text:
Master's Programs
The applied intelligence master's degree is a 34 credit program designed to provide a theoretical and practical framework for the study of intelligence and its application in a wide variety of contexts.
The online intelligence program focuses on intelligence as a process, emphasizing the application of intelligence theory across the disciplines of national security, military, law enforcement, and competitive intelligence.
Data scientists collect, analyze, and model information for decision makers in businesses, non-profits, and government agencies.
Graduate Certificates
This program provides high-quality education for intelligence analysts through a four course, 12-credit program consisting of 3 core classes.
This program is designed to enable working professionals to extract, analyze, interpret, and present information to decision makers in the private sector.
Online courses may be taken by interested parties as stand-alone educational opportunities. Please see the following information on available graduate non-degree educational opportunities.
The Tom Ridge College of Intelligence Studies and Applied Sciences faculty member Kris Wheaton maintains three blogs that explore issues and concepts in intelligence analysis. There is also the main Tom Ridge College of Intelligence Studies and Applied Sciences Blog.
Advanced Analytic Techniques Blog
There are a variety of clubs in which our students and faculty are active members which creates opportunities for students and professors to nurture and enrich their passion for intelligence work and come together outside of the classroom setting.
Strategic and Competitive Intelligence Professionals (SCIP) Club
Established in 1986, today the Strategic and Competitive Intelligence Professionals (SCIP) organization has over 50 chapters around the world, with individual members in more than 50 nations. SCIP is a global nonprofit membership organization for everyone involved in creating and managing business knowledge. Their mission is to enhance the skills of knowledge professionals in order to help their members' companies achieve and maintain a competitive advantage. Specifically, SCIP provides education and networking opportunities for business professionals working in the rapidly growing field of competitive intelligence (the legal and ethical collection and analysis of information regarding the capabilities, vulnerabilities, and intentions of business competitors). Many SCIP members have backgrounds in market research, strategic analysis, or science and technology.
The Mercyhurst College SCIP chapter became the first SCIP student chapter in the world in 1997. Since then they've managed to provide numerous speakers to their members as well as send twenty-five students to annual conferences. Please visit SCIP's website for more information.
Law Enforcement Intelligence Club
The Law Enforcement Intelligence Club was the earliest student club to exist within the Intelligence Studies programs at Mercyhurst University. Building on its long tradition, the club regularly meets for special events, speakers, and seminars on the field.
Cyber Threat Research Analysis Club (CTRAC)
Cyber Threat Research Analysis Club (CTRAC) was founded in early 2012 by a small group of students which recognized the growing demand for analysts in cyber practices. With an objective of assisting students in getting internships and jobs, CTRAC provides its members with the knowledge, skills, and tools sought by employers in the public and private sector. Members participate in analysis projects for businesses and organizations, contributions to Cyberpedia, club led discussions, and guest speakers from around the country working in different practices of cyber.
Mercyhurst University National Security Club
What is the MUNSC? We are a recognized RSCO that is dedicated to the bringing together of individuals with an interest in national security and its related fields. We seek to network and educate ourselves and other members of the Mercyhurst Community on the issues in the world today.
Alumni Employment
Want to learn more about some of the agencies and organizations that our alumni are employed by? Check out the links below. With over 500 alumni across the world, this list isn't exhaustive, but will give you an idea of where a degree in intelligence from Mercyhurst University can take you.
National and International Government Agencies and Organizations
- Central Intelligence Agency
- Federal Bureau of Investigation
- Bureau of Customs & Border Protection
- Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco & Firearms
- Central FL High Intensity Drug Trafficking
- Defense Intelligence Agency
- Department of Defense
- Department of Homeland Security
- Holland Criminal Investigation
- Jamestown, NY Police Department
- National Air & Space Intelligence Center
- National Crime Intelligence Service, Sweden
- National Drug Intelligence Center
- National Security Agency
- Office of Naval intelligence
- US Army, Military Intelligence
- U.S. Secret Service
- Washington Baltimore HIDTA
- Washington DC Metropolitan Police Dept
Corporations and Organizations
- Accenture
- American Background Information Service
- Meritor, Inc
- BAE Systems
- Bank of America
- Booz Allen Hamilton
- Canadian Association for Security and Intelligence Studies
- Center for Strategic and International Studies
- Chautauqua Foundation
- Deloitte & Touche, LLP
- Discovery Resources, Inc
- Eastman Kodak Co
- Exxon Mobil
- Key Bank
- International Property Services
- Investment Data Corporation
- JP Morgan Chase
- Low & Associates
- McManis & Monsalve Associates
- Murphy Magonahe
- Northrup Grumman
- Philip-Morris
- Proactive Worldwide
- Procter & Gamble
- SRA International, Inc.
- Target Corporation
- TradeBytes Data Corp
- Wells Fargo
- VISA International
Professional Associations
Want to learn more about some of the professional associations that our faculty and students belong to? Check out the links below.
- Society of Competitive Intelligence Professionals
- International Association of Law Enforcement Intelligence Analysts
- Association of Former Intelligece Officers
- International Association for Intelligence Education
- International Association of Crime Analysts
- Naval Intelligence Professionals
- Society of Former Special Agents of the FBI
- Law Enforcement Intelligence Unit
- International Association of Counterterrorism and Security Professionals
- National Military Intelligence Association
The Ridge College of Intelligence Studies and Applied Sciences at Mercyhurst began its own publication arm in 2005 as the Institute began to develop its own intelligence publications.
The Mercyhurst Institute for Intelligence Studies Press since then has developed several publications now available for purchase and is in the process of developing several more. Faculty and students from the Institute have collaborated to develop these specialized publications which will be useful to intelligence students, educators, and professionals.
Wikis and Intelligence Analysis | May 17, 2012
Written By: Kevin Flanagan, JoEllen Marsh, Kathleen Moore, Emily Walker, Kristan Wheaton, and Stephanie Williams, and JoEllen Marsh, Editors
The Analyst's Cookbook | Jan 30, 2006
Written By: Kristan Wheaton, a 164-page compilation of 16 analytic methods applicable to a variety of intelligence analysis taskings.
Structured Analysis of Competing Hypotheses | Jun 09, 2006 (Currently out of print)
Description: Analytic Methodologies Project 2006, an 80-page booklet explaining an analytic method developed at the MCIIS from the original Analysis of Competing Hypotheses originally developed by Richards Heuer.
The Analyst's Style Manual | Jan 01, 2008
Description: MCIIS, a 60-page manual to guide intelligence analysts in dealing with basic grammar, spelling and abbreviation rules, as well as basic writing principles.
Walking Through the Halls of Intelligence: A Second Look at Recent Graduate Research | Feb 01, 2009
Description: Mercyhurst University Intelligence Communications Class 2007-2008, a look at a dozen research theses authored by Mercyhurst College Intelligence Studies master's degree candidates since 2006.
Undergraduate Program
Can I transfer into the Undergraduate Program?
Yes, transfer students are permitted to apply and enroll on a rolling basis. All transfer applicants must submit: A completed undergraduate admissions application, official high school transcript or GED, official college transcript(s), ACT, SAT results (if taken). Learn more about the transfer process.
What housing options are there?
Learn more about campus housing.
What core courses are required?
Visit this page for a list of core courses required.
What types of subjects can I minor in?
Mercyhurst University offers a wide range of subjects in which to minor. The most common minors for the intelligence studies program are history, political science, criminal justice, computer science, and languages. For a complete list of minors see the course catalog.
What type of research projects do the students work on while in the program?
In many of the intelligence classes students are assigned a research project.
Do you offer an undergraduate certificate program in Intelligence Studies?
We do not offer an undergraduate certificate in this program at this time.
Do you offer an undergraduate online program in Intelligence Studies?
We do not offer an undergraduate online program in Intelligence Studies at this time.
Graduate Program
How can I apply for the Graduate Program? What are the requirements?
Please view this page on how to apply for the Graduate Program and all necessary requirements.
Do you offer a graduate certificate program in Applied Intelligence?
Yes, we do offer a graduate certificate in this program.
Is a security clearance required for admission into the Graduate Program?
No, a security clearance is not required.
Do I have to pass a language test in order to be admitted to the Graduate Program?
While some background in foreign languages is helpful for success in the program, study in this area is not required for admission.
When are applications accepted/due for the graduate program in Erie, PA?
Applications to the graduate degree in applied intelligence are accepted between Oct. 1 and April 30 of each year for the following fall term. The Graduate Student Admissions Committee will begin reviewing completed applications on January 15 for highly qualified candidates. Students admitted to this program may begin their studies in the fall term only. Only full-time enrollment is available.
How many graduate students does the Department of Intelligence Studies accept into the M.S. in Applied Intelligence Program in Erie, PA?
The Department of Intelligence Studies typically accepts a cohort of 25 students into the graduate program each fall term.
Does the graduate program run on a semester system?
Beginning in the fall of 2013, the Erie, PA graduate program will run on a semester system.
Do you offer a PhD program in intelligence studies?
We do not offer any PhD programs.
Do you offer online courses or distance learning?
We do offer an online MS in Applied Intelligence degree and online graduate certificates.
Who should apply for the online programs?
Preference in admissions for online programs will be given to working professionals who will benefit from further study in the application of intelligence analysis. Please note that those who are just completing their undergraduate studies and/or do not possess professional work experience should apply to the resident MS in Applied Intelligence degree program in Erie, PA.
Financial Aid
Do you offer financial aid?
Please visit this page for financial aid information.
Does Mercyhurst offer assistantships for graduate students?
Yes. Please visit this page for assistantship information.
My employer will reimburse my tuition. Does Mercyhurst have a tuition deferment program?
Yes. Please contact Mercyhurst University for more information on tuition deferment.
Adult Students
Can I still apply to your undergraduate program if I have been out of high school for longer than four years?
Yes, you will be considered an adult undergraduate student and the tuition and fees are slightly different than a traditional undergraduate student. Please view this page for more details about adult students at Mercyhurst.
What is an adult applicant?
Applicants are eligible to be admitted as adults, and be eligible for the reduced tuition rates when 4 calendar years have passed since his/her high school graduation.
Exceptions may include an individual who:
- is married
- has a legal dependent other than a spouse
- is a graduate student
- is a ward of the court/parents are deceased/lives independently of parents
- is a veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces
- has worked full time for at least 2 years and is independent
Are scholarships available to adult students?
Yes, Mercyhurst does have adult scholarships.
How big is Mercyhurst University?
You can view the most current campus statistics here, in addition to a profile of the campus here.
How can I plan a visit to see your university campus?
If you are considering the undergraduate program, call the undergraduate admissions office at 1-800-825-1926, ext. 2202, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. to schedule a tour and an appointment with a faculty member. Locally, call 824-2202.
If you are considering the graduate program, call the graduate admissions office at 1-800-825-1926, ext. 2297, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. to schedule a tour and an appointment with a faculty member. Locally, call 824-2297.
How can I obtain a copy of the university brochure?
Use the Request Information Form to request one.
Do you offer online courses or distance learning?
We do offer an online MS in Applied Intelligence degree and online graduate certificates.
Who should apply for the online programs?
Preference in admissions for online programs will be given to working professionals who will benefit from further study in the application of intelligence analysis. Please note that those who are just completing their undergraduate studies and/or do not possess professional work experience should apply to the resident MS in Applied Intelligence degree program in Erie, PA.
What types of organizations are likely to hire me after I complete the program?
Graduates of the program have been hired by a whole range of government and non-government organizations.
Where can I find the complete curriculum and course descriptions for the program?
A complete curriculum of the university can be found in the undergraduate course catalog or the graduate course catalog.
Where can I find information on the academic calendar?
Information for when the program begins, and other academic dates is available on the academic calendar.
Do you accept international students?
We do accept international students. For more information please check our international students informational page.
With whom is Mercyhurst University accredited?
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
3624 Market Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104-2680
Phone: (215)662-5606
Visit the page on the MSCHE site.
Veteran Services
Am I entitled to benefits if I have served/am serving in the military?
If you have served our country in the active duty military, the reserves or the National Guard you may be eligible for education benefits under the Montgomery GI Bill.
Tuition and Fees
How much does the program cost?
Information on undergraduate tuition and fees for traditional students is available on this page. Information on tuition and fees for undergraduate adult students is available on this page. Information on graduate tuition and fees is available on this page.
When businesses, institutions, nonprofit organizations, or governmental agencies need to reduce uncertainty, one place they can turn to is the Tom Ridge College of Intelligence Studies and Applied Sciences at Mercyhurst. Many already have.
The Tom Ridge College of Intelligence Studies and Applied Sciences at Mercyhurst University has a research and analysis arm, the Institute for Intelligence Studies and Information Science. This center has provided research and analysis products to clients since 1995. Over the years, it has done research and analysis for agencies such as Department of Defense, the European Union Parliament, Central Intelligence Agency, Procter & Gamble, Coca Cola, Erie Regional Chamber of Commerce, Eriez Magnetics, and many more.
Here are some examples of the types of services that Institute for Intelligence Studies and Applied Sciences can provide:
- Focused, open source research: Under the direction of The Ridge College faculty, our student research requested topics. These requests can range from amassing large databases for manufacturers to finding the latest developments in highly specialized scientific endeavors.
- Custom analysis: Also under the direction of The Ridge College faculty, our students perform open source research on intelligence requirements. Utilizing a variety of analytic techniques, the students produce estimative intelligence products and briefing to meet decision-maker needs.
- Custom threat assessments: Under the direction of The Ridge College faculty, our students develop targeted threat assessments to support organizational needs.
- Analytic test beds: With a student population in excess of 400 candidates, The Ridge College offers opportunities for researchers and software developers to test hypothesis, techniques, and products on the future of the intelligence workforce.
- Program evaluation: We offer a third party analytical assessment of your organization's programs. It provides the customer and funding authorities a review of program deliverables, fiduciary soundness, and program impact. The professional expertise we possess is unparalleled in providing unbiased analysis of core performance criteria and communicating that information in a concise context for all types of decision makers.
The Tom Ridge College of Intelligence Studies and Applied Sciences at Mercyhurst University, through its Institute for Intelligence Studies and Applied Sciences, has a number of training options for potential clients to consider. For more information contact:
Brad Gleason
Institute Director
Phone: 814-824-2423
Email: email@example.com
Can the Ridge College develop training courses for my organization?
The Ridge College has developed courses of varying lengths and to varying degrees of intensity for the Department of State, the Department of Defense, the FBI, and other government agencies, including some foreign governments. We are prepared to use our highly skilled subject matter experts and instructional designers to develop effective training courses to meet client needs. Potential areas include, but are not limited to:
- National Security Intelligence
- Law Enforcement Intelligence
- Competitive Intelligence
- Intelligence for Cyber Issues
- Intelligence for Counterterrorism Issues
What training courses are available from the Ridge College?
Courses have covered topics such as counterterrorism, counterintelligence, and intelligence analysis methodologies.The Ridge College faculty has crafted unique, application-oriented programs that give intelligence analysts more tools to add to their toolbox. The Ridge College offers course packages with the option of taking train-the-trainer courses at Mercyhurst or the client's chosen site, or The Ridge College faculty and staff can train the personnel at the client's choice of locations.
Advanced Analytic Techniques (5 day course)
This course is designed to provide an opportunity for students to explore techniques emerging from the physical and social sciences and apply those techniques to intelligence problems. Focusing on a variety of techniques from a variety of disciplines, this course will expose an advanced student to new and potentially useful methods for conducting intelligence analysis.
Analytic Methodologies for Law Enforcement and Homeland Security (5 day course)
The course reviews the key requirements for intelligence in law enforcement and homeland security. The course focuses the use of advanced analytic methodologies to analyze structured and unstructured law enforcement data produced by all source collection. Students will apply these concepts, using a variety of tools, to develop descriptive, explanatory, and estimative products and briefings for decision-makers in the field.
Intelligence Communications (5 day course)
The skill most valued by the intelligence consumer is the ability to communicate, briefly and effectively, the results of detailed analytic work. This course, through repetitive application of a focused set of skills to a body of information of constantly increasing complexity, is designed to prepare intelligence analysts to deliver a variety of intelligence products in both written and oral formats.
Law Enforcement Intelligence for Analysts (5 or 10 day course)
This course exposes analysts who will be working in an intelligence capacity within a law enforcement agency to applied analytic technologies, methodologies, and tools for both investigative case support and the production of tactical and strategic intelligence products. Emphasis will be placed on sources, methods, writing, and briefing for law enforcement decision-makers.
Law Enforcement Intelligence for Officers and First-Line Supervisors (5 day course)
This course will identify the role of officers and first-line supervisors in the use of intelligence. The focus will be on how officers and first-line supervisors can contribute to the intelligence-driven policing initiatives within an agency.
Managing a Law Enforcement intelligence Unit (5 or 10 day course)
This course provides a comprehensive overview of the primary concerns in managing an effective law enforcement intelligence unit or law enforcement intelligence operations. Practical exercises will allow participants to plan for the management of effective, safe, legal, and ethical intelligence operations within their agency.
Structured Analysis of Competing Hypothesis (3 day course)
This analytic workshop introduces the use of analysis of competing hypothesis and the structured analysis of repeating hypotheses. Students will discuss why hypotheses testing is important and apply ACH and SACH to develop high quality written estimates and visual presentations through various exercises.
Using Intelligence for National Security and Law Enforcement Executives (1 day course)
Managers, whether in national security or law enforcement, need to understand the basic principles of the intelligence discipline, and when & how to use it as a management tool. However, with the exception of military officers and usually those at the most senior ranks in their national governments, there are no formal training programs to teach managers how to use this very powerful management discipline. The purpose of this executive seminar is to provide senior managers and administrators a working level understanding of intelligence, its essential operations and key managerial uses. The course will focus on the role and responsibilities of managers to define and articulate their specific need(s) for intelligence. Working in small teams, attendees will draft executive-level intelligence requirements in one of the four basic categories: decision making, action, planning, and information. They will present their Intelligence Requirements (IR's) to a panel of experienced national security and law enforcement executives, who in turn, will critique the IR's for the class as a whole.
Can the Ridge College develop custom training to meet our needs?
Yes. Ridge College subject matter experts and instructional designers are poised to modify any existing courses to meet client needs. Clients may choose learning modules from a variety of pre-existing courses or request unique learning modules to be developed to meet their own distinctive training requirements.
Contact us for all of your training needs at 814-824-3044.
Contact Us
Mercyhurst Department of Intelligence Studies and Applied Sciences
Phone: 814-824-2131
Email: email@example.com


text:
Join the Fight! Say NO to the Pay Raise for Prison Inmates
February 11, 2019
- Inmates
- Prisoners
- Taxpayer Dollars
At a time when many middle class New Yorkers are struggling to make ends meet, the last thing we should be doing is using tax dollars to give a pay raise to prison inmates.
But that's exactly what will happen under a new bill (S.3138) sponsored by New York City Democrat Senator Myrie, being considered in the State Senate.
Instead of giving a break to rapists and murderers, we should be giving a break to hardworking taxpayers. By signing our petition today, you can help send a loud and clear message that this misguided idea should be soundly defeated.
Join the Fight, and say NO to the Pay Raise for Prison Inmates today!

subset: commoncrawl


text:
March 26, 2013
Hearted ♥
11 comments
I think I spent all night on etsy last night haha.ReplyDelete
I love searching Etsy, too! My shop is https://www.etsy.com/shop/CocoCocoaReplyDelete
That first necklace is gorgeous!! Also love the doggy donuts! I bet Brutus would like one of those!ReplyDelete
omg. Etsy is my obsession- forget pinterest! ha haReplyDelete
- AnonymousMarch 26, 2013 at 2:02 PM
I love Etsy way too much!ReplyDelete
That aquamarine necklace is amazing! I'm always drawn to aquamarines because they're my daughter's birthstone.ReplyDelete
All these Etsy finds are amazing, I especially love that world map! Thanks for sharing! xoReplyDelete
I love the journal, and the coral necklace! I really enjoy checking out new items on etsy! :)ReplyDelete
xx Denysia Yu
Love, love, LOVE that first necklace. Just so happens to be my birthstone too! I've never really spent time searching through Etsy. And now I need to. Thanks for the new time waster ;)ReplyDelete
Oh I have been so eyeing that map for awhile now!ReplyDelete
- AnonymousMarch 27, 2013 at 2:16 PM
ahh love Etsy...I need to get that map!ReplyDelete
I love reading your thoughts and opinions and I do try to answer all comments and questions. If you would like to contact me directly feel free to email me at firstname.lastname@example.com or find me on Instagram @_kymfox.


text:
The spending of the millennial generation is varied, and vastly different from any of its predecessors. While there are many things millennials don't actively buy, like homes, cars, or even cable, recent graduates do spend a ludicrous amount of money on non-essentials—often without even being cognizant of these terrible spending patterns.
Luxury Gym Memberships
Fitness is important, and if a gym membership gets you working out, then by all means it's worth the cost and the savings in health care later on down the road. However, luxury gym memberships are just that—a luxury, meaning a non-essential. Spending $100 each month on a gym that has a sauna, fresh cucumber water, or a saltwater pool may seem like a good idea, but really, what are you getting out of that $1,200 spent each year?
If you end up heading to the treadmill each time, you're really doing your wallet a disservice. You can easily spend only $25 or less each month on a basic gym membership, meaning less than a dollar a day for use. If you're worried about your budget, switch to a lower cost gym, or simply forgo it and go on a run in your neighborhood each day. You'll see the dividends in your bank account.
Smoking is bad for you, although in 2016 that goes without saying. There's no way to argue around it, but the fact remains that millennials continue to buy cigarettes. If you're still smoking, you know how much money you waste on a product that kills you with each puff. Breaking it down into monetary values, the average smoker in the United States spends over $5,000 each year on their favorite tobacco products.
It's time to quit and give your lungs—and your wallet—a break. If you just can't go without your nicotine fix, consider patches. If that doesn't work, try switching to a vaping device and use different e-liquid flavors from a company like NJOY to keep you from going back to dangerous tobacco.
Binge Drinking
Heading out to your local bar and having a couple drinks costs more than just a few bucks these days. There are several ways to calm down this type of spending. Take only cash to the bar, and when once it runs out, know that the purchasing of drinks for the night is done. Another option is to have a drink beforehand (as long as you're taking a cab or have a willing designated driver) to cut down on the number of drinks you will consume while out. Finally, cut back on your drinking in general. It's a depressant and costs a small fortune for each night out, meaning it's a waste of money.
Juice Cleanses
Millennials seem to have a weak spot for juice cleanses, citing purported health benefits as a reason to shell over hundreds of dollars for liquid fruit. However, these supposed health benefits might not be as beneficial as previously touted. Juicing removes fiber from fruits and veggies, meaning you won't be full or satisfied when you're done. The sugars in the juice can also make your blood sugar levels dip and skyrocket throughout the day, meaning huge mood and energy swings. Most importantly, cleanses can be dangerous, as your body isn't getting the sufficient calories or nutrition needed for days at a time.
Coffee Shops
You'd be hard pressed to find a city that doesn't have multiple Starbucks coffee shops lining its blocks. Coffee chains are one of the biggest wallet drainers known to millennials, and the convenience and branding of these chains makes it hard to say no to a latte delight on your way to that early morning conference. If you're an avid coffee shop customer, you might be spending over $1,200 a year. Instead of waiting in long drive-thru lines, brew your own coffee at home. It's faster, cheaper, and often tastes better than what you can find at your local coffee chain. If you want even more convenience, grab a Keurig to fill those last-minute cups.
Poor money habits and non-essential spending plague millennials, but with early recognition of unnecessary expenses, saving can become more of a reality for today's recent graduates.


text:
Emma Stewart
WRI Ross Center For Sustainable Cities
Director, Urban Efficiency & Climate
Emma Stewart is the Urban Efficiency & Climate Director at the WRI Ross Center for Sustainable Cities, where she is responsible for the Institute's global work on urban building and vehicle efficiency, urban distributed renewables and city climate strategy. Prior to joining WRI in 2018, Ms. Stewart was Chief Business Development Officer at Impact Infrastructure, a software start-up automating social cost-benefit analyses in order to cost-justify greener infrastructure. She also founded and directed design software giant Autodesk's Sustainability Solutions department, where she led a product and go-to-market team to make sustainable design a "no-brainer" for millions of engineering and design customers. She also founded Autodesk's Sustainable Design Living Lab program, which uses Autodesk facilities as a testing ground for new software to rapidly green existing buildings. She also co-authored Autodesk's C-FACT methodology (a Corporate Finance Approach to Climate-stabilizing Targets), an open-source, science-driven, business-friendly approach to greenhouse gas target-setting, which was named #1 of public company targets by Climate Counts. Stewart has been a board member of the U.S. Green Building Council, the group behind LEED ratings for buildings, and the elected Chair of U.S. Green Building Council's Advisory Council. She is also a member of the faculty at UC Berkeley's Haas School of Business and Stanford Graduate School of Business.


text:
What does low tone mean?, by Starfish Therapies. Great explanation!
Muscle tone is the resting state of your muscles. When a child has low muscle tone it means that they need to put a lot more energy into getting their muscles to turn on to do what they want them to do. I often try to explain this to parents by describing that feeling when you finally get to sink into the couch or your favorite arm chair and relax and then someone calls you from the other room and you have to rev up the energy to get up. Think about having to do that every time you move because that's what it can be like for kiddos who have low tone.
When I talk about strength being a challenge for kids with low tone I am talking about not just their ability to generate enough force to move their arm or their leg, but also their endurance and their ability to switch their muscles on and off. These components all work together to produce movement.


text:
Karel and I live together, train together and work together. But when it comes to racing, we both have a different strategy for feeling "race ready" in the 24 hours before a big event. Whereas I like to talk, watch funny videos/shows on the computer, laugh and socialize, Karel likes to hibernate with techno music, visualizing his race. Respecting Karel's pre-race rituals, I planned a long ride on Friday so that Karel could have time to himself, doing whatever he needed to do to relax without any distractions.
As for my ride, I biked the course! Well, all but 6 miles in town.
Whereas I've had an unfriendly relationship with this bike course for each of the four times that I have raced in the Ironman World Championship (2007, 2011, 2013, 2015), I wanted to cover the course (to Hawi and back) all by myself.
And wow, the roads were rather empty from athletes! Although I did see a handful of athletes scattered over the Queen K and a few in Hawi, most (if not all) were not IM Kona racers.
Since riding 100+ miles is a rarity for me and Karel (a combo of where we live and we do more higher intensity training versus long aerobic miles), I also looked forward to sharing 5+ hours with my body and mind. If I've learned anything about the IM Kona bike course it's that the weather is very unpredictable and you have to be physically fit but very mentally strong.
To keep the ride structured instead of just going for a 100+ mile ride, I used the first 8 miles to the airport as a warm-up and then started my main set for the rest of the ride. I went 20 minutes "on" at Ironman effort followed by a 5 minute EZ spin. I continued this for the remainder of my ride (4+ hours), all the way back to town.
The winds were not howling but it was hotter than hot. I felt like I was riding in a sauna - and this was even with a 7am start to my ride.
I went through 8 bottles during my ride (5 with calories, 2 with "electrolytes" and 1 with plain water to use for cooling my head. I had a stop in Hawi at the gas station to refill my bottles.
While a year is a long time away, I am getting more and more excited to return back to the Big Island in 2019 for the Ironman World Championship - as a participant. Whereas I turned down my slot last year at IM CHOO, I'm really glad that I took my slot at IMWI last month as I feel much more confident with my open water swimming abilities, my riding skills and my running form. This was a great season for me (training and racing) and I hope to build off this season....after I take a well deserved short off-season break near the end of the month. Next up I have the Hincapie Gran Fondo next Saturday.
While I didn't have any lows during the ride (this may have been because I didn't have to run a marathon off the bike), there were a few times when I found myself getting lazy with my pedal stroke. Having the set of 20 minutes ON and 5 minutes OFF helped as I could stay focus and then look forward to a little reset.
Aside from the cars/trucks on the road, the shoulder was pretty empty compared to the last few days. As someone who enjoys courses with lots of spectators (and loos), I also feel this ride was very valuable for me to be alone for so long with my own thoughts.
Stats from the ride:
Total ride time: 5:28.59
Total distance: 106 miles
Average speed: 19.4
Elevation gain: 3635
Normalized power: 143 watts
Average HR: 120
Average temp: 82 (Max temp 97!)
Stats from the ride:
Total ride time: 5:28.59
Total distance: 106 miles
Average speed: 19.4
Elevation gain: 3635
Normalized power: 143 watts
Average HR: 120
Average temp: 82 (Max temp 97!)
After I returned home, I wanted to see how my legs felt so I went for a quick 16 min run (1 mile out, 30 sec walk, 1 mile back) along Kuakini. I kept the pace comfortable and as usual, I wore my hydration belt. I was glad I had it for it was toasty! After cleaning up and eating, it wasn't too long later that Karel, his mom and I went down to bike check-in. Karel's slot for checking in his bike was 2:30-6pm so he waited until around 4pm to check in his bike. It was a very cloudy afternoon and as I write this now (7pm) it is pouring outside. Tomorrow should be an interesting day with the weather!
As a spectator and fan of the sport, I really love this part of the Ironman World Championship. There are crowds of people, you can feel the nervous energy of the athletes and you can sense the excitement of dropping off the bike and gear bags with only one sleep to go until race day.
The finish line arch and stage are coming together. It won't be too long until we get to witness the relief and joy by the athletes as they cross the most incredible finish line in the sport.
As for the bike/gear bag check in procedure, first athletes will go under an arch (athletes only) and it's a big show for spectators and athletes. There's music, announcers and tons of volunteers. There are literally people just watching for hours as athletes check in their bikes.
Once you enter the athlete-only area, there are a few booths where athletes with their respective bike gear/equipment will get some swag from the companies. For example, Karel got a Shimano hat because he has Shimano on his bike. It's a cool way for companies to say thank you to their customers.
And then there are the counters. There are a good two dozen plus people counting all the bike specs to determine how many athletes have certain brands on their bike. These counters look at everything from bike components, wheel brands, saddle brands, power meters and so much more. The final tally typically circulates the internet a few days after IM Kona on various triathlon websites.
Next up, athletes get their picture taken. Well, actually the bike gets a photo. I believe this is for security reasons but there could be other reasons as well.
Next is another wait in line before finally entering the transition area.
With so many volunteers, from all of the world, it's really neat to see how many people come here just to help out with the event.
The volunteer takes the gear bag and then the athlete walks to the gear bags to drop off the bags (Blue = Bike, Red = Run) and then place the bike in the floor rack. The helmet must go on the bike and cycling shoes can go inside the Bike bag or on the bike. Nothing can be on the floor next to the bike. The gear bags are also clear for security reasons.
The transition area on the pier is huge. With 2500 athletes, everyone has to cover the same route to enter and leave the transition area for swim to bike and bike to run.
After Karel was finished checking in his stuff, he did a quick video with Czech TV before heading back to the condo. The rest of the evening was "feet up, eat up."
One more sleep and this is where it's all going to start (and finish) tomorrow morning!
To follow the race, check out Ironman.com, Ironman Now on Facebook and the Ironman Tracker App.
Karel is bib number 1322 (40-44 AG).
I'll also be sharing pictures/updates on my Trimarni Facebook page tomorrow as often as I can.
Thanks for the support!


text:
In September I began the Certificate Program at the Allender Center, and I took with me one overstuffed suitcase, one tender story, and one eager heart. I quickly discovered that my time in Seattle would include joy and sorrow, frustration and fear, barriers and breakthrough, isolation and community. At times it has felt like the…Read More
All articles filed in The Allender Center
What Can I Do?
I turned off the television and stomped my foot and almost growled with agony and anger. I couldn't help it! I turned around and harshly spoke, "Why hasn't the church spoken about this? I am so mad! Why isn't more being said from our pulpits?"Read More
Mashed Potatoes and Trust
"Mom! You agreed to let us make the mashed potatoes, and we're doing it. You don't need to micro-manage the whole process!" The words my daughter spoke stung, but they were true. I had allowed her to be in charge of creating the decadent, buttery-smooth potatoes that were her favorite part of our traditional Thanksgiving…Read More
A Seed to Feed Generations
Mathew 17:20 "Because you're not yet taking God seriously," said Jesus. "The simple truth is that if you had a mere kernel of faith, a poppy seed, say, you would tell this mountain, "Move!" and it would move. There is nothing you wouldn't be able to tackle." (The Message) I grew up with a Baptist…Read More
Travel Mugs and Sacred Play
My first stop after checking in at the ticket counter was Starbucks. I stared at the travel mugs, not particularly thrilled with what I saw. Option 1: Plastic insulated tumbler in traditional holiday red and white. Initially, this cup grabbed my attention with its sparkling red letters and crisp white background. "Let's Merry". A closer…Read More
Opening My Eyes
All transformation requires disruption. And it seems to me that no one changes because it's a good idea.Read More
One of my most loved, and at the same time, most hated parts of the experiences I had at Recovery Weeks was the excursion at the end of the week.Read More
Defining Choices
Our yes's and no's define us. They're the choices we make to pursue or stop the cause of what we find permissible.Read More
Hello To The Next Woman
Hello, Right now you are on cloud nine. The unending attention, adoring romantic words, and extravagant life style are all a woman raised in our culture could ever hope for…almost too good to be true.Read More
Choosing to Return
Salmon sculptures inlay the floors in swirling eddies of bronze and granite at Sea-Tac Airport. I've rushed over these fish many times as I've navigated a season of growth and vocational transition in Seattle. This time flying out of Seattle was different. This trip was the last trip. Like most transitions, my move to Seattle…Read More


text:
Currency Displayed in
Here is a beautiful and unique Sterling Silver cocktail ring. Take a look at this one of a kind Deep Blue Turquoise Ring by John Hartman. The focus of this piece is a larger rectangular cabochon of deep blue turquoise. This genuine Egyptian Turquoise cabochon is considered AA high grade. This gem is a deep blue color and features stunning red and brown matrix. The rectangle shaped Egyptian Turquoise gem is set into the piece with a clean Sterling Silver bezel. To each side the stone is accented with a hand stamped design and raindrops. This Deep Blue Egyptian Turquoise an Silver Ring features a beautiful stamped sunburst design shank. This silver ring shank is heavy duty and ultra durable. Artisan handmade in Durango, Colorado USA, this piece feature the Southwestern Jewelry hallmark "John Hartman Durango Co".
The stone measures : 11/16 inch long X 3/8 inch wide. The ring is a size 10 3/4.
All prices are in USD


text:
I love extra cash!September 17th, 2008 at 09:33 pm
So I deposited $200.00 in my checkings today, which feels good since I just paid most of my bills for the month.
I also got $50.00 from the research study I did last month. YAY! I'll deposit that tomorrow. I had a phone interview with another recruiter for a study that could possibly pay $350. I really want to do it because that would be a much needed loan payment.
It's finacially scary right now for alot of people. I'm making an extra effort to put all my extra cash towards paying off my loans and increasing my savings.


text:
"Growing up, connecting with other people was difficult," says the Melbourne-born, Hong Kong-raised and now Brooklyn-based photographer Ward Roberts. "Even today, finding the right words is a substantial struggle," he admits. "But, playing sport in China or in Australia — or America, Europe, Indonesia — is something that most people understand."
Images, too, transcend language. Roberts's forthcoming book, "Courts 02" (a sequel to his "Courts 01," published in 2012), contains pastel-tinged pictures of grounds used for basketball games or tennis matches. He continued to hunt for sparse lots in densely packed cities, but the second installment is "more refined" and captured from different angles, he says. "I also study the light at certain times of the year. In New York, for example, I waited for autumn when the leaves are a fiery red to get a burst of subtle color against the raw exterior of a building, and I took one of the images in the winter after a blizzard and the snow added a gentleness."
In spite of the seemingly idyllic scenes, the predominant theme for Roberts is imperfection. "When you walk into a space and the garden and the building are meticulous, and the door is perfectly painted, it lacks a soul; it lacks a human element," he says. "Whether the gate is slightly open or there's a lamp on in the back of the building, there's always a subtle wink in these photographs that someone's just been there" — a presence that can be more easily felt with Roberts's release of three larger, limited-edition posters.


text:
Remember: the goal of your query letter/email is to entice the agent/editor, so that you can GET YOUR MANUSCRIPT READ--a partial or (*gasp*) full manuscript request is the ultimate prize for following the query letter rules.
Good luck, and be sure to click on the "Subscribe to Happily Ever After" button on the right of this blog. That will ensure you don't miss a thing as we...
Happily My Ever After,
Query Letter Top 10 Do's and Don'ts:
- DO double-check the agent's name and email address and if he/she is still accepting submissions. Be sure to have done your homework and have a list of which agents actually WANT your material. It's not like testing done spaghetti; don't throw your query out there, willy-nilly, to see what sticks. Spend the time doing your research and you are more likely to get a request for a manuscript.
- DO send exactly what's asked for in the agent's/publisher's submission guidelines. Nothing more, nothing less. Yes, that means if they want a synopsis, you must write one!
- DO put your own email address and phone number on the bottom or in the body of your query letter to facilitate a reply. Nothing screams, "I don't care about my book," quicker than not enclosing a way for the editor/agent to contact you!
- DO spell check, grammar check and have your query letter proofread by someone with that skill set. So very many query letters that I see from writers fail in this simple step!
- DO thank agents that took the time to consider your manuscript, even if it was a rejection.
- DON'T call your book a "fictional novel" because a novel is fiction.
- DON'T use fancy colors, borders, fonts, etc. for your query letter email. You are a professional writer, so use standard formatting for business letters. What this means in an email: flush left margins, paragraph return between paragraphs, Times New Roman or Courier font, and NO ATTACHMENTS unless the agent/editor has specifically requested them. Your query won't make it through the virus filters of most agencies/publishers with unsolicited attachments.
- DON'T mention in your query how much relatives, friends, etc. loved your book. Unless you are related to a famous writer!
- DON'T take rejections personally, and never retaliate against an agent/publisher for a rejection. File it. Move on.
- DON'T stop writing and submitting your work!
Did this help? If so, drop me a line below, or contact me through my website at www.DylanNewton.com. While you're there, sign up for my Newton Newsletter so you'll be the first to know about freebies, author swag, speaking engagements, book signings and other events!
Want some other resources for query letters? Here are a few of my favorites:
- Writer's Market always has some great tips: http://blog.writersmarket.com/
- A treasure trove of information can be found at http://agentquery.com/
- Ready to test out your query...or want to watch as the voracious Query Shark herself devours ones that don't make the cut? Check out http://queryshark.blogspot.com/2007/03/how-query-shark-works.html and beware, it's not for the faint of heart (but it is extremely helpful!).


text:
GENEVA: The all-new McLaren 720S, unveiled on Tuesday at the Geneva Motor Show, takes everything that was great about the 650S and makes it even better still.
The new Super Series car (the term the company uses to refer to vehicles that sit below its hypercars but above its super sports cars) has an entirely new, more menacing appearance and a much more potent V8 under the layers of carbon fiber.
It has been opened up to 4- from 3.5 litres and in doing so the car now offers a maximum output of 710bhp (or 720PS, hence its name) alongside a 0-100kph time of 2.9 seconds.
"Power, torque and throttle response are all significantly enhanced compared to the first-generation Super Series, yet with fuel efficiency and emissions also notably improved," said McLaren Super Series Vehicle Line director Haydn Baker of the new engine.
Top speed is 341kph, and on the way to that figure, it will hit 200kph in 7.8 seconds and 300kph in 21.4 seconds.
"Super Series is the core of the McLaren business and personifies the blend of extreme performance, crafted luxury and unparalleled driver involvement that is the McLaren heartland. This is the first time we have replaced a product family and the new 720S is absolutely true to McLaren's pioneering spirit in being a revolutionary leap forwards, both for our brand and the supercar segment," said McLaren Automotive CEO Mike Flewitt.
A new engine and a new look are just the start of the changes. The new carbon fibre chassis is stronger and roomier so that the car offers driver and passenger more comfort on longer journeys. The upward swinging dihedral doors are bigger and also form part of the roof so that getting in and out of the car should be hassle free too as there's no head height restriction.
The car is also the first to feature the next generation of McLaren's digital suspension and chassis system - Proactive Chassis Control II. It can actively adjust the ride to suit track, race or comfort and even uses acclerometers (like in a smartphone) on each wheel to measure tyre contact with the road and adjust damping rate to suit.
"Proactive Chassis Control II generates a significant amount of additional grip, but not at the expense of the balance and feel of the car," said Mark Vinnels, Executive Director - Product Development, at McLaren Automotive. "The depth and breadth of handling precision and ride comfort in combination with the peerless level of driver involvement in the second-generation McLaren Super Series is simply extraordinary."
Inside, the cabin's instrumentation adapts to suit the driver's mood. A pop-up driver display can show everything from navigation to fuel economy and what's playing through the speakers, or it can fold down in full track mode to show speed, revs and gear selected.
This piece of high-tech kit sits well among the hand-machined aluminum switches and highest quality leather trim that dress the cabin and go some way to supporting the company's claim that the 720S is "The most complete supercar on sale today."


text:
Fayemi would suffer a worse defeat this time – Fayose says
Ekiti governor, Ayo Fayose, believes that his deputy and PDP candidate, Kolapo Olusola, would win the July 14th gubernatorial election in the state.
Immediately after the emergence of Fayemi as the flag bearer of APC in the forthcoming governorship election, the governor of Ekiti state, Ayo Fayose, appreciated APC for presenting a candidate that the Ekiti people love voting against.
He shared via his twitter account:
"I thank the APC for giving Ekiti people a candidate they love to vote against at all times. Fayemi should not celebrate this Pyrrhic victory yet because it is nothing but a flame that will be quenched on July 14. He should expect to suffer worse defeat compared to that of 2014".
Fayose's response to Fayemi's primary victory is in stark contrast to how the former governor responded when the PDP chose Olusola as its own candidate.
After the PDP primary, Fayemi put out a statement congratulating Olusola, hailing the deputy governor's victory "in an orderly and peaceful primary" as "a welcome development."
Fayemi then said that the APC would give the PDP flag bearer a good fight as "the APC still remains the preferred choice for the generality of Ekiti people."


text: Our administrative offices are closed on Easter Sunday, 4th of July, Thanksgiving and December 25th to allow our employees to be with their families as much as possible on these two days. However; our campus is bustling with activity and all shifts are dedicated to the care of our furry students on these two days! Our Campus is full on Holidays – so be sure to make your reservation and deposit early!


text:
Custom flash drives as a promo tool and materials vehicle is about as personal as you can get in this high-tech world of ours. We're all interconnected now, which is a fancy way of saying, "Not Connected." Hey, I got Facebook, I got Twitter. I love searching YouTube for, well, EVERYTHING I need help with… cookie recipes… web design tips and tricks… how to change a blinker bulb in a 1997 Chevy Lumina.(Don't ask). But let's face it, with the ease of access to all this information at our fingertips, it's becoming really easy to become disconnected. Disconnected from the PERSON you need to connect to. Opportunities to experience people face to face, hand in hand are far and few between compared to the business environment of era's past. When you encounter these opportunities, you need to make it count. And it doesn't matter if you're giving a talk to a lecture filled with great minds or peddling the newest hydrophobic aerosol. This is where custom flash drives or even webkeys come in to play.
Let's say you're rolling out a new product this year. The new Model 2020! The website's done. So are the


text:
Everyone needs a coach….. especially a coach! If you are entrusted with guiding another human life towards their greatness you need to be able to take critical feedback.
I am a coach for entrepreneurs who are needing guidance to keep their health and life while building their business. And I 'get coached' I want to bring to you business support every Friday and to show-case other entrepreneurs who are also killin it in business.. one such amazing coach is Sheryl Ann Andrews The strength and solution detective. She has a great book out called Manage your critic that will give you tools to help you break past any limiting beliefs by asking the right questions and she also teaches how to receive feedback in a productive way. Pop over to her website and get a copy, here work with me has allowed me to come on leaps and bounds in my business. http://
#FortuneFriday #GutsyEntrepreneur
Copyright © 2020 Sian Young. All rights reserved.


text:
Fake Vegan Lashes Tutorial
I don't know about you ladies, but I've struggled for a long time with applying fake lashes. The glue, the positioning, the craziness that ensues! I filmed this YouTube tutorial to show you how I overcame my fear of falsies and apply them in a simple, step-by-step way.
Filming this video, I realized why so many YouTubers skip over the applying false lashes step. There's a lot of adjustment and it's not always pretty. But the end result can be gorgeous, so it's worth it IMO.
There are tons of options out there for vegan lashes, but these are my favorite synthetic falsies:
- Bloom lashes - Dahlia: http://bit.ly/2nbAfMB
- Ardell lashes - Demi Black: http://amzn.to/2nbojL6
- Thrive Causemetics lashes - Jackie: http://bit.ly/2obRCyS
- Thrive Causemetics lash glue: http://bit.ly/2obRCyS


text:
Charming house 20 minutes from Libourne
Superb house built in the 18th century which is located 20 minutes north of Libourne. This beautiful building is nestled in the heart of a 3.4 Ha plot of land.
The main house is composed of reception rooms, offices, 12 bedrooms as well as various bedrooms/family rooms on the first floor and an indoor swimming pool (9.40 x 4.40 m).
The entire main building has a surface area of approximately 600 m². In addition, there is an outbuilding (80 m²), a car park and a cabin in the garden.
The main house
The main entrance opens onto a large lounge on the left. Opposite, you will find a large fully equipped kitchen with a beautiful tiled floor and a piano. In continuity, a long corridor leads to an office, a bedroom with shower room and WC, as well as a double 18th century style lounge.
On the first floor, you will find 3 large bedrooms with shower rooms and toilets, as well as a suite with bathroom. In addition, another part of the floor has a large bedroom with dresssing, a family room with mezzanine and bathroom, an office and 4 other bedrooms.
There is also direct access to the garage, as well as the indoor swimming pool with large windows.
This part of the property is about 80 m² with 3 bedrooms, living/kitchen, WC and 2 bath/shower rooms. The outbuilding is accessed from the back via an independent entrance.
The exteriors
Outside, you will find woods and meadows, a parking lot and a tree house.
- Rooms 30 rooms
- Surface 600 m²
- Total area 680 m²
- Heating Central, Fuel oil, Individual
- Hot water Boiler
- Condition Good condition
- View Countryside Hills
- Built in 1770
- Availability Free
- Fireplace
- Internet
- Car port
- Electric gate
- Swimming pool
- 1 Apartment 80 m²
- 12 Bedrooms
- 1 Land 34000 m²
- 7 Bathrooms
- 2 Studies
- 2 Living-rooms
- 1 Kitchen
- Town centre 2 minutes
- Doctor 2 minutes
- Train station 2 minutes
- Airport 40 minutes
- TGV station 20 minutes
Energy efficiency
Legal informations
- 800,000 € fees not included
- 6 % tax inclusive buyer's fees
- Buyer's fees48,000 €
- Property tax3,345 €
- View our Fee plans
- No ongoing procedures


text:
Event Spaces
Stevens School Ballroom
Host your next event at the fabulous Stevens School Ballroom. This space is unique in that it is completed with Italian Renaissance, beaux-arts and Greek Classical architectural types by the well known architect C. Emlen Urban in 1905. The building itself was originally an all girls school, causing great controversy for its exquisiteness and updated technologies. This space is available for wedding ceremonies or receptions, corporate events, and many more.
Rental Highlights:
- Fully heated/ air-conditioned
- Luxury restrooms
- One event per day is booked
- 5,000 square foot ballroom
- Close to down-town Lancaster amenities
- Showings available upon request
The Griest Building Observation Deck
Looking for a space to host your event that will "wow" your guests with spectacular views? Host your next event on the observation deck of the famous Lancaster W.W. Griest Building. This building was built by C. Emlen Urban in 1925 and is the first and only skyscraper built in the Lancaster area, making it a prominent Landmark for decades to come. The building features Beaux Arts and Italian Renaissance Revival styles, making it a timeless centerpiece to a historic Lancaster City. The observation deck area offers exquisite views of Lancaster, making your event a truly unforgettable experience.
Rental Highlights:
- Preparation space and rest rooms are available in a lower level floor
- Spectacular views
- Historic charm
317 N. Market Street
Host your next event in the heart of Lancaster City at 317 N. Market Street. This beautiful space features hardwood floors and a small kitchen. Nearby attractions include the 300 block of North Queen Street that are sure to please those looking for an excellent shopping and culinary experience.
Rental Highlights:
- Small kitchen for catering needs
- Hardwood floors
Please fill out our contact form and we will contact you with more information.


text:
CoopEst has been safeguarding its portfolio from credit risk and country risk ever since startup. There is a maximum investment amount per country as well as per beneficiary. Thanks to systematic hedging, there is no exchange risk on the portfolio.
The CoopEst target countries can be seen on the map below. The countries in lighter orange are eligible countries. The darker ones are countries where CoopEst actually invested in.
The current beneficiairies are also categorized per sector. The sectors in which CoopEst invests in, are:
- microfinance institutions (MFIs)
- cooperative banks
- credit unions
- mutuals
- microfinance banks
For an overview of the clients per sector, please click here.


text:
ARK Disrupt Issue 143: SpaceX, Autonomous, ITS World Congress, Cancer Detection, Meituan, Bitmain, & Paige.AI
Please enjoy ARK Disrupt Issue 143. This blog series is based on ARK Brainstorming, a weekly discussion between our CEO, Director of Research, thematic analysts, ARK's theme developers, thought leaders, and investors. It is designed to present you with the most recent innovation takeaways and to keep you engaged in an ongoing discussion on investing in disruptive innovation. To read the previous issue, click here.
1. SpaceX Has Signed the World's First Private Passenger to Fly Around the Moon
Follow @skorusARK on Twitter
On Monday night SpaceX announced that Japan's Yusaku Maezawa, a billionaire and avid art collector, will be the first customer for a trip around the Moon on the BFR (Big Falcon Rocket). As a result, Maezawa has launched the #dearMoon project and plans to take six to eight artists on the flight to inspire their work. ARK estimates that Maezawa is paying SpaceX roughly $300 million for the ride, which will help defray some of the BFR's development costs. The mission is scheduled to take place in 2023.
Elon Musk has estimated that the cost to develop the BFR will range from $2 billion to $10 billion, with $5 billion his best guess. For context, the Falcon 1 rocket cost $90 million to develop and the Falcon 9 and Dragon combined, $696 million. According to the NASA cost model, the Falcon 9 would have cost $4 billion had it been developed by the government, or $1.7 billion commercially. Based on Musk's $5 billion estimate and NASA's analysis of the Falcon 9, if the US government were to sponsor development of the BFR, its costs probably would mount to as much as $50 billion.
Maezawa's commissioning of artists is an interesting proposition. In 2017 he bought a Basquiat piece for $110.5 million. What will 6-8 pieces of art be worth if created in or inspired by space? Another golden age for space, for art as well?
2. Auto Insurers Should Fear, Autonomous Driving Networks Appear Near!
ARK's research on Mobility-As-A-Service indicates that by 2030 the vast majority of miles traveled will be in autonomous vehicles. If this mobile transformation begins, an interesting question comes to mind: how will the auto insurance industry fare when autonomous cars dominate?
Today, State FarmSTFGX, GeicoBRK.A, AllstateALL and ProgressivePGR dominate the market and are competing to get a piece of the $220B+ in annual auto insurance premiums. Yet, the majority of them is struggling to turn a profit. In 2016, the average combined loss ratio of the 10 largest insurance companies in the US deteriorated to 107.1% from 99.7% in 2010. Among the forces behind the losses have been higher accident fatalities, rising litigation costs and more frequent catastrophic weather events.1 To stem the losses, insurers have increased premiums, as shown below.
Meanwhile, autonomous vehicles are getting ready to hit the road, adding a host of new problems to the insurance industry. According to ARK's research, the biggest threats to auto insurance companies will not be rising fatalities or extreme weather events, but a decline in the market. During the next five to ten years, as current and potential drivers increasingly opt for autonomous networks, average insurance rates should fall, as shown in the graph above. In fact, the earliest adopters of autonomous vehicles probably may be drivers in the 16-24 age range who pay the highest premiums, as shown below. If autonomous vehicles go mainstream, insurers will lose their highest paying customers, driving the average rate of insurance down dramatically. By 2030, as even more drivers adopt autonomous vehicles, not only will average auto premiums fall back to levels last seen in 2011-2012, but the $220B+ auto premium market will be cut roughly in half, as shown in the second graph below.
3. ARK Gains Insights from the Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) World Congress 2018
Follow @tashaARK on Twitter
This week, I spoke at the ITS (Intelligent Transportation Systems) World Congress in Copenhagen about ARK's forecasts for the future of cost effective point-to-point mobility via autonomous taxis. The event focused on Europe's progress as global transportation shifts toward autonomous electric mobility and the role that regulators and policy leaders might play in helping the transition.
Europe is behind2 the US and China in developing autonomous vehicle technology, as testing and mapping laws vary from country to country. Tests often are limited to specific streets and routes, suggesting that European automakers are collecting fewer real-world miles than their American and Chinese competitors. Moreover, startups have had difficulty raising capital in Europe.
While traditional European automakers have enjoyed great success manufacturing gas powered vehicles, their hardware-centric, budget-conscious, and conservative mindsets could hold them back in the autonomous technology space. Their success will be determined by software, data, and algorithms, and a dramatic change in their approach to research and development.
Meanwhile, in the US WaymoGOOGL plans to commercialize its autonomous taxi service in Phoenix, perhaps pressuring European auto manufacturers and regulators to move forward faster than otherwise would be the case.
4. First Trained to Identify Dogs, A Computer Algorithm Detects Cancer
Follow @wintonARK on Twitter
Researchers at New York University (NYU) have created a software model that identifies lung cancer from patient biopsies. Adapted from an open source model that Google introduced in 2015 for image classification, the model not only diagnoses cancer with the same accuracy as medical professionals but also distinguishes among different types of cancer at a superhuman rate. In line with best practices, the NYU researchers first "pre-trained" the model by teaching it how to identify dogs, as well as 1,500 other categories of objects that are available among millions in the open source Imagenet database, before training it on the specific sub-domain of interest, in this case hundreds of thousands of publicly available images in the cancer genome atlas.
Seemingly intuitively and magically, pre-trained image classification algorithms appear to yield more accurate results faster than medical professionals. Fed with examples of dogs, cats, cars and trees, the deep learning model contains optical filters that are useful for pattern recognition. High-contrast edges or corners can activate the higher layers of the model, while more abstract features like eyes or facial structures trigger the deeper layers. When a model is trained on a subspecialty like cancer, some of the deeper layers devoted to the face-like and other irrelevant structures are overridden, while the higher-level layers with more general-purpose capabilities remain fixed.
Pairing NYU's research with Facebook'sFB illustrates the power of deep learning when fed by large data resources. In its paper, Facebook demonstrated best-in-class image classification after it pre-trained its model with 1 billion Instagram images annotated by user hashtags. Heretofore, the standard data set has been only 1 million Imagenet images, commercially annotated. Pre-trained with the Instagram images instead of publicly available data, Facebook's model reduced error rates by more than 22%. Given Instagram's scale—hundreds of billions of images—Facebook probably has the world's best pre-training dataset.
Facebook probably could design a superior cancer detection model by combining NYU's methodology and its pre-trained data set. In other words, one of the strange byproducts of neural nets and software 2.0 could be that companies with the most data will win not only in their expert domains, but across multiple verticals in unanticipated adjacencies.
5. Meituan-Dianping Is China's Fourth Largest Internet Company
Follow @jwangARK on Twitter
China's leading food, hotel, and travel marketplace, Meituan-Dianping, made its initial public offering (IPO) debut this week in Hong Kong at a $51 billion valuation, making it China's fourth largest public tech company. Meituan launched in 2010 as a GrouponGRPN clone but rapidly morphed into a platform for online ticketing, food deliveries, and travel bookings. During the second quarter, Meituan Hotels captured almost half of China's online hotel bookings, displacing industry incumbents Ctrip and Qunar.
Meituan has grown its food delivery business at an astonishing rate. During the fourth quarter, it delivered 15 million meals per day, more than all of its global competitors combined.3
Meituan is a textbook example of how China's internet companies are growing and conquering adjacent markets far more quickly than their American counterparts. Its successful IPO potentially sets the stage for the larger IPO of ridesharing company, Didi, in 2019.
6. Good News: The Bitcoin Blockchain Does Not Seem to be Commoditizing
Follow @yassineARK on Twitter
Recently, Bitmain announced plans to roll out a long awaited 7nm Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), in conjunction with a new generation of mining machines. China-based Bitmain launched the last generation of Bitcoin mining machines, the Antminer S9, in 2016. In general, replacement cycles have extended over time, as shown below:
The primary reason for these extended life cycles is the increasing degree of difficulty associated with leading edge fabrication: successive nodes demand bursts in expertise and capital expenditures. Not many foundries are researching and developing cutting-edge nodes. To date, only three of 28 foundries globally are providing leading edge fabrication, suggesting that the bottleneck is at the foundry level.
Because several mining machine manufacturers already have rolled out a 7nm chip, many question Bitmain's ability to deliver products on time. History would suggest that new bitcoin mining machines will be 30% less efficient than advertised.
Given the combination of lengthening replacement cycles, new players, and Bitmain's delayed rollout, bitcoin mining seems to be commoditizing. Consequently, the threat of miner centralization seems to be diminishing, a positive for the Bitcoin technology ecosystem.
7. Paige.AI Secures Priceless Data from MSKCC
Follow @msamyARK on Twitter
Paige.AI, an AI-powered oncology diagnostic company, secured an exclusive license to 60 years of Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center's (MSKCC's) pathology notes, 25 million biopsy slides, proprietary computational pathology IP, and patient survival data. Its goal is to eliminate guesswork, helping pathologists to diagnosis cancer, provide the correct treatment, and predict survival outcomes.
Founded by Thomas Fuch, Director of Computational Pathology Lab at MSKCC, Paige.AI has been backed by a number of other top executives at the hospital, including Department Chair, David Klimstra. Many of its staff pathologists, upon whose decades of work and lab notes Paige.Ai may profit, are none too pleased.
That said, Paige.AI is working on game-changing technology, and its data advantage could dissuade other AI companies from entering medical artificial intelligence with a focus on oncology. Paige.AI already has implemented AIRI, the most advanced architecture built for scale-out AI, powered by NvidiaNVDA and productized by Pure Storage. Pre-training algorithms on image data instead of domain-specific data seems to result in superior predictive diagnostic outcomes. Paige.AI is digitizing roughly 200,000 biopsy slides a month, on pace to complete its training platform in little more than a year.
ARK's statements are not an endorsement of any company or a recommendation to buy, sell or hold any security. For a list of all purchases and sales made by ARK for client accounts during the past year that could be considered by the SEC as recommendations, click here. It should not be assumed that recommendations made in the future will be profitable or will equal the performance of the securities in this list. For full disclosures, click here.


text:
New Zealand Green Lipped Mussels and Weekend Specialties 4.27.17 April 26 2017 Posted in
For the first time ever, we'll have fresh, live New Zealand greenshell mussels in house this weekend. Due to the long travel time, these mussels typically come in frozen on the half shell. Fortunately for us, we've been able to source live ones directly. These mussels are much bigger than your typical blue mussel (upwards of 4 inches long) and have plump meats and a sweet and tender taste. Don't sleep on these!
Specialty Items
We hope you'll stop by this weekend and take advantage! Stay tuned next Thursday for another edition of specialty items. Please note that occasionally items listed will not make it to our store due to weather or unforeseen supply issues.
The Lobster Place


text:
So I have had it with the 10 bolt rear LS/LT brakes and pad knock back. We have been through the OEM front hubs, SKF/C5/Dulaney adapters and the 3rd gen bolt on spindle and know there is ZERO knockback in the front which leaves massive amounts from the rear due to the axle flange flex and the inner axle end wearing away.
What solutions have the 4th gen guys taken to minimize the rear pad knock back on their cars? My left shoe has no sole from all the maintenance tapping of the brake pedal after the WRL races this weekend. I'll probably put new axles in it as a start and keep the guide pins greased for the calipers but has anyone gone to a different rear brake package with success or found a specific brand of rear axle shaft that doesn't flex as much?
Muchos gracias.


text:
EBC Secretariat
Executive Director
Frédéric Destrebecq
Frédéric Destrebecq is the Executive Director of the European Brain Council since October 2014. In this capacity, he is responsible for providing strategic direction and leadership while managing the day to day operations of EBC and its ongoing relationships with its member associations and other stakeholders, as well as representing the organisation in various European and national forums.
Prior to this position, Fred served the European Union of Medical Specialists (UEMS) as Chief Executive Officer, and previously as Director for European Affairs. Fred holds a Master Degree in Political Science and International Relations from the Université Catholique de Louvain (Belgium). He also studied at the Institut d'Etudes Politiques (Paris) and University of Wales College (Cardiff), in the framework of the former EU Socrates exchange programme.
Research Project Manager
Giovanni Esposito
Giovanni Esposito is the Research Project Manager of the European Brain Council since March 2015. Prior to this position, he was a postdoctoral researcher at the VIB in Leuven (Belgium), where he worked for five years. His research at VIB focused on molecular events leading to Parkinson's diseases. Giovanni holds a Master's Degree in Biology and a PhD in neurobiology from the University 'Federico II' of Naples (Italy). Within the EBC, Giovanni is responsible for the coordination of research projects addressing public mental health policies.
Finance and Administration Manager
Cécile Grebet
Cécile Grebet is the Finance and Administration Manager of the European Brain Council since September 2015. She is responsible for the overall financial management, supervises and manages human resources processes, and coordinates operations as well as other administrative issues within EBC.
Prior to this position, she has worked for the European Office of the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts in Brussels, and for the Adecco Group in Paris. She holds a degree in Finance and Accounting from the University of Paris-Sceaux. Within EBC, she is in charge of the accounting and budgeting, and office management.
Office Manager
Latifah Irakiza
Latifah Irakiza is the Office Manager at the European Brain Council as of May 2018. Latifah organized and coordinated administration duties within the EBC team, and helps maintain an efficient work environment, ensuring high levels of organizational effectiveness, communication within EBC, and safety.
Prior to this position, Latifah has worked at luxury hotels in Brussels for the past 10 years.
Communications & Advocacy Coordinator
Stephanie Kramer
Stephanie Kramer has an international profile and significant experience in communications and project management. Her work revolves around the development and coordination of various projects and initiatives, including campaigns and workshops, as well as making sure all EBC work is communicated effectively to the general public and EU institutions.
Stephanie holds an LLM in International Law from the University of Edinburgh, and a BA in International Relations & Diplomacy. She has previous communications, external relations and project management experience from internships at the United Nations and private sector organisations. She is currently a member of the 3rd European Health Parliament. Stephanie has lived and worked in 12 countries around the world, including the United States, the Netherlands, Thailand and Chile.
Public Health and Policy, Research Project Manager
Vinciane Quoidbach
Vinciane Quoidbach is Research Project Manager – Public Health and Policy for the « Value of Treatment for Brain Disorders » Study at the European Brain Council.
Prior to this position, Vinciane worked in both public and private sector, at national and international level. She served the Belgian Federal Public Service Health, and the Federal Minister of Health Cabinet as Advisor in charge of public health policy and regulations development in the area of Cancer, Chronic Diseases and Rare Diseases as well as the Biopharmaceutical Company AbbVie as Health Initiatives Manager. She also worked for the World Health Organization in Geneva, Swizterland as Technical Officer, Non communicable diseases and mental health cluster and the United Nations Development Programme in Pretoria, South Africa as Technical Officer, Social development department). Vinciane holds a Master Degree in Hospital and Healthcare Management from Solvay Brussels School of Economics and Management and a Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health Management from Manchester Business School. She also holds a Master Degree in Political Sciences and European Studies from University of Antwerp.
Vinciane is staff member of the Belgian Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine (CEBAM) at KULeuven.
Policy Officer
Marijn Scholte
Marijn Scholte works as a Policy Officer at the European Brain Council (EBC) since November 2017. In this role, he is primarily responsible for monitoring EU policy processes relevant to the communication and advocacy initiatives of EBC, supporting EBC's engagement with decision-makers at the EU and national levels, managing and coordinating the network of National Brain Councils and supporting the ongoing projects of EBC.
Marijn holds a Master Degree in International Relations, with a focus on European integration, from the University of Groningen (Netherlands).
Scientific Officer
Elke De Witte
Elke De Witte is the Scientific Officer at EBC. In her role she is primarily responsible for the delivery of European projects, such as MULTI-ACT and EBRA.
Elke has a background in clinical research and holds a PhD in Neurolinguistics. Her research focuses on language mapping and cognitive assessments in awake brain surgery. Prior to her position at EBC, Elke worked in San Francisco for three years, first as a Postdoc researcher at the Biomagnetic lab/Neurosurgery department of UCSF Medical Center and later as General Manager U.S. for LynxCare, a medical technology company automating the extraction of outcome data from medical records using Natural Language Processing.


text:
Teamwork is the name of the game
Would a design roster reduce the amount the BBC spends on design? Hannah Booth investigates
Greg Dyke has already banned biscuits and restricted the use of taxis at the BBC. Now the corporation is putting together its first official design roster in an effort to cut costs (DW 13 September).
BBC marketing manager brand communications Danella Weir says she is 'aware that design [at the BBC] is not being managed in the most cost-effective way'.
'We want to put a more formal structure in place where costs can be accounted for up front,' she adds.
She will not disclose the corporation's existing design spend, but says one of the driving forces behind the creation of a roster is a European Union public procurement directive. The BBC exceeds the level set by the legislation across Europe for spend on 'procured products', such as design for public organisations.
According to BBC procurement specialist Rebecca Reynolds, the level set by the directive is £144 000. If the value of an individual contract exceeds this for a period up to five years, a contractors' roster must be drawn up.
The BBC could do well to look to both public and private sector companies for inspiration.
Prior to establishing its roster in late 1999, Tesco was spending around £8m a year on design. It now spends £4.5m, a saving that would keep even Dyke happy.
And a second public sector company, Consignia, formerly The Post Office Group, set up its roster in the mid-1990s to 'control how the brand was represented' and 'obtain greater efficiency in our budgeting', says Consignia head of brand Sarah Larvor.
'The Royal Mail was not buying design sensibly,' says Larvor. Since setting up the now 13-strong roster, its overall design spend has decreased, she says, but she declines to give precise figures.
However, its 'tactical' roster covers an expanded range of design disciplines with an estimated total contract value of £30m over five years (DW 29 March).
The European guidelines apply to Consignia too, as it is still a public-sector organisation. Although it is a publicly limited company, its shares are Government-owned.
According to Larvor, the regulations oblige Consignia to tender its design work to 'any potential external contractors' across the EU.
'If we tendered design work out job-by-job, it would be extremely time-consuming,' says Larvor. 'The only way to manage the purchase of design yet still comply is to set up a roster by initially holding competitive pitches.'
Groups on Consignia's roster will have an initial run of three years with the option of extending for a further two, like the BBC.
Cost was not the driving force behind Superdrug's design roster, which was established in 1996, says design team manager Neil Pedliham.
However, before it was set up no one at Superdrug knew what each department was spending on design, he says. 'We found ourselves buying design several times over in the life of a particular product, when we should only have been paying for it once,' he says.
'Financially, it makes sense to work with smaller teams of consultancies. It is a more efficient way of working as it takes less time to brief [consultancies] and they are already familiar with the brand's values,' says Pedliham.
Tesco head of design Beverley Churchill agrees. Tesco established its roster for several reasons, not least the desire to reduce the number of consultancies it works with.
Before 1999 the supermarket chain worked with nearly 50 consultancies 'all claiming to be on the roster', says Churchill. Seven consultancies now undertake all the work.
'It is easier to manage a smaller number of consultancies and more profitable for them,' Churchill explains.
The financial success of Tesco's roster is partly due to the introduction, at the time the roster was set up, of a new brand strategy, says Churchill.
'Stricter brand and design guidelines have reduced the need for such regular product redesigns, and have made a huge impact [on the bottom line] by slowing the rate of unnecessary design spend,' she explains.
Weir is not ruling this type of strategic move out at the BBC, but says it is too early to start thinking about the wider implications of establishing a roster. She says tighter brand guidelines would be a positive result from, rather than a driving force behind, a roster.
In terms of size, Weir says it is too early to estimate how large the BBC's roster may be.
'We are seeking a handful of on-screen identity specialists only, but considerably more consultancies for the "major strategic projects" and smaller "tactical projects",' says Weir.
Clearly, cost is just one factor driving the BBC in its decision. It has been consolidating its work with external agencies into rosters for a while, starting with advertising, according to Weir.
'Design was our next priority and we knew it had to be done,' she says. 'But we can only set up one roster at a time.' She hopes to issue briefs to shortlisted consultancies by October or November, with a view to having the roster in place early next year.
Creativity and quality of design are, of course, core factors in setting up creative rosters. Churchill says Tesco wanted 'better, simpler and cheaper' design work, which is surely the aim of the BBC.
Post a comment


text:
Our strong growth continues with the announcement that accountancy practice Reddaway and Co has merged with our Tiverton office.
Established more than 35 years ago, Reddaway and Co, led by Bob Pulsford (pictured right), has provided accounting, taxation and corporate services to a wide range of businesses and individuals throughout mid-Devon and has a reputation for excellent client-focused services.
As part of the deal our existing Tiverton operation, headed up by senior partner Stuart Carrington (left), and director Denise Harris, is relocating into Reddaway's premises at 30 St Peter's Street.
Bob Pulsford now takes up a consultant role with us in the Tiverton office, working alongside Mandy French (centre) who moves from our Honiton office to assist as a director.
Key to the merger was the fact we share so many of the values that made Bob and his team so successful, such as an in-depth local business knowledge combined with commitment to service excellence.
Reddaway's clients can count on receiving the same friendly and professional service they have enjoyed for over 35 years, whilst at the same time benefiting from a much wider range of skills and expertise thanks to our scale and specialist teams.
You are now leaving the Thomas Westcott website. Thomas Westcott is not responsible for the content of the PrimeGlobal website nor the content of the websites of other independent member firms of PrimeGlobal. Equally, PrimeGlobal is not responsible for the content of the websites of independent member firms, including the Thomas Westcott website.Go to site
The Tax system is changing and the date to become compliant is getting closer. We can help you plan what action you need to take.Find Out More


text:
Albany, NY— The Sage Colleges' men's volleyball team hosted the Bison of Nichols College on Thursday night in a non-conference match. Sage earned the 3-0 win (25-16, 25-18, 25-21) and is now 5-3, while riding a three-match win streak. Nichols falls to 2-4 on the season.
Junior outside hitter Shane Wenz (Valatie, NY/Ichabod Crane) added a team-best nine kills with a .375 attack percentage and finished with three digs and four block assists. Junior outside hitter Jarod Martel (Albany, NY/Colonie Central) had seven kills as did junior middle hitter Scott Sanders (Los Angeles, CA/Taft). Martel added a pair of block assists, while Sanders had a .400 attack percentage with an ace and two block assists.
Sage's sophomore co-captain Mike Basile (Feeding Hills, MA/Agawam) picked up five kills with four digs and senior co-captain Zackery Karl (West Monroe, NY/Central Square) also contributed five kills with 11 digs, an ace and a block assist.
Sophomore setter Ryan Jennings (North Brunswick, NJ/North Brunswick Township) handed out 14 setting assists with a dig, while senior Austin Laverty (Schenectady, NY/Mohonasen) added 20 setting assists with six digs and an ace in the win as the Gators combined for five aces, while holding their opponents to a 0.049 attack percentage.
Sage combined for a .239 attack percentage in the action and had 12 blocking assists in the contest.
With the release of the latest NCAA Division III statistics, Sage's team and players are among the nationally ranked student-athletes. Sanders is 16th nationally with his hitting percentage average of 0.400 and is also ranked in attacks per set (5.0), kills per set (2.54), and points (3.04) per set. Karl ranked 36th nationally with his 0.625 aces per set average and 84th in hitting percentage (.253), while also ranking in the Top 200 players in digs per set and points per set averages. Jennings is also ranked as he stands 68th in aces per set averages (0.458) and is also 63rd in setting assists per set (6.67). Basile, who earned a selection to the United Volleyball Conference Weekly Honor Roll on February 5, is ranked 47th in digs per set average (2.44) as well as in hitting percentage (0.188), kills per set (2.17), and points per set (2.5).
As a team, Martin's Gators are nationally ranked nine categories including a No. 19 ranking in aces per set average (2.04), and 25th in opponent hitting percentage holding their opponents to a 0.131 attack percentage through seven matches.
Sage is back in action on Saturday, February 9 travelling to Springfield College for a tri-match with St. Joseph's College-LI. Sage will face No. 1 ranked Springfield College at 1 p.m. and the Golden Eagles of St. Joe's at 3 p.m. in Springfield, Massachusetts.


text:
Chef & Gardener's Tallow Balm
for hands/body/feet
Soften and heal hardworking hands.
ingredients: local grass-fed beef tallow infused with wild harvested Calendula, certified organic California extra- virgin olive oil, organic absolutes and essential oils* of melaleuca, lavender, juniper berry, rosemary, helichrysum, myrrh
Cooking and gardening as a passion and profession inspired this ultra rich and healing moisturizer for dry, rough, and overworked hands. Featuring helichrysum, calendula, and myrrh, these are precious oils and flowers which have a long history of use in skin care for its restorative benefits to aging, dry, irritated, inflamed and chapped skin. Combined with Melaleuca, lavender, and rosemary, you have a powerhouse of overall skin protection from the elements. Great for Eczema relief!
*Certified Pure Organic Therapeutic Grade
50 ml jar
or 4 ounce jar
Read more about this maker — Summer Solace


text:
How to Make Flowers from Old Bread
Explore this Article Steps Questions & Answers Related Articles
wikiHow is a "wiki," similar to Wikipedia, which means that many of our articles are co-written by multiple authors. To create this article, 24 people, some anonymous, worked to edit and improve it over time. This article has also been viewed 160,369 times. Learn more...
Besides making bread crumbs or tossing it away, your stale or outdated bread can have a new lease of life – as a floral arrangement! You'll be amazed at how you can turn your unwanted loaf of sandwich bread into a beautiful bouquet of roses.
1Spread the slices of bread on a tray. Dry them under the sunshine (in the windowsill is fine) for about half an hour. If there is no sun, dry in an oven on very low heat. Make sure that both sides of the slices are dried. When dry, each slice should be very crispy.
- Separate the middle part from the crust. This is to make sure you get the color you want. The middle part is whiter, while the crust or outer part of the bread is almost brownish. You can use the middle part to make the rose petals and the brownish part for the leaves. You can mix them however, depending on the color you want your flowers to be. So, if you want white roses, use only the middle part for the petals.
2Crush the bread to form fine crumbs. You can use a food processor to do this.
3Add in the white glue to the breadcrumbs. Mix them well to form dough (similar to pastry dough). The texture of this dough should also be similar to pastry dough.
- At this point, you can add in the oil color of your choice. Again, work the dough well so that the color is evenly spread and mixed with the dough.
- At this point, you can add in the oil color of your choice. Again, work the dough well so that the color is evenly spread and mixed with the dough.
4Start making the flower of your choice now. It is recommended that you make thin petals, at least while you're learning. While thick petals are alright, the thin ones dry faster. For a rose:
- Work from the inside first. Create the inner part of the rose, and decide on how big or small you want it to be.
- Then, use your palm to make each of the rose petals. Alternatively, press the dough over the curve of a bottle or a rolling pin to form the curved shape instantly.
- Use the artificial stem as the holder or stem for your rose base (or your own choice of flower). When using the artificial stem, bend the edge a little bit to form a curve. This prevents the petals from slipping away from the stems once they are dried.
- Work from the inside first. Create the inner part of the rose, and decide on how big or small you want it to be.
5Wait until you are finished with the roses, and put them in a standing position (vertical upward position) in a vase. Put these flowers under the sunshine to dry (again, the windowsill is fine). They will harden and dry in a day or two under direct sunshine.
6Make sure that the flowers are completely dry before completing this step. Dip each rose into the wood varnish to cover completely. Then let them dry again. This varnish acts as a protector or a shield for the flowers and helps them to last longer. It also makes dusting them much easier.
- You can also use spray varnish but it is much more expensive.
8Share your results.
Community Q&A
QuestionWhat color oil do I need?Community AnswerYou can add whatever color you'd like! For this bouquet of roses, a red color might be a good idea.
QuestionWhere can I get plastic stems that bread dough will stick to without falling off?Community AnswerYou can buy fake flowers with plastic stems and remove the flowers. These stems typically have small hooks where the flower was attached. You can also paint a wooden skewer and use a dab of glue on the end.
QuestionI see some say to put a dab of cold cream mixed into the bread mixture. What is this for?T. ChinsenTop AnswererThe cold cream is a moisturizer. This makes the mix smoother in consistency and easier to work with for forming petals.
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.Submit
- If you're interrupted, simply keep the dough in a covered container. You don't have to finish making flowers in one day; you can keep the dough for later, but keep it covered all the time. It will harden in open air.
- You can decorate these flowers with artificial leaves and other decorations. These "bread flowers" last longer once varnished. If well varnished, a flower can last a couple of years, if not longer.
- Some people remove doughs from certain breads such as baguettes; these can be recycled to make bread flowers, or crafts similar to it. If you don't have any bread at the moment, then ask a bakery if they have any spare dough or bread.
- Just make sure before they are varnished, the flowers are completely dry. If they are not completely dry, you might end up with mold on the flowers.
- Don't wash the bread flowers directly with water. To clean, just wipe the flowers with a piece of cloth.
- Some of the craft supplies (like the varnish) may be toxic, so remember to keep very young kids, babies, and pets away from the craft area so they don't get sick.
Things You'll Need
- A loaf of bread (normal sandwich bread),
- ½ a bottle (about 350 ml) white glue (available at bookstores or drugstores)
- Oil color (your preferred color, red for roses, green for leaves)
- Wood varnish
- Artificial flower stems (available at any florist shop)
Article Info
Categories: Featured Articles | Leaf and Flower Crafts
In other languages:
Español: hacer flores de pan viejo
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 160,369 times.
Did this article help you?


text:
Team 3B8EME arrived this morning, May 14th at
Mauritius after two long flights without any sleep.
All equipment and luggage came with us. Customs seemed to cause some
problems but we managed in our best French to convince the
authorities that we have peaceful plans. We tried to explain the
reason of our visit but this caused only that the whole staff began
to ponder about those three lunatic Dutchmen
Next problem was that we had no license. With help of Jacky 3B8CF
all was solved within no time so we have the special call 3B8EME as
was promised before.
In the afternoon we began to build up the station in the steamy heat
with high humidity. We worked s l o w . However we still need a few
hours tomorrow in order to be sure all systems go without any threat
that LNAs will explode spontaneously.
So, everything is OK. Only one problem might occur. We already
experienced the benefits of this paradise. White beaches, nice cold
beers and beautiful brown eyed creatures with long legs. However we
have to do our job for the EME community. A difficult struggle


text:
The Cleito has levelled up! Aspire have now released a 3rd evolution of their popular tank, the Cleito Exo. Bringing you a redesigned TPD compliant 2ml tank with the new top-side airflow system to take vaping to the next level. Top fill, easy to disassemble for ultra low maintenance and convenience for everyday use. This tank utilises the well established Cleito coils which are also backwards compatible.
This tank is compatible with the Cleito Exo Coils only.
We have an effective age verification process that satisfies due diligence as described in the Business Companion guide for online age verification checks and will not sell to persons that are under 18 years old.


text:
Browser does not support script.
We use cookies on this website. See how you can control your settings.
This website has been supported by Guy's and St Thomas' Charity. For more information on the work of the Charity or to make a donation to diabetes research and services, please visit the Charity website donation page.
The Charity has also announced a £4.5 million major programme to support diabetes services in Lambeth and Southwark.