text:
canada | Hľadať v internete
canada ( Nájdené:771 záznamov )
obat pembesar penis vimax asli canada berfungsi untuk merangsang pertumbuhan penis semua usia, membuat alat vital pria jadi besar panjang tanpa efek samping
Ẩm thực của Canada chịu nhiều ảnh hưởng bởi những nền ẩm thực khác nhau trên Thế giới. Và ẩm thực các vùng của đất nước Bắc Mỹ này
Online travel guides and weather forecasts for destinations around Canada.
Canada, travel, weather, Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland, Labrador, Northwest Territories, Nova Scotia, Nunavut, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, Quebec, Saskatchewan, Yukon Territory
Directory of FREE Online Books and FREE eBooks
We Buy Houses & Property for Cash, We Take Over Mortgage Payments: Looking for a real estate company that buy houses in Canada, British Columbia. We buy houses, homes and properties in Lower Mainland BC, Fraser Valley BC and Squamish BC.
we buy your house, take over mortgage, we buy houses for cash, we buy houses, we buy property, we buy homes, we buy and sell homes, who buys houses fast, we buy houses fast, buy my house, take over mortgage payments contract, mortgage takeover program
Call 211 or visit 211.org to find local services and get help today. For Canada, please visit uww.211.ca.
4GoodHosting is the ideal choice for anyone with a strategic website. Their 1st rate Canadian web hosting service also offers VPS hosting, free domains and an impressive website builder. Website hosting with added value and satisfaction guaranteed.
Canada web hosting companies, Canadian web hosting company, best , company, VPS hosting, Linux VPS, Windows VPS, website builder, domain name transfer, Charity , free domain, domain names, free domain transfer, Free domains, mobile site builder, mobile w
Located In Toronto, Levitt LLP is Canada's Most Experienced Firm in Employment and Labour Lawyer. Our Employment Lawyers have the Experience to Help You.
Find online Montreal Escorts today at kwike market. The Canada best High Class Montreal Escorts directory. Post male and female advert here.
Montreal escorts, escorts Montreal, escorts in Montreal
Browse thousands of new and used cars for sale in Canada. Find car dealers by make, postal code, city or province. Visit a large selection of car reviews and car pictures.
CarsAndCars.ca, cars, autos, vehicles, used car, new car, car for sale, car dealer, auto dealer, car dealership, car review, car pictures, car gallery, car deal, auto trade
The Old Market Autonomous Zone (A-Zone) - a three-storey building at 91 Albert Street in Winnipeg s historic Exchange District - exists to get like-minded individuals and organizations, activists, as well as alternative worker-run businesses, together un
a-zone, Emma Goldman grassroots centre, old market autonomous zone, mondragon bookstore coffeehouse, 91 albert, winnipeg, anarchists, anarchism, activism, activists, g7 welcoming committee, natural cycle, dada world data, canadian dimension, canada-pales
Achat de produits au québec - fabrication québécoise - vente de produits au quebec - liste des entreprises du québec - ajouter votre entreprise, achat quebec
achetons quebecois,achat,liste,produits du quebec, canada, produits québécois, liste, répertoire, fabricant, artiste, quebec, quebecois, meubles, aspirateur, drainvac, [[nomproduit]],[[ville]]
cupcakes, cupcakery, brown cupcake liners, designer cupcake liners, cupcakes, all things cupcake, swirl, sprinkles, sweet cuppin cakes, cupcake baking, cupcake linen, cupcake gift, cupcake bakery, cupcakes canada, cupcake collectibles, cupcakin, cupcaker
Edge aka Adam Copeland - the most extensive Edge site on the web!
Edge, edge, adam copeland, adam, copeland, intercontinental, champion, Adam Copeland, wrestling, superstar, wwe superstar, Toronto, blond, blonde, Canadian, Ontario, Canada, downward spiral, spear, Edgeucation, Edgeucution, Edgeward, WWE, WWF, Edge &
Bruce Murray is a guy from the city who moved to small town Nova Scotia. All was well until he fell through a hole in the Podosphere. Then, strange things started happening.
Zedcast, Zed Cast, Bruce G Murray, Bruce, Murray, zcast,z cast, zeecast, Canada, Canadian, Podcast, Comedy, Funny, beer, free,
Agent Research and Evaluation
provides full information with dollar figures on literary agents
for authors, separating crooks from legit agents in the US, UK and
agentresearch, find a literary agent, find literary agents, find literary agent, agent research, literary agent, literary agents, evaluation, author, authors, writer, writers, writing, book, books, report, reports, recommend,
Offering fly-in fishing at remote outpost cabins, Northern, Ontario, Canada. Fishing for Walleye, Smallmouth Bass, Northern Pike, and Lake Trout, on remote lakes. Bear, Moose, hunting
Ontario, fly-in fishing, canada, fishing, foleyet, walleye, northern pike, lake trout, hunting, lodge, fishing, fly-in outposts, fly-in fishing, fly in, fly in lodge, remote, lakes, Ivanhoe Lake, cabins, trip, bear, moose
The original pond hockey tournament as seen on Hockey Night In Canada and advertised in The Hockey News.
activities, agency, airport, audio, auto, autobazar, banka, bazar, boarding, britney, burza, Byty, call, canada, carodejky, counter strike, credit, cross, diablo, diablo2, doom, download, economy, elnino, evrop, film, flights, florida, forum, friends, game, hardware, hokej, horoskop, hra,hry, hurricane, image, justic, kino, kino,kina, leather, mafia, mapy, mobil, music, muzika, need, orlando, personal, quotes, shop, software, sport, student, tenis, ttp:, university, video, website, zpravodaj, ...


text:
and many attractive places that support Thailand a golfer's paradise.
Thailand has some of finest courses
in Southeast Asia.Every golf club provide
quality facilities and warm hospitality.
Almost courses in Thailand are public courses,many of them are golf resorts and fews private courses.You can be sure of recieving international levels standards,the efficient and friendly attention of staff.
All around country a golf course is never
far away the majority being located in the
most popular tourist destinations such as
Pattaya, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Hua hin,
Kanchanaburi,Nakhon Ratchasima and also Bangkok.
Season of golf: Average temperatures
are about 29 c,ranging in Bangkok from 35 c in April to 17c in December.There are
3 seasons:the cool season [ Nov.-Feb.],
the hot season [ Apr.-May.],and the rainy
season [ Jun.-Oct.].Please check your
value time for Golf season that start from
November - May and you might have special offers throughout the year.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
September 2007
Pursuing additional outreach strategies
The following strategies are offered as ways some districts have enhanced parent outreach efforts by involving others, branding "products," and developing supplemental materials.
Getting others involved. While there is much that districts can do to inform parents about their public school choice and SES options, they need not rely only on themselves to spread the word. Rather, districts can and should enlist the support of others. Below are venues through which districts can engage school-level personnel and the greater community in outreach efforts.
Involving schools and school staff. For many parents, their child's school is the primary place where exchange of information about education occurs. With this in mind, districts should ensure that schools with eligible students are actively providing information about public school choice and SES. Indeed, in many cases schools have assumed a central place in reaching out to parents.
Using communication channels at the school. Schools can get involved in the outreach process rather easily and immediately by using existing channels of communication with parents. For instance, schools have included notices about these options in school newsletters and other regular communications with parents, including student report cards, and have also made information available on school Web sites. Schools have also used back-to-school nights, open houses, and other similar events as forums for distributing information about public school choice and SES. Schools also often provide information about these options in "new student packets" for families of students who are entering or transferring to the school.
Some schools also make information about these options available to parents in the schools' front offices, and train administrative assistants so that they can answer questions parents may have.
Making it work
Districts can facilitate these kinds of outreach efforts across their schools by preparing and distributing informational materials to school principals and staffs. Some districts provide schools with CDs from which they can make copies of materials at their discretion. In any case, districts should be careful to ensure that there is uniformity in communications at the school level so that parents are consistently receiving the same message.
Creating parent liaisons or choice-SES coordinators at school sites. Another way that schools can support the flow of information about public school choice and SES to parents is by establishing parent liaisons or choice-SES coordinators. Such liaisons or coordinators can be responsible for organizing and carrying out school-level outreach activities, and can serve as designated points of contact for parents with questions about public school choice or SES. In some instances, schools might already use parent liaisons for other purposes, in which case choice and SES responsibilities could be absorbed by this position. In others, the role of liaison or coordinator could be assumed by an assistant principal, guidance counselor, teacher, or administrative staff person.
The use of school-based liaisons or coordinators is on the rise across the country, with districts assigning a wide variety of responsibilities to these positions. For more information about roles that liaisons or coordinators could play with respect to SES in addition to providing information to parents, see "Using SES coordinators at school sites" on p.33.
Involving teachers. As teachers are often a parent's first point of contact regarding their child's education, they can play a critical role in making parents of eligible students aware of their options. Teachers know the strengths and weaknesses of their students, and should be encouraged to include information about options when communicating with parents about their child's progress, for instance, during parent-teacher conferences. This may prove especially helpful to parents of students who teachers know are struggling during the regular school day and stand to benefit from extra help. At the high school level, teachers as well as guidance counselors may also be able to provide information and guidance to students directly. Personal attention and assistance from teachers and counselors may motivate students and families to consider their SES options and make an informed decision. For more information about high school students' participation in SES, see "Serving high school students" on pa. 36.
If requested, teachers could also provide information on the programs of the various SES providers serving the district to help parents select the provider that best suits the needs of their child. In doing so, teachers should be as objective as possible. If a teacher is affiliated with or employed by a provider serving the district (including the district, if it is also a provider), he or she should be sure to consult with the district and the provider about what information is appropriate to share with parents. In cases such as these, it may be preferable for the teacher to direct parents to a liaison or SES coordinator for information about their options.
Giving advance notice: Using "feeder" schools. Some districts engage elementary and middle schools whose students will become (or remain) eligible for public school choice and SES upon graduating and be starting at a new school the following year. Staff at these "feeder" schools can, toward the end of the school year, provide students and parents with information about the options that will become available to them upon entering their new school, so that they can be on the lookout for notices that should arrive as the next school year approaches.
Leveraging the community. In addition to more localized outreach efforts undertaken at the school level, districts have also sought assistance from the broader community by partnering with parents, faith-based and community organizations, businesses, and other stakeholders.
Engaging parent advisory groups. Whether affiliated with the district or not, parent advisory groups, including parent-teacher organizations, are important players in efforts to provide parents with information and advice about education options and services. Districts should consider seeking out the support and assistance of these groups to spread the word about public school choice and SES. Rooted in the community, such advisory groups possess a unique ability to reach parents and can be key partners in developing and implementing an outreach campaign. For instance, parent groups in some districts have formed volunteer corps to canvass neighborhoods—often their own neighborhoods—and provide information to families about their options. Another cost-effective practice, "foot patrols," can make individual visits to eligible students' homes and can be particularly effective when staffed by parents who themselves have children participating in public school choice or SES.
Enlisting community organizations. When it comes to penetrating deep into parent communities, community organizations, including faith-based and nonprofit groups, may be of equal or greater value. Districts should know which organizations are particularly supportive of empowering parents and should consider soliciting the time, spirit, and relationships with parents that these organizations uniquely possess for use in outreach efforts. Some districts have found that partnering with churches and other places of worship can be particularly effective in making parents aware of options for their child's education.
Reaching out to municipal organizations and local businesses and business organizations. Districts have further expanded their reach into the community by soliciting the support of municipal and local business groups. Municipal organizations, such as police departments and social service agencies, can be surprisingly effective outreach partners by disseminating information about public school choice and SES among their employees and by making information available at the organizations' offices and on Web sites. Local business groups, including individual private businesses and business associations such as hotel and hospital associations and chambers of commerce, are also often supportive of efforts to inform and empower parents and can be instrumental in parent outreach.
Making it work
Outreach partnerships with the business community can be strengthened when districts take care to share with these partners the results of their investment. Whether it be on the number of families reached, the number of students participating, the amount of funds spent, or the effect of student achievement, following up with these groups and providing them a sense of the impact of their involvement can help solidify a positive working relationship and lead to increased support in subsequent efforts.
Relying on SES providers. Districts should not overlook an obvious ally in parent outreach: SES providers. SES providers have an interest in informing parents about their SES options, and districts can tap the SES providers with whom they are partnering for outreach assistance. Districts can make general information about public school choice and SES available to providers for distribution. In addition to their responsibility to notify parents of approved providers, districts can also facilitate providers' ability to share more specific information on their individual programs, as this can further increase awareness of SES in the community. Of course, prior to doing so, districts and providers should mutually agree on acceptable outreach practices, and providers should be sure to adhere to local and state policies in this area where applicable.
For information on involving providers in the SES enrollment process, see "Involving SES providers" on p. 21.
Branding your "product." "Branding" means to create for a product or service a distinctive identity that renders it recognizable in the marketplace. Districts have benefited greatly from applying this basic marketing practice to public school choice and SES. Some districts have employed distinct designs, layouts, fonts, etc., in public school choice and SES materials in order to increase familiarity, and other districts have also chosen to color-code materials so that parents clearly know what to look out for. As parents are likely to be more responsive to what is familiar, branding these options through consistent presentation can be particularly effective.
Using simple terms and catch-phrases. Districts can further increase their chances of reaching and engaging parents by using simple terms and phrases. For instance, when advertising SES, some districts have used the phrase "free tutoring" instead of "supplemental educational services," as the former is both easier to understand and harder for parents to miss or forget. Other districts have attempted to catch parents' eyes by giving SES a dollar value, i.e., by referencing the maximum amount that the district may spend on services for a student.
Using supplemental materials. Even after a district has developed a clear and user-friendly parent notice and has undertaken a comprehensive parent outreach campaign involving a variety of activities and stakeholders, parents still may have unanswered questions about public school choice and SES, or may need assistance in choosing from among their options. To ensure parents are fully able to make informed choices, districts might consider preparing the kinds of supplemental materials described below. Of course, districts may also consider including some or all of the information that would be contained in these kinds of supplemental materials in flyers or brochures, as discussed above in "Flyers and brochures" on p.13.
Districts should be sure to make any supplemental materials readily available to parents upon notifying them of their public school choice and SES options.
FAQs for parents. Parents may often need additional basic information about public school choice and SES. By providing this information in a frequently-asked-questions (FAQ) format, parents may be able to find answers to their questions quickly and easily. In developing FAQs for parents, districts have addressed other topics such as steps to participation and expectations for parents, and district-specific issues such as enrollment deadlines and timelines for implementation.
For more information on helping parents choose a school or SES provider, see Choosing a School for Your Child and SES in Action: A Toolkit for Parents and Community Leaders. The links to these resources are provided in Additional Resources at the end of this handbook.
Lists of questions for parents to consider when choosing a school or a provider. While parents may have all the general information they need about public school choice and SES, they may still be uncertain as to how to choose from among their various transfer or SES provider options. To help parents make choices, districts have often developed or provided lists of questions for parents to consider when selecting a school or an SES provider.
Coordinating with outreach for other options. Districts can ensure that parents are optimally informed by advertising the options under No Child Left Behind alongside other school choice and out-of-school program options offered in the district.
Leveraging other school choice options. In addition to public school choice under No Child Left Behind, parents may have a variety of other school choice options to consider, such as charter schools, magnet schools, or open enrollment programs. Some of these options may predate public school choice under No Child Left Behind, and for this reason may be more familiar within the district's parent community. To help ensure that parents are aware of public school choice, districts might consider absorbing public school choice outreach into outreach for other choice programs and coordinating these efforts within a single campaign. Short of this, districts should consider leveraging parent interest in other options in efforts to spread the word about public school choice.
Using a choices catalog: Above in "Using attachments," on p. 8, districts are encouraged to consider developing a catalog of the schools available as transfer options under public school choice. In districts where there are other school choice options available, one potentially effective way to leverage these options and coordinate outreach is through a choices catalog. Such a catalog could provide information on the general types of school choice available to parents (including student eligibility for these options) and describe the individual schools offered under the respective programs.
For information about coordinating implementation of public school choice with that of other choice options, see "Coordinating implementation" on p. 29.
Making it work
Districts often do not receive AYP results from states until shortly before the start of the school year, and only then do they know with certainty whether they must offer the option of public school choice to parents of students in certain schools. As a result, district efforts to inform parents about public school choice may trail behind efforts to inform parents about other choice options, which generally occur at some point during the previous school year. To help ensure that parents are fully informed of all the choice options potentially available to them, districts should include information about public school choice in their outreach efforts for other choice programs that may precede the release of AYP results, even if this information is tentative or general in scope.
More importantly, districts should also begin offering and implementing public school choice in advance of AYP results wherever possible, particularly for students in schools that cannot exit identified status. For more information on implementing public school choice "early," see "Getting a head start" below.
Presenting SES and other out-of-school programs as complementary. Parents may be unsure of the relationship between SES and other out-of-school programs (e.g., extended day programs, 21st Century Community Learning Centers) and may view the choice of such programs for their child as an "either-or" proposition. With this in mind, districts should be sure to let parents know that they do not necessarily need to choose only one program, but could participate potentially in multiple programs, schedules and other factors permitting. When advertising SES, districts and schools should provide information about other out-of-school programs-particularly about when they are offered-so that parents can make fully informed choices.
Districts and schools should strive to implement SES and other out-of-school programs in complementary, not competitive, fashion. For more information on integrating SES and other out-of-school programs, see "Integrating SES and other out-of-school programs" below.


text:
The green tennis ball exploded off my son's racquet and headed towards my left.
My brain reacted instantly and began issuing commands:
"Track the ball's trajectory."
"Move your feet to the left."
Delay. Delay.
My feet weren't moving.
After an eternally long second, they began shuffling but the ball sped by me before I could reach it, clanging against the chain-link fence.
What was wrong with my brain-foot connection?
Well, it seems that things have changed.
It's been a while since I played tennis with my son. He's bigger, stronger and faster than he used to be.
I, on the other hand am bigger and slower than I used to be.
I'm no longer the skinny kid whose life revolved around stickball, hoops and the ice cream truck.
Instead, I've become Mister Softee.
Things change. Sometimes change is a choice.
There are plenty of healthy food alternatives, yet I continue to live on pizza and binge on marshmallows.
I can't fill my gas tank for $17 anymore, but I can buy a more fuel-efficient vehicle. Even though I haven't.
And then there are those things we cannot change.
Twenty-five years ago, you'd pass just one traffic light between Bushkill and downtown, and it was a blinking light. Now I can't count how many traffic signals there are.
A steep, grass-covered hill dotted with evergreens stood guard on the south side of Seven Bridge Road. The hill was leveled, replaced with a Dairy Queen and car wash.
We romanticize over the past, all those things we lost. Yet who among us would want to live without our cellphones, street corner lattes and Insanity workouts?
And one day, we'll yearn for the simplicity of 500-channel high definition TV, 24-ounce soft drinks and saturated fat.
Things change.
Sometimes for the better and sometimes because progress is no more than evolving economic opportunities sprinkled with self preservation and genetic disposition.
And so, when we acknowledge the changes beyond our control, we can alter those within our control more easily.
My son slams another ball at me.
The process repeats itself. "Move your feet. Wait. OK, go."
These days I'm asking him for tennis tips while he runs me around the court like a squirrel in traffic.
I can play more and get faster. Eat better and get smaller.
Or maybe I'll just go to the Dairy Queen and get my car washed.


text:
If ignorance is bliss, then target retirement date funds have arrived just in time for those who are seeking that state of mind. Start humming that mantra as you invest your 401(k) account with the target date that matches the time you have left until retirement. Then, sit and watch as your contemporaries at work slowly accumulate substantially more money in their account over time -- maybe 50 percent more -- by actively managing their money and safely adopting more risk. What I just wrote is not a contradiction in terms as I'll explain in a moment.
Meanwhile, the Vanguard fund organization has just published a 96-page report on how Americans are saving these days. The general gist of the extensive work was to outline the degree to which "professionally managed allocations" were becoming the dominant investment choice in 401(k) plans. That term is a euphemism for "target date funds," which, in turn, is a euphemism for 401(k) "rip-off."
Target-date funds start with an aggressive, stock-dominated allocation of funds and moves progressively toward bonds and less risk as someone approaches retirement 30 years later.
These funds are now used by 51 percent of all 401(k) participants. The number is up 45 percent since 2007. It is driven by the realization on the part of mutual fund companies that they could make a lot more money herding people into a mix of different funds, charging for each of the funds in the mix, and then charging another layer of fees for the allocation of funds making up the mix. I'm like, "Where are the customers' yachts?"
Here's the T. Rowe Price explanation of their target-date fund program: "To invest in a diversified portfolio of underlying T. Rowe Price mutual funds consisting of about 90 percent stocks and 10 percent bonds for several years, then increasing the allocation to bonds over time. The fund's allocation to stocks will remain fixed at 20 percent approximately 30 years after its target date."
My question? Why any bonds at all in early years, and why not more than 20 percent in stocks at and into retirement? Have any of the "professional managers" ever heard about something called inflation? Today's $1,000 will pay $400 worth of expenses in 20 years at 3 percent annual inflation. That's equivalent to losing half of one's money.
These target-date funds stand in the way of successful investing by giving retirement plan participants a false sense of security. They absolve financial institutions of what they see as an expensive obligation to educate 401(k) participants and really help the latter understand how to manage money. I know you can bring a horse to water, etc., etc., but there is something to be said for the continual drip of investment education that will sink in if delivered year after year.
Unfortunately, the financial services industry, awash in profits thanks to a rising stock market over the last four years, just doesn't want to spend the money on annual seminars and individual employee assistance. The answer is a combination of target date funds and advice to just "go to the Web" for planning tools that tell people next to nothing about actual investment strategies.
In simple terms, here's what investors need to know: Young people should have all of their money in a combination of stock-oriented mutual funds that represent different investments styles and types. This creates diversification and reduces risk. Using diversification to reduce risk allows investors to allocate at least some money to investment types that inherently bring more risk and greater returns over longer periods. The result, during the so-called "lost decade" ending in 2010, was about a 6 percent annual rate of return using this strategy. Over time it can create a 12 percent annual return on at least some of the more risk-prone assets (like small company funds and technology), thanks to the risk premium offered by the invisible hand of economic forces. Target funds miss all of this.
As for retirees, I've already pointed out the disaster in store for them if they leave retirement money in a target fund completely full of bonds. They need a 50/50 mix of aggressive bond funds and a collection of large-company, dividend-paying stocks to support a retirement lifestyle and protect against inflation. The lesson here is to take the time to gain financial education rather than letting the fund industry push you around.


text:
Centerpoint Energy Gas Transmission Company
Sixth Revised Volume No. 1
Contents / Previous / Next / Main Tariff Index
Effective Date: 02/28/2003, Docket: RP03-239-000, Status: Effective
Original Sheet No. 833 Original Sheet No. 833 : Effective
Contract Rate
Shipper Name Number Schedule Contract Demand 8/ Receipt Point(s) Delivery Point(s) 2/ 12/ Rate 3/ 4/ 5/ 6/ 11/ 12/
------------ -------- -------- ----------------- --------------- ------------------------ ---------------------------
GEO Specialty 1000662 FT 800 Dth/D 1/ Shipper's Plant $.2618/Dth (through 3/31/02)
Chemicals Inc. DRN No. 282346 $.2318/Dth (remainder of term)
1/ Shipper shall have access to receipts from Pools and/or points in other Pooling Areas (except for the West 1 Pooling Area) in accordance with the Tariff. The only
receipts eligible for the agreed-to rates from the West 1 Pooling Area shall be from AIRPs (not Pools) excluding any points west or south of Custer, Oklahoma.
2/ Delivery Point (Shipper's plant) located beyond Transporter's facilities on distribution system of Reliant Energy Arkla ("Arkla"), a division of Reliant Energy
Resources Corp., and Transporter arranges for such deliveries through Arkla; Shipper may change Delivery Point to Arkla city gate and/or to a direct tap on
Transporter's system (if requested and approved in accordance with Tariff and Shipper reimburses for costs incurred). Failure of Arkla to receive and/or deliver gas
constitutes force majeure if Delivery Point not changed.
3/ No surcharges or add-ons to less than maximum rates attributable to: GRI, ACA, Order No. 528 and Order No. 636 transition cost surcharges. Shipper shall pay or
provide Compressor Fuel allowances and charges (including EPC), applicable penalties related to curtailments, OFOs, nominations, scheduling, balancing, overruns or
similar tariff charges or construction activities. Shipper responsible for taxes on gas delivered by, transported for, or received by it. Transporter may adjust rate
components in such manner as it may determine to yield above stated unit rates when calculated on an assumed 100% load factor basis. Shipper elects levelized billing
(to extent available under Tariff) for term of agreement.
4/ If a decrease in Transporter's maximum rate is mandated by a FERC proceeding initiated, directly or indirectly, or supported by Shipper, the Arkansas Gas Consumers,
Inc. ( AGC ) or any member of the AGC which contracts to receive service under the agreement, then Shipper shall continue to pay the agreed-to rates. If Shipper, AGC
or contracting AGC member initiates, directly or indirectly, or supports proceeding to challenge CEGT rates, CEGT has option to require change in Delivery Point to city
gate point.
5/ Rate applicable to specified receipt/delivery points, unless otherwise agreed. Authorized overrun rate for eligible FT services: $.2828/Dth (through 3/31/02),
$.2528/Dth (remainder of term).
6/ To be eligible for the above rates at any time during the term of the agreement, Shipper must utilize service under this TSA to transport all of its plant
requirements for natural gas to the extent such service is made available by Transporter. Otherwise, Transporter shall be entitled to charge and collect a total amount
calculated using rates not less than the maximum applicable rates for the term of the agreement.
7/ Shipper waives rights to receive any refunds, credits or benefits from rates, penalties or other revenues which would provide Shipper a greater economic benefit, or
a lower effective rate, than the above rates. If Shipper seeks to exercise any waived rights, Transporter shall notify Shipper, and if Shipper continues to seek to
exercise such waived rights, then Transporter shall have immediate right to terminate any provisions for rates less than maximum applicable rates.
8/ Shipper shall have a one-time right to reduce the Contract Demand level specified above. Amount of reduction limited to known and measurable changes in Shipper's
total firm gas requirements.
9/ For the term of the agreement, Shipper shall have a contractual "right-of-first-refusal" as to reserved capacity on Transporter s system, which will operate in the
same manner as the provisions of Section 21 of the GT&C in Tariff.
10/ AGC will provide Transporter prior notice of intent to file intervention, protest or other pleading regarding Transporter s FERC filing(s), provided that
Transporter gives AGC two days oral notification and copy of applicable FERC filing on day of filing.
11/ As long as Delivery Point remains behind Arkla, Shipper pays, in addition to all other rates and charges, $0.065/Dth (plus any increases by Arkla during term
whether due to change from volumetric to demand charge or otherwise) for all deliveries plus all fuel, fees, penalties, gas retentions and/or imbalance, overrun or
other such charges imposed by Arkla; if Transporter not allowed to charge or collect the above agreed-to amounts, then Transporter may adjust (including retroactively)
any of the rates and charges otherwise applicable under TSA to extent required to collect full amounts intended.


text:
Are you more scared now than a year ago? No.May 24, 2012: 12:27 PM ET
"Grexit" is a key search term on Twitter. China's economy is slowing. Long-term Treasury bond yields are near a record low. The U.S. is edging closer and closer to that nasty little fiscal cliff. These are not fun times to be an investor.
But guess what? We've lived through similar levels of fear (and perhaps some loathing) before and have gotten through it. In fact, investors were more frightened at this time a year ago. How do I know that? CNNMoney's brand spanking new Fear & Greed Index tells me so.
As any long-time investor knows, market sentiment tends to alternate between two powerful emotions: fear on one end and greed on the other.
With the help of our partner Markit On Demand, we've taken a variety of market factors, such as volatility, junk bond demand and whether more stocks are hitting highs than lows. We put them in a blender and mixed them all together to spit out a number that notes whether investors look more like the guy in Munch's The Scream or the people who sold Munch's The Scream for nearly $120 million. Okay. It's not really magic and alchemy, just math. For a detailed look at the secret sauce, here's the Fear & Greed explainer page.
The index updates in real time and as you'll see, it is currently showing that investors are in Extreme Fear mode. A reading of 0 would probably indicate that everyone believes the end is nigh. 100 would signal an environment where everyone is getting rich buying stocks ... an alternate universe where the Facebook (FB) IPO didn't go splat.
The current reading is 15. That is worrisome. But dig deeper. The index is a little less fearful than last week. And it's currently one point higher than this time a year ago.
We live in a fast-paced world and it's easy to forget that last summer, investors were nervous about a European recession, concerned about banks' exposure to European sovereign debt and credit default swaps and a slowing U.S. job market. Sound familiar? If that wasn't enough, the global economy was also dealing with the impact of the Japan earthquake and tsunami in March 2011.
Related: Will the U.S. be like Japan?
So fear, even in the extreme sense, can quickly give way to optimism ... or to take a more cynical view, apathy, complacency and yes, even greed.
The good news about the market right now is that most of the risks that investors are worrying about are not exactly new. Europe has been a mess for more than two years. Yes, Greece possibly leaving the eurozone could be very bad news. But as I've written recently, some market experts don't think a Grexit would be the same thing as Lehman going kablooey in 2008.
China's slowdown is also not a surprise. In fact, Chinese officials probably welcome it to some extent since it alleviates some inflation pressure. Finally, the U.S. problems should also not be a shock to anyone with more than a few functioning brain cells. Congress played chicken with the debt ceiling last year. It lost. The U.S. had its pristine credit rating taken away by Standard & Poor's in August of last year. Stocks plunged at first on that news.
But by last autumn, investors were celebrating signs of improvement in the economy and solid corporate earnings. The market went on to enjoy an explosive rally that lasted from last October to early April of this year. Consequently, our Fear and Greed Index rapidly went from Extreme Fear to showing Extreme Greed in no time.
So what's this all mean? Take our Fear & Greed Index with a grain (or two) of salt. It doesn't necessarily predict market performance over the long-term. But its does accurately give a good sense of short-term sentiment, which is important. And it may not take much to get investors moving from Fear to Greed again. If I were a betting man (oh wait, I am) I'd wager that more assistance from the Federal Reserve might be what sparks the market to move higher.
Investors are hoping the Fed will pull a Mrs. Doubtfire ("Help is on the way!") or Mighty Mouse ("Here I come to save the day!") and lift the market out of its recent malaise. Just check out what bond king Bill Gross and perma-bear Nouriel Roubini have to say about the likelihood of more quantitative easing, or QE3. They were responding to a speech by NY Fed chief William Dudley about what the economy would need to do to justify more easing.
At the end of the day, fear is not a bad thing necessarily. Even extreme fear. If you believe that fear will lead to a continuation of low interest rates (inflation be damned! We'll worry about that in 2015) for a very long time, then this is probably the right time to start looking for bargains.
If anything, you should probably be more nervous when the index is flashing Extreme Greed. That may not necessarily be a sign that the market has topped. But as any pro will tell you, the time to bet on stocks is when blood is in the streets. Like now.


text:
Welcome!County Coordinator is Jane Keppler.
County Co-Coordinator is Jean Huot Smoorenburg
If you have any questions or would like to submit information for Robertson County, please email one of the above.
|site search by freefind
|History of Wootan Wells, Robertson County, Texas.
|Leonard Kubiak
|Various Contributors
Back to homepage
Page Modified: 16 April 2015
Copyright © 2014-present by
Copyright © 2014-present byJane Keppler. This information may be used by individuals for their own personal use, libraries and genealogical societies. Commercial use of this information is strictly prohibited without prior written permission from Jane Keppler. If material is copied, this copyright notice must appear with the information and please email me and let me know. Neither the Site Coordinators nor the volunteers assume any responsibility for the information or material given by the contributors or for errors of fact or judgment in material that is published at this website.


text:
Improve your mood instantly and effortlessly
Relax deeply and quickly and cast off black moods
Whether you're grumpy, annoyed or feeling low, trying to make yourself feel better (in the wrong way) can be counter-productive. Many people try to improve their mood by striving to figure out why they feel bad. This is a dead-end strategy, as are many other common approaches.
Relax deeply and gain perspective on what's making you feel bad
The Improve your mood download will first relax you deeply, then move your mind and body into a different state, where your emotions and hormonal balance will help you feel better.
It will enable your unconscious mind to bring forth a new, more relaxed, more upbeat emotion. You will enjoy deep, peaceful relaxation, and experience the old mood drifting away from you. You will get a refreshing break, and gain perspective on whatever was making you feel bad.
It is well known that laughter releases endorphins in the brain, nature's 'feel good' chemicals. The power of hypnosis will help you feel so much better, so quickly. Plus, you will learn practical information about what does and doesn't work to improve your mood.
To feel better now, download Improve your mood below and begin the day again!
Improve Your Mood has been purchased by 3004 customers.
Why you can relax about buying from Hypnosis Downloads...
Improve Your Mood
Narrator: Roger Elliott
Length: 17:05
Download Size: 6.85 MB
Buy these together Improve Your MoodControl Your Emotions and save $6.95
(These products are specially selected to maximize your results from your hypnosis.)
Most popular sessions in Emotional Intelligence
Why we're different to other self hypnosis programs:
We're experienced and dedicated therapist trainers
Uncommon Knowledge was formed in 1995, and since then we've trained over 24,000 people at face-to-face events. We've served over 600,000 hypnosis downloads and treated more than 5,000 patients in 1:1 therapy.
We have a vibrant and friendly global community
With more than 300,000 customers and 30,000 fans of our Facebook page, we are proud to serve people from countries as far afield as New Zealand, India, South Africa, as well as Europe, the US and Canada. (And our shipping is free worldwide, did you know?)


text:
CHL, BCHL Game Night 10/12: Riku An Offensive Threat?
Strong nights for Helenius, Crowley, and Tyrell in leading their respective teams to wins.
Game results on the flip.
Cape Breton Screaming Eagles 5 @ Lewiston MAINEiacs 6 (OT)
D Michael Ward, LEW: 0-0-0, +1, 0 PIM, 0 SOG
Ward, who has yet to score his first QMJHL goal, is still seeing ice time in all game situations.
Medicine Hat Tigers 3 @ Lethbridge Hurricanes 2
C Mitch Fadden, LET: 1-0-1, E, 0 PIM
Fadden's goal, his seventh of the season, came on the power play. Traverse City Lightning and Norfolk Camp invitee Daine Todd had two goals for the Tigers.
Prince George Cougars 3 @ Brandon Wheat Kings 2
C/W Dana Tyrell, PG: 0-2-2, +1, 0 PIM
The Cougars were badly outshot (36-16), yet managed an upset road win over Brandon, ranked No.7 in the CHL. This was PG's first of six straight road cames in the East. Tyrell had the primary assist on the game winner with 48 seconds left in the game.
Tri-City Americans 2 @ Seattle Thunderbirds 6
G Riku Helenius, SEA: Win, 29 saves on 31 shots, 1 Assist, *Second Star*
Seattle scored 6 goals on just 20 shots. Helenius had the primary assist on the T-Birds' final goal when he sprung Jeremy Boyer on a breakaway. It was Boyer's third goal of the game. Seattle has not lost in regulation this season. Tri-City was ranked No.3 in the CHL in this week's rankings.
Kamloops Blazers 2 @ Everett Silvertips 3 (OT)
D Dane Crowley, EVT: 0-0-0, E, 0 PIM
Crowley was named the Everett Herald's Honorable Mention Star-of-the-Game: "The true unsung hero of this game, [Crowley] was a rock on Everett's defense."
Cowichan Valley Capitals 4 @ Victoria Grizzlies 7
W Justin Courtnall, VIC: 1-0-1, 2 PIM
Victoria had lost on Wednesday to the Capitals, 4-2 (Courtnall scoreless, 2 PIM). Courtnall's goal Friday came from behind the net when he banked a shot in off the goaltender.
- 1350 reads
- Printer-friendly version


text:
2010 Census Data Displays Diverse Diversity Diversions
Thanks to Burbed reader Real Estater for nominating this article by posting it in the comments on Friday.
Image from USA Today
East Bay tops among California's most diverse places
By Eric Kurhi and Matt O'Brien, Contra Costa Times
Posted: 03/18/2011 03:20:18 PM PDT
HAYWARD — Close to the geographic center of a city known as the "Heart of the Bay," Luciano Ruiz peered out the pickup window of a burger joint in what is, by one measure, the most racially diverse neighborhood in California.
"There's been a mix of people here ever since I grew up," said Ruiz, 18. "It's always been mainly Latino down here in South Hayward, but now you see more African-Americans, a lot more Asians. I've seen a little increase in Middle Eastern people."
The 2010 census shows a collection of census tracts in the Hayward flatlands as the most diverse in California and a microcosm of the state's likely future. Latinos are the largest group, but share the space with many other people. Multicultural churches, mosques and businesses are in walking distance.
Thirty-five miles away, in the Walnut Creek retirement community of Rossmoor, a cluster of census tracts reflect an older, less integrated California. About 90 percent of residents are white and less than 1 percent are African-American in the Bay Area's least-diverse neighborhood.
"It's probably accurate," said Rossmoor resident David Smith of the newly released statistics. "Our population is overwhelmingly white."
Since this is from the Contra Costa Times, there's little about neighborhoods in Santa Clara or San Mateo County, and which would be the most or least diverse. East Palo Alto was specifically called out as one of the 10 most diverse communities in California. The diversity index is the probability that two randomly picked people from the area would be of different race or ethnicity. Maybe you might have an idea which neighborhoods you'd nominate?
Anyway, I looked up the data, and East Palo Alto has a DI of 83.4 (the highest was 86.4 and Hayward was 85.1). Oakland was 81.1. Not mentioned in the article are Sacramento, 79.6, South San Francisco, 79.0, San Jose, 77.1, San Bruno, 76.3, Santa Clara, 71.8, and Sunnyvale, 70.7. On the other end of the scale we find Belvedere, 16.4, Portola Valley, 22.3, Woodside, 25.2, and Boulder Creek at 26. Don't assume that a low DI means white-bread; the Central Valley's Mendota is 96.6% Hispanic and has a DI of 26.0.
In case you're wondering how some areas end up with lots of diversity, here's the secret, according to the above article:
It didn't happen overnight," Bogue said. "Just like anywhere, somebody puts a house up for sale, somebody looks at it and somebody buys it."
Yeah, that couldn't happen in Atherton, where houses are bequeathed. But while houses are occasionally listed for sale in homogenous census tracts, the diverse ones, such as Richmond, San Pablo, Pittsburg, Hayward, Vallejo, Oakland and San Leandro have another interesting thing in common.
Local historian Frank Goulart said affordability has also long attracted a broad spectrum of people to parts of Hayward.
"If you want an honest answer, it's the cheap housing," Goulart said.
He said many of the homes in the city's most diverse tracts "were built like shacks."
There you go. Diversity is code for crapboxes (like this one above, in Hayward, the City of Diversity). But don't worry about it. The majority of California public school students are now Hispanic, so the Diversity Index must be heading down (see Mendota, above). That means housing quality will go up, so the Real Bay Area will get bigger!
There's no danger of that in Silicon Valley, though. Santa Clara County's index is a kumbayah 74, almost as multicultural as Alameda County's state-topping 78. The least diverse Bay Area County? Marin, at 45. The overall state index is 72.9, second only to Hawaii's 81.1.
But what's more important is housing! And the county with the highest percentage of vacant housing units goes to Alpine, with a whopping 71% of its housing sitting empty. For the Bay Area, the winner is Sonoma, with 9.2%, but Santa Cruz's 9.7% would have beaten it had any of the county physically come into contact with the Bay. Meanwhile San Mateo and Santa Clara county are both in the 4's, while San Francisco managed double: 8.3% of the housing units sitting empty.
There's stats, stats, stats to play with, so have fun courtesy of USA Today. Data is available by city as well, so go wild and wonder why the city (town?) of Almanor has 100% of their 75 housing units empty.
Photo above: foreclosed home in Hayward, showcasing diversity.


text:
Richards earns spot as All-Star Final Vote candidate
ANAHEIM -- Garrett Richards beat the Astros on Sunday, and he'll look to come up with another big win to earn a spot on the American League All-Star team.
Richards will be part of the 2014 All-Star Game MLB.com Final Vote Sponsored by Experian to determine the final spot on the AL roster. He is up against Houston's Dallas Keuchel, Cleveland's Corey Kluber, Detroit's Rick Porcello and Chicago's Chris Sale.
ANAHEIM -- Garrett Richards beat the Astros on Sunday, and he'll look to come up with another big win to earn a spot on the American League All-Star team.
Richards will be part of the 2014 All-Star Game MLB.com Final Vote Sponsored by Experian to determine the final spot on the AL roster. He is up against Houston's Dallas Keuchel, Cleveland's Corey Kluber, Detroit's Rick Porcello and Chicago's Chris Sale.
"It's a little disappointing [that I didn't make the AL team], but there's still a chance," Richards said. "I'm more concerned with the second half of baseball, to be honest with you. If it happens, it happens. It's an honor to be considered."
Despite having the second-best record in the AL, the Angels have just one All-Star on the AL team after Mike Trout was elected to start in the outfield.
"I thought Garrett was going to make it for sure," Trout said.
In his first full season as a starter, Richards is 10-2 with a 2.71 ERA and 119 strikeouts.
"There's no doubt Garrett has displayed the type of season that will put you on an All-Star team," Angels manager Mike Scioscia said. "Sometimes, guys aren't rewarded with that honor. I think that, hopefully, he'll get an opportunity with the fan vote to get in there."
Richards picked up his 10th win of the season on Sunday against Houston, striking out a career-high 11 batters.
"As far as pure stuff and as far as being able to throw the ball with velocity, with movement and spin the ball, there's no doubt he is in the top four or five in our league," Scioscia said.
Fans began voting to select the final player for each league's 34-man roster via the 2014 All-Star Game MLB.com Final Vote Sponsored by Experian immediately following the announcement of the All-Star rosters on Sunday night. Fans can cast their votes from a list of five players from each league until the winners will be announced after the voting concludes on Thursday at 1 p.m. PT.
Here are five reasons why Richards should win the AL Final Vote and a spot on the AL All-Star Game roster:
1. He is on a roll. Richards found his stride in the past month, going 6-0 with a 1.45 ERA since the start of June. He has set new career highs for strikeouts twice in his past seven starts, most recently with an 11-strikeout performance against the Astros on Sunday. With Richards getting hot right before the break, he could be a valuable piece for the AL.
2. Opponents can't hit him. Richards leads the AL in opponents' batting average, allowing hitters a .196 average against him. During his recent hot streak, that figure has dipped to .158, and he has not allowed more than six hits in an outing since May 19.
3. He wins games. What more do you want with home-field advantage in the World Series on the line? Richards picked up his 10th victory of the season on Sunday, which is tied for third most in the AL. Only one other AL pitcher (Porcello) with double-digit wins was left off the team. He has not lost since May 30, and the Angels have the best record among teams with a Final Vote candidate.
4. He strikes guys out. With 11 strikeouts on Sunday, Richards now has 119 on the season, good for eighth in the AL. Only Kluber has more strikeouts and is not on the team. He even became the first Angel to throw an immaculate inning (three strikeouts on nine pitches) since Nolan Ryan. In a close game late, the AL may need a pitcher to get out of a jam, and Richards' strikeout ability could bail the team out.
5. He blows it past you. With Richards, nothing jumps out at you more than his electrifying fastball. His fastball velocity averages 96.1 mph, second in the Majors. Even late in games, when he's nearing 100 pitches, Richards still pumps in his fastball at 97 mph. With the game's best hitters in the opposing dugout, the AL may need some heat.
In addition to the web, fans can use their mobile phones to cast votes via the mobile web at MLB.com/vote or via text message. To receive the All-Star Game MLB.com Final Vote Sponsored by Experian mobile ballot, text the word "VOTE" to 89269. To vote for a specific player, fans can text the choice to 89269. Example: Text "A4" to vote for Richards. Standard message and data rates may apply. Text "STOP" to end and "HELP" for information. Mobile voting in Canada also is available and fans should text their choices to 101010.
For the third consecutive year, the All-Star Game MLB.com Final Vote will include social balloting participation, as Twitter support from the 10 candidates' fans over the last six hours of balloting will count toward their final vote totals. From 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. PT on Thursday, any tweet that includes a designated player hashtag (#VoteGRich) will be tabulated as part of the official vote total used to determine the winners. Fans will be able to follow @MLB for the latest standings updates over the course of the entire four-day voting period.
And the voting doesn't end with the Final Vote. The final phase of All-Star Game voting will again have fans participating in the voting for the Ted Williams All-Star Game Most Valuable Player Award presented by Chevrolet. During the Midsummer Classic, fans will vote exclusively online at MLB.com and via Twitter in the 2014 All-Star Game MLB.com MVP Vote Sponsored by Pepsi, and their collective voice will represent 20 percent of the overall vote that determines the recipient of the Arch Ward Trophy.
MLB.TV Premium subscribers, for the first time, will be able to live stream the All-Star Game via MLB.TV through FOX's participating video providers. Access will be available across more than 400 support MLB.TV platforms, including the award-winning MLB.com At Bat app. MLB.com will provide extensive online coverage of the All-Star Week festivities.
The 85th All-Star Game will be televised nationally by FOX, in Canada by Rogers Sportsnet and RDS, and worldwide by partners in more than 200 countries via MLB International's independent feed. ESPN Radio and ESPN Radio Deportes will provide national radio coverage of the All-Star Game. MLB Network and SiriusXM will also provide comprehensive All-Star Week coverage. For more information, please visit allstargame.com.
Matthew DeFranks is an associate reporter for MLB.com. Follow him on Twitter @MDeFranks.


text:
Mystery of the Disappearing Mouse
by Margaret J. Anderson
The field mouse died late in the afternoon. Its small, gray body lay half-hidden under a tuft of grass. by the next morning, it was gone. A patch of bare soil, about 12 inches from where the mouse had died, looked like a recently dug grave. But who had buried the small animal?
Soon after the mouse died, in a patch of woodland half a mile away, a black beetle with two bright orange bands across its wing covers raised its antennae to the breeze and detected the faint smell of the dead animal. The beetle immediately took to the air and flew straight toward the body, landing within a few feet of it. After locating the mouse, the beetle spent a few minutes exploring the area. Then it returned to the body and crawled under it.
Lying on its back, the beetle used its strong legs to lift the head end slightly and ease the mouse forward. The mouse moved slowly and steadily until it got hung up on some tough grass stems. The beetle came out to study the situation. It seemed to grasp the cause of the problem. A few minutes later it began to chew through the tangled grass to free the corpse.
Meantime, a second beetle had arrived at the scene. It, too, disappeared under the head of the mouse, where it was eventually joined by the first beetle. With the two beetles working together, the dead mouse began to move a little faster. Every now and then, one would emerge from behind the mouse and run round to the head end. They acted like a conveyor belt, moving the mouse along in a more-or-less straight line at a rate of about six inches an hour.
Under cover of darkness, the beetles moved their heavy burden to a patch of open ground, where they dug a grave and disposed of the body. They still worked from the underside of the corpse. If anyone had happened on the scene, they would have seen the mouse slowly sink into the ground, apparently burying itself!
Once the mouse was buried, bacteria and fungi began breaking down the animal's tissues, and the raw materials were slowly returned to the soil. This process is known as decomposition. But the beetles' goal was not to enrich the soil. Nor were they interested in making the countryside a more pleasant place by hiding dead and decaying bodies from sight. The beetles' aim was to provide nourishment for their children.
Unlike most insects, burying beetles are responsible parents. They feed and care for their young until they're grown and ready to face the world on their own. The two beetles that worked together on the mouse were a male and a female. Now that the corpse was buried and safe from other insects, such as wasps and flies that might also view the dead mouse as a tasty food supply, the beetles removed its fur and formed the body into a compact ball with a saucer-shaped depression on top. The female took time out to dig a short tunnel above the body, where she laid about 15 eggs.
When the eggs hatched, the adult beetles welcomed the grubs, or larvae, by rubbing their wing covers against their bodies to make a scratchy noise. The grubs crawled toward their parents, who popped food into their little open mouths, like birds feeding their nestlings. The youngsters thrived on the rich liquid diet of decomposing mouse. In just over a week they were ready for the next stage in their development. They turned into pupae. Since pupae do not eat, the parents had nothing more to do. They dug back up through the soil into the world of light and fresh air and flew off in search of more corpses.
Under the surface of what appears to be a barren patch of dirt, all sorts of creatures are at work. They are part of the unseen group of soil creatures that make life possible for the plants and animals that live above ground.
To learn more about burying beetles, read Children of Summer by Margaret J. Anderson and Nature's Clean-Up Crew by Lorus J. Milne and Margery Milne.
- antennae: A pair of thin movable organs on the head of insects or animals.
- conveyor belt: A device that uses a moving belt to move items from one place to another.
- depression: A hollow part or area.
- larvae: Wormlike things that hatch from eggs.
- pupae: The stage between larva and adult when insects change form.
- responsible: Having a certain duty or obligation.
- In Lesson 1 you learned about the different stages a mouse goes through as it lives. What about when it dies? What happened to the mouse in this story after it died?
[anno: The mouse was carried away by beetles. The beetles buried the mouse in the ground. The mouse decomposed in the ground. The beetles used the mouse for food.]
- What is a good thing about the beetles using the dead mouse as food?
[anno: Answers may vary but could include that the beetles help keep the countryside clear of dead bodies or that no food source is going to waste.]


text:
| Agoudal Iron Meteorites For Sale
Nice affordable iron meteorite specimen of Agoudal meteorite from Imilchil, Morocco. Nicely sculptured individual specimens of this nickle rich iron meteorite.
Copyright © 1996–2019 The Meteorite Exchange, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
The Meteorite Exchange Inc., 1121 West Valley Blvd, Ste. I #165, Tehachapi CA 93561
Users online: 671 anonymous customer(s)


text:
Shop at Spotlight for Bargains Galore! With thousands of products available online, Spotlight offers a fantastic range and heaps of bargains on bed linen, home decorating, curtains and blinds, craft, party essentials, sewing and fabrics and much more! Make Spotlight your one-stop shopping destination and save on our exciting range of products across all your favourite categories.
1692 items found.
× Dress & Apparel Fabrics
× Utility & General Purpose Fabrics
× Printed Quilting Fabrics
× Plain Quilting Fabrics
× By the Metre
× On SaleRemove all filters


text:
Flyers & Leaflets
Our flyers are now even more affordable across all stocks and sizes.
500 Starting at S$66.65
Check out details and pricing now, then make your selections later.
Get a price estimate and learn more about product details.
Spread the word with flyers
Flyers have been a marketing staple for decades – and with good reason too. They're essential for promoting events, advertising sales, drumming up business for shop openings and so much more. You don't have to be a professional designer to get professional results either. Just pick one of our templates (or upload your own), add your message and choose a matte or glossy finish.
Follow these tips to get off to a flying start:
• Hook them in with a headline. This will determine if the rest of your flyer gets read or not – keep it short and snappy.
• Less is more. Choose your words wisely - readers should understand the key message at a glance.
• Issue a call to action. Do you want readers to go to your website? Visit your shop? Tell them clearly what the next step is.
• Sweeten the deal. We all love a little something extra – back up your call to action with a voucher or discount.
• Think about distribution. Who are you targeting and where are they likely to be? If you're a yoga teacher, then try leaving flyers at local gyms and health food shops.
Looking for inspiration to get more customers with flyers? Check out this article.


text:
|Oracle® Spatial User's Guide and Reference
Release 9.2
Part No. A96630-01
This document has two main parts:
Part I provides conceptual and usage information about Oracle Spatial.
Part II provides reference information about Oracle Spatial methods, operators, functions, and procedures.
Appendixes with supplementary information follow Part II.
Part II contains the following chapters with reference information:
To understand the examples in the reference chapters, you must understand the conceptual and data type information in Chapter 2, " Spatial Data Types and Metadata", especially Section 2.2, "SDO_GEOMETRY Object Type".
Copyright © 1999, 2002 Oracle Corporation
All rights reserved


text:
A lead researcher for a website claiming the Australian Government withheld evidence in the Schapelle Corby case denies he is engaged in a conspiracy theory.
- Print page
- Email this
- Permalink
Steve Preston says The Expendables Project is the result of years of exhaustive research, and proves Schapelle Corby's innocence of marijuana trafficking.
Schapelle Corby was found guilty in 2005 of importing 4.2 kg of marijuana into Indonesia and is currently serving time in a Bali prison.
The Expendables Project website claims that the Australian Government 'wilfully withheld vital evidence from a court of law, deceived its public, orchestrated an unprecedented media campaign, and ruthlessly deployed its organs of state against one of its own citizens'.
Steve Preston says the Australian Government had evidence, not passed on to Schapelle Corby's defence, that her boogie-board bag was the only item of luggage not scanned at Sydney Airport for that flight.
"It's not a conspiracy theory," says Steve Preston. "It's not a theory."
He says the story has been researched systematically over a number of years.
The Expendable Project website describes itself as a 'global collaboration documenting and exposing the wilful political sacrifice of an innocent woman'.
Steve Preston talks to Jon Faine on 774 ABC Melbourne Mornings.


text:
MyWest needed a new logo design and created a contest on 99designs.
A winner was selected from 206 designs submitted by 22 freelance designers.
The Popcorn Kitchen
After the 9 to 5 folks didn't understand my free spirit, I've decided to take my delectable popcorn receipes, open my business and go for it! I'm extremely contemporary, love to laugh and see people happy. Rather abstract, surely not the norm.
My favorite color is black. I know that won't work with this, but!!! I went to school to be an architect and ended up in the record industry. After 25 years in that industry, I wasn't sure what to do. So after a couple of attempts in the corporate world, I saw that I wasn't cut out for polictical stuff. I'm artsy, I love very clean looks. Lines, circles, no clutter. I think a single dot is fabulous! I hope this helps.
Those with disposable incomes! This will be a high-end product targeting 25 to 64 year olds these days. But on the other hand, anybody that can chew popcorn...baby teeth to false teeth! People that need gifts for any occaission and people that simply love popcorn.
Popcorn associated with the carnival or the circus, includes lots of red and yellow. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES do I want to identify with the carnival, or circus.
I am looking for a chic, fun, contemporary design. I have two color schemes (1) black, white, red-orange and (2) black, tan, crème and copper (metal).
Take your pick, or ADD YOUR OWN COLOR CONCEPT AND DESIGN. I can't visualize this logo, but once I see the design, I will know! If while designing you think of a better/clever name, I'm open.
Hope one day my logo will look great on a bag, t-shirt, can, or the side of a bus! An eye catching design will lead to mouth watering thoughts about popcorn!
The name of the company is, The Popcorn Kitchen. It's suggested that I use my name, Myra's Popcorn Kitchen, not sure. We will wear chef's jackets and hats to go along with the name. Equipment is stainless steel.
Attaching a picture that will help you realize your design. My goal is to have colors that I can incorporate with major holidays. Starting with black and white with a third interchangeable color would pull in each holiday.
If you have any questions, post them. I'm excited to find 99! The world is made up of millions of creative minds, I feel like I have the best of the whole world right here on my laptop! Good luck!
Many thanks,
PS - I would like this logo in all formats. Thanks again!
Find out how a design contest works or learn more about our logo design services.


text:
Lebron James Scores A Underhanded Half Court Shot During Warmupups!
NBA tv reports "LeBron James shoots the ball underhanded from the opposite end of the court during warmups! Is there anything this guy can't do?!!" SHOUT OUT TO HIPHOPNEWS24-7.COM
Please click the "Report" button below if the video on this page is not working properly.
Comments will only be displayed by verified emails. No Spamming or Racism.


text:
8:00 am
Dialogue "Jac Venza" Host Marcia Franklin talks with the founder of several long-running PBS arts series - including GREAT PERFORMANCES and LIVE FROM LINCOLN CENTER. He and Franklin talk about his long career in public broadcasting, the potential effects of cuts in national grants programs, and the trends he is following in the arts.G
8:30 am
9:00 am
Oregon Field Guide "Prescribed Natural Fires, Raptor Recovery" NULL
9:30 am
Roadtrip Nation "Costa Mesa - Anaheim" Meet Team "Tabula Rasa" and follow their first attempts at cold calling, from local restaurants to the White House, hoping to speak with Michelle Obama. They meet each other and their RV for the first time in Southern California, before heading to interview Christian Jacobs, lead singer of The Aquabats, and co-creator, writer, and director of the hugely popular Yo Gabba Gabba pre-school television show. D
10:00 am
Antiques Roadshow "Mobile, AL - Part 3" Appraisers spy a Confederate army belt buckle, an archive of letters and documents from Franklin Delano Roosevelt bought at an estate sale for $5, and a circa 1850 Virginia painted chest, estimated to be worth $60,000. Part 3 of 3G
11:00 am
Richard Bangs' Adventures With Purpose Geneva and the Matterhorn: Quest for the Water Castle In the 11th installment of his Emmy-winning ADVENTURES WITH PURPOSE series, renowned adventurer Richard Bangs explores the Rhone River, Lake Geneva and the Matterhorn regions of Switzerland - the country known since Medieval times as the "water castle" of Europe. On his quest, Richard uncovers how the Swiss harnessed the Rhone to light Switzerland and its neighbors, power some of the world's most efficient rail systems and quench the thirst of millions, while still managing to preserve this precious resource. D
12:00 pm
Wild! "Animal Inventors: Animal It" This film explores the world of animal senses and animal intelligence. We may think we're the smartest creatures on earth but animals often see and hear far more than we can. Their senses are more finely tuned and their responses much faster. D
1:00 pm
Globe Trekker "Puerto Rico" Zay visits San Juan, the El Yunque National Forest, the Camuy River Caves National Park and the coffee-producing central highlands. He discovers why Puerto Rico is known as the "island of enchantment," boasting sun-kissed beaches, dramatic mountains, a rich colonial history and distinctive music.G
2:00 pm
Need to Know SCOTT SIMON ANCHORS. Need to Know's Hannah Yi travels to Pakistan to investigate the impact U.S. drone attacks are having on citizens in targeted areas. D
2:30 pm
McLaughlin Group "Give My Regards to Broadway (1893-1927)" Mitt Romney's Coronation; The Romney-Ryan Ticket. D
3:00 pm
Biz Kid$ "What's Your Money Personality?" How do you act with money? Are you a "Money Star," "Oblivious," or "Penny Wise Pound Foolish"? This episode looks at the range of emotional reactions and connections people have with money. So what personality are you? Find out in this episode. D
3:30 pm
Oregon Field Guide "Portland Fish Story" NULL
4:00 pm
Cook's Country from America's Test Kitchen "Ultimate Ham Dinner" Bridget Lancaster shows host Christopher Kimball how to make the best cider-Baked ham at home. then Erin McMurrer demonstrates a quick and easy recipe for cornmeal Biscuits. equipment expert Adam Reid reviews electric knives, and Julia Collin Davison revives a classic recipe, Delmonico Potatoes. D
4:30 pm
Rick Steves' Europe "French Riviera: Uniquely Chic" Long a favorite of Europe's elite, the coastline still sparkles with yachts. Rick follows in the footsteps of the 19th century aristocrats along Monaco's harbor and Nice's promenade des Anglais. Then he visits picturesque artist hangouts of Chagall, Matisse and Picasso.G
5:00 pm
NOVA "Engineering Ground Zero" This five-year chronicle of construction of One World Trade Center, presents a story of engineering, innovation and perseverance of the human spirit. With some 25-floors yet to go before reaching its full 108-floor height, this film captures the behind-the-scenes struggle of architects and engineers to make the buildings at the site safe and secure while maintaining a tight schedule.G
6:00 pm
Helen of Troy Bettany Hughes travels across the eastern Mediterranean to find the truth about Helen of Troy. Hughes sorts reality from myth as she traces the historical remnants of the woman blamed for causing the Trojan War.G
8:00 pm
Manifest Destiny "Monsters to Destroy" "Monsters to Destroy," begins with the tearing down of the Berlin Wall and the end of the Cold War. As the sole superpower, the US under George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton and George W. Bush finds itself in a series of small but unpredictable and deadly military actions, from the Gulf War to Somalia, the Balkans, Afghanistan and Iraq, each with compromised objectives and unforeseen consequences. D
9:00 pm
Antiques Roadshow "Mobile, AL - Part 3" Appraisers spy a Confederate army belt buckle, an archive of letters and documents from Franklin Delano Roosevelt bought at an estate sale for $5, and a circa 1850 Virginia painted chest, estimated to be worth $60,000. Part 3 of 3G
10:00 pm
Helen of Troy Bettany Hughes travels across the eastern Mediterranean to find the truth about Helen of Troy. Hughes sorts reality from myth as she traces the historical remnants of the woman blamed for causing the Trojan War.G


text:
No. 7: Wii Sports Resort
Though it's not the game-changer the original Wii Sports was when it came bundled with the console in 2006, Wii Sports Resort is a great collection of sports titles set in a picturesque tropical environment that offers something for everyone. Of the 12 activities, our two favorites are archery and stunt flying. In archery, gamers hold the controllers as they would a real bow, pulling back the bowstring by separating their hands and then releasing a button to fire. In stunt flying, you hold the Wii remote like a paper airplane and tilt it to make the plane soar through the sky. Besides getting the Wii Motion Plus dongle (a sensitivity enhancer sure to have brilliant applications in the future), which comes included in the package, this is one resort that should be a destination for all Wii owners. Details: Nintendo Wii platform; $49.99; rated Everyone (cartoon violence).
Copyright © 2019, Sun Sentinel


text:
Questions tagged [naturism]
The practice of being without clothes, both indoor and outdoor. Known also as nudism or FKK (in German-speaking area).
2k views
Is it safe to swim naked in lakes in Northern Europe?
Is it safe to swim naked in lakes (rather smaller ones) in Northern Europe (north from Alps), when it comes to possible interactions with the fauna? I wouldn't expect to meet fishes such as infamous ...


text:
Diesha (Feat. Spider Loc) - Don't Worry
Dont Worry (A Hood Luv Story) - Diesha feat Spider Loc from the King Of RnB 2 Street Album
Please click the "Report" button below if the video on this page is not working properly.
Comments will only be displayed by verified emails. No Spamming or Racism.


text:
Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum
Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum
Explore the evolution of tennis from a garden party pastime to a multimillion dollar professional sport played world-wide. The Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum has exciting interactives and films, easy-to-use touch screens and free audio guides* in 10 languages. You can get either an entrance ticket to the museum with free audio-guides or book a guided tour.
- Choose between tickets with an audio guide or a guided tour
- Admire the glittering Championship trophies
- Experience a 360° panoramic preview of the McEnroe Exhibit
- Watch film and video footage from the most memorable and exciting tournament matches
- Try the CentreCourt360 the new viewing experience of Centre Court, located right by the grass, with touch screen and fun interactive galleries
- Watch a new 3D film - a unique cinematic experience which captures the atmosphere of Wimbledon
Visit the Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum
Step into the world of tennis. Treasures from the first Championship in 1877 to the most recent are on display, including equipment, clothing, and mementos belonging to the greatest players to set foot on Centre Court.
The tour is operated in English.
How do I get my tickets?
Shortly after your booking is complete your e-ticket will be send directly to your email, just print it out and bring it to the Wimbledon Tennis Museum.
How long does the tour of the museum last?
- The tour of the Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum lasts approx. 2,5 hours.
- For visiting only the Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum we recommend spending appox. 1 hour.
Are there children's tickets?
Yes, children's tickets are available for children between age 5-16. Children from age 0-4 are free, when accompanied by a paying adult.
Important information:
- The Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum are closed on December 24, 25 & 26 and 1 January, as well as the Sunday before the Championships and the middle Sunday of the tournament and the two days after. The Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum
- The Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum and Tour are closed on December 24, 25 & 26 and 1 January, as well as 2 weeks prior to the Championships until the Saturday after the the Championships.
- The Tour is on between 4 to 8 times a day depending of season.
- When booking Museum and Tour the ticket is an open ticket valid for a month from the date you choose.
- You need to call Wimbledon Museum and Tour at least 24 hours before you plan to visit to make a confirmed date and time booking.
- Dedicated phone number for Wimbledon Museum and Tour will clearly be stated on your e-ticket.
- The price includes an audio-guide (except during The Championships)*
- The Museum is open only to tournament ticket holders during The Championship and your vouchers are still valid. Two weeks before the tournament and the week after it there is no viewing of Centre Court for Museum visitors.
Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum
All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club
Church Rd
Wimbledon, London SW19 5AE
Check the calendar for availability.
See where is Wimbledon Tennis Museum is situated on the map below:


text:
Art & Design has different connotations in different fields. In some cases, the direct construction of an object (as in pottery, engineering, management, coding, and graphic design) is also considered to use design thinking.
Art & Design
Nudes in the Sun, Ernst Ludwig Kirchner
Last update at 23 · 11 · by milo
Art & Design
Say hello
- milo
- Designer
- +49 173 4298898
- Get in touch


text:
To continue, you need to be an ALM Digital Member. Please sign in or create your free account now.
By clicking the Create Account button below, you agree to ALM's Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
By registering, you understand that we will process your personal data in accordance with our Privacy Policy.
After completing registration, you may review your email marketing preferences at any time.
By clicking below, you agree to ALM's Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Convenient Automatic Renewal: You will be charged the introductory amount of $0.00 for a term of 12 months. Sales tax may apply. You can cancel any time by contacting Customer Care at 877-ALM-CIRC. Offer for new subscribers only who have not subscribed in the past 180 days.
Copyright ©
2019 ALM Media Properties, LLC. All Rights Reserved.


text:
International lenders to VTB Group are waiting for the outcome of a European Union sanctions meeting before deciding to approve a $1.5 billion loan to the Russian bank, according to three people with knowledge of the matter.
Russia's second-biggest bank sought to sign the deal last week from a group led by Barclays Plc, said two other people, who asked not to be identified because they're not authorized to speak about it. ING Groep NV, which lost an executive in the downing of Malaysian Air Flight MH17, was among the initial group of lenders.
EU representatives are discussing broadening sanctions on Russia including banning investments in debt and equity sold by Russia's state-owned banks as they seek to end support for separatists in Ukraine's east. The Russian government holds 60.9 percent of VTB Group, the bank's website shows. The bank doesn't appear on any current sanctions list.
Other lenders considering signing the deal include UniCredit SpA of Italy, Citigroup Inc. and Bank of America Corp.
Barclays spokesman Jon Laycock declined to comment on the VTB loan, as did Simon Boughey, a spokesman at Citigroup, Alexandra Parry, a spokeswoman at Bank of America and Andrea Morawski at UniCredit.
VTB spokeswoman Tatyana Novikova also declined to comment.
Raymond Vermeulen, a spokesman at ING, said the bank has a history of supporting clients in both Ukraine and Russia and intended to remain "long-term players in both," while looking at its exposures and possibly reducing some, he said.
Intensified monitoring
"We have intensified our monitoring and tightened acceptance criteria. We continue to review all scenario's and make decisions on a case by case basis," he said by e-mail, declining to comment on individual transactions.
The U.S. already imposed the most aggressive sanctions to date on Russian business targeting companies including OAO Gazprombank and Rosneft while EU leaders agreed to blacklist companies and halt lending to public-sector projects in Russia
Lending to Russian companies has fallen since the crisis began as international banks weigh the political and financial risks of maintaining relationships with clients in the country. HSBC Holdings Plc and Lloyds Banking Group Plc pulled out of a loan for Britain's BP Plc and Moscow-based OAO Rosneft because of the continued uprising in Ukraine.
The EU proposals include a ban on European purchases of securities with a maturity of more than 90 days sold by Russian banks with more than 50 percent state ownership, according to the proposals first seen by member states on July 24.


text:
Transfer deadline day: Atletico Madrid sign Toby Alderweireld and Josuha Guilavogui
Atletico Madrid have completed the double signing of Toby Alderweireld and Josuha Guilavogui for undisclosed fees.
Last Updated: 02/09/13 9:22pm
Belgium international centre-back Alderweireld, 24, leaves Ajax to sign a four-year contract at the Vicente Calderon, where he is joined by former St Etienne defensive midfielder Guilavogui.
The 22-year-old is a France international and commits his future to Atleti for the next five seasons, a statement published on the Spanish capital club's official website confirmed.
Alderweireld told clubatleticodemadrid.com: "I wanted to sign for one of the best clubs in Europe. I'm happy to be part of this club."
He had been linked with a move to Manchester City but instead takes the place of Martin Demichelis in the Atletico backline after the Argentinian decided to follow his former Malaga coach Manuel Pellegrini to the Premier League club on Sunday night.
The Belgian will reunite with countryman Thibaut Courtois - the Chelsea goalkeeper who is starting a third season on loan with the Primera Division outfit.
"He told me how great this team and its fans are," Alderweireld added. "He advised me to come because he is very happy here."
Guilavogui, who made 93 appearances for ASSE in Ligue 1, said: "I am pleased to join a big club like Atletico and am looking forward to playing in front of their fantastic fans.
"I hope to work hard for the team and win prizes in the coming years."
Atletico finished third in La Liga last season and director of sport Jose Luis Perez Caminero feels the defensive duo can provide extra security at the back while fellow summer signings David Villa and Leo Baptistao increase the side's goal threat.
He said: "Both players are strong, powerful and have quality. They will increase competition in the group and that will benefit everyone.
"They are young players with bright futures, but they have already competed at a high level for several seasons and will bring that quality into the squad."


text:
When you care, every question is important. Start here to find answers, information, and perspective. Who may need a plan for senior independence or support?
I'm here for:
Embrace Life
in a place where you can feel comfortable and secure
Nearby Communities
Our Independent Living communities are designed for seniors who want to live in an personalized apartment home with access to meals, recreational and social activities, and more.
With Assisted Living, our trained caregivers are there when you need them to assist with medication management, daily living activities, engaging activities, and coordination with outside healthcare providers.
Our Memory Care offers specially designed environments, activities and associates are specially trained to care for seniors living with cognitive challenges, including dementia and Alzheimer's.
Designed to provide attentive, skilled nursing and rehabilitation in a high quality and compassionate environment, including short- and long-term care.
Customized home health and hospice care when at home or residing in a senior living community, providing a wide array of features and services.
Continuing Care Retirement Communities
Brookdale continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs) provide a luxury senior living option where seniors can live, socialize and receive the care they need when they need it.
When you experience Brookdale you'll see that it offers more than a place to live.
Our residents' desires, dreams, wishes are at the heart of what we do every day.
Our residents' unique dreams and passions that continue to grow throughout life.


text:
From inside the book
3 pages matching Blue gourami in this book
Where's the rest of this book?
Results 1-3 of 3
What people are saying - Write a review
Review: Tropical Fish(oop)User Review - Fredrick - Goodreads
Excellent book discussing aquariums and the types of fish to stock them with. Read full review
Egg Layers 50 Bubblenest Builders 74 Scavengers
Fish Foods 86 Fish Disease Charts
Common terms and phrases
algae Amazon sword plant anacharis anal angelfish aquaria aquarium fishes baby fish barb Puntius beautiful beginning aquarist betta black tetra black variety Blue gourami bottom breeding tank brine shrimp bubblenest bubblenest builders Cabomba cardinal tetras catfishes Cichlasoma cichlids clean color varieties colorful fish community aquarium CYPRINIDS daphnia dealer different color dorsal fin dwarf gourami easily egg layers feed your fishes fertilize firemouth cichlid freeze-dried fungus giant danio glass gonopodium gravel grow guppy hatch heavily planted inch infusoria Joachim Richter keep the eggs Lake Malawi larger latipinna light live foods livebearers male and female mature mbuna mother fish mouth pair parents pearl gourami petshop Photo Poecilia popular raise sailfin molly sand scavengers Siamese fighting fish smaller snails spawning tank species specimens sphenops strain temperature tiger barb tropical fish tubifex usually Vallisneria variatus wagtail white cloud worms Xiphophorus young fish zebra zebrafish


text:
Milton, Canada
À propos
Hadil currently resides in Milton, Ontario. She is entering her final year at the University of Toronto to pursue a major in English. She wrote Find Me Peter Pan! in her Writer's Craft class when she was in grade twelve and revised it in the years that followed.The inspiration to write this tale came from reading The True Story of the Three Little Pigs by Jon Scieszka as a child. This book taught her that there is always more than one perspective of storytelling. This is Hadil's first published literary work and she has high hopes for further publications in the near future.


text:
The Company
Detroit based Quicken Loans Inc., previously Rock Financial Corp., was founded by Dan Gilbert in 1985. Initially a branch-based lender, the company launched Rockloans.com in January 1999, which quickly positioned the company as one of the fastest growing online direct mortgage lenders on the Internet.
In December 1999, Intuit Inc. (makers of market-leading software Quicken, TurboTax and QuickBooks) purchased Rock Financial. The company was renamed Quicken Loans. In August 2002, Gilbert led a small group of private investors in purchasing the Quicken Loans Inc. subsidiary back from Intuit. Quicken Loans has been privately held since. Fortunately, the company retained all Quicken Loans branding and marketing initiatives.
During the turmoil in the mortgage industry in 2008 and 2009, Quicken Loans was able to grow its market share significantly, due in large part to the company's past refusal to originate subprime mortgages.
In August 2010, Quicken Loans moved its headquarters and 1,700 full-time team members to downtown Detroit and Dan Gilbert coined the name "WEBward Avenue" to illustrate the movement toward a brain-based economy that is currently taking hold in Detroit as more tech-based companies move to Detroit along with Quicken Loans.
The company later moved an additional 2,000 team members to Detroit. Later that year the company completed the move of all its Michigan-based team members to the city. Today, more than 8,000 team members call Detroit home.
Quicken Loans ended out 2011 with a company record of $30 billion in closed loan volume. In June 2012, Quicken Loans partnered with other Detroit businesses to create "IT in the D," a program to give local university students real-world experience to prepare them for tech jobs in Detroit.
Quicken Loans closed $70 billion in residential mortgages in 2012, beating the previous record set in 2011 by more than 133 percent. The organization also significantly entered the mortgage servicing business, announcing it had built an $80 billion – and growing – servicing portfolio as of the end of calendar year 2012.
In March, Quicken Loans announced its purchase of $34 billion in mortgage servicing rights from Ally Bank, expanding its servicing portfolio to exceed $125 billion.
The Culture
According to quicken loans founder Dan Gilbert, culture is the single most important aspect of a company's success. Culture frames expectations, deconstructs bureaucracy and sets the tone for everything that an organization is today, and has the potential to achieve in the future. Understanding and incorporating that fundamental idea has ranked Quicken among the top-30 companies on Fortune magazine's annual "100 Best Companies to Work For" list for 10 consecutive years.
Gilbert knew the role culture would play in the company's success, and it is something the company leadership has spent a lot of time focusing on ever since. Every team member — and the term team member is used intentionally — is valued and Quicken Loans recognizes diverse backgrounds, experiences and talents build stronger and more effective teams. Beyond the diverse and inclusive work environment, the over the final by-product of culture is success. This is reflected in the company's rapid growth and expanding steak in lending market.
The Community
Community service is embedded in the Quicken Loans company credo, as each full- time team member is given eight hours of paid time off each year to volunteer in the community. It is essential for Quicken Loans and the additional family of companies to make a difference in their surrounding communities.
During a special blitz weekend in early August, as part of the broader ARISE Detroit! Neighborhood's Day effort, more than 1,200 Quicken Loans team members volunteered, – the company's largest volunteer event to date.
Quicken Loans also partnered with Life Remodeled, Handy Man Ministries and local Detroiters to help transform nearly 50 blocks in Detroit's North End neighborhood into a clean, safe and livable area.
Year in review…
October 2013
'Opportunity Detroit' public Wi-Fi launches in Campus Martius, Cadlliac Square the lobbies of the First National, 1001 Woodward and Chase Tower buildings.
Rock Ventures adds 1505 Woodward and 1265 Griswold to its downtown Detroit real estate portfolio.
Bedrock Real Estate Services and fine-art gallery Library Street Collective announce the launch of a dynamic art project that will make "the Z" parking structure and retail development a uniquely exciting experience for downtown visitors.
September 2013
Dan Gilbert is named as a co-chair of the Blight Revitalization Task Force by The Obama Administration.
Quicken Loans partners with the Neighborhood Service Organization to fight homelessness' in Detroit, contributing $350,000 for permanent supportive housing for homeless adults in Detroit.
August 2013
The first 15 police cruisers and 10 EMS units, paid for by a pledge from the business community (including Rock Ventures/Quicken Loans), are delivered to the Detroit Police Department.
As part of ARISE Detroit! Neighborhoods Day, more than 1,200 Quicken Loans team members clean up Detroit neighborhoods by painting, removing debris, doing yard work and more.
July 2013
The second annual Live Downtown Games kicks off with a week-long friendly competition between Quicken Loans, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Compuware, DTE Energy, Marketing Associates and Strategic Staffing Solutions. The competition recognizes the five-year, $4 million Live Downtown Program created to incentivize team members to live in the city in Detroit.
June 2013
Rock Ventures acquires 1238 Randolph Street, the former Serman's building in the historic Greektown neighborhood
The 620 and 630 Woodward buildings are acquired by Rock Ventures.
Opportunity Detroit sponsors an international design ideas competition to develop a signature project on the historic Hudson's Department Store site.
May 2013
Quicken Loans and its Family of Companies hires 1,200 paid summer interns to spend the summer living, working and playing in Detroit.
April 2013
Rock Gaming affiliate, Athens Acquisition LLC, acquires a majority interest in downtown Detroit's Greektown Casino-Hotel with a vision to enhance and grow the existing entertainment district and continue the positive momentum already occurring in the heart of downtown Detroit.
March 2013
Rock Ventures acquires the 23-story 1001 Woodward office tower, located in the heart of Detroit's emerging tech district.
Rock Ventures acquires the historic 12-story Albert Kahn-designed Vinton Building.
Rock Ventures signs master lease agreements with the Schostak Brothers and Farbman Group to manage more than 60,000 square feet of first floor retail along the Woodward Corridor in downtown Detroit.
Rock Ventures announces popular grocer Papa Joe's Gourmet Market and Catering will occupy 15,000 square feet of space in the First National Building, steps from Campus Martius Park in downtown Detroit.
Rock Ventures/Quicken Loans joins with Penske, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Platinum Equity, Shinola and the Kresge Foundation to announce an $8 million pledge to replace 100 police cruisers and 23 EMS units in the city of Detroit.
February 2013
The Roasting Plant, a unique and innovative coffee shop, opens in the Rock Ventures-owned First National Building.


text:
It is inherent to all F2P games that the cash shop must be used. It is thus inherent to all F2P games that the developers must be constantly thinking of ways to get players to use the shop. The result is a conflict of interest between developing a quality product and developing a product that makes money. I submit that the two can not ever exist in harmony.This gives me a little bit of hope that some gamers are waking up to the insanity of the model. My view on the whole thing is well documented at this point, so I won't rehash it other than to post links:
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
+1 Blogger to the Gamers Against F2P Movement
6 comments:
- Mig said...
What? Keen does a complete 180 shortly after the next "best game EVER" comes out? No way! Seriously, how the hell is Keen's blog still taken seriously at this point?
- March 18, 2010 at 10:26 AM
- sid67 said...
I actually take Keen very seriously. I think he's an excellent measure of the "common" gamer.
Perhaps not always rational, but then I don't think the "common" gamer is rational.
He represents the Everyday Normal Guy of gaming blogs.
His views may not be unique, but I think they represent the view of MOST people who game and he's able to intelligently articulate them.
That's something I value for no other reason than it helps me understand gamers like Keen.
- March 18, 2010 at 11:56 AM
- Tarik said...
Not sure where I stand on free-to-play games. Problem is that no one's yet made a good one.
I'm a bit agog at his statement that free-to-play's demise is the strain between quality and profit, as though that duality is unique to the model. I think it's endemic to the games industry, music industry, film industry, book industry ...
There's nothing particularly sacrosanct about the subscription model. It's hardly produced a string of breathtaking products either. Keen's problem, from my limited vantage, is his tendency to swing from pole-to-pole. Allods is great or all free-to-play is devilish. I don't begrudge him his flexibility of mind and willingness to reconsider matters. You'd just think he'd learn to hedge and equivocate more.
- March 18, 2010 at 12:32 PM
Keen gets excited, but I'll never fault him for backing away from a game he discovers he doesn't want to play. Unlike with some past games he actually saw the problems with Allods before it even released, and even in his excitement he made sure to remind everyone "this could turn really bad, really fast".
- March 18, 2010 at 2:32 PM
- Scott said...
Anyone who reads Keen for more than 5 minutes knows he pulls a 180 like this. Every. Single. Time. I like reading Graev but Keen is just ridiculous by now.
Doesn't matter if it's an individual game (usually is) or this time it's all of F2P. I notice that he never did actually say what his tipping point was, not that he ever seems to need one.
The only place where I take Keen "seriously" is that everything he posts will be The Next New Awesome, I typically avoid because it most likely will be a heap of trash and he will do his Jekyll & Hyde routine within 30 days or less anyway, therefore I always *seriously* hope he doesn't bother getting excited about games I'm actually interested in, such as Guild Wars 2.
- March 18, 2010 at 2:40 PM
I'll make sure to send a bunch of GW2 hype his way then =O
- March 19, 2010 at 1:07 PM