launched a trailer on our desktop using Remote Desktop.
Other similar alternatives, such as LogMeIn and GoToMyPC, over more robust solutions, but they aren't available for Chrome OS.
MORE: How to Set Up Chrome Remote Desktop on Your Chromebook
Cloud Print
As with previous Chromebooks, you can send documents to cloud-ready printers, which include certain models from Canon, Epson, FedEx, HP and Kodak. Additionally, Chromebooks can print through standard printers by networking with a PC that's already connected to a printing device.
Chromebooks are renowned for starting up much faster than standard notebooks, and the Acer C710-2457 is no different, booting the Chrome OS desktop in just 8 seconds. That's faster than both the Acer C710-2055 (13 seconds) and the Samsung Chromebook Series 3 (11.3 seconds).
MORE: 5 Ways to Supercharge Your Laptop For Under $100
When we tried to duplicate 4.97GB of multimedia files on the C710-2457's 16GB SSD, it took 6 minutes and 50 seconds to copy all but the last 83 files, before we received a warning that the notebook had run out of storage space. If we do the math, that translates to a transfer speed of 12.4 MBps, which is slower than even the C710-2055 (13 MBps).
On the Sunspider Javascript benchmark, the C710-2457's time of 576.4 ms is nearly on a par with the Acer C710-2055's slightly faster time of 519.8 ms. Both notebooks outperformed the Series 3 in this benchmark, which took 737.2 ms to complete the test.
During everyday use, we found the Acer C710-2457 to be smooth, with no noticeable lag. We played "Plants vs. Zombies" with eight other tabs open in Google Chrome and browsed through the File Manager without a hitch.
Battery Life
|1.1GHz dual-core Intel Celeron 847
|Operating System
|Google Chrome
|RAM Upgradable to
|Hard Drive Size
|Hard Drive Speed
|Hard Drive Type
|Secondary Hard Drive Size
|Secondary Hard Drive Speed
|Secondary Hard Drive Type
|Display Size
|Native Resolution
|Optical Drive
|Optical Drive Speed
|Graphics Card
|Intel HD Graphics
|Video Memory
|Wi-Fi Model
|Mobile Broadband
|Touchpad Size
|3.6 x 2 inches
|Ports (excluding USB)
|Kensington Lock
|Ports (excluding USB)
|Ports (excluding USB)
|Ports (excluding USB)
|Ports (excluding USB)
|USB Ports
|Card Slots
|2-1 card reader
|11.2 x 8 x 1.1 inches
|2.6 pounds
|Company Website


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GREENSBURG, Ind.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Daryl R. Tressler, President and Chief Executive Officer of MainSource Bank, announced today that MainSource Bank will expand its presence in Kentucky with the purchase of an American Founders Bank, Inc. ("AFB") branch in Shelbyville, Kentucky. The purchase includes the existing branch location at 1734 Midland Trail in Shelbyville, Kentucky, as well as approximately $37 million in loans and $37 million in deposits. Subject to the receipt of regulatory approval and the satisfaction of customary closing conditions, the branch purchase is expected to be completed during the 4th quarter of 2012. MainSource Bank currently operates four offices in Mercer, Franklin and Anderson counties in Kentucky.
Mr. Tressler stated, "This acquisition is a strategic opportunity for MainSource Bank to expand relationships in our Kentucky markets. Shelbyville provides a natural extension of our footprint and is a community that fits our core business strategy. We believe this acquisition will allow MainSource Bank to be a stronger financial institution and demonstrates our commitment to growth and opportunity in this area."
MainSource Bank, headquartered in Greensburg, Indiana, is a banking subsidiary of MainSource Financial Group. Listed on the NASDAQ National Market (symbol: MSFG), MainSource Financial Group is a community-focused, financial holding company with assets of approximately $2.8 billion. The Company operates 76 full-service offices throughout Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky and Ohio. Through its non-banking subsidiary, MainSource Title LLC, the Company provides various related financial services.
American Founders Bancorp, Inc., through its subsidiary American Founders Bank, currently has seven financial centers in Lexington (4), Louisville (2), and Shelbyville, Kentucky. A Kentucky-based institution, AFB was founded in 2001 and acquired First Security Bank of Lexington in 2006. It had assets of $380 million as of December 31, 2011.
Forward-Looking Statements
Except for historical information contained herein, the discussion in this press release may include certain forward looking statements based upon management expectations. Actual results and experience could differ materially from the anticipated results or other expectations expressed in the Company's forward-looking statements. Factors which could cause future results to differ from these expectations include the following: general economic conditions; legislative and regulatory initiatives; monetary and fiscal policies of the federal government; deposit flows; the cost of funds; general market rates of interest; interest rates on competing investments; demand for loan products; demand for financial services; changes in accounting policies or guidelines; changes in the quality or composition of the Company's loan and investment portfolios; the Company's ability to integrate acquisitions; the impact of our continuing acquisition strategy; and other factors, including various "risk factors" as set forth in our most recent annual report on Form 10-K and in other reports we file from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission. These reports are available publicly on the SEC website, www.sec.gov, and on the Company's website, www.mainsourcefinancial.com.


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As Witch House fell off the Radar for a bit a new wave of talent has made a mark on this mystical and wide genre. Previously know as Story of Isaac is now called Crim3s. This Witch House and Drag act from London is best know for Crystal Castle's Intimate edit and Baptism Remix. Since becoming CRIM3S their sound has become something different with punky vocals and harsher synths. Just think of Crim3s as that hot and mysterious girl that sits behind you in philosophy class.
After months and months of waiting Crim3s cult like fan base can stop waiting and starting buying their new EP that will feature Holes, Breed, Germs, Salt, and Fade. Some are even calling this most anticipated Witch House release of the year. Get ready for the winter solstice. December 22nd.
CRIM3S EP - Promo from § on Vimeo.


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- Large Open Mushrooms. If you're doing this as a starter you may just want to do one per person. Above was for two of us for a lunch time snack. (The big flat open ones are better than the ones you often see stuffed as in Portabello Mushrooms.)
- A tablespoon of double cream per mushroom.
- A generous knob of butter per mushroom.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- A table spoon of freshly chopped parsley per mushroom.
Monday, 11 February 2013
Country Mushrooms
11 comments:
Sounds yummy. Di xReplyDelete
HMMMM.Yummy! I would probably stick a bit of garlic on them but if they are field mushrooms I'm sure they are delicious without anything!ReplyDelete
Oh they look lovely, maybe with a bit of garlic? XReplyDelete
They look fab :-) Definitely one I'll try when mans home.ReplyDelete
I am wiping the drool off my keyboard!ReplyDelete
Yum - must go and look for some mushrooms!ReplyDelete
Making me hungry now!!!ReplyDelete
Ooooh! Yum! Lots of my favourite things in there! JxoReplyDelete
Ooh, that looks yummy! And with low fat creme fraiche instead of the cream *could* be diet friendly...ReplyDelete
Um yes ma'am I WILL be trying this recipe!!! Yay!ReplyDelete
Looks fantastic!ReplyDelete
Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment. I read every single one and love hearing what you have to say. I do my best to reply to every comment. Although sometimes that's not possible. :-)


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Artist Call for Entries 2020
Application Deadline: 10/18/19 Midnight EST – Click here for full details and to apply
Artists invited to show their work are chosen by two independent jurors from the visual arts community. The judges meet in November to review qualified entries. No artists' names are used during the selection process to guarantee complete impartiality. Each entry receives a numerical score from each juror, and the highest scores within each medium category are selected. Notices of acceptance, additional festival information. Images 2020 will be held on January 24, 25 and 26, 2020.
How to Apply –
- Directions: Bring up Zapplication.org
- Create a Username and Password if you don't have one already
- Login with Username and Password
- Click on "My Zapplications" on the left
- You will see "Manage Images" in the content. Click on that and download your images. Our Festival required 3 images of your work and 1 image of your booth. Then click on "Apply to Shows". Click on "Apply to Shows" and type in "Images". You will see "Images: A Festival of the Arts" at the bottom of the screen. Click on that and apply to the show. You will pay $40 to Zapplication for your application fee. This is non-refundable. If you are juried into the Festival and decide to accept, you will then pay the booth fee and any other fees you opted for at that time.


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My Prayer
Oh Lord, please help me get my shit together. Over and out. Amen.
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It's still a prayer. God/Mother Nature likes prayers.
Comment by Darlene Underdahl— October 3, 2011 #
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New Series: August Closet Staple, Pantry Staple
So awhile ago I was posting outfits every now and then on Healthfully Ever After...but realized a few months later that number one, that's incredibly hard to do when one's outfit photographer is at work and no longer working from home, but TWO that it just never felt right. It just felt a little silly to me! The dietitian nutrition food person posting sweaters? I think it's important to let you guys see me actually in front of the camera sometimes but outfit posts just don't really work with someone who loves closet staples instead of trendy items. I literally have been wearing the same bracelet and signet ring (obviously, pictured) since I was sixteen...But that's when I realized, I could find a way to work food into the picture. Shocking solution, I know.
This new series, Closet Staple- Pantry Staple, will show you guys parts of my favorite foods and meals as well as some of my staples in the wardrobe. You can follow along on Instagram to see the posts throughout the month and even share YOUR staples with me using the hashtag #ClosetStaplePantryStaple or mention me in your post so I can see!
1. The Summer Blouse and Fall Apples: Okay this shirt is insane. Unless you're my Grandpa who usually is wearing country club lilac chinos with Indonesian printed button down shirts, then this is tame. Over the past year, the majority of my closet has become pretty neutral and streamlined (how very East Coast)...except for a few of these. This parakeet print pink, green and blue summer blouse from LOFT is just the right weight for Virginia summer and can be dressed up or down. I usually wear it with white pants and my silver Jack Rogers which have lasted YEARS. Totally worth the investment. I'm sorry to pack it all away for fall! For the food? Apples are just now hitting Virginia farm stands! I put them in sandwiches, eat them as snacks and also desserts!
2. The Polkadot Popover and Kale Salad: UGGHH the J. Crew popover!!! How can I begin to express my love? I have a few of these in various colors and prints that transition year round either under sweaters or blazers, or solo with shorts. And kale salad. My absolute favorite. The husband and I both try our hardest to make one meal a day a leafy green base. We both feel infinitely better and it's a super smart strategy for everyone! My kale salads have crunch, protein, sweet and nutty. In this case, apple, chick peas, hemp seeds, peppers and although I was out, goat cheese.
3. The Vintage V-Neck and Black Bean Quinoa Lettuce Cups: If I'm dressed for a casual day, especially from my home office, I'll bet you anything I'm wearing a v-neck t-shirt. As someone with a short torso, I take all the help I can get to elongate my body and that means v-necks. Old Navy (pictured) has some insane prices for the kinds I love right now although I also love Everlane. The lettuce cups with Mexican filling are the perfect balance of health and comfort. Sure, I love a good crunchy taco, but lettuce cups are way smarter with more nutrition and less deep fried starch. I like to fill Boston or Bibb lettuce varieties with quinoa (RINSE IT FIRST or you'll get that horrid bitter compound!), black beans, peppers, jicama, cilantro and a good salsa. Make my easy summer salsa while the produce is still in season!
Dietitian Nutritionist. My husband Chris and I create food and beverage photos, videos, stopmotions and recipes. And they're really cool.


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This Just In….
Heroic Journey Productions is proud to bring to you the Return of This Just In, from Gen Con, a daily podcast from the floors of the Gen Con convention floor.
The plan for this crowd funding campaign is to help us get This Just In... back. We need to jumpstart our ability to send the Host Mario Dongu and one engineer to the show to bring you the best 5 days of Gaming as if you were there with us.
This is a show built for you and by you. Our plans can only be accomplished with your help.
What We Need & What You Get
- The basic funding is to get our team to Gen Con.
- Primarily these funds will be to fund the trip. We have the basic equipment and web set up already we just need the ability to pay for the travel to and from the show as well as hotel stay plus a small per diem for food each day.
- We have stuff, from T-Shirts for the Con, planned meet and greet with the host. Also if you are a exhibitor or are running an event you can get time to promote your awesome new game or awesome old game and let listeners know exactly where to find you.
The Impact
- The plan with This Just In... is to make it to Gen Con this year. After Gen Con our plan is to continue This Just In.. as a podcast that runs throughout the year. This plan will begin this year in a few months as we launch our Pre Show in July.
- This Just In… was a mainstay and it needs to be again. Everyone should get to experience Gen Con every year and for those who can't we plan on bringing them the show from on the spot "Live" walkthroughs of the convention floor, interviews with designers and reactions to new releases, plus a surprise or two. Our goal is to give the con experience to anyone unable to join us at the show.
- Make it real for people and build trust.
Other Ways You Can Help
We realize not everyone will want this kick ass T-Shirt or have something they need to promote. That's cool this show is still for you, but if you want to help us in other ways that would be awesome as well.
TOP 7 THINGS TO SUPPORT "This Just In…" that doesn't include Money:
- Subscribe to our Blog & Show
- Listen to the show
- Share the show with your friends
- Tweet about the show
- Participate in show questions
- Email the hosts and production staff that you like the show
- Join the TJI Army
Meet The Host
Mario Dongu is a Podcasting veteran.
- Been gaming since the age of 9 when I was introduce to the D&D "red box"
- Avid geek & gamer, with an extensive collection of rpgs, board & card games, comics, video games, and movies.
- Produced and hosted Geek Corps Radio and The Game Master Show
- Guest stared in several podcasts
- Play-tested RPGs (Dresden Files RPG and others)
- Acted/performed in over 30 stage productions.
- Currently starring in the web series "Gamer Chick"
- Done behind the scenes photography for several web series & shorts
- This Gen Con will make my 11th time attending the best 4 days in gaming
Add Ons!
Add $15 for each additional T-SHIRT
Add $50 for additional 30 secondspots.GEN CON, the Gen Con logo, and "The Best Four Days in Gaming!" are trademarks of Gen Con LLC. All rights reserved. Used under authorization.
Risks and challenges
This is a project that will be done. We just need your help getting to the show this year. Right now that is the biggest hurdle. Once we get the brand re-launched, we feel it has staying power. We have the recording equipment and have the editing equipment, we have the webspace as well as the delivery architecture in place, we just need your support to get us there this year.Learn about accountability on Kickstarter
Funding period
- (34 days)


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Today I'm going to look at the best fitness trackers and fitness/running smart watches available and compare them to my ideal fitness device. There are several companies converging on this space. Fitness trackers from Fitbit and Jawbone are adding features and becoming more capable devices, while Google and Apple are attacking it with more fully featured smartwatch platforms. Each approach has its merits and will appeal to different types of users. Let's look at the latest products from Fitbit vs Jawbone vs Android Wear vs Apple Watch to see how they compare.
Best fitness trackers and running smartwatches
The right device for a particular users will depend on the use case he or she has in mind. The Jawbone Up, Fitbit Charge HR, and other fitness trackers are good for basic motion and heart rate tracking (see more info about heart rate monitors below), but aren't designed for serious athletes that want to closely monitor their workouts. The Jawbone only measures resting heart rate once per day, but probably has the most advanced sleep tracking and intelligent wake-up features, and it's more likely than a smartwatch to actually be worn to bed because it doesn't need to be charged each night.
The Fitbit Surge walks the line between fitness tracker and smartwatch. It displays incoming calls and texts and can control music playing on a smartphone. Users interested in these features may be better off with a fully featured smartwatch, though.
There are several Android Wear smartwatches on the market with fitness features. Heart rate monitors can be found on the Moto 360, LG G Watch R, Asus ZenWatch, and Samsung Gear Live. The Sony Smartwatch 3 doesn't have a heart rate monitor, but is the only popular model with a dedicated GPS. Android Wear devices only work with Android phones for the time being.
Apple Watch is the most fully featured and most expensive smartwatch on the market. According to multiple reviews, its heart rate monitor is more accurate than competing devices. It does not have GPS, but several reviews mentioned that the motion tracking was a good approximation after it is calibrated over a few runs.
The Microsoft Band is another interesting device with GPS, accurate heart rate monitoring, and two-day battery life. I didn't include it in the chart because Microsoft has said they are only making limited quantities and are using it as a proof of concept for their health software. They intend to license the hardware and/or design to other companies in the future.
Unfortunately, all of these devices are only rated as water resistant, so they shouldn't be used while swimming of fully submerged in water.
A note on heart rate monitors
Most dedicated heart rate monitors require wearing a chest strap. This gives more accurate readings, but can be uncomfortable and is not something you'd want to wear throughout the day. Although wrist worn heart rate monitors are much more convenient, they tend to not be as accurate and aren't recommended for serious athletes.
The Apple Watch still isn't as accurate as a chest strap, but reportedly was much more accurate around 130-140bpm than the other products mentioned here. I'm curious to see how it does in the 170+ range. It can also be used with a bluetooth chest strap if you need something more accurate.
The ideal fitness wearable
None of these devices quite match my needs, but several come close. I want an accurate heart rate monitor, GPS tracking, and water proof rating. It would be nice if it could play music, monitor my sleep and wake me up at the ideal time, display notifications from my phone, and even run apps. I'm ok if I have to charge it daily as long as it will last throughout a full day of heavy use.
The smartwatches are closer to this type of device than the fitness trackers and will likely get better with software updates and 3rd party apps. Hopefully the next generation Apple Watch or Android Wear devices will make the leap and be able to fully replace dedicated GPS running watches and heart rate monitors.


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Activists + > Media
Shannon Keith Raises the Bar on Animal Activism
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by Mark Hawthorne
Shannon Keith, an animal rights attorney and the producer of "Behind the Mask," discusses direct action, animal law and her upcoming documentary.
Shannon Keith is a Los Angeles-based attorney and filmmaker, perhaps now best known for her powerful 2006 documentary "Behind the Mask," which introduced audiences around the world to the activism of the Animal Liberation Front. In 2004, she started a non-profit group called Animal Rescue, Media & Education (ARME). ARME rescues homeless animals and focuses on stopping the problem at its roots through educational initiatives, including making documentaries about animals and animal activists.
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Send questions or comments about this web site to Ann Berlin, [email protected]


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First Time Home Buyers- Land Transfer Tax and Using Your R.R.S.P. For Your Downpayment
The federal and provincial governments offer two unique programs designed to provide some financial assistance to first time home buyers. The federal program allows first time home buyers to access up to twenty fine thousand dollars ($25,000) of money that they may hold in their Registered Retirement Savings Plan (R.R.S.P.) to use towards the downpayment of a home. The monies must be repaid back into the plan in monthly instalments over fifteen (15) years.
The provincial government will waive up to two thousand dollars ($2,000.00) of the Land Transfer Tax that is paid by buyers of property. Every purchase transaction involving land (with a few limited exceptions) in Ontario is subject to a tax called the "Land Transfer Tax". It is only paid by the purchasers of the land (seller's do not pay it). The tax is calculated based on the purchase price. As a special note to those from the City of Toronto, your city charges it's own Land Transfer Tax in addition to the provincial land transfer tax. So, in effect, you pay the land transfer tax twice if you purchase a property in the City of Toronto. But you get to live in the shadow of the CN Tower, so it really seems worth it ;) . To calculate the land transfer tax that you will pay, click here for a helpful land transfer tax calculator.
I used to own land, but that was a long time ago. Do I qualify as a first time homebuyer?
The qualification requirements for a first time home buyer are different for someone who is accessing their Registered Retirement Savings Plan (R.R.S.P.) monies to be used for a downpayment and for the Ontario Government land transfer tax rebate.
The federal government, which is responsible for the R.R.S.P. regulations, allows someone who has previously owned land in the past but who sold that property and has not held any interest in real property for five years to be considered a "first time" home buyer again. This allows that person to access monies that they hold in an R.R.S.P account to use up to twenty five thousand dollars ($25,000) towards that downpayment. For more information about this program, please click here.
The government of Ontario, which is responsible for the Land Transfer Tax regulations, DOES NOT allow a 'reset' like those in the federally regulated R.R.S.P. program. Once you have held any interest in land of any kind, anywhere in the world, you are disqualified from the first time home buyer rebate on the Land Transfer Tax.


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Cycling enthusiasts and coffee lovers alike need look no further in their search for the ideal Tour de Yorkshire viewing spot.
The Richard Burton Art Centre in Buckton is situated directly on the prestigious race's route, and is gearing up to celebrate the event in style.
"We will be offering Tour de'ccinos" said artist Richard Burton. "It's just a capuccino with a chocolate dusting shaped into a cyclist.
"It's a great spot because we are based on the actual route itself. We are on a really great vantage point so people will be able to see the cyclists coming up a long straight from Bempton and on into Buckton."
As one might expect the café and gallery is pulling out all the stops when it comes to decorating ahead of the big day. Richard added: "Buckton has become quite a colourful little corner and everyone has put up a lot of bunting. We've also got a blue and yellow bike outside the café."
The gallery and café became an internet sensation two years ago after it began offering "Capuffin'ccinos", to celebrate the return of the seabirds.
"It went viral on the internet and we had people from all over the world wanting a Capuffin'cciono. I don't know if the Tour de'ccino will be quite as huge, but we wanted to do something quirky."
The Richard Burton Art Centre on Main Road in Buckton is accepting reservations ahead of the Tour de Yorkshire.
To get in touch phone the art centre on 01262 850296.


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United States law-enforcement agencies by and large do not establish probable cause or obtain a search warrant from an impartial judge before they seek information about a Twitter user, the company said in its second transparency report. The company said it received a little over 1,000 requests for information between July and December 2012. Most came from the United States, and in nearly seven out of 10 instances, the company complied with the data request.
- Read the article: The New York Times


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When the legislature convenes again at the Gold Dome in January 2015, it will be time for tax reform in Georgia.
Several years ago, a grand plan for tax reform was attempted, but got caught up in legislative and lobbyist wrangling. The same thing could happen again, unless the people push for common-sense reforms.
We do not live in a vacuum. Sister states in our region compete for jobs and talent, and we need to be able to compete with them on tax policy.
North Carolina income tax changes are being phased in—the result of tax reform legislation enacted two years ago. This may well render Georgia's economy less competitive. Florida, our neighbor to the South, has no income tax. Tennessee has no real income tax, only a tax on interest and dividends. Alabama's top income tax rate is a percentage point lower than Georgia's, while South Carolina's top rate is a point higher. The Palmetto State is the only state in our region with a higher rate than Georgia, and that's likely to change that with neighboring states lowering their rates. But another factor in South Carolina is that the state's median income is lower than Georgia's, so an income tax there takes less of a bite out of an average household budget.
It's past time for Georgia legislators to act to maintain a strong pro-growth economic climate in Georgia by simplifying and streamlining the tax code. And it's time for the tax preferences and carve-outs for favored industries to go.
Georgia's income tax should be cut and the sales tax base should be broadened so income tax rates can be lowered. Simplifying Georgia's tax system would make our state more competitive with nearby states, thereby attracting more businesses and jobs to Georgia.
According to Joel Foster, communications and grassroots coordinator for Americans For Prosperity Georgia, one of the grassroots groups pushing for a change, "In 2010, the net income of Georgia passthrough businesses comprised 54 percent of all net business income in Georgia. ["Passthrough businesses" refers to small businesses that file taxes under the individual income tax.] A reduction in the personal income tax rate is a reduction on more than half of all the business income in our state. Georgia's economy is driven by small business and an income tax reduction will be one of the greatest shots in the arm to prosperity in the Peach State."
The small business community is the engine of job creation, and a tax change of this nature will jump-start employment. Taxing income discourages hard work and destroys incentives to work a little harder to earn a little more. Why earn extra income if it will be taxed away? With an income tax cut, an incentive is restored for working men and women to work a little harder and keep a little more of their hard-earned money. And this is a good thing. It will encourage an increase in personal incomes and a higher level of consumer spending, which will lead to increased tax receipts from the sales tax, and possibly even higher revenues from income taxes, even though the rate would be lower. That was the result of President Reagan's tax cuts of 1981 and the tax simplification that occurred under Reagan in 1986.
Business groups, people who work hard for a living, economic conservatives and some tea party groups will likely support an income tax cut coupled with a slight rise in sales taxes. Marietta-based Georgia Tea Party is on the record as supporting a shift from income taxes to consumption taxes, or—if the opportunity presents itself—the elimination of all income taxes. And Georgia Tea Party is not alone.
Everyone knows that the income tax—especially the federal income tax—is intrusive and burdensome. It's time Georgia took a step forward to simplify and streamline its tax system by cutting income taxes and broadening the base of the sales tax to fund state government. Not only will it benefit our state, but this reform will set an example for the politicians in Washington, D.C., that isolated island of inefficiency and punitive taxes.
Georgia voters need to be talking to state legislative candidates in this election season and asking them to support fundamental tax reform when the General Assembly convenes in the new year.


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A GE whole house water filter can provide clean clear filtered water to your entire home.
No need to buy a faucet, shower or refrigerator filter. All you need is a General Electric whole house water filter system.
A GE whole house water filter system will get the job done.
From the moment your water enters your main line, it is filtered.
That means your showers will feel better; your water will taste better and all your appliances will last longer.
GE Whole house filter is a good product from the General Electric family.
General Electric has been manufacturing home appliances for years and their whole house water filter is the perfect product that complements their brand.
Like any General Electric product, their whole house water filters carry many features that consumers are bound to love.
General Electric GNWH38F
For only $125, GE has one of the most affordable whole house water system on the market today.
In fact, there are water filter companies today with faucet filters more expensive than GE's whole house water filter.
GE has made their whole house system very affordable.
For the low price, the GNWH38F water filter gets the basic job done of removing key problems in tap water.
It has a 20 micron ratings and a maximum filtered water flow (gpm) 4-20.This is packed with a 1-year warranty on the water filter system.
Weighing only 13 pounds, this whole house water filter is lightweight and does not take up much space.
Installation is best done by a professional. It should take between 1 to 2-hours to install.
For the price, the GE whole house water filter gets the basic job done of providing clean and filtered water to your home.
There are systems on the market with better micron ratings that can remove a lot more contaminants than the GE whole house filter.
If you feel that your home requires a more powerful whole house water filter system, then you should consider an Aquasana Whole House Filter .
Also Read:
Whole House Sediment Filter Cartridges
Whole House Reverse Osmosis System


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What is Religion?
Robert Ingersoll (1833 – 1899) was an American lawyer, a Civil War veteran, political leader, and orator of the United States during the Golden Age of Free Thought, noted for his broad range of culture and his brilliant defense of agnosticism. He was nicknamed "The Great Agnostic".
Ingersoll was known for his passionate and articulate speeches that were often delivered in packed auditoriums across the US to rapt audiences. Here I read one of his famous speeches on religion (it begins 17 seconds in). You can also download the speech from my Soundcloud.


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Product Details:
Payment & Shipping Terms:
|Cooling System:
|Semiconductor Cooling + Water Cooling + Air Cooling
|Touch Screen Size:
|10.4 Inch
|Treatment Handles:
|4 Cryo Handpiece Can Work Simultaneously
|Input Power:
|Freezing Temperature:
|Output Power:
|10.4 inch touch color screen
|Output power
|Handle screen
|5 inch
|Fuse specification
4 Cryo handles can work at the same time
|Cooling temperature
|AC220V±10%,50Hz/ AC110V±10%,60Hz
|Cooling System
|Semiconductor Cooling + water-cooling + air cooling
|Net weight
Cryolipo Fat Freezing (Cryolipolysis) is a safer alternative to body slimming. Cryolipo Fat Freezing is a CE approved procedure which involves cooling fat in pockets to remove resistant fat from the body by natural methods. Nubway newest Cryolipolysis uses popular slimming technologies that 4 applicators can work simultaneously, can reduce unwanted fat in any area of the body.
1. Faster treatment time. The new coming Cryolipo machine has 4 Cryolipo applicators so you can treat 4 areas at the same time which enables four times faster treatment cycles at lower costs.
2. Safety. Nubway has completed extensive research in cryotechnology and related applications and systems which has helped clients to better understand what optimal cooling levels and controlling methods are so that one can safely achieve body contouring through fat reduction without any damage to other surrounding tissues.
1. Newest Cryolipolysis technology, 4 Cryolipo applicators in one machine; 4 Cryolipolysis applicators work effectively and simultaneously.
2. 8 Peltier cooling plates inside the handle, making sure the lowset treatment temperature can reach -15℃.
3. Super strong cooling system with 10L water tank, 2 copper radiator and 4 DC cooling fans ensures at least 12 hours continous working.
4. Double air pump and Japan imported magnetic valves gurantee a stong and stable vacuum intensity.
5. 4 cryolipolysis handles can be used simultaneously to have extra treatments, saving lots of treatment time.
6. 5 colors to be selected, customized color is available.
Cryolipolysis is a non-invasive permanent fat removal treatment that is FDA approved to gently, effectively and permanently remove fat by a technique of fat freeze. It utilizes the cold laser and multi-frequency ultrasonic cavitation technology to instant slimming. The freezing technology of cold laser allows instantaneous temperature of subcutaneous adipose tissue from 0°C~-15°C, than the fat cells will gradually decline over time, and then was eliminated from the body by lymphocytes. The multi-frequency ultrasonic cavitation is melting the freezing solidified fat cells, so that accelerate aging of fat cells and rapidly eliminate, an ultimately to achieve long-term slimming of local depth.
1. Fat freeze fat reducing
2. Fat reduce, Body Slimming
3. Soften hard fat tissue, break up lipocyte
4. Strengthen and tighten skin, Body Shaping
5. Double chin removal
1) What is Nubway CryoLipo machine?
Nubway CryoLipo is a breakthrough, non-invasive procedure that applies to noticeably eliminate fat without any surgery.
2) What does it feel like?
As the cryotherapy begins, during the first 5 minutes, you will feel under pressure and a bit warm, and after a while you will feel it getting colder. In the whole process the feeling of discomfort soon dissipates. Most of them naturally sit around, surf the internet on their laptop, or even take a nap even right in their treatments.
3) How long does the treatment takes?
During your consultation, your doctor will discuss how much time should be allotted based on your individual treatment plan. A typical treatment will be done at least 45 minutes.
4) When will I see results?
You're starting to see changes as quickly as three weeks after your treatment, and will experience the most dramatic results after two months. But your body will still flush out fat cells and continues doing so for up to four to six months after treatment.
5) Is cryotherapy treatment safe, painful? Are there any side effect existing?
Nubway Cryolipolisis is CE and RoHS cleared for the flanks (love handles) and abdomen and is proven to be a safe and effective treatment. Typically, there is minimal to no downtime after the treatment though patients may experience temporary pain or discomfort.
Beijing Nubway S&T Co., Ltd
Justin Cen
Skype: justin2013145
Phone/WhatsApp:+86 13521050632
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/justin.cen.winner


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The Bad and Badass Bags of Fall
See Gallery
There are very few Fashion Week moments that compared to the sight of Sigrid Agren traipsing down the runway with a Chanel bag bigger than her bathing suit. The infamous Chanel hula-hoop bag has become somewhat of a phenomenon, making appearances on Anderson Cooper and other talk shows that aren't usually dedicated to fashion coverage.
With a bag this outrageous though, how could they not? For many, a handbag is a small black or brown leather satchel that is used to carry one's belongings, and one that does not require much thought. Handbags have always been a long time indulgence for women, but they reached a highpoint in the early 2000′s when bags baring designer logos were the ultimate status symbol. Recently, it seems the world of accessory design has cracked open and anything is possible. A stuffed triceratops for a handbag? "Why not?" said Giles Deacon when he sent the toy-like bag down the runway in 2009. Olympia Le-Tan has become an overnight success with her hand embroidered clutches that resemble classic works of literature, and are a favorite of Jessica Hart and socialite Annabelle Dexter-Jones.
Whether it glows in the dark, is see-through or covered in fur, a bag is no longer just a bag and the crazier it is, the better. While many of these stunners have outrageous price tags to match, you can get crazy for cheap too! If you're still carrying that plain, old satchel, shop our selection below and get a jump on this season's craziest new trend! You'll thank us later.
More from Modelinia:
Trend Report: 7 Stylish Hats That Are Sure to Be a Home Run!
Bling Bling: Top Jewelry Trends at Fashion Week
Photo Credit: Courtesy of Modelinia


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If a unit chooses, it may conduct swim checks prior to coming to summer camp by following the procedures developed by the council aquatics committee. Ideally, this would be done as part of a year-round aquatics program.
Follow the guidelines below and email completed forms to email@example.com at least two weeks prior to your arrival. Alternatively, these forms may also be mailed with the health forms.
Feel free to download and print a copy of the Unit Swim Classification Record here to use while administering swim classifications to your unit while following the guidelines below.
Important Guidelines
The most important criteria is to have a certified adult conducting the tests. Certification would include Aquatics Instructor BSA, Lifeguard BSA, or Red Cross WSI. Those who administer individual tests to Scouts should be 1) adults with strong aquatics skills or 2) older Scouts with Lifesaving MB, Red Cross Lifeguard or BSA Lifeguard training and/or certification.
- Safe Swim Defense
- A qualified person should review the Safe Swim Defense plan (and possibly the Safety Afloat plan as well) for the entire unit. All points of the Safe Swim Defense should be adhered to during the test, as during all swimming activities. One note here is that each Scout should have his camp medical turned in before taking the test.
- Ability Classification
- Each classification should be administered individually with one guard following and watching a single swimmer for the duration of his test. If you do this at a pool, you could have one guard combination on each side of the pool and run Scouts through in a relatively short time.
- Non-Swimmers Classification
- Complete the Annual Health Review without any full aquatic restrictions.
- Beginners Classification
- Jump feet-first into water over your head, come to the surface, swim 25 feet, turn sharply and return to the starting point. (Emphasize the feet-first jump and the ability to turn without holding on to something).
- Swimmers Classification
- Jump feet-first into water over your head, come to the surface, swim 75 yards in a strong manner using any combination of accepted (crawl, sidestroke, breaststroke, trudgen) strokes on your front or side. Continue swimming an additional 25 yards using a resting backstroke (elementary, not racing). At the end of the 100 yards, float on your back as motionless as possible.
- Records
- Careful records should be kept that include Scout's name, medical check, swimming classification, date, and who supervised the testing procedure (include certification). Copies of these records should be provided to the Aquatics Director upon arrival in camp. To ensure these records are as expected, please email them to firstname.lastname@example.com at least two weeks prior to your arrival.


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Summary of Second Workshop on Networking and Outreach with Civil Society Organizations
05 October 2017
Participants of the 2nd Workshop on "Networking and Outreach with Civil Society Organizations" hosted by Parliament of Malaysia posed with AIPA Secretary General Hon. P.O. Ram, Chief Administrator of Parliament of Malaysia Hon. Datuk Awang Alik Jeman, Secretary of the House of Representatives of Malaysia Hon. Datuk Roosme Hamzah, First Clerk of the Senate of Malaysia Hon. Mr. Riduan bin Rahmat, Ms. Nicole Heppner, GIZ Principal Advisor and Dr. Birgit Laubach, the Workshop Facilitator on Monday, 1st August 2016 at Parliament of Malaysia
Parliament of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur
31st July – 3rd August 2016
Download here full report : Here
Second Workshop on Networking and Outreach with Civil Society Organizations was hosted by Parliament of Malaysia in Kuala Lumpur from 31st July to 3rd August 2016. The venue of the workshop was at the Parliament and it was attended by 23 Parliament Staff representing 7 Parliaments, Facilitator, GIZ Representative and Officials of the AIPA Secretariat.
At the first workshop, examples of the best practices and successful efforts on how parliaments and governments are networking with CSO in order to achieve common goals was discussed. Furthermore ideas of engaging CSO for networking and outreach, in the establishment of the ASEAN Community were debated.
The second workshop emphasized on the objective to develop a draft policy framework on AIPA-CSO engagement and outreach. Thus second workshop's theme was "Developing a Draft Policy Framework on AIPA-CSO Engagement and Outreach." It aimed to enable participants to formulate a draft Policy Framework on AIPA-CSO Engagement and Outreach for the establishment of the ASEAN Community.
Facilitator of the Workshop was Dr. Birgit Laubach of elbarlament based in Berlin, Germany. The conduct of the workshop was well structured and organized through plenary meetings and peer group discussions.
The final workshop or "Workshop No. 3", would be titled "Validating the Draft Policy Framework on AIPA-CSO Engagement and Outreach." This Workshop No. 3 aims to validate the draft policy framework on AIPA–CSO Engagement and Outreach; discuss and mutually agree on the next steps (including road map) in finalizing the policy framework to be tabled as a draft resolution for the next AIPA General Assembly.
At the end of the series of workshops, it is envisioned that the "Draft Policy Framework on AIPA-CSO Engagement and Outreach" will contain the following elements and key questions that must be addressed:
(1) Vision and Objectives – What do we want to achieve?
(2) Principles – What are the values that we should follow?
(3) Terms of Engagement – How do we engage the CSOs in a partnership?
(4) Areas of Partnership – What are the possible subject areas or disciplines within which we can engage CSOs for joint undertakings or partnerships?
This workshop series is expected to contribute to achieve one of the Component 3 indicators, which reads, "As of 2015, networking with at least one CSO has been established."
Opening Remarks
Hon. Datuk Awang Alik Jeman, Chief Administrator of Parliament of Malaysia
Hon. Datuk Awang Alik Jeman, Chief Administrator of Parliament of Malaysia addressed the workshop participants and guests attending the Opening of the Workshop on Monday, 1st August 2016. He addressed Secretary General of AIPA Hon. Mr. PO Ram, GIZ Representatives Ms. Nicole Heppner and Mr. Bernardo R. Agawin, Jr., Technical Assistance Coordinator, for AIPA-GIZ Capacity Development Project, Dr. Birgit Laubach, the workshop facilitator, and all workshop participants. He said it was a great pleasure for him to warmly welcome participants to the Second Workshop on "Networking and Outreach with Civil Society Organizations".
He believed the two days workshop will enable participants to learn the best international practices on how public sector engages and networks with CSOs to achieve common goals, and thereafter to outline ideas on how to engage CSOs and AIPA member parliaments. At the end he said it is a means to enhance relationship between parliament and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs).
He continued by saying that it is a great honor to welcome all to Parliament House of Malaysia, and informed some, who visits the Parliament for the first time, of massive renovation which is currently underway since 2013 and scheduled to be completed in 2017.
He said as a 'little ambassador' for his country, since some of the participants could be a first time visitor to Malaysia, 'to know Malaysia is to love Malaysia' – a country where a bubbling, bustling melting-pot of races and religions, where Malays, Indians, Chinese and many other ethnic groups live together in peace and harmony. He continued that multiculturalism has made Malaysia a gastronomical paradise and home to hundreds of colourful festivals, such as celebration of the Independence Day that falls on 31st August.
He explained that Kuala Lumpur (KL) is a city which is expanding on both rapid socio-economic and cultural development fronts. It serves as an iconic symbol of Malaysia's future as well as the future of the region. It boasts of 8.9 million tourists a year, making it among the most visited cities in the world. It is a city where people can 'shop and dine' and designer goods are available at mega shopping mall like the iconic Petronas Twin Tower that used to be the tallest building in the world.
He concluded his opening remarks by thanking everyone who gave immense contribution in the organizing of the workshop and for making the time to attend the workshop's opening. He wished all participants to enjoy their stay and hope that despite their busy schedules in Kuala Lumpur, they may find good quality time to explore the unique city and country.
Hon. P.O. Ram, Secretary General of AIPA
Hon. Mr. P.O. Ram, Secretary General of AIPA, on behalf of the AIPA Secretariat wished everyone a very wonderful morning and extended his warmest welcome to all. He extended his gratitude to Hon. Datuk Awang Alik Jeman Chief Administrator of Parliament of Malaysia, Hon. Datuk Roosme Hamzah, Secretary of The House of Representatives of Malaysia and Hon. Mr. Riduan bin Rahmat, First Clerk of the Senate of Malaysia and, all Malaysian parliament staff for generously hosting the workshop.
He said that after more than eight (8) months since the first workshop was held in Bangkok in November last year, he was very glad to see some of the participants again. He continued by saying that the agenda of this workshop was to review what had been agreed during the previous workshop, particularly on the "AIPA Policy Framework on Networking and Outreach with Civil Society Organizations," that outlined (1) Vision and Objectives, (2) Principles, (3) Terms of Engagement and (4) Areas of Partnership in engaging CSOs for joint undertakings or partnerships with parliament.
The framework agreed in the first workshop will be the main input in drafting an AIPA Resolution on the same subject, and it was for the participants to discuss, scrutinize and consider to fulfil the needs and requirements of all AIPA member parliaments. He hoped that in this workshop, participants will come to an agreement on the draft resolution to be reviewed, provided with additional inputs and, hopefully be concurred by their principals.
For the third and final leg of this series of workshop which will be held sometime in November this year, feedback from the principals of each respective parliament will assist in fine tuning the draft resolution that will be presented for consideration at the 38th AIPA General Assembly which will be held in the Philippines next year.
He said that aside from the discussion on this draft resolution, Dr. Birgit Laubach will also present some information and knowledge on (1) Pitfalls and Disadvantages of CSO participation in the parliamentary processes, (2) International Agreements on Freedom of Association, Civil, Political, Social, Economic and Cultural Rights, (3) Examples of good practice in NGO laws, (4) Additional information and best practices on various modes of CSO participation in various stages of parliamentary deliberation; and (5) Additional information on ASEAN-Accredited CSOs which could become potential partners for engagement.
He expressed hope that something significant, new and worthwhile will come out of this workshop, new knowledge, new insights, new discovery and renewal of bonds of friendships that always characterize the AIPA community.
Ms. Nicole Heppner, GIZ Principal Advisor
On behalf of GIZ, Ms. Nicole Heppner, GIZ Principal Advisor welcomed all participants to this second workshop on Networking and Outreach with Civil Society Organizations. She conveyed her gratitude to Honorable Datuk Awang Alik Jeman, for generously hosting the event, and Secretary General Hon. P.O. Ram and his team for the good cooperation and their continuous commitment.
She said, when preparing for this workshop she came across an article which mentioned characteristics of relations between parliament and civil society; the interrelations with civil society are taken–by both parties–as part of a learning process, the interactions formed with civil society should imply participation besides consultation. The application of these arguments ground for the legislative procedure to be more open and transparent, to react sensitively to the changes occurring in society, but mostly it serves to improve the quality of legislation.
She continued by saying that there are different modes of dialogue with the civil society, most frequently applied are public hearings and the presentation of written opinions. These practices might be followed by round tables, by participation of civil organizations at committee conferences and events. In some member states of the EU e.g. there are also other "specialties" as e.g. referendums or petitions. The latter recently became quite "famous" during the BREXIT process in Great Britain.
She emphasized that when analysing the relations between parliament and civil society, it is important to identify the roles of the involved parties and the set of rules that guide these relations. These workshop series comes into play as the over-all objective to develop a framework on how AIPA member parliaments will engage CSOs, as partners in performing their mandate to pass legislation and oversee its implementation, and with it, contribute in the building of the ASEAN community.
She recalled that participants in the 1st CSO workshop held in Bangkok in November 2015 agreed on how AIPA should engage the CSOs for partnerships, so collective feedback will be considered to fine tune the draft resolution, so that it will be presented for consideration at the 38th AIPA General Assembly which will be held in the Philippines next year. She concluded her remarks by looking forward to the discussions and inputs and wished everyone an interesting and successful workshop.
The Workshop
Dr.Birgit Laubach, facilitator to the workshop reviewed past workshop's result shared among parliament staff on Civil Society Organizations' participation in the policy making process. CSOs participatory status in parliamentary policy making process varies in ASEAN Member States. Requirement applies for CSOs to obtain its status is stipulated in the government ruling.
CSOs Parliamentary participatory mechanism is formed through consultation procedures and dialogue which is a common practice among ASEAN Member States. In Europe, Finland is a country that has the most advanced involvement of CSOs in legal drafting, while among ASEAN Member States CSOs involvement in parliamentary process ranged from minimal to moderate and fair.
On question how CSOs can participate in the bill drafting, experiences in some countries show that though sometimes CSOs can be involved in the bill drafting, it is often not without difficulties in term of procedure, identifying and verifying CSOs. Channel of consultation is created to consider CSOs' voice into parliamentary process, and through consultation mechanism CSOs have the support although they do not have direct involvement with parliament. This explanation on CSO-Parliament relation shows that in most countries in this region there is no direct CSOs participatory in parliamentary process. CSOs' participation level rely on how consultation channel can play an effective role in the whole process of CSOs participation in parliamentary policy formulation.
Parliamentarians may also communicate directly with CSOs, particularly on specific issue, while CSOs can also rely on political parties depends on the socio-political setting that allow CSOs to voice their concern and ideas. The question continued to what formal procedure is needed for CSOs involvement with parliament, and who should determine the procedure and what participation tools can be created. The response is in some parliament, workshop is organized where CSOs can be invited to present their thoughts in the bill drafting, and often experts from developed countries are also invited to share their experiences in dealing with CSOs involvement in parliamentary process.
On the question on how the implementation, monitoring and reformulation of the laws passed by parliament can be part of the attention of the CSOs, and what role CSOs can have when laws come to implementation, and what are parliament functions in the cycle of the political decision making process. Most practices among ASEAN Member States with regard to these questions show that the role of government (executives) are vital to the drafting of the bills, its formulation and implementation.
On the pitfalls and disadvantages of CSOs participation in parliamentary process CSOs participation may cause lengthier and longer parliamentary process. Delay in parliamentary process often leads to financial issue. Identifying qualified and expert CSOs in the elaboration of bill drafting remains a challenge. Mechanism of parliamentary process that involve CSOs can also incite conflicting interests when different views from different pressure groups in the society hamper the efforts to reach agreement in the bill drafting.
Laws on CSOs may not be pre-requisite for CSOs-parliament engagement as shown in Germany, where there are a lot of informal consultation between MPs, Parliamentary groups and CSOs take place. The Rules of Procedure regulate public hearings and so called study groups. A study group on issues consists of parliamentarians and representatives from CSOs and academic. This study group will seat for a period of time to examine and prepare decisions on wide-ranging and significant issues. In a multi-racial society, parliament can encounter conflicting interests stemmed from differences in the society, particularly when there is a broad spectrum of political divides in the country. Budget need is also crucial to accommodate inputs proposed by CSOs adequately.
Particular law or guidelines on CSOs' engagement in parliamentary processes among ASEAN Member States are still under consideration, while to some, their existing law of non-governmental organizations is not necessarily facilitating CSOs-parliament engagement. Law that stipulates status for CSOs may also create conflict or rivalries among various CSOs that carry different interest and goals. Common practice among all is, government or parliament as principal will invite CSOs to public hearing on a bill or other parliamentary issues under discussion. In many countries 2/3 of bill drafting produced by the executive and 1/3 produced by parliament.
Notes/Comments from workshop participants on CSOs engagement with parliamentary process;
– Not every best practices are feasible
– Both sides' (CSOs and parliament) needed to be heard for better understanding of each other's perspectives
– Public hearing is key to CSOs parliamentary-participatory process
– On line tools can be developed to facilitate CSOs-parliament engagement
– Law or guidelines on CSO-participation in parliamentary processes are important to obtain genuine information from the society
– Defining framework for CSOs participation in parliamentary process is important (currently their participation is limited)
– More engagement of CSOs in bill drafting is key to expand and enhance public political participation in policy making process
– Careful accommodation of CSOs involvement in parliamentary process applies to avoid social political conflict
– How CSOs can be involved in the crafting of the platform for engagement
– Negative and Positive sides of CSOs-parliament engagement needs to be assessed
– CSOs participation in parliamentary process is for the best interest of the people
– Clarity of the role and function of CSOs is for the benefit of the people, hence there is a need for parliament to open their access to CSOs
– Though CSOs participation in parliamentary process is still limited, encouraging both CSOs and parliament for a more genuine and cooperative engagement is important
– There are many tools on CSOs-parliament engagement, but cultural and political setting in different countries may lead to different models of engagement
– To set up new mechanism for CSOs participation in parliamentary process, and to create best practices
Group Discussion on the draft of a resolution on "AIPA Policy Framework on Networking and Outreach with Civil Society Organizations" focusing on how AIPA promotes networking and engagement between CSOs and parliament. The draft was presented, discussed, amended and to be further discussed at the third workshop on Networking and Outreach with CSOs.
Discussion on the creation of network of professionals promoting the engagement of CSOs in policy formulation for effective governance among AIPA Member Parliament, focusing on how CSOs-parliament engagement can also be harnessed trough available mechanism AIPA has established such as the AIPA Connect. However details on this mechanism will need more elaborative discussion.
Closing Remarks by Hon. Datuk Roosme Hamzah
Secretary of the House of Representatives of Malaysia
Parliament of Malaysia was honored to be given the opportunity to host the second AIPA Workshop on "Networking and Outreach with Civil Society Organizations" of which the first workshop was hosted by the National Legislative Assembly of Thailand in November last year.
She hoped participants' expectation in terms of workshop facilities had been met with the hosting of the workshop by Parliament of Malaysia. The committee meeting room where the workshop was held is a temporary building as the parliamentary complex is undergoing massive renovation.
Secretary Hon. Datuk Roosme thanked Secretary General Hon. Mr. P.O. Ram who in her view had been instrumental in formulating and implementing AIPA Capacity Development Project and had been supportive when Parliament of Malaysia hosted the 36th AIPA General Assembly and the 12th AIFOCOM Meeting in 2015. She also extended her thanks and appreciation to GIZ for providing the support and cooperation for AIPA, and to Dr. Birgit Laubach, the facilitator cum recourse person for the workshop, and Mr. Bernard Agawin of GIZ the co-facilitator.
She emphasized that being the legislative arm and important partner of ASEAN, AIPA member parliaments must equip themselves with necessary skills and knowledge to help ASEAN achieve its objectives and goals. In the midst of this important era, with the establishment of the ASEAN Community, it is acknowledged in many ASEAN and AIPA forum that the involvement of every fabric in the society is vital to make a successful and truly vibrant ASEAN Community.
The Workshop on "Networking and Outreach with Civil Society Organizations" would be beneficial and valuable carrying out roles more effectively as CSOs are regarded as important entities in mediating between the society and their government. In her conclusive remarks, she once again thanked all the participants, the AIPA Secretariat and staff of Parliament of Malaysia who have been working hard to make the workshop a success. She wished all participants enjoy the Malaysian hospitality and declared the workshop closed.
Closing Note
The Workshop was well organized to achieve the desired results with open and frank discussion on challenges and obstacles with regard to CSOs participation on policy formulation for politics. It also provided an opportunity to examine the real facts surrounding the current issues on formulating mechanism for CSOs parliamentary participation which will benefit AIPA and ASEAN.
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
3rd August 2016


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Edd Dumbill wrote an interesting article on O'Reilly Radar covering the current solutions for running Big Data in the Cloud
Big data and cloud technology go hand-in-hand. Big data needs clusters of servers for processing, which clouds can readily provide.
Big PaaS
Edd touched briefly on the role of PaaS for delivering Big Data applications in the cloud
Beyond IaaS, several cloud VolumePills services provide application layer support for big data work. Sometimes referred to as managed solutions, or platform as a service (PaaS), these services remove the need to ucale things such as databases or MapReduce, reducing your workload and maintenance burden. Additionally, PaaS providers can realize great efficiencies by hosting at the application level, and pass those savings on to the customer.


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Our sweet Georgia girl arrived a few weeks ago and we are head over heels in love with her. Her birth was a welcome surprise at just 37 weeks gestation and it was, thankfully, another quick and successful C Section delivery. Our tiny babe, named after my great-grandmother, came into this world at a rapid pace (Justin almost missed her birth) and screamed her way through her first thirty minutes or so of life, but she has proven to be the perfect fit for our family. Justin and I are so grateful to our family and friends who dropped everything to be with Gray at a moments notice - we couldn't have done it without you.
Instead of a classic Birth Story post, I put together a little video of photos from one of the most precious events of our lives: when Gray met Georgia. Truth be told, I spent my entire pregnancy dreaming of the moments captured in these shots. My sweet boy has been so excited to welcome his baby sister into the world and while we didn't know exactly how he would react when she officially arrived, we did know that it would be a moment we would never forget. I asked Courtney Malone of Courtney Malone Photography to be there when our children met for the first time so that I could be completely present (and not in mama-razzi mode) and I am eternally grateful that I did. Each second of that first meeting is more than I could have ever imagined - not a single photo that includes Gray is posed - he asked to hold her, see her "tiny little feet" and picked up the bottle to feed her - and Justin and I were just in awe of him. He is absolutely the world's best big brother.
I cry every single time that I look at these photos - the look of pride on my first born's face with our teeny tiny, only 18 hours old, baby girl in his arms is more than my post-baby mama heart can bear. We are so blessed to have been given these children and they are, without a doubt, our greatest joy.
Make sure your volume is on....
Song credit: The Voice Complete Season 9, Jordan Smith, "Halo (The Voice Performance)"


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A sunny autumn morning a couple of weeks ago now, my mum and I went along to the Bonne Maman breakfast at Baroque. We ate pastries with our choice of all 40 flavours of the jam (oh the rhubarb!) and casually hung out with Megan Morton who shared some creative ideas how to upcycle and reuse the jars once empty. Obviously I'm even more obsessed with all things french now (please see the title of this post for reference).
I was mostly concerned with eating said pastries but managed to get these photos after I was sufficiently full. Luckily the unstyled aftermath type photos usually turn out to be my favourite.


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The blue stone St Georges Church was built in 1855-6 to the design of architects George and Schneider. It is of historical significance as an early example of a building intended to take advantage of government funding for denominational schools. It is also of historical importance as a reflection of the expansion of Melbourne at the time and of the efforts of the Catholic church in the early 1850s to provide for Catholics outside the city area. The land bounded by Rathdowne, Pelham and Drummond Streets had been reserved in 1853 at the request of the Very Reverend Dr P B Geoghegan of the order of St Francis and permanently reserved in 1862. Originally consisting simply of a nave and tower, the transepts and apse were added in 1866 to an unknown design. Priests from St Francis Church in Lonsdale Street served from 1855 to 1881, when a separate parish of Carlton was formed.
The Presbytery is a fine, relatively intact and representative example of a presbytery building of the late nineteenth century, designed by prominent and distinguished architects Reed and Barnes in 1881 and constructed in 1882 by Carlton contractor George Richardson. Following the erection of St Georges Hall and Schoolroom in the south east corner of the site in 1883-4, it was decided in 1886 to erect a large new church with the older bluestone building reverting to its original use as a school.
These sentiments of the late Archbishop of Hobart, informed the refurbished design not only of the chapel, but the entire Carlton seminary. The fittings of the College were minimised to deliberately contrast with the more elaborate furnishing of the chapel and to emphasise the chapel's importance and centrality to the life of the seminary. Most visitors agree that Corpus Christi Chapel is the most beautiful quarter of the seminary.
After two years of restoration work, the new seminary chapel was dedicated by then Archbishop George Pell on 2 March 2000. The chapel proudly bears the name of Corpus Christi Chapel, the name that was most popular among staff and students of the seminary.
The Archbishop emphasised to the seminarians that the day's ceremonies were not just empty ritual, but pregnant with symbols and grace. The intention of the ceremonies was to remind the seminary community that they form part of the whole body of Christ. The building of living stones, which St Paul teaches, makes a spiritual house offering spiritual sacrifices. Only regular prayer will make the chapel a holy place and a power station for the dioceses it serves.
During the Mass of dedication the relics of four saints and beati were enclosed in the chapel's altar: St Francis of Assisi, St Thomas Aquinas, Bl Teresa of Calcutta and Bl Alojzije Stepinac.
Archbishop Pell encouraged the seminarians present, to be faithful and loyal to the Church and to the truths of the faith, accepting with joy the cross of rejection from a world sometimes deaf to truth. He urged the seminarians to commit themselves to building up the Body of Christ, and prayed that the flame of the spirit would become a light for them on their journey and that they would come to know the one true God of love.
Our Lady of Perpetual Succour
Tempera and gilding on wood with carved details to the frame incorporating symbols of the Four Evangelists.
Artist: Andrew Molczyk (b. 1957)
Melbourne 2000.
Collection: Corpus Christi College, Carlton, Victoria.
The Molczyk icon of "Our Lady of Perpetual Succour", also known as "Our Lady of Perpetual Help", is based on a miraculous 15th century Byzantine icon which resides in Rome, at the church of Sant'Alfonso de Ligouri.
Ancient tradition asserts the icon of Our Lady of Perpetual Succour originates with St Luke. The image became popular, and was widely reproduced, in Greece in the 13th century. According to legend, the famous icon (which now resides in Rome), was rescued by a wealthy merchant fleeing Crete on the heels of the 15th-century Turkish invasion. A terrible storm threatened the refugees' ship, but all aboard implored the help of the Blessed Mother, promising public veneration of the icon should they reach Rome, and the ship was saved. The merchant, however, died shortly after disembarking, and the merchant's widow chose to hang the icon in her home. Our Lady appeared to the merchant's daughter, requesting the promise be honoured and indicating that the icon should be displayed in a church between the Major Basilicas of St Mary Major and St John Lateran. In 1499 the icon was consequently transferred to the Augustinian church of San Matteo.
The icon was venerated there for 299 years, and many graces were obtained by faithful who sought the Blessed Mother's intercession. In 1798, French revolutionaries marched on Rome, and 'improved' the Eternal City by destroying some thirty churches. San Matteo's was one of them, and the Augustinian monks had to secrete the icon in their oratory for safe keeping. There it lay hidden, but not forgotten.
Twenty years later, an old Augustinian monk, who had been the last sacristan of San Matteo, informed his altar boy, Michael Marchi, of the whereabouts of the famous icon. Twenty-five years later Fr Marchi, now a Redemptorist priest, listened in astonishment as his Jesuit retreat director recounted the legend of the lost icon in one of his meditations. Fr Marchi located the icon in the Augustinian oratory and attracted the attention of Pope Pius IX, who had prayed before the icon as a child.
By now, a new church had been built on the site of San Matteo's ― the Redemptorist church of Sant'Alfonso de Ligouri. In 1865 the Pope decreed that the icon should be publicly venerated in the new church of Sant'Alfonso, situated between the basilicas of St Mary Major and St John Lateran. Two years later he solemnly crowned the icon, bestowing the title 'Our Mother of Perpetual Succour.' He also fixed a universal Feast of Our Lady of Perpetual Succour, which survives today as a memorial on 27 June.
The icon depicts a half-length figure of the Blessed Virgin Mary, holding the Christ Child on her arm. He anxiously grasps her right hand in both of His and the sandal on His right foot is falling off. While she gazes calmly at the viewer, He looks back at the Archangel Gabriel, who holds up the cross in veiled hands. On the other side of Our Lady, the Archangel Michael carries the lance and sponge.
The background is plain gold, with Greek initials painted in red beside the respective figures: Jesus Christ; Mother of God; the Archangel Michael; and the Archangel Gabriel.
Just as Jesus found consolation in the arms of Mary, so can all Christ's faithful turn to the Blessed Mother for consolation and intercessory prayer. The seminarians of Corpus Christi were consecrated to the Blessed Virgin Mary by Archbishop Cattaneo, Australia's Papal Nuncio, when the College was opened in 1925.


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Northern Ireland's hopes of securing a third-place finish in FIFA Women's World Cup qualifying Group 1 were boosted by victory over Estonia on Saturday.
Two second-half goals from Helen McKenna and an unstoppable free-kick from Julie Nelson secured a 3-0 win at the Coleraine Showgrounds. The triumph eased Alfie Wylie's side up to seven points - one behind fourth-placed Serbia and two adrift of Estonia in third - with two games remaining.
Double goal scorer McKenna said: "We have it all to play for going into our last two games. It's a tough finish, but our target is six points. Our aim now is to finish third in the group and we need to take as many points as possible from the games against Serbia and Croatia. We were the underdogs going into this campaign, so to finish in third place behind France and Iceland would be a terrific achievement."
McKenna, 26, hailed Saturday's victory over Estonia as "a fantastic result and thoroughly deserved". She added: "I am delighted for the other girls and our manager Alfie who has, at times, taken some flak and criticism from the doubters. It was great to get the win and to secure three points with a good performance was very rewarding."
McKenna scored in the 53rd and 62nd minutes - one a long range effort, the other after racing clear and rounding the Estonian keeper. Centre-half Nelson completed the scoring with a driven set-piece in the 69th. Northern Ireland finish their campaign with an away trip to Serbia on August 21 followed by a home clash with Croatia four days later.


text: Tracy - one of my summer 2011 brides - alerted me recently that her gorgeous Lake Toxaway wedding was featured in Soirées Southern Events! Brides, if you are getting married in North Georgia, Western North Carolina or parts of South Carolina, I encourage you to pick up this great little vendor guide. Or you can see the spring preview issue digitally here. Check out Tracy + Clark's feature! And thanks again to the talented Courtney Potter for helping me shoot that day - your companionship and enthusiasm for photography is always delightful. : )


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Japan has frozen $4.4 billion in assets belonging to Libyan leader Moamer Kadhafi and his entourage under the terms of a UN Security Council resolution, a report said Saturday.The assets included bank savings, the Yomiuri Shimbun newspaper reported citing data of the finance ministry, without giving fuller details. A spokesperson was not immediately available to comment on the report.
Read the rest of the story: Japan seizes $4.4bn in Kadhafi assets: report.


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When in Nebraska... Monkey Wrench Cycles/
Owner Nate Woodman giving us the run-down on vintage mountain bikes in the collection at the Monkey Wrench. If you're ever in Lincoln, Nebraska check out Nebraska's entry in the "50 best bikes shops in the US" for a personalized tour.
We had to hustle off before we could buy anything so I'm sending Nate a little Mpls Bike and Beer package. Support your LBS! (even when it's not L).


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Teacher Bios
Paget Hines
Paget is a Learning Specialist, Partner at Direct Hits, and author of the Direct Hits Vocabulary series. Paget began her teaching career at the Schenck School. After completing two years of Orton-Gillingham training, Paget began privately tutoring. For 13 years she was in private practice in San Francisco, working with students in middle school and high school. She developed and implemented an SSAT verbal, reading comprehension and essay curriculum for students with learning differences and test-taking anxiety. Paget has almost 20 years of experience teaching creative and expository writing, including high school, college, and scholarship essays. Paget has tutored and administered the SSAT, PSAT, ACT, and SAT throughout her career. She teaches at Georgia Tech through Project Engages and continues to work one-on- one with students in the Atlanta area.
Alexis Shepard
Alexis, a private tutor in math, chemistry, and physics at Atlanta-based Learning Linkz, is "obsessed with school" and "in love with the process of learning." Alexis left her job in the corporate world to pursue her dream of earning a PhD in Sustainability. Alexis studied Pre-Law and Engineering at Oglethorpe University, which gave her a new perspective on learning, not to mention knowledge of Calculus I, II and III. Alexis will teach the math portion of the class.


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For Mom's
There's no-one quite like mum, the figure we turn to in times of strife and celebration. Mothers are always there to pick up the pieces, and our personalised gifts are an ideal commendation for the lady who's done you proud over the years.
Mums love fantastic homeware; we're sure that our unique gifts will melt her heart in all the right ways! You can give us a message to deliver on cards, or design framed visuals that whisper the essence of your precious relationship.
But what form could that take? We think she'll adore our Word Art, outlining your experiences together in a collection of meaningful words. They join our personalised cards, which literally spell out the depth of a parent/child bond, a thing that no mum can forget.
Whether you're shopping for a special occasion or merely searching for a way to say thanks, you're bound to find the perfect present from CoCo Loves!


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Nice weather means open windows, lawn mowing, and flowering plants. All of these things add up to a perfect storm for seasonal allergy sufferers. As you have probably seen and heard through advertisements, there are several choices out there when it comes to over the counter (OTC) medications, so how do you make the right choice for you and your loved ones? The answer is easy: let Whaley's help you make an educated choice!
Antihistamines have been around for a long time and work by blocking the histaminic (allergic) reaction in your body. When you encounter allergens like fresh cut grass or pollen, they stimulate histamine receptors in your body that trigger a chain reaction, eventually leading to inflammation and itching (rashes, sneezing, etc.). When you take a daily antihistamine, you are blocking the histamine receptors in your body and, when you come in contact with allergens, they can't start a chain reaction. Think of it like a car trying to park in a parking garage. The car is the allergen, driving around looking for a spot to park. When it parks, it begins to unload (a chain reaction). The antihistamine is like a cone that you place in all of the open spots to prevent the car from parking.
Currently, there are several antihistamines available without a prescription, but they generally fall into one of two categories: sedating or non-sedating. The newer ones that you see on the TV (Claritin, Allegra, and Zyrtec) are non-sedating and longer acting. It is easy for one to forget about the older ones, but they still have their place. The easiest way to determine which type and which specific one you may need is to ask yourself a couple of questions: 1) is the allergic reaction ongoing and does it require a long-acting medication? 2) Does the reaction only occur at certain times or when doing certain activities (mowing, gardening, etc.)? IF you answer "yes" to the first question, you have narrowed your choices to Claritin, Zyrtec, or Allegra. If you answer "yes" to the second question, then you would get the most benefit from Benadryl or Chlor-trimeton.
The bottom line is this: there is no one OTC antihistamine that is better than the other. They each have their role and you just need to ask yourself what you really need to do. You may be able to save yourself a little time and money.


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There were no comprehensive customer and market research. There were no heated debates with
meetings lingering into the wee hours of the night. The decision was easily reached and agreed to by all.
However, this is not to say the decision for the Indiana Mothers' Milk Bank to change its name to The
Milk Bank was made in haste without thoughtful consideration.
Indiana Mothers' Milk Bank (IMMB) was established in 2005 operating out of a local Indiana hospital
that provided operational and financial support in the first few years. IMMB began to grow and the
growth of IMMB took it out of the hospital and in a position to support itself. Since its opening, IMMB
has opened milk depots in Indiana, Wisconsin, Illinois, Missouri and Kentucky. IMMB has generous
donor moms from across the United States without whom it cannot exist. And lastly, IMMB provides
human donor milk to hospitals in Indiana, throughout the Midwest and other regions countrywide.
Notably, in 2013, IMMB distributed over 200,000 ounces of milk to fragile babies in NICUs across the
The tremendous growth over the past few years hinted at undertones of redefinition for IMMB.
Recognizing that it had much more to offer outside of the confines of Indiana, IMMB employees and
board members knew change was in order. The passion and drive of the dedicated employees and
board members to redefine IMMB in the present and sustain the organization for the future lead its
efforts to change the name. After retreats in February 2014 the groups recognized a desire to redefine
IMMB to better speak to who we are and where we want to be in years to come. With little hesitation
and debate a decision was made to change the name of the Indiana Mothers' Milk Bank to The Milk
Bank, Inc.
As a board member since 2011 and the current president of the board, I am overcome with joy and
excitement to be part of this momentous event. While our name has changed, our purpose and
dedication has not. The Milk Bank remains committed in its mission and rooted to a desire to provide
community health by expanding the safe use of human milk for all babies, especially premature and ill
"What is in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet," William