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WASHINGTON — The government told makers of hormone replacement therapies Tuesday to add yet another warning to their labels — that hormones may increase older women's risk of Alzheimer's or other types of dementia.
Don't miss these Health stories
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Since last year, products containing estrogen and progestin have had to bear warnings that the hormone combination increases the risk of breast cancer, heart attacks and strokes. Those risks were discovered in a landmark study in 2002 that overturned years of conventional thinking that postmenopausal hormones were generally beneficial.
Estrogen remains an effective treatment for menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats and vaginal dryness, but the Food and Drug Administration-written labels urge women to use the lowest possible dose for the shortest amount of time to minimize the risks.
Tuesday, FDA asked manufacturers to add to those labels the results of another study that found hormone supplements don't keep women's brains sharp, as was long believed — long-term users over age 64 actually had a higher risk of dementia.
It isn't known if using estrogen alone causes similar risks; studies are under way to tell.
But since 2002, FDA has seen a trend by manufacturers toward lower doses of hormone products, said agency medical officer Dr. Theresa Van Der Vlugt.
Also Tuesday, Solvay Pharmaceuticals announced FDA approval of EstroGel, the first gel formulation of estrogen, which is absorbed through the skin of the arm. Hormones delivered through lotions and skin patches also are available.
The FDA doesn't know if transdermal versions of hormones are safer than pills, but does advise women with vaginal menopause symptoms to consider using vaginal cream versions.
© 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.


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Police say gun 'forensically tied' to Franklin shooting
Minneapolis police say they've recovered a stolen gun they believe to be linked to a man shot to death by police in a south Minneapolis home in May.
• Previously: Autopsy report says Franklin was shot 10 times
Police say a homeowner found the gun on his property in October, stuffed inside a sock, near the spot where Terrance Franklin initially fled from police, and about four blocks from where Franklin died. It was reported stolen in a burglary the day before Franklin was killed.
Franklin was being pursued by police in connection with an unidentified burglary when he broke into an Uptown home and tried to hide from Minneapolis officers. He was unarmed.
A struggle ensued in the home's basement, and police say Franklin grabbed a police weapon and shot and wounded two officers at the scene before being shot 10 times by police. He died at the scene.
Another man, Ivan Romero Olivares, died shortly afterward, when a motorcycle he was driving hit a squad car on the way to the scene of the Franklin shooting.
Here's the police department's sequence of events:
• May 9, 2013. There's a burglary of dwelling at 427 Taylor St. NE. The homeowner reports a television and handgun were stolen.
• May 10, 2013. Terrance Franklin dumps a vehicle on the 500 block of West 28th Street in Minneapolis. Five blocks away, he breaks into a home and takes a gun from a Minneapolis police officer during a struggle, and severely wounds two officers before he is shot and killed.
• Oct. 28, 2013. A homeowner at 524 28th St. W. finds a sock with a 9 mm handgun inside of it, wedged between his home's foundation and back porch. The homeowner called police, who recovered the sock and gun. The serial number on the gun matches the number of the gun stolen from 427 Taylor Street NE on May 9.
• Oct. 29, 2013. Minneapolis Police Department Crime Lab forensic scientists swab the handgun, magazine and live cartridges for possible DNA evidence and latent fingerprints.
• Oct. 30, 2013. Minneapolis police take the DNA swabs, sock, and handgun to the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension for DNA analysis, a common practice.
• March 4, 2014. The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension informs the Minneapolis Police Department that Terrance Franklin's DNA profile was found on the sock.
Deputy chief Kris Arneson told reporters the discovery of the gun had no bearing on the investigation into the officer-involved shooting, but said the police department is following up on its commitment to release any new information on the case to the public.
"We said we wanted to be transparent," Arneson said. "Any time we have a case like this, the public is interested in it....Our officers are interested in it. And so we want to put out as much information as we can, when we have it, when it's appropriate."
But Michael Padden, attorney for the Franklin family, said the information on the gun is irrelevant and wouldn't be admissible in court.
"This police department from the beginning has been trying to disparage this young man and disparage his family," Padden said.
He said the family will file a lawsuit against the city of Minneapolis, Police Chief Janee Harteau and the officers involved in the next 30 days.

subset: commoncrawl


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The I Am Monroe? IndieGogo Campaign, for which I cut the IndieGogo video, yielded the project a nice $1,475 before it closed at midnight!
Though the film didn't reach the $8,500 campaign goal, the project still managed to make a decent amount that will go towards the film's costumes, set design, camera, post-production, and more - we'll squeeze it, that's what indie filmmaking is all about!
And it's all thanks to the backers who are now part of this film! The film's Facebook fan page gave a shout out 'thank you' to all the supporters who helped fund the project, with its 'flexible funding plan' that allows a project to keep the money its earned, even if the goal isn't met.
Here's another thank you to everyone who helped back the film and became part of this great production!
- Geena


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Iron and manganese can cause a brownish orange staining on plumbing fixtures. The level of iron and manganese in our raw water is enough to cause staining problems. Since December of 2003 Mansfield has been using Chlorine Dioxide to reduce iron and manganese.
Hot South Texas summer weather results in a rapid algae growth in our surface water reservoirs. As the algae decay, they release taste and odor compounds. The Mansfield Water Treatment Plant replaced the anthracite coal filter media with GAC (Granular Activated Carbon) in the plant expansion of 1999. As a result, the tastes and odor nuisance was greatly reduced. However, there are times of the year when the algae growths can exceed the GAC's ability to remove the tastes and odors completely.


text: Authors need help. Goodness, me, but we need help. We need help, because we think we have stories that other people will pay money to read! We need help because we spend precious hours of our lives researching things that virtually no one else cares about, so that we don't mess up that particular detail of our story. (We'll mess up numerous other details, but that one will be fine!) I'm pretty good with numbers, but I don't think I can count all of the ways in which writers need help.


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by Matthew Richter
We hope you don't mind a brief detour from instructional design and training topics. The Thiagi Group is sponsoring a cycling team for the 2015 Saratoga Springs Tour de Cure. This is our first year doing anything like this and I am excited to captain our team.
We are riding because we are proud to do our part to stop diabetes. We are committed to riding and raising money in this event because millions and millions of people worldwide suffer from diabetes and we want to do something about it. In fact, I have it. I feel very supported by my friends, family, and colleagues as we work to do our part.
We are asking you to support us. If you are interested in doing so, please click this sentence to donate.
By making a donation you will be helping the American Diabetes Association provide community-based education programs, protect the rights of people with diabetes and fund critical research for a cure.
As a team, united in our desire to stop diabetes, we are asking for your support. Please make a donation to anyone on the team, or the team in general. When we bring together dedicated team members and kind donors, the power we have as a group far outweighs what any of us could do alone.
We are determined to reach our team goal, one rider at a time. So let's get in gear and ride to stop diabetes! Thank you so much for your consideration. Even if you don't donate anything, send us your good wishes.
Thank you and best regards.


text: Moringa Garden Sisters! (Handcrafted Dolls) Moringa Garden Sisters! (Handcrafted Dolls). Advertisements Share this:TwitterFacebookLike this:Like Loading... Related Published by Herbalist Rene' Healing Herbs By Rene Natural Organics.. Lover of Nature of what MOST HIGH has provided us. Maker of sustainable natural hair and skin products, Homestead gardener, Natural born artist and photographer.. www.HealingHerbByRene.com www.HealingMorimgaTree.com ERAllNaturalHealingSolutions.com View all posts by Herbalist Rene'


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Jeff is a Managing Director at Berkery Noyes. He specializes in advising technology, information and services solutions providers in two related markets: healthcare and life sciences, and also STM publishing and software. Some of Jeff's recent transactions include:
In addition, Jeff is the former President and CEO of Lippincott Williams and Wilkins, the international medical and pharmaceutical publisher, and a Wolters Kluwer company. Prior to Lippincott, Jeff was President of Kluwer Academic Publishers, the science publisher headquartered in the Netherlands. He is a graduate of Duke University and the University of Wisconsin.
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Jennifer J. Hume
Address: 840 U.S. Highway 1, Suite 435, North Palm Beach, Florida 33408
Phone: (561) 951-0879
Website : www.jenniferhume.com
Email: firstname.lastname@example.com
Jennifer Hume is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor specializing in teaching her clients new tools for happiness and success. With over 14 years experience as a therapist, and as a graduate of the University of Georgia specializing in helping clients recover from substance abuse and dependence, she is currently serving as a private practitioner working with a broad spectrum of clients. In addition to being a Certified Addiciton Professional, her areas of expertise are anxiety, postpartum anxiety and depression, psychological trauma, and grief. Jennifer is Level-II trained in EMDR, and has also completed training in Brainspotting - both are excellent therapies for getting rid of distress and creating calm. Jennifer is experienced in treating pertinatal and postpartum disorders and has completed a certificate program via Postpartum International, Inc. (PSI).
In addition to being a successful private practitioner in Atlanta, Georgia, and now in North Palm Beach, Florida, Jennifer has presented at state conferences, professional continuing education events, and to general audiences speaking on the topics of complicated grief, caregiver support, and coping with traumatic grief during the holiday seasons. She also has extensive speaking experience on the topics of relapse prevention, and the dynamics between family members and clients impacted by addiction and alcoholism.
Jennifer is an interactive, solution-focused therapist. Her therapeutic approach is to provide support and unbiased feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges. With professionalism and understanding, she works with each client to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth they are interested in accomplishing.
1996 - University of Florida, Bachelor of Science in Psychology
1999 - University of Georgia, Masters of Education in Community Counseling
Licensure and Certifications
Licensed Professional Counselor, State of Georgia, License #LPC003762
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, State of Florida, License #MH9917
National Certified Counselor (NCC), Certification #57001, National Board for Certified Counselors
Certified Addiction Professional (CAP), Florida Certification Board
Additional Training
EMDR - Level I and Level II trained clinician
Brainspotting - Level I trained clinician
PSI Certificate Holder - Postpartum Mood and Anxiety Disorders Clinician
Jennifer's Articles:
How do You Heal Your Wounded Relationship? Get to the Core.


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McIlroy and Co can learn from Major mistakes - Nicklaus
Jack Nicklaus has an almost paternal affection for Rory McIlroy, which explains why he threatened to kick the youngster's backside when they met at Muirfield Village for a clinic on Tuesday.
"First thing he said to me was 'I'm gonna kick your rear end!' haha haven't seen him since Augusta!" McIlroy tweeted earlier this week.
Watching a player you have taken under your wing lead the Masters by four only to close with an 80 must have been painful to watch for Nicklaus. Yet the Golden Bear is confident the 22-year old from Co Down will eventually learn from his mistakes, as will Nick Watney and Dustin Johnson following their major championship losses.
If they do, they might just follow in the footsteps of Tom Watson, labelled a serial choker early in his career, and win eight majors.
Referring to Johnson's disaster at Pebble Beach in last year's US Open, Watney's in the US PGA at Whistling Straits and McIlroy's at St Andrews and Augusta National, Nicklaus pointed out that Watson was once that soldier.
"Early in his career, I think Tom Watson had two PGAs and one US Open and he blew it coming down the end. He didn't waste that experience," Nicklaus said. "He learned from that experience, and obviously learned how to finish."
"I've been on the recipient of what he learned on a couple of occasions that he did very well." Nicklaus said, mentally fingering the scars inflicted by Watson at Turnberry and Pebble Beach. "Sometimes you have to experience that before you learn how to do it."
Only time will tell if McIlroy will learn from the mistakes he made at Augusta. Nicklaus believes the young guns just need to be "hit over the head" a few times before they learn how to close out major wins. How many bashes it takes depends on the man.
"If you don't learn from it, then you're not paying attention," Nicklaus said. "And I'm sure all those guys are very, very good players and they'll all learn from it."
McIlroy hopes he'll be able to show that he has learnt from his Augusta mistakes if he challenges for the US Open at Congressional in a fortnight.
Rory said: "I think I've put a few things in place that will make me handle being in that position better again. But you never really know until you're tested in that environment."
As Nicklaus explained, it might take another reverse or two for McIlroy to get that major-winning habit.
"Sometimes you have to hit them over the head twice, but in Watson's case you had to hit him over the head three times," he said. "I'd call Watson relatively cerebral. Tom has always been a pretty smart guy. He figured it out, but he was pretty young when it happened to him, too. But I think it happens to everybody."
McIlroy missed the cut when he returned to Quail Hollow to defend the Wells Fargo Championship on his first appearance in the US following his Masters mishap.
But the world No 6 appears to be in a good place with his game after a promising comeback from an opening 76 at Wentworth last week and he loves the Memorial Tournament, where he tied for 10th behind Justin Rose 12 months ago.
As always, his chances of victory will depend on his success with the putter and it will be interesting to see how his slightly modified putting grip evolves over the summer.
From tee to green his game appears to be simmering nicely and he is especially pleased that he has put an old friend back in the bag.
"I'm driving the ball good," McIlroy said after his 24th place finish in the BMW PGA Championship. "I've put my old 3-wood back in the bag, which is a huge advantage. It goes a lot further than the other 3-wood did. I can hit that 3-wood out there 285, 290, which is perfect for the US Open coming up."
It should also be perfect at Muirfield Village, though tees shots of 290 yards are going to leave him a long way behind Gary Woodland, one of his playing partner this week.
McIlroy will be flying a little under the radar this week with the presence of new world No 1 Luke Donald in the field.
The Englishman re-iterated his belief that Padraig Harrington is the man who inspired the current European wave of success. He knows Harrington inspired him as he sat out much of the summer of 2008 with his wrist in a sling as the Dubliner won the Open and the US PGA in quick succession.
"I think you need one guy to kind of inspire a generation to kind of follow in their footsteps," Donald said. "For me I guess that was probably Padraig Harrington winning his three majors back in 2008 while I was probably on the couch in a sling.
"I think when you're around people that you're pretty familiar with and see that they are accomplishing great things, it sets a little bit of a fire in your belly that if they can do it, so can I. I think we've got to thank his successes a little bit for this great run in European golf."
McIlroy has McDowell to look to for inspiration in that department. Since his Portrush friend won the US Open, he has contended for victory in all three majors, finishing third in the Open and the US PGA before letting the Masters slip out of his hands.


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Moses Malone Epitomized Ultimate Hoops' Core Values
We lost a basketball legend this month with the passing of Moses Malone. Moses was my favorite player in NBA history because his game, his attitude, aligned with Ultimate Hoops' core values.
Need an example of Malone exemplifying Real Relationships?
At Malone's funeral last week, Charles Barkley, who was drafted by the Sixers in 1984, told a story of how Malone mentored him when he was a rookie.
From the ESPN story
Barkley said he reported to camp weighing close to 300 pounds. Barkley, who expected to step in and be a starter, saw limited action in the early days of the season.
He turned to the one veteran who offered the most encouragement -- the imposing Malone -- and asked him for some feedback.
"I pulled Moses aside and asked him, 'Why am I not playing more?'" Barkley recalled.
Malone turned, looked him up and down and declared, "You're fat and you're lazy, that's why. You can't play basketball if you're not in shape."
Moses instructed the rookie to lose 10 pounds, then told him to meet him at the gym an hour ahead of practice the following morning. For the next month, he trained Barkley before and after the team workouts. Barkley shed 15 pounds in a week's time and started to notice a difference.
"And, as they say, the rest is history," Barkley said.
How much of an impact did Malone have on him? Barkley never called Malone by name. He simply addressed him with a three-letter word:
I purchased a Moses figurine for our corporate office a few months ago. Now, with Malone's passing, it has become one of our office's favorite possessions. When I'm on the court during my morning basketball workouts and think I can't go any longer, I'll glance over at Moses for extra motivation.
"You can't play basketball if you're not in shape."
As a small tribute, I want to share my two favorite videos of Malone.
1) His epic performance against an equally brilliant Kareem Abdul-Jabbar in the 1981 NBA Playoffs
2) My favorite Nike commercial of all-time- Malone late at night, in an old-school gym, doing the one thing he cherished on the basketball court- rebounding.
The video footage is rough and gritty. A perfect match for Malone's game.
RIP, Moses. You'll be missed but never forgotten.
Follow Alan @alanarlt


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Raj Batra
As president, Raj Batra is responsible for overseeing all development, marketing, sales, R&D, vertical industry, and manufacturing aspects of Siemens' Digital Industries. Since joining the company in 1993, he has held several high-level management and sales positions, including vice president, general manager, global corporate account manager, and automotive and aerospace business unit manager.
Prior to Siemens, Batra worked as a sales engineer and product manager for discrete manufacturing and process industries. He earned a B.S. in electrical engineering from Lawrence Technological University and an MBA from the University of Michigan.


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The only good thing about the persistent rain is my never-ending supply of porridge I stored away towards the end of winter. I was never a big porridge fan until I started having it with just water. REVELATION.
Back in April I discovered Sainsbury's Express Porridge with Golden Syrup, which is vegan and works out at around 15p a sachet. Instead of adding soya milk I just add water as the oats and sugar are already pretty rich. Then just top with a handful of your favourite fruit.
If you're suffering from breakfast-time-smugness then you could also add walnuts, sunflower seeds, a sprinkling of nutmeg and cinnamon- whatever takes your fancy. You could even try and arrange it in a rather neurotic way as seen below, and then, you know, end up being really, really late for work.


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In which all creative control is surrendered to the designer.
Working as a freelancer has opened the doors to many projects big and small. This selection of work highlights the projects which provided limited to no direction and offered complete creative control, a challenging and thrilling prospect for any designer. Some work aims to blend classic 'high' art forms with images from popular culture and grungy background effects. Such as the superheroes series quoting famous literary artists like Shakespeare and ee cummings. Other work aims to appeal to our humorous side while emphasizing the importance of eating healthy and shopping locally. All of these pieces, and many more not shown here, had their own unique objectives. Audience, platform, medium and message all taken into account to achieve a harmonious blend of color, typography and imagery.
Contact: firstname.lastname@example.com


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NVTC President and CEO Bobbie Kilberg and Leaders from 13 NVTC Member Companies Selected to Serve on GO Virginia Regional Council for Northern Virginia
Twenty-eight local business leaders have been identified to serve on the Northern Virginia Regional Council of GO Virginia. Adopted by the Virginia General Assembly and Gov. Terry McAuliffe, and supported by NVTC, GO Virginia is a business-led, bipartisan initiative aimed at providing a new framework for strengthening the economy in each region of the state by providing new state funding to support collaboration among the regions' business, education and local government communities.
The Northern Virginia Regional Council is tasked with identifying, reviewing and prioritizing projects focused on the economic future of Northern Virginia.
NVTC President and CEO Bobbie Kilberg was named to the GO Virginia Regional Council for Northern Virginia along with leaders from 13 NVTC member companies.
NVTC Board members named to the council:
- John Backus, managing partner, PROOF.VC and NAV.VC, and NVTC chairman emeritus
- Gerald Gordon, president, Fairfax County Economic Development Authority
- Bobbie Kilberg, president and CEO, NVTC
- Tom O'Brien, site director, Micron
- Carolyn Parent, president and CEO, LiveSafe
- Scott Ralls, president, Northern Virginia Community College
- John Wood, CEO and chairman of the board, Telos Corporation
- Ralph Buona, vice President of corporate business development, Telos Corporation
- Tom Davis, partner, Deloitte
- Eileen Ellsworth, CEO, Community Foundation of Northern Virginia
- Greg Leisch, senior managing director, market research, Newmark Grubb Knight Frank
- Paul Liberty, vice president community and government relations, George Mason University
- Matt McQueen, sector director, communications, Northrop Grumman Corporation
- Jack Potter, president and CEO, Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority
- Jen Siciliano, vice president, government relations, Inova


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Another really exciting project went live today for Green & Black's Organic chocolate, our client Jackie Cooper PR. I know they look incredibly realistic but I am assure you these trees are 100% edible. The food artist working on this project Jacqui Kelly.
Old Spitalfields Market returns to its roots as morning commuters are surprised to find edible orange and lemon trees, made from Green & Black's Organic chocolate, have sprouted overnight to celebrate the launch of the two new Green & Black's Organic orange and lemon bars. Created in partnership with Jacqui Kelly for Miss Cakehead, the edible grove took over 55 hours to create, and used over 65kg of chocolate.
To mark the launch of the new Green & Blacks Organic chocolate bars, Orange and Lemon, Green & Black's Organic has transformed a market stall in London's Old Spitalfields Market, adorned with edible orange and lemon trees made entirely of chocolate.
The edible orange and lemon grove has been created in partnership with renowned food art specialists Miss Cakehead, taking chocolate artist Jacqui Kelly 55 hours to create, using over 65kg of Green & Black's Organic chocolate. On Friday 20th and Saturday 21st September Green & Black's Organic is inviting chocolate fans to come to Old Spitalfields Market and be amongst the first to try the new orange and lemon flavours.


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The past year has not been an easy one for Bahrain's banks. With the government suffering from low reserves and high debt, the country's fiscal position remains weak and this has had a knock-on effect for the banking sector.
Last May, Moody's downgraded ratings for four Bahraini retail banks to negative — reflecting the sovereign's declining financial strength, it claimed at the time. The following month it said operating conditions for the country's banks "would continue to deteriorate over the next 12-18 months", with ongoing pressure on loans and profitability.
Meanwhile, in January this year, analysts at BMI Research, part of Fitch Group, predicted that commercial banks in Bahrain would see only a modest uptick in asset growth from the anticipated recovery in oil prices, as a national liquidity squeeze continues.
It was amid these tough conditions that Jean-Christophe Durand, a former BNP Paribas regional head, in December took up the reins as CEO of National Bank of Bahrain (NBB), one of the banks that Moody's had downgraded six months earlier.
NBB is Bahrain's largest state-backed bank with 26 branches across the kingdom, as well as one in Riyadh and one in Abu Dhabi. The government holds a 44.2 percent stake in the bank via sovereign wealth fund Mumtalakat.
In a rating action last November, Fitch attributed a more positive outlook to NBB and four other banks in Bahrain, confirming them as 'stable'. NBB has certainly bucked the trend in terms of profitability when compared to many other GCC banks. It reported a 5.4 percent net profit rise in its full year results on January 30, from $146.97m in 2015 to $154.88m in 2016. Its capital adequacy ratio was reported to remain "strong" at 35.4 percent and the bank was said to have a "well-diversified asset composition with strong liquidity".
However, NBB is not immune from economic headwinds. Its total balance sheet declined slightly from $7.98bn in 2015 to $7.92bn in 2016, as did earning assets, from $7.55bn to $7.51bn. Customer deposits also dropped, by 7 percent to $5.55bn.
In an exclusive interview with Arabian Business in Manama — his first since taking the helm at NBB on December 1 — Durand is stoic. He concedes that Bahrain's economy has been "a bit subdued" but that the bank's 2016 financial performance was "commendable" given the context.
"Obviously, I'm new, I'm still discovering, but my first observations are that NBB is a strong bank, a robust bank, with a strong base," he says.
"The economic environment globally and in the region has been challenging but I think [the results] show a commendable performance. Net profit was above average for the region and although the balance sheet size reflects the overall state of the economy, the fact that NBB managed to improve its profitability is a very good sign."
A veteran banker from France, Durand has lived in Bahrain for 28 years and joined NBB from BNP Paribas, where he was head of corporate and institutional banking for the Middle East and Africa (MEA) until last August. He spent several months as an advisor to the CEO of Mumtalakat before joining NBB.
Two months prior to Durand's departure, BNP Paribas' Bahrain-based MEA chief operating officer, Christophe Mukerjee, also left his post amid a restructuring at the French bank that is expected to see up to 150 jobs lost in the region. It is executing a cost-cutting plan to shrink its global operations by 12 percent by 2019 — just one of many international banks that have sought to scale back their presence in the GCC to focus on core markets such as Europe.
Unsurprisingly, Durand declines to comment on the circumstances that led to some of his former colleagues leaving their jobs, and there is no suggestion that he or Mukerjee were among those made redundant.
He says: "I don't want to comment on my old bank. I am at NBB now. What is important to emphasise is that I have been in Bahrain for 28 years and I believe in this region. For me to have the chance to lead a bank like NBB was extremely attractive when there is the opportunity to grow and create new business."
The main reason for the opportunity is precisely this retrenchment by global banks, which is creating room in the market for local rivals to capture business from foreign companies.
"What we have seen is that Bahrain is attracting a lot of new investors and new companies at a time when large, international banks are not expanding in the region," Durand says.
"I'm referring to banks like Barclays, HSBC and Standard Chartered, which have traditionally been very present in the retail networks here and today they have modified their strategies and are refocussing their operations towards core markets, larger clients and government sources of business."
He adds: "There are a number of factors driving this and it's not just Bahrain, it's global. Everywhere in the emerging markets there are regulatory constraints and capital constraints, and in the region capital is a key decision-making tool for international banks — they allocate capital where there is the best return.
"You also have the issue of compliance, increasing requirements from central banks all over the world to limit outsourcing — a lot of elements that are making it less attractive for international banks to have operations here. So there is a huge opportunity for local banks to complement this."
Expanding NBB's foreign client base is a key objective for Durand. But it is only one in a brimming in-tray of tasks the French banker has set himself for his first 12 months in the job. Among the others are enhancing NBB's digital operations and conducting a thorough review of its branch network to identify efficiencies and untapped opportunities. At the heart of this is the need to diversify the bank's client base and deepen its relationship with existing customers so as not to lose market share, Durand says.
"We are starting from a very strong base and have good relationships with government entities such as Alba. [NBB was involved in Mumtalakat-owned Aluminium Bahrain's recent securing of a $1.5bn loan to help finance its Line 6 expansion project].
"But there are also very good clients in other sectors that we want to reach. I don't mean we are absent from those sectors but we can develop the relationships more and broaden the range of products.
"The economy has been a bit subdued lately but there are an increasing number of new projects in Bahrain, particularly in the industrial and infrastructure spheres, and I believe there is a bigger role to play in the financing of these projects for a bank like NBB."
There are additional opportunities to play a more "holistic" role in serving existing customers, Durand says. "I'm not just talking about financing but arranging the financing. Participating in debt capital markets, helping clients with trade finance, helping them in hedging risk, becoming part of finance structuring teams, and generally playing a more holistic role in the financing and investments of large corporates in Bahrain. I think NBB should be present in all aspects of the relationships."
To do this, Durand wants to beef up the bank's digital functions. "The financial industry is moving very fast. It's been constantly changing but there's been a particular acceleration in regulations since the financial crisis in 2008.
"Today, a bank that is not adapted to online banking developments will lose market share, and NBB needs to get on the train."
Is NBB not yet adapted to the digital revolution, then? It is, Durand insists, but he wants it to be a "trendsetter, not a trendfollower".
"Technology changes every day and because we represent the government and the financial marketplace, it's important we're seen as innovative," he says.
"My view is that we're serving our existing customers very well but we need to look at the clients of tomorrow — the younger generation fresh out of university or just taking over businesses.
"They have new expectations and we need to be able to cater to them as they become more and more wealthy. One I think I need to be sure of is that I can adapt the bank for the next decade and ensure we are part of the banking world of 2020."
This could involve a rebranding in the longer term to reflect new ambitions, and a partnership with a technology firm to provide a new online banking platform, Durand tells Arabian Business. It will also involve a roots-and-branch review of the bank's bricks and mortar network — to save costs, of course, but also to ensure NBB maintains its visibility as new districts spring up in Bahrain. This is expected to commence within the next 18 months.
Durand declines to reveal anticipated numbers of branch closures or whether there will be any job losses, and insists the assessment is likely to result in new openings as well as potential closures.
"I don't think bricks and mortar can disappear from one day to the next because we have a strong client base and they are used to [specific branches]. But when I talk about redesigning the network — let's say 'optimising' the network — there are new areas being built in Bahrain, so should we be there? Under which format?
"There may be some other areas that are declining, so the same thing: should we be there? Should we stay there instead of moving to a new residential area or business district? There could be new branch types, too, for example, the famous bank branches without tellers.
"It's too early to say, but it's important we're agile enough to follow our clients and catch the new generation, which is much more demanding."
Another priority for Durand is to make more of NBB's two branches outside of Bahrain, although further expansion into the GCC or beyond is not planned at present. In Saudi Arabia, NBB's growth is hampered by legislation that limits foreign banks to operating only a single branch in the kingdom. The government is reportedly reviewing this policy but Durand says in the meantime the focus will be on expanding the Saudi client base and developing a strategy to "add value" to the current operation in Riyadh.
"For the time being we need to show the authorities we are ready to continue investing and developing there. Saudi Arabia is a strong market and we are at a competitive advantage to have a branch there so we need to make the most of it," he says.
The strategy is the same in Abu Dhabi, where NBB has had a presence since 1985. "In general, when we have a branch in a country the objective should be to grow. It's not a flagpole. It has to be a real business."
Durand tacitly acknowledges the challenges facing GCC banks but says he disagrees with reports such as that of BMI Research in January that warned a liquidity squeeze would continue to affect the sector's profitability throughout 2017. The report noted that client deposit growth across commercial banks in Bahrain averaged 2.4 percent year-on-year in the first ten months of 2016, down from 6.6 percent in 2014. And it warned that the cuts to the non-investment grade of Bahrain's sovereign rating by the three main rating agencies last year have further added to the country's liquidity woes.
"Liquidity is a word that in the banking industry is very sensitive," Durand says. "'Liquidity' and 'squeeze' are two words that don't go well together, and I certainly have not noticed any squeeze.
"The [sovereign] downgrade would only be a concern to us if we were going to the market for future financing, as it impacts on the cost of funding. But our funding is local deposits. Then, if you talk about asset growth, certainly, it's been a bit subdued because of the wider financial environment."
Overall, however, Durand believes there will be opportunities for banks to grow their assets over the coming 12 months, thanks to the rise in infrastructure projects in Bahrain and expected uplift in oil prices.
For NBB, he forecasts an improved performance when compared to 2016 and targets a net profit rise of around 7 percent on the past year's 5.4 percent. He expects loan demand to pick up off the back of new projects and subsequent financing requirements, and deposit growth to remain "slightly better than last year" amid improving economic conditions.
However, one issue for him is worldwide banking industry regulations and, in particular, its effects on how banks allocate capital. "There is more emphasis [globally] on the cost of capital and that's something that's not here yet," he says. "As long as there is a profit… people look at the return on capital but not on allocated capital, yet the overall regulatory constraints need to be taken into account. Today, you cannot say that one country is insulated or isolated from global regulations. It is not."
With decades of experience, Durand is a savvy and pragmatic new figurehead for the bank — intent on fulfiling his quest to bring NBB firmly into the banking landscape of 2020.For all the latest banking and finance news from the UAE and Gulf countries, follow us on Twitter and Linkedin, like us on Facebook and subscribe to our YouTube page, which is updated daily.
Subscribe to Arabian Business' newsletter to receive the latest breaking news and business stories in Dubai,the UAE and the GCC straight to your inbox.


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"Draw me after you and let us run..." Song of Solomon 1:4
"For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them." -Matthew 18:20 I feel like there is no better way I can tell this story than to start with that verse. Don't get me wrong I know that I soap box way too often, and I also am well aware that it's an absolute huge honor to be at weddings week after week celebrating something that I completely believe in. Love is pretty much my life and though I'm no better at avoiding being selfish silly things in my own life than anybody else I do strive to make sure my wife knows that I absolutely love spending my life with her. If there's anything that I believe in more than love, it's that Christ has to be the central source of any love that's actually authentic. I'm blessed to be at so many amazingly sweet christian couple's weddings but this one was perhaps more focused on the point of the day than most. I don't want to discount anybody else's faith here, but I do want to point out that it's rare for us to see a couple this intent on giving God the credit for their love and faith. All day was a complete treat. At one point I looked at Andrew during hair and makeup and just smiled at what was happening. 7 or 8 girls in an empty white room getting makeup on, snacking on things here and there, laughing about this and that, and all the while singing (not just singing but actually harmonizing beautifully) worship songs for a couple of hours straight. The number of humble references to the fact that God had brought all of these people together that day was staggering and while I spent the day completely journalistic in my approach simply because of the quality in the moments happening in front of me I also felted like I was loved on and appreciated all day in a way that's pretty rare.
The back story here would take forever. But the short of it is that both of these sweet people come from incredibly Godly families. Andrew's parents live in Africa helping to drill water wells for remote villages and provide safe drinking water. The world is a very large place to people like this and to find somebody who is willing to commit their forever to you is something neither of them took lightly. Emily is the picture of humility. This girl is beautiful and kind, quiet in her approach but so funny. The way she makes her friends smile and her family laugh is really pretty incredible to watch and yet when Andrew is around there might as well not be anybody else in the world. She just stares at him. I don't mean that in a creepy way, but I can say that as a guy who's job is to watch people, I caught Emily several times just lost in thought about the man she was about to marry. Their first look wasn't the anxious, fast paced emotional roller coaster so many are but instead was oddly quiet. When Andrew saw Emily the first time his smile stopped time. There wasn't but just a few seconds before he collected his thoughts and told Emily how beautiful she looked but those seconds were deliberate as he took in the gravity of the moment. From that moment on Emily just melted into his arms and though the whole day was every bit as big of a rush as all wedding days are they were intentional in their attempt to remember the big moments.
Right before the ceremony started the storm opened up. If rain is luck on a wedding day this couple is about as lucky as they come. A complete downpour for about 10 minutes gave the outdoor ceremony and reception locations a nice little bath and as suddenly as it started it passed. Emily never missed a step and smiled the entire time as she was completely willing to give up the anxiety for the joy of the moments. Creekwood Garden's staff barely managed to get everything dried off in time but just a few minutes later Emily made her way down a long slow aisle right towards the sun and Andrew standing right in front of it. I suppose there's some symbolism there they didn't even realize at the time but as I photographed the sunset peaking through the trees behind them I couldn't help but realize just how beautifully the light seemed to tell their story for them. Not long after the rings were exchanged toasts, cake cuts, and dances erupted just 25 yards behind the large wooden cross in the field.
Every single person on the dance floor jumped and moved together to song after song after song. Towards the end of the night as the sparklers lit I got to see a little moment where Emily was walking across a field towards a runway of friends with fireworks and Andrew caught her watching him. I doubt at this point either of them even remember this moment but it was amazing. He smiled and squeezed her hand and she looked away shy and happy as I saw the very first sparkler flare up and they ran through the smoke.
Every, single, amazing moment from this day has an image associate with it. I'm not sure I've ever talked this little on a wedding day but I really did just spend the day in awe and thankful for people who devote not only their lives but even their love to God. So grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this wedding and glad to call Emily + Andrew friends.


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Kathi Bildhauer is co-head and programme manager of the Berlinale Co-Production Market as well as project coordinator of the "Talent Project Market".
She was born in 1977 in Aachen, Germany and studied German and English Literature and Psychology at the University of Cologne, followed by European Film Studies at the University College London. After completing her MA she did a PhD, publishing her dissertation about screenplay dramaturgy outside of the mainstream with the title "Screenplay Reloaded: Storytelling in the Cinema of the 21st Century".
Whilst studying, she worked in casting for a variety of television formats, was a script-reader for New Line Cinema in London, and was an assistant director and in the script/continuity department on the set of a number of television and film productions in Cologne and Berlin. She has taught screenplay analysis and screenwriting at the universities of Cologne, Düsseldorf and Gießen.
Kathi Bildhauer has worked for the Berlin International Film Festival since 2003. She is one of the founding members of the Berlinale Co-Production Market and has been co-head of the department together with Martina Bleis since 2016. She is also a long-term member of the Berlinale Talents team where she has been responsible for the "Talent Project Market" since 2004. Between 2008 and 2011 she assisted the projects supported by the World Cinema Fund. And from 2012 to 2016 she was project coordinator of the Berlinale Residency.


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30 Minute Friendly Monster Marshmallows on a Stick
Hey friends, I get it . . . time is precious. But you can do this one in under 30 minutes - I promise! The wafers melt in the microwave and wax paper and plastic utensils ensure super quick clean up! By now you probably realize that I'm a big fan of food crafting. The colored chocolate wafers are one of my favorite products because they are affordable and come in vibrant colors that are easy to incorporate into any event. Remember the ice cream cones I made for the 4th of July? You can easily include the kids in this project - any age over three can dip and dunk!
Chocolate Wafers
Candy Googly Eyes
Lollipop Sticks
Bowls for Melting Wafers
Spoons for Stirring Melting Wafers
Bags and Ribbon for Packaging (if desired)
Aren't these little candy eyes just adorable? I can't wait to use them on cookies and cupcakes too! They taste like sweet tarts.
I start with three colors of chocolate wafers - green, orange and purple - classic Halloween colors. To make clean up easier, you can melt them in disposable paper bowls. I use small 1/2 cup glass bowls and microwave them all together for 30 second increments. I do stir them before restarting each time. It takes about two minutes total to melt all three bowls.
While they are melting, grab a cookie sheet and line with wax paper. Line up your marshmallows, discarding any crooked ones, and push a lollipop stick through the center.
There really isn't any special technique to this . . . just dunk, swirl and scrap the excess off on the edge of the bowl.
Place them on the wax paper lined cookie sheet to firm up. I do about 10 and then go back and add the eyes so they don't slide off.
The chocolate hardens within 30 minutes and they are ready to package, if desired. I use small favor bags that measure 6" x 3.75" to package, along with colored ribbon.
Happy Halloween!


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Rustic & Vintage Decor
Welcome to our site!
We offer a variety of custom, handmade items to add to your rustic, shabby chic look. From handmade wood signs, to shelves, to mason jar sconces and crocheted items. One of etsy hot sellers: crocheted rag rugs in a variety of sizes and colors.
Check back often, as we're always coming up with something new!


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Richard Rohr's Instructions
for Centering Prayer
"Centering Prayer is simply sitting in silence, open to God's love and your love for God. This prayer is beyond thoughts, emotions, or sensations. Like being with a very close friend or lover, where words are not required, Centering Prayer brings your relationship with God to a level deeper than conversation, to pure communion.
"Because our minds are so attached to thinking, Father Thomas Keating sometimes suggests choosing a sacred word, with one or two syllables, "as the symbol of your intention to consent to God's presence and action within. [Then,] sitting comfortably and with eyes closed, settle briefly, and silently introduce your sacred word. . . . When you become aware of thoughts, return ever-so-gently to your sacred word. At the end of the prayer period, remain in silence with eyes closed for a couple of minutes."
"Two sessions of 20-30 minutes of Centering prayer is recommended each day, but if that is too much for you, begin with five or ten minutes. Let go of all expectations or goals during this time. It is not about achieving anything, whether emptying your mind or finding peace or achieving a spiritual experience. There is no way to succeed at Centering Prayer, except to return again and again to love. Allow thoughts to come and go without latching onto them, without judgment. "Ever-so-gently" bring your sacred word, the symbol of your intention, back to mind and return to resting in Presence."


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Why are some people so lucky, but not me? Law of attraction, fate or dumb luck? Let's explore how we create our luck by the choices we make, even pre birth, and how we can manage that better.
Let's make 2016 the year where we are gentler on ourselves as we explore who we really are; our strengths and gifts and how we can guide, participate in and enjoy the flow of our universe for a change. Each month will explore a different facet and open our minds to different approaches so we may choose the one that is best for each of us. Guided meditation included. Bring a friend for even more fun.


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Home> Immigrate to Canada
Immigrate to Canada
Deciding to immigrate to Canada to work as a professional engineer (P.Eng.) is a big step. There is a lot that you need to know and be prepared for—including about Canada as a country and where certain kinds of engineering jobs are available. That way you have a good chance of finding the work you want.
How do I immigrate to Canada?
You must apply through Citizenship and Immigration Canada to immigrate to this country.
To find out more about Canada's immigration programs, use the Come to Canada tool on the Citizenship and Immigration Canada website. It will help you understand how to visit, study or live in Canada.
Keep in mind that immigration rules occasionally change. Make sure you keep checking the CIC site for updates.
It's important to know that the immigration selection process is separate from the engineering licensure process.
Can an immigrant serving agency help me settle in Canada?
Immigrant serving agencies provide guidance to newcomers to Canada on finding a place to live, getting language training, finding a job and more. Visit Citizenship and Immigration Canada's website to learn more about Canada's provinces and territories and the newcomer services each of them offer.
While immigrant serving agencies are legitimate, services or individuals that call themselves "immigration consultants" may not be. When looking for help immigrating to and settling in Canada, be sure to ask for references for any immigration service you use. If possible, ask friends or family who have immigrated to Canada to suggest an immigrant serving agency to you.
What is an 'integration program'?
The Canadian Immigrant Integration Program (CIIP) is a program that is offered outside of Canada in certain locations only. CIIP can help you:
Learn about economic trends, job requirements, occupational demands, foreign credential assessment and licensing processes, workplace culture, and job search techniques; and
Initiate steps to get licensed or upgrade your skills and start your job search.
CIIP services include a free one-day orientation workshop, an individual planning session and immediate contact with employers and others in Canada who can provide online advice and guidance before you immigrate. For more information, check the CIIP website.
Links and resources
Before you apply to immigrate, use the following tool to determine your eligibility:
You can also visit Citizenship and Immigration Canada's website to learn more about Canada's provinces and territories and the newcomer services each of them offer.
Note: Information presented is for general, informational purposes only. Engineers Canada is not an immigrant-serving agency and is not involved in the immigration process.
Tips on Applying for a Job
It is important to understand that applying for a job in Canada has a lot to do with who you know. Networking and volunteering will help you meet people who can provide valuable information on how and where to apply for jobs.


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I am looking for a cabbage soup recipe.
Add your voice! Click below to answer. ThriftyFun is powered by your wisdom!
Cabbage Soup
by Wendy Kennedy
1/2 lb ground beef (lean) (250 g)
1/4 cup finely chopped onions (50 ml)
1 cup beef broth (284 ml)
4 cups tomato juice (1 L)
1 cup water (250 ml)
3/4 tsp salt (3 ml)
1/4 tsp pepper (1 ml)
2 cloves garlic, mashed (.5 ml)
1/2 tsp granulated sugar (2 ml)
5 cups shredded cabbage (1.25 L)
Brown ground beef. Drain off fat. Put all ingredients in a large pot. Bring to a boil. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes. Makes about 8 cups.
From the kitchen of Anna
1 head green cabbage 4-6 large carrots
In a large soup pot put a small amount of margarine to melt. Shred cabbage in bite size pieces. Place in pot to cook. Sprinkle small amount of chicken soup base over cabbage. As the cabbage is cooking on medium heat, clean and shred the carrots add to cabbage on stove until it looks like coleslaw.
At this point you may want to add a touch of water to the mixture to create more steam.
As the carrots are cooking dice the onion and add to pot, then add the green pepper. Stir this around and add a bit more soup stock. Once this has cooked for about 5 minutes add the can/s of whole tomatoes (crush them first). Then add about 4 canfulls of water to the soup. (You want the soup to look like soup) If you find the soup is to thin add the tomato paste.
Let this cook for a few minutes, then add the vinegar. This is to taste so it is a personal preference. (I add about 1 tablespoon, sometimes more). Add the dill in the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Just before serving add the sour cream or let each person add it themselves in their bowl. This is optional.
Bon Appetite!
Add your voice! Click below to answer. ThriftyFun is powered by your wisdom!


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Our Latest Property in Salzkammergut
Delta Immobilien currently has property for sale and property to rent in the following locations :Bad Ischl, Birnbaum, Bad Goisern, Gosau, Obertraun, Ebensee, Seewalchen am Attersee, St. Gilgen, Strobl
You're searching. We can find it.
Whether you are looking to buy, sell or rent property your needs are always our first priority. With over 10 years experience we provide not only complete Support and know-how, but more importantly excellent guidance on the property to suit your requirements. Our approach is "Everything is possible". We can help you to find a traditional classic villa in Bad Ischl, a modern apartment, an idyllic farmhouse, an attractive commercial property or a lakeside bathing area in one of the most beautiful locations in Salzkammergut.
We can assist you right from the initial search, throughout the process to key handover and beyond.
Mag. Alexandra Laimer
Renting Buying Living: Property in the Salzkammergut Region
Delta Immobilien is your independent Real Estate Agent located in Bad Ischl. Thanks to years of experience in the region and our membership of the Salzburg Immobilienring (Independent Real Estate Agents Association) we can offer our customers an extensive and professional network in the property market.
We handle property sales and rentals, primarily in the core region where the three provinces of Salzburg, Upper Austria and Styria come together. The main focus is on property in Bad Ischl, the Wolfgangsee and Fuschlsee villages: St. Wolfgang, Strobl, St. Gilgen, Fuschl and Hof, the Inner Salzkammergut villages: Bad Goisern, Hallstatt, Obertraun and Gosau, the stunning, renowned Ausseerland villages: Bad Aussee, Altaussee and Grundlsee and the Traunsee village: Ebensee.
The Salzkammergut with its lakes and mountains, its historic links to the Austrian Monarchy and its heritage of tradition and culture is considered one of the most beautiful regions of Austria. The Salzkammergut is not only a favoured tourist destination, attracting visitors all year round, but it is also offers an enviable quality of life. Live where others choose to holiday! Whether a house or apartment, buying or renting, holiday property or relocation, we can help you find your perfect property in Salzkammergut.
For Bad Ischl and the Salzkammergut – Delta Immobilien is Local
Our operating area extends from Bad Ischl across the regions of Wolfgangsee/ Fuschlsee, Inner Salzkammergut, Traunsee and Ausseerland.
Bad Ischl is still known as the "Kaiserstadt" because of its long associations with the Austrian Habsburg monarchy. The Empress Elisabeth (better known as "Sisi") and Emporer Franz Joseph treasured the beauty of the Salzkammergut. Every year they spent the summer months in Bad Ischl and stamped their impression on the present day townscape. Annually on 18th August, anniversary of Emporer Franz Joseph's birthday, Bad Ischl celebrates in style. In July and August the Lehar Festival (named after another famous resident of Bad Ischl) attracts music lovers from near and far. Another highlight is the completely renovated Euro-Therme Spa ideal for relaxing especially in winter or on rainy days.
In summer the Salzkammergut is an extremely popular summer holiday destination, particularly for walking and cycling. With over 76 crystal clear lakes it also offers all forms of watersports including sailing, rowing, swimming and diving.
In winter the region is becoming increasingly well known, both nationally and internationally, as home to the Wolfgansee Advent. The region also offers the conventional winter sports of alpine skiing, cross country skiing, snow shoe walking and ski touring with ideal conditions in the ski areas of Dachstein West, Dachstein Krippenstein, Postalm and Zwölferhorn
Austria-wide Real Estate Offers – Immobilienring Österreich
As full members of the Immobilienring Österreich (Austria Real Estate Assocation) we work with a range of reputable and professional real estate agents throughout Austria and can offer properties for sale or to rent right across the country.


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Cleaning with Lemons
It seems every cleaner manufacturer is rushing to get on the green bandwagon these days. Clorox just released its new line, Green Works (TM), and you can be sure others will follow. But here's a secret: green cleaners existed long before these products came about. Sorry Clorox!
If you're serious about going green, give lemons a try. They disinfect. They polish. They bleach. And they don't come encased in a plastic bottle with a big price tag attached.
Cut the junk by cutting your disposable drinking cup habit. Instead of a foam or paper cup, sip your daily dose out of your own travel mug if you're on the go, or ask the cafe for a mug if you have a few minutes to hang.
* Cutting waste. If you purchase one cup of coffee every day in a disposable container, you create about 23 lbs. of waste each year.
* Fewer noxious chemicals. Polystyrene (styrofoam) can potentially disrupt your hormones, and the chlorine used to bleach paper cups creates carcinogenic dioxins during production.
* Saving cash. Many coffee houses offer a small discount to customers who bring their own reusable containers.
Thrifty Tip:
I hate to waste Scotch tape by turning the end over to keep it from getting "lost" in those cheap dispensers. Finally I discovered that if I place a bit of plastic cut from a coffee can lid under the end instead, that bit of tape will still be usable (and "findable")!


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A casework study in university ineptitude and union inertia: This report by Colwyn Williamson describes the circumstances in which a particular academic was threatened with the sack, but activists will also find informative its analysis of the standard dismissal procedure in all the pre-1992 universities and the insights it provides into how the UCU sometimes fails to respond adequately when one of its members is in trouble.
Management board for the distance learning MA in town and country planning has been investigated by Harold Hillman. His report is given in this article.
Ethnic minorities in HE. Mazjoub Ali gives this description of a recent meeting at South Bank University. (31 October 2005)
These are some Topics for Discussion, written by Harold Hillman, which are an agenda for dialogue with various government agencies about current standards in academia. (July 2004)
Corruption of Scientific Integrity A report of the CAFAS meeting in the Royal Academy organised by Gil Evans whose main theme was the increasing commerical utilitarianism of science. (Report by John Hewitt May 2001)
Denial of Academic Freedom at the London Institute. The writer of this piece in The Daily Express on 17.5.2000 is Express columnist and Woman's Hour presenter Jenni Murray, a friend of former Women's Hour editor and now Dean of the Media School, LCP, Sally Feldman. (May 2000)
Dr. Paul Burrows offers the full text of an article which appears in abbreviated form in the Guardian newspaper. It is based in part on personal experience and raises broad questions of procedure and the balance between equity and discretion. More from the author, Dr. Paul Burrows, Economics Department, York University.


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"Do you believe that I can do this?" – Mt. 9:28
For me, the key question of faith is not, "Does God exist?" or "Does God really love or care?" These are important philosophical and theological questions. However, the question, "Do I believe that God loves me?" has greater capacity to impact our lives. Wrestling with this query makes faith more personal. It risks relationship. It elicits both suspicion and trust.
Jesus gets to the heart of faith when he asks the two blind men in today's Gospel: "Do you believe that I can do this? Their "Yes, Lord" response echoes their loud cry for mercy. It expresses trust and reveals open-heartedness, which allows the power of Jesus' touch to heal. He reassures them, and us, that healing happens neither by magic nor by their own doing. It involves trust, which opens the flow of life through Jesus: "Let it be done for you according to your faith."
I do believe that God loves me, a bit. But I struggle to let God truly heal my brokenness, free me from fear or following false voices in my life, empower me to forgive others and myself, guide me through the thicket of running a budding non-profit, and give me peace in the midst of current racial and political strife in the US.
Jesus' question, "Do you believe that I can…?" invites more than a "yes" or "no" response from us. It beckons trust in the present moment, with its particular challenges. It uncovers to what extent you and I allow God to work in our lives. God, who is both intimate and incomprehensible, breathing whatever healing, acceptance, letting go, or heartache into our day.
Lord, help me today to respond, however hesitant: "Let it be done unto me."


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The carton conveying system that we installed at the freezing area with Intralox belts is performing exactly as they showed to us on the simulation.Juan Miguel Michel Ezrre, SuKarne corporate projects engineer
Customer ObjectivesSuKarne Agroindustrial, Mexico's largest beef producer, needed to increase production to accommodate expanding customer demand. In addition to domestic distribution and exportation to the USA, SuKarne now exports to other continents. Taking on the new market requires SuKarne plants to increase production. They need a continuous system to infeed a carton chiller and a carton freezer, and an efficient palletizing area at the end of the line.
Intralox ExecutionSuKarne turned to Intralox for this new system, after successfully working with Intralox on previous projects. At the SuKarne plant in Escobedo, Intralox assisted the OEM with layout design and specifications. Intralox experts used physics-based simulation software to show SuKarne the benefits ARB technology would bring to the layout, such as increased reliability and reduced system controls. The final continuous conveying system included S1400 Friction Top belts for spacing and declines, 45-degree Activated Roller belting for 90-degree transfers and diverters, and S400 Accumulation Roller Top belts throughout the layout.
ResultsMore than one year after installation, Intralox's solution is running smoothly. Cartons are processed quickly without failure in the continuous system, allowing SuKarne to meet customers' needs.
"The carton conveying system that we installed at the freezing area with Intralox belts is performing exactly as they showed to us on the simulation," says Juan Miguel Michel Ezrre, SuKarne corporate projects engineer.
Intralox has completed similar installations in two other SuKarne plants, and there are plans for additional installations in the future.
CustomerSuKarne Agroindustrial
LocationEscobedo, Nuevo León, Mexico
ApplicationCarton freezer infeed and outfeed conveyors
SolutionLine layout design, Intralox belting, ARB equipment
DistributionDomestic and export


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About BPC Member Galleries
If you are a current club member and interested in having your own gallery displayed on the BPC website, please follow the steps below. The Member Galleries will be purged of non-paying members sometime around the beginning of March.
Formatting images for the website member gallery.
Make sure to select your best images.
Limit the number of photos to 30 images.
Format your images as either jpg or png.
Color Space sRGB.
Width dimension between 1500 and 2500 pixels. Don't worry about the height.
Resolution 72ppi.
File size less than 500K.
Name your files as following: firstname_lastname001, firstname_lastname002, firstname_lastname003 and so on in the order you want them to appear.
When you are ready to submit your photographs contact us at email@example.com and you will be sent a link where you can upload your files.
Please do not watermark your photographs or add any extra border such as a faux matte or frame. See Copyright Notice below.
IMPORTANT ALERT: Any images by club members that are posted on the BPC website are considered available for use in advertising club events such as our annual juried exhibit, or other exhibits or events. However, no images on the website will ever be used for a financial purpose of any kind. If you prefer that one or more of your images not be used for advertising club events, please contact us to have them removed.
Copyright Notice
Whenever possible we will add a copyright notice and contact information to all photographs posted on the club's web site. Be aware that just because a (©) copyright notice has been added to your photograph does not mean it is protected under the United States copyright law. To fully protect your photograph it must be registered by the United States Copyright Office. For more information on copyrighting your photographs goto the official United States Copyright Office Web Site.


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Mohawk Group Inlay Carpet Tile
Topography, a new carpet tile collection designed in collaboration with 13&9 Design was inspired by landscape architecture, where plants and the built environment merge to create a sustainable and harmonious sense of space. Topography empowers designers to create unique interior landscapes by harmonizing natural forms with geometric design. It features 7 styles with varying surfaces of relief and dimension. Three styles are available in 24"x24" tiles, and three styles are available in our new 24"x48" size, ideal for large, open plans. Styles can be mixed together or used separately to create your own custom floorscape.


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Letsbo year 54-56, Breaking Point
« previous entry | next entry »
Jan. 25th, 2009 | 10:08 am
Melissa teaches David to walk one sunny afternoon.
It's always sunny in Mattsmyra, since we have no seasons here.
That proves to be the last thing she ever does. The Grim Reaper is arriving to claim her immortal soul, on the 25th of June '54. She was 72. Melissa leaves behind her son Georg with wife Allegra, and two grand-children, Annika and David. She leaves in platinum, 1 p to j68!
David takes a hard blow from his Famor's passing. That's not good, it's his birthday tonight.
Annika has a hard time too.
Georg, being a Family sim, also takes it hard.
Even Hans, who has been a very quiet ghost, is disturbed by Melissa's passing, and goes with Allegra to work.
Georg finishes what his mother started, and saved David's aspiration for his birthday.
And David grows up well, looking like all other sim boys before him.
Weekend play date time. Annika is having a pillow fight with Noel. I hope they will grow up to get an acceptable attraction.
Annika celebrates her birthday on Saturday night.
"Oh, no! I feel a sudden urge to flirt with everybody and sleep around" Arrgh! Another Romance sim!
Annika orders a date from the gypsy, to try out her taste.
She gets Ralf. He's a two-bolter, and the date is OK. Let's see how the Bardh brothers turn out when they grow up, otherwise this might be an option.
Annika tries a new hobby – toy making. Wonder if there are scholarships for things like that too?
Sunday night is used for making friends over the phone. Melissa took a lot of contacts with her to her grave, so now Georg and Allegra hasn't got enough friends for their promotions.
Letsbo after round 15:
Georg Lind
Allegra Lind
Annika Lind
David Lind
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Comments {13}
(no subject)
from: itlandm_sims
date: Jan. 26th, 2009 10:57 pm (UTC)
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(no subject)
from: jungfrun68
date: Jan. 27th, 2009 07:45 am (UTC)
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(no subject)
from: itlandm_sims
date: Jan. 27th, 2009 08:35 am (UTC)
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(no subject)
from: mordana666
date: Mar. 21st, 2009 06:50 pm (UTC)
"Oh, no! I feel a sudden urge to flirt with everybody and sleep around" Lol. Ralf, the emo/goth boy is a Tricou too!
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(no subject)
from: jungfrun68
date: Mar. 22nd, 2009 07:33 am (UTC)
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(no subject)
from: ll_overthere
date: Apr. 8th, 2009 07:30 pm (UTC)
good save on David's birthday
Ah, another romance sim. I love them!
Reply | Thread
(no subject)
from: jungfrun68
date: Apr. 10th, 2009 11:21 am (UTC)
I'm trying to get used to them myself - I can't have EVERYONE reroll in Uni - imagine all the grilled chees sims I would get :)


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Summer TEFL jobs in Reading
Ardmore Language Schools
Ardmore Language Schools run summer English courses for students from all over the world in 19 residential and two non-residential centres across the UK. We hold British Council accreditation and are the first language school in the UK to have received Travel Safe Gold Accreditation.
Every year we carefully select over 550 summer staff from thousands of applicants from the UK and Europe. We offer residential and non-residential positions and, where possible, let applicants choose a location they want to work at. If residential, we offer full board and accommodation free of charge (no salary deductions). Our standard contract length is for four weeks, however, we offer extensions of up to four weeks in the summer. We also have positions available at Easter and throughout the year during the off season.
We pride ourselves in offering comprehensive training into all our roles, including Ardmore-specific Online Training & Safeguarding, residential Management Training, self access Continuous Professional Development programmes and role specific Induction training for all staff. We also provide every employee with a Staff Handbook, regular appraisal and feedback to all our staff as well as references at the end of employment. Our teachers work with six levels of Ardmore workbooks, Teacher's notes, toolkits and audio materials.
What is more, there are exciting opportunities for development and promotion for returners as well as our end of employment Club Ardmore bonus.
We would love to hear from you
- If you are passionate about working with children and thrive in a fast paced multicultural environment
- If you hold qualifications in dance, drama, sports, languages, First Aid or Lifeguard
- If you are an English as a Foreign Language Teacher and hold a CELTA, Trinity Cert TESOL, DELTA, Trinity Dip TESOL, PGCE in English or equivalent recognised by the British Council
- If you are an experienced summer school manager who would like to progress their career
As an employer, we value our staff and are always open to feedback. In 2015 we are introducing the new bespoke recruitment software that will allow you to apply and manage your employment documentation easily and securely. We are also implementing new online training and staff feedback software as well as electronic payslips for all staff.
Amongst other positions, we are looking for non-residential EFL Teachers at all our centres, especially at Croydon and Eastbourne.
Please go on our website to find our more about us, our centres and dates and apply by clicking on the EFL Teacher link: www.ardmore-language-schools.co.uk
Alternatively, please click here to apply directly.
EJO is a British Council accredited organisation with more than 30 years experience running summer courses in various locations around the UK. We currently have vacancies for non-residential qualified EFL teachers at our Reading centre, which is based at the Abbey School in Kendrick Road. The vacancies commence in late June, and contracts normally run for two to five weeks. Daily rates start from £68 plus holiday entitlement. Teachers normally teach 15 hrs per week and assist with the provision of an excursion and activity programme. If you live in the area and are interested in this vacancy please follow this link to our application form.
We are also looking for people to fill the following residential vacancies: Teachers and Activity Leaders. Click here for application packs for these posts.
Lewis School of English
The Lewis School of English, Southampton, was established in 1976 and is open all year round for adult courses. We have been running junior programmes since 1997 and have recently expanded our operations to offer summer junior centres in Southampton, Reading, Colchester, Gloucester, London (Harrow) and the New Forest. Our students are aged between 11 and 17 and come from all over the world. Students receive English language tuition together with a fun-filled activities programme.
Our Vacancies: English Language Teachers, Activity Leaders (only non-residential vacancies remaining), Centre Administrator, Centre Manager, Head Teacher, Activity Manager.
Why work for us?
At Lewis School of English, we are committed to the development of all of our staff. We will provide unrivalled support to enable you to fulfil your role, and assist you with your career beyond the summer. If you are interested in pursing a career in education, leisure, working with children, or entertainment then we can help you develop and evidence vital skills for your future.
Our Programme
Academic programme: Our experienced team have delivered teaching methodology conferences worldwide and have created a fun, useful, project-based syllabus. The emphasis in the classroom is on communication, improving linguistic competence and having fun. Our teachers are well supported through:
►an induction prior to starting
►observations by the Head Teacher during your term, to provide constructive feedback and assist your professional development.
►in-service training.
►a friendly and supportive working culture.
Activity Programme
Our activity programmes are packed full of entertainment, education, culture and enjoyment. These programmes include:
* Welcome tours of the campus and/or local town
* Sport activities such as tennis, football and basketball
* Creative activities such as dance, drama and art
* Full day and half day trips such as visits to other cities and local tourist attractions
* Evening activities such as discos, quizzes, it's a knockout and sport tournaments
* Youth club – an optional drop-in centre for students to talk through concerns, practice conversational English or simply socialise.
* Certificate ceremonies and farewell parties
The Reading course begins early July.
Please click here for further details about how to apply.
Stafford House
Stafford House Study Holidays is accredited by The British Council and has been running summer courses for juniors around the UK since 1994. We are part of Cambridge Education Group, which includes sixth-form colleges and Foundation programmes in partnership with leading UK universities. Teachers are fully supported by a syllabus, in-house student workbooks, weekly teacher development workshops and a Director of Studies and Senior Teachers at each centre. The working week consists of 42 hours spread over 6 days and includes 2 hours admin time.
For more information and to apply online, please visit our recruitment website www.staffordhouse.co.uk or email email@example.com


text: Earlier this month, we debuted exclusive sketches of L'Wren Scott's new collection for Banana Republic. Now ELLE.com has the photos of the entire collection, which retails for $40-$200. Alas, the line from the former model and stylist—who's dressed everyone from Madonna and Naomi Campbell to the late Elizabeth Taylor—won't be available in stores and online until December 5. Until then, it's look but don't touch… but at least it's an exclusive first look, right?


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Attention European Union Law Users: There are cookies on this blog: Blogger and Goggle maybe more. I hope this meets the need to inform users of this site.
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
Outing today yields little gold.
This area was just glorious. The new spring greens lit up the creek moss and bank. It rained a little. The sun broke through the low clouds, warming our shoulders. But, we found not enough "color" to take the place seriously. So how was your prospecting day? Comment.
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Linda Newton-Perry
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Heatwave Racing
Description: This one is a nice NASCAR game in 3d. Break down the leading car. The objective of the game is to be the first to finish the laps given. try to avoid when running the laps because your car will disintegrate when given enough damage. Use the nitro oxide boost to improve your lap times. Jump behind the wheel of your Nascar as you battle it out against 8 other race cars in heatwave racing!
Did you like this game?
Instructions: - use arrows to drive
- use spacebar for nitro boost
- use spacebar for nitro boost


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List of Foods That Reverse Water Retention
Water retention can often be a very uncomfortable situation, and affects both men and women. If you feel bloated during "that time of the month" or feel that you are retaining water on a regular basis, there are a few tricks that can help reverse water retention. Incorporating certain foods into your diet may be the answer to help you get past your bloat and get on with your life.
An easy snack to grab and go, bananas help reverse water retention. Whether you drink them in a smoothie, eat them on your cereal or just peel one open, the potassium in this yellow fruit is a natural way to rid your body of fluid retention. Another great source of potassium, and an alternative to bananas, are raisins.
Natural Diuretics
A diuretic is any substance that helps ease your kidney function, leading to more productive urination. Before you hit the medicine cabinet or swig down a cup of coffee, think about incorporating natural diuretics into your diet. Options include cabbage and cranberry juice.
Try substituting cabbage for lettuce on your next sandwich. Or for a summertime treat, enjoy a side of crunchy coleslaw during lunchtime.
Not only are cranberries rich in antioxidants, they can help reverse water retention. For optimal results, purchase unsweetened cranberry juice, commonly found in the natural foods section of most grocery stores. This tart elixir can be tough to swallow, but when cut with water, it flows more easily down your throat.
Substitute Yogurt for Sweet Treats
Eating foods that are high in sugar can cause your stomach to bloat and increase water retention. Try a cup of plain low-fat yogurt mixed with fresh berries or granola, instead of the sugary ice cream after-dinner snack. The active cultures in this healthy dessert help with digestion and increase good bacteria in your stomach, all positive things when it comes to reversing water retention.
Drink Water
It may seem counter-intuitive to drink water when your body is retaining water. However, many people bloat when they are dehydrated. Sometimes your body, by holding onto every ounce of water you guzzle, is simply telling you it's thirsty. Flushing your system with eight to 10 glasses of water per day can help you stay on top of the bloat.
Photo Credits
- stomach image by Alison Bowden from Fotolia.com


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Hello Hello Everyone,
We wish you all a very Happy New Year! We hope you enjoyed your Christmas breaks, maybe you even got some snow like Anna in Deutschland?! (Always keen for some authentic woolly product testing opportunities!)
As we slowly return to the working life again, we look forward to all that is ahead of us. Each new year brings a few new years resolutions, changes and challenges!
Emma, who from the very start has been one of the Here Today Here Tomorrow team (aka the A-Team) is moving on to pursue her PhD and other interesting projects - naturally in the name of sustainable fashion. We would like to thank Emma for all her help and hard work in setting up HTHT, we wish her all the best in future - and hopefully still see her around, at least once in a while to do the bearcat dance with us!
Anna-Maria, Julia and Katie continue as a trio, facing new and exciting adventures with our first trade shows in Germany, showing our AW15 fair trade collection. Visit us, we love your support! We will be in Berlin with Antiform at The Ethical Fashion Show from 19th-21st Jan. 2015. From there we head southwest to Innatex Messe Frankfurt in Hofheim-Wallau from 24th-26th Jan! Unfortunately the shop will be closed during this time, if we could work out how to be in two places at once we would do it!
Then it is nearly February! Our Kickstarter Dhaka Project deadline! We have been working hard on getting all the details of production refined and we aim to be able to send out the project rewards to our supporters at the end of February or early March.
I think this will keep us busy for now...we will let you know how we rock n' roll on...
We wish everyone time, love, good health and energy to make it a good year,
DA DA DA, the new Trio-Team ;)


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Shebah: the all Female Ride-Share
Shebah is Australia's first and only active all-female rideshare service getting women and children where they need to go. You can now use Shebah in Melbourne, Geelong, Bendigo, Ballarat, Hobart, Canberra, Sydney, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Adelaide and Perth. Darwin will be active soon. Launched in March 2017 (on International Women's Day!), the app became the most popular download in the app store within 24 hours. Our fabulous fleet of drivers is growing every day and women across Australia are turning to Shebah for safe and convenient transportation.
Catching a Shebah means sitting in the front seat of the car without feeling vulnerable, no longer feeling limited by the time of day, knowing that your little one is in safe hands when you can't drop them off and so much more. Our passengers are ecstatic that they no longer have to dread the end of the night and figuring out how to get home safe. We drive women and primary school-aged children, and boys up to 18 can ride with us if accompanied by a female guardian.
For our drivers, Shebah means working when it suits them, feeling safe about who they pick up and experiencing financial freedom – our drivers keep 85% of their fares. Here at Shebah, we are all about supporting women to access economic opportunity.
We exist so that women in Australia can live their lives to the fullest and feel limitless. Shebah is a company for women driven by women. Founded by George McEncroe, a former ABC breakfast host, comedian and mother of four, Shebah was created because we were lacking a rideshare option that suited our needs.
Do what you want and when you want and Shebah will take care of the rest.
Ladies, let's roll.


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Even after all this time, if you're gonna drink, she'd still really you rather do it in the house.
Amy Poehler made all some of our dreams come true with this "Mean Girls" reunion in miniature, huddling up close with Lizzy Caplan (she played Janis with the aid of a wig made of your mom's chest hair, if you remember) and Daniel Franzese (too gay to function Damian, could you not) for a picture on Franzese's Instagram.
The movie came out 10 years and some months' change ago, but that does nothing to stop us from getting super psyched at any sign of a reunion. After all, when it comes to our love for "Mean Girls," the limit does not exist.
Damn, Africa. That was deep.
For good measure, scope out Franzese's artsy black and white alternate take of the trio, also posted to insta:


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Minnesota Twins superstar catcher Joe Mauer is among the latest ballplayers to avail themselves of Major League Baseball's paternity leave policy- the first of its kind in major US sports. Congrats to the Mauers on their twins, and kudos to MLB for sending an important signal about the importance of fatherhood.
If there's anything Joe Mauer knows it's Twins!
From HardballTalk.com:
(Thursday July 25, 2013) In Minnesota there's a different Royal Baby watch going on. Joe Mauer was a last-minute scratch from last night's lineup, leaving the Twins in California and flying back home to Minnesota because his wife went into labor with twins.


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Cyber Monday 2016 – 25% off coupon
Well Thanksgiving is over and now Christmas is around the corner. I hope you had a wonderful time with family and friends. Were you able to Relax and Enjoy? Not only do I need to plan for Christmas, but my son's 8th birthday is right after. So I need to start thinking about that too. Cyber… Continue reading Cyber Monday 2016 – 25% off coupon


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← Go Back to E-Commerce Software
Magento is one of the biggest open source e-commerce platforms. There are many plug-ins to customise it to your own (local) needs, allowing you to create and tune your perfect online store!
What is open source?
Open source means the code is public. This means that you can make adaptions to your online store yourself without any restrictions. Because Magento is open source there are thousands of extensions which were developed by Magento's active community of developers.
Creating an online shop with open source is often more difficult than other e-ccommerce solutions. You mostly have to configure and arrange more things yourself.
Magento is fairly easy to use and because of the very active community. There is an answer for any question. Even more importantly are the thousands of free and paid extensions available for Magento. In short, there is a solution to any problem.
I make all my online stores with Magento and I don't think I will quickly turn to another supplier. Magento is very suitable for both small and big online stores.
Magento's advantages:
- Open source
- Hundreds of plugins
- Hundreds of templates
- Big community for questions
- Search engine-friendly
- Translated to many languages for local use
- Multiple online stores from one installation (allows joint stock management)
- Adoptable for your local market
- For that reason also easy to open shops for foreign markets (also within one installation)
- Good statistics
- Easy to make split-tests
Installing Magento
Installing takes quite some time. It is possible to lay the foundation of your Magento online store in an afternoon, but that is only the start. You will need to configure many things and use various tweaks. Because Magento is used worldwide you may need to tune it for your local market first. You need quite some knowlegde to get this done. For those reasons I advise you to outsource the installation. By googling you will find many companies who can do this for you.
What are the costs of Magento?
You can download Magento for free. However, a lot more costs are involved. It is not hard to spend more than 2000 dollars. When you spend such amounts the comparison with suppliers such as Shopify becomes interesting.
Magento Templates
After installing Magento you need to install a template. It is possible to use a standard template but I advise against doing that. It is best to buy a professional template through ThemeForrest or TemplateMonster. They start at 80 dollars.
I buy my templates myself from ThemeForrest or TemplateMonster. When I do so I am sure the template comes with good documentation, a money back guarantee in case I am not satisfied, and a helpdesk.
What should I keep in mind when choosing a Magento Template?
Choosing the right template is very hard because you have to take into account potential adaptations and expansions of your online store.
Don't chose you template for these reasons:
- Color. You can always easily change them (through CSS).
- Pictures. You will always need to change them anyway.
- Price. I rather pay 50 EUR extra for the perfect template then having to work on it for hours to make it perfect myself.
- Don't decide within one day. Make a shortlist of the most beautiful templates and have a look again in a couple of days. Often you will drop quite a few of them from the list again after a few days, slowly narrowing down to the final choice.
Use these criteria when choosing a template:
- The menu. Will it be able to accommodate all your (future) menu items in it?
- The features. Examples: "wishlist", "e-mail to friend" and "social buttons". How are they integrated into the template and do you want to use them? If they are a part of the template it may be difficult to turn them off.
- Is the design responsive? Mobile use (smartphones and tablets) of your website will take a large part of your traffic and you want to make sure your online store is displayed well on all devices.
- Pay attention to the template's grid. A Magento template is alsways built up by way of a grid (header, footer, sidebar left, sidebar right, etc.). It is normally easy to change colors, fonts and pictures but changing a grid is often very difficult.
- Check the documentation of the template to find out if there is enough documentation. Perhaps an extra check could be to contact the helpdesk to see how fast they respond to questions.
Magento Plug-ins
The big advantage of Magento (vis-a-vis other open source software) is the great diversity of plug-ins for you to use. You can install an infinite amount of plug-ins through Magento Connect to fully design and adopt your webshop to your wishes and expectations.
Make sure that you don't just install everything that seems interesting to you. Using more plug-ins makes Magento heavier and you increase chances on bugs. Everyone can design and offer plug-ins which makes that if you install the wrong plug-in, it may ruin your whole Magento installation. 😉
I rely for most of my plug-ins on aheadWorks, Amasty, Aitoc and BoostmyShop. When I use their plug-ins I know for sure they are well-made and that in case problems do arise they deliver good support.
Also read these blog posts:
– Magento plug-ins I use and recommend