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There's a new tourist attraction in London, offering visitors an immersive out-of this-world adventure with a uniquely British twist. Park World steps inside the Doctor Who Experience.
Produced by the BBC, Doctor Who is the world's longest running science fiction television series, following the adventures of an eccentric time traveller and his alien encounters. A key feature of the show is the Doctor's TARDIS (Time And Relative Distance In Space), a time machine that takes on the appearance of a vintage police phone box, but which is much larger and more quirky on the inside than the outside.
First screened in 1963, it was arguably the return of Doctor Who in 2005 – complete with 21st Century CGI and effects – that paved the way for the immersive walk-through adventure that is the Doctor Who Experience. The new attraction, which runs at London's Olympia Two exhibition centre until the end of this year, was designed by Sarner and is operated BBC Worldwide, the commercial arm of the BBC.
"We believe that this will be the journey of a lifetime for children of all ages who have always dreamt of being part of the Doctor Who adventure," says Philip Murphy, managing director for live events at BBC Worldwide. "Our research with fans told us the thing they wanted most of all was the chance to step inside the TARDIS. Sarner took all of the fans' comments on board and delivered us an amazing visitor attraction."
During the one to two-hour experience, which comprises a 30-minute walk-through show and "free flow" exhibition area, guests encounter some of Doctor Who's best-loved and scariest monsters, take centre stage at a space-age battle of the Daleks and experience a thrilling 3D finale. It's a far cry from previous and perhaps more crudely executed Doctor Who exhibitions (visit this site and you'll see why).
"When the TV series returned with Christopher Eccleston in 2005, I think the public's perception of Doctor Who changed," observes BBC Worldwide's head of exhibitions and events, Paula Al-Lach. "We wanted to develop an immersive attraction to match these expectations, rather than just an exhibition of costumes and props."
Based just outside London, Sarner was selected to create the Dr Who Experience last February after a competitive tendering process, and the complete install was handled in just three months, ready for the official opening on February 21. For Sarner creative director and Doctor Who fan Michael Bennett, it was a dream job.
"This has been one of the most exciting projects I've worked on," he confirms. "There are so many magical moments that have never been seen or experienced at any of the Doctor Who exhibitions of the past, from walking through the doors of the infamous blue police box, experiencing a TARDIS take off or walking through the dank, dark forest of the Weeping Angels."
Bennett's original storyboards and scripts were edited by Steven Moffat, the TV show's executive producer, who injected a little humour and translated the speech into the words of the Doctor. Matt Smith, the show's lead actor since last year, appears in several scenes filmed exclusively for the attraction.
Visitors walk through five sets, in groups of up to 55. A simple but effective start to the experience is the sequence where the screen splits in half after the pre-show film, and the audience is invited into the heart of the story. After a briefing from the Doctor in Star Ship UK, the TARDIS screeches into view from behind a bookcase and guests step inside, where everything is larger than they expect – just like on the TV show. A motion base provides an added thrill as the TARDIS takes flight.
During the Dalek battle, which pitches two generations of the Doctor's oldest adversaries against one another, audiences witness a spectacular space vista combining CGI footage with a 24-metre painted backdrop. Later the Daleks reappear alongside the Weeping Angels in a 3D film using effects that might appear a little clichéd were they not so effective.
"Everyone is really pleased with the 3D," notes Bennett. "What we have produced – with all this stuff coming out at you – you just couldn't do in a motion picture, but for a short sequence in an attraction like this it works."
Surpsrisingly, there are no roaming aliens or other scary characters in the walk-through section of the show, but this may happen over the Halloween period. For now it's important the Doctor Who Experience remains accessible to all ages (particularly school groups), while also being fully automated. At the heart of the attraction a sophisticated multiprocessor computer that ensures a seamless and reliable show every time.
Following the walk-through, visitors enter the exhibition area, tracing almost 50 years of the Doctor Who legacy. Around 85% of the artefacts displayed are originals used in the making of the TV series, including a TARDIS set from 2005. Fans will also enjoy the interactive areas including Walk like a Monster and The Sounds of Doctor Who.
The BBC connection meant Sarner had no shortage of companies keen to offer their services, and the 3D, together with other CGI sequences, were produced by Prime Focus. Other suppliers included Cardiff Theatrical Services (CTS), responsible for building several of the sets, whose experience with touring productions means they will be relatively easy to reassemble when the Dr Who Experience finally leaves Olympia.
"We were keen to launch in London because of the potential footfall," reveals Al-Lach, "but eventually the plan is move it all to Cardiff [the Welsh capital that is home to Doctor Who's production unit] where it will become a permanent exhibition."
BBC Worldwide hopes to get half a million vistitors by the end of the year-long run in London, where the Doctor Who Experience goes head to head with other short-stay visitors attractions including Madame Tussauds, Ripley's Believe It or Not and the London Dungeon and. It's also pitched at a similar price level, with tickets starting at £15.50 ($25.20/€18.25).
What could restrict its appeal to tourists is the colloquial nature of the Doctor Who franchise, which enjoys limited success overseas. Olympia, which is hosting an attraction of this kind for the first time, is also relatively poorly served by London's underground "tube" network.
Short, sweet, but also rather good, the Doctor Who Experience is nevertheless worth seeing, and many industry professionals will be able to just that this September when the Euro Attractions Show rolls into town next door at Olympia's Grand Hall and National Halls. Sarner – and the Doctor – will be waiting for you.
Doctor Who?
Since the BBC TV series debuted in 1963, 11 actors have played the Doctor Who lead role, including current incumbent Matt Smith. Other than a one-off film for television, no new episodes were made throughout the 1990s, but in 2005 Doctor Who returned with a bang, fusing 21st Century effects with the kind of humour and eccentricity that have made the show a uniquely British hit. Directed by Russell T Davies, Christopher Ecclestone took the title role, replaced after a just a year by David Tenant, who stayed on until early 2010 when both he and Davies departed. Despite the some of the themes featured in the programme, which include regular alien encounters, the programme is required family viewing. A new series is due to screen in the UK this spring, and the franchise remains a major revenue generator for BBC Worldwide, which has also exported it to over 50 countries, including the USA and Australia. Spin-offs include Torchwood and The Sarah Jane Adventures.
The Doctor's assistant
In the current Doctor Who TV series, the Doctor's assistant is Amy Pond (Karen Gillian). At the Doctor Who Experience, however, it was the creative design and AV specialist Sarner that was invited by BBC Worldwide to bring the attraction to life. As well its experience with exhibitions, events, museums and other attractions, Sarner also boasts an impressive portfolio of theme park work. Recently it produced an immersive multimedia show for Ocean Park's Ocean Express funicular railway in Hong Kong, created a Pepper's Ghost effect for Adventure Island's Over The Hill dark ride in the UK and gave a makeover to Alton Towers' monorail. Other clients include Blackpool Pleasure Beach, Thorpe Park and Tusenfryd.
Pictured below: Doctor Who actor Matt Smith (centre) with Sarner's Michael Bennett (left) and Ross Magri


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It's called Stamp Something. It will run every Friday. Go see!!
AND... there's this one too.....Friday Sketchers
Such a lot of 'toys' to play with! LOL
I'm NOT happy! I decided to change my photo in my profile.
I forgot Blogger was being a pain and now I can't load up my photo.
I don't know what's going on with Blogger, but it's getting beyond a joke now.
I WISH they would sort it out. Maybe tomorrow will bring some good luck.
It's 11:05 and I'm yawning my head off, so it's nite nite from me. xxx

subset: commoncrawl


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No, not those comments. I've been the subject of negative comments in print and online for longer than any social media hack has been working from home after their failed law career. I'm not talking about the anonymous online comments. Those generate laughter and some eye rolls, but I'm lucky enough to have been the brunt of hatred ever since I opened my big mouth in college. It rolls off me like another article about how the way I practice law is dead and I must get on the train of a total virtual practice or I will die.
I'm talking about a comment I heard from a lawyer. A lawyer I've been a friend to, a lawyer I've advised, counseled, and helped do some things. This lawyer has become successful in their own right, both professionally and politically, and never fails to say thank you. I like this lawyer, and I'm glad this lawyer is doing well.
So the lawyer tells me that some lawyer asked whether my friend really believed that I helped them out of unselfish motives. There of course had to be some motive, it couldn't be just...that...I like this lawyer and was there for the advice.
I've been dealing with this for my entire career. From the first time I joined a Bar association, went on the board, ran for office, ran for another office, on another board, in another association, the lawyers whose entire practice is the walk from their car to the courthouse and back to car to go home, have always believed that lawyers like me only get involved in things, in other people's campaigns and efforts, out of an ulterior motive.
And that motive is?
To become a judge.
Of course.
This is understandable. There are plenty of lawyers who climb the ladder of bar associations and other organizations with the goal in mind of wearing the robe.
But it's never been mine. No, I'm sorry to disappoint, sorry to shock the world, but my motive has never been to make $142,000 a year, sitting on a bench everyday saying "denied," "granted," "next case," and hoping every 6 years that no one runs against me and takes my job.
Nope, I've never applied for an appointment, never filed to run, never told anyone I was interested.
Actually, about 10 years ago there was an article in the paper about a (failed) effort I was trying to start to have every local bar association pass a resolution banning judicial candidates from joining their organization. I would see the parade of otherwise socially inept judges all of a sudden becoming members of this and that association during their campaign. I wanted it stopped. The associations wouldn't touch it.
I'm 42, I love practicing law. I love a new client, I love writing motions, I love negotiating. I love the fact that my income depends on me, and isn't the same amount no matter what I do. I love that every day is different.
But the morons out there can't see that. No way, I must want to be a judge - why else would I help people, plan CLE events, advocate for changes in the law?
Why must it be that the only reason people get involved in their profession is to leave it and go do something else, like judging?
Yeah, maybe in 15, 20 years I'll change my mind, but no time soon, and it won't have anything to do with the things I've done in bar associations or charities.
I do these things because I like to do them, because I value relationships, because with the people I get to know and work with, I don't have to rely on my twitter account or other website to bring me clients.
What I have realized though, is the same people who will never imagine that there are lawyers out there that just enjoy getting involved in their profession, are the same people who think the only reason to blog is for business. These are the same people who have the robotic script: "I see you have a blog, you get business from it?"
The perception is not limited to any one thing, it's a general perception among desperate and unhappy lawyers that those who don't spend their days banging their head against the wall trying to drum up business and instead are doing other things, can only be doing them with ulterior motives.
So to you, the asshole that asked my friend that question, yes I know you read my blog, I know you read it, hate it, but secretly wonder if you could do the same thing. To you, the one who asked that question wondering if you could get the same advice and counsel from me, wondering if there was something you could hang your hat on to say "AH-HA," it's not there. You've reached a dead end.
And I hope you have a good mirror.
Anonymous comments are welcome as long as they say something relevant and half-way intelligent and aren't a vehicle for a coward to attack someone. I trust you understand.
Located in Miami, Florida, Brian Tannebaum practices Bar Admission and Discipline and Criminal Defense. He is the author of I Got A Bar Complaint.
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
The One Comment That Got To Me
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Jacob T. Swinney celebrates the work of Steven Spielberg by showcasing 30 of his iconic shots.
Before I knew what a director was, I knew who Steven Spielberg was. I believe that this is partially due to the fact that Spielberg has crafted some of the most iconic shots in all of cinema. Many filmmakers have that one signature shot that will forever solidify them in film history– Spielberg has dozens. This video showcases the work of Steven Spielberg in 30 memorable shots, one from each of his full-length films. From something as magical as a silhouetted bicycle streaking across the moon, to something as simple as tiny ripples in a cup of water, this is Steven Spielberg.


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Z CAR M: "Spot At The Sun" ft. Yatz Santos
The project Z CAR M is led by German solo artist Berny A. Racz. Berny's Hungarian father was a professional Symphony Orchestra musician, playing the viola, and Berny himself trained as a classical pianist for a while. Z CAR M started out as a punk band in Kaiserslautern Germany, during the eighties, and consisted of Karl-Heinz (Kalle) Huth – vocals, Frank Racz (Bernys brother) – drums, and Berny A. Racz – vocals and keyboards. Z CAR M has released already 3 albums as well as various music video clips. For a while now, Berny has been writing his own original material, as well as arranging, producing and mastering his songs. Currently he has more than more than 260 of his own original songs available in his catalog and is interested in picking up a serious record deal or sync for film and other media.
Z CAR M blends various styles which include Indie, Rock, 80's Brit and Retro Pop, among others. The project collaborates with Philippine female vocalists and recently produced the song "Spot At The Sun", which features professional Philippine singer, Yatz Santos.
Haunting and mesmerizing, this track represents some of the best retro influenced Indie Pop/Rock work I have heard this year from the underground. Unlike much of the music in that category it never goes over the top with its beats or vocals but stays happily in the middle ground between pop catchiness and raw indie power.
In a genre where other artists tend to get off track with ear-grinding over-the-top guitar work or bass and drums that is just there to give you a headache, Z CAR M makes me just want to close my eyes and admire the wonder of the musical landscapes they paint with their instruments.
Sparkling keyboards, rolling basslines, thumping drums and soaring melodic vocals, embellished by a fiery guitar finale, gives this track the required ingredients to make a positive impact. Yes, music is all subjective and everybody has an opinion, but an all-embracing track like this, will always hit the listener's sweet spot.
Firstly, because it is totally unpretentious and sans the usual modern pop gimmicks and trickery, and secondly, because it is built on a solid songwriting structure of rhythm, melody and harmony. Elements that are often misplaced in the current scene.
The melody and voices never waver, and in fact get so beautiful that even you will want to sing along. Yatz Santos is comfortable in her role as lead singer, pushing the soulful momentum of the arrangement, while Berny A. Racz holds down the male harmony, giving the track an extra sonic dimension.
The music has an energy that quietly builds throughout the song. The overarching feeling is an air of optimism and hope, as well as a longing for something unknown. Once in a while you come across music that you feel relates to you and your situation in life.
Z CAR M has this knack of evoking relatability and emotion through their music. "Spot At The Sun" is the type of song that will grow on you with each subsequent listen, but don't be surprised if it hooks you from the very first spin!


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Current Region: Global (EN)
Automated liquid handling is used in automation of laboratories systems. The most important parameters in liquid handling are dispense velocity and precision, which are translated into hardware by our experienced engineers. With our in-house software department reliability as well as reproducibility of results are ensured.
The rheological properties of a liquid determine the dispense velocity and precision. This affects the required hardware chosen for processing samples of the specific application. Other properties that can be handled are polarity (through magnetic interaction or electrical charge), hydrophobicity, high or low surface tension, solubility, temperature, vapor pressure, and air pressure.
Windows-based WinLissy® software:


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Digital enabler injects capital to ensure that MTC ambassadors fulfill and attain their dreams
Mobile Telecommunications Limited's (MTC) philanthropic gesture of supporting social causes across the country, has now been extended to all its ambassadors through its latest initiative dubbed; the MTC Dreamers Project.
At the beneficiary announcement event held on Monday in Windhoek, at least 30 MTC Ambassadors were awarded capital injection ranging between N$50,000 – N$60,000 each to kick start and pursue their dreams.
Shedding light on the MTC Dreamers Project, MTC Chief Human Capital and Corporate Affairs, Tim Ekandjo, explained that the objective of the project is to encourage employees to actively pursue their own dream and aspirations.
"This project aims to assist all our Ambassadors financially in making a difference in society and to become positive role models, recognizing that they are not just Ambassadors who work here, but Namibians with much bigger dreams and that life is more than just a job. We want to highlight our Ambassadors that it takes dedication, self- motivation and hard work to achieve your dreams in life and at work. We want to connect our Ambassadors to their ultimate dreams, and create a society that is not
afraid of taking on the world," said Ekandjo.
For the purpose of this project, a dream is defined as a cherished aspiration, "an ambition or idea that any of our Ambassadors hold dearly which they wish to pursue. This could for example be an Ambassador who may want to pursue an interest in a music career, a business idea, or who plays a certain sport or manages any social project that makes an impact in their communities" expressed Ekandjo.
The project will be funded with an amount of N$1.5 million per annum as part of MTC's Employee Value Proposition. Ambassadors wishing to benefit from the project will simply apply by articulating their dream or aspiration and the only requirements is that this dream or idea should not be in conflict with MTC's values or societal norms.
"We are moving towards a world of work where the personal interest of your Ambassadors should matter to you, because once you take a keen interest in their dreams they will help you attain yours. This project positions us perfectly to ensure we drive our Ambassadors towards becoming the best versions of themselves," concluded Ekandjo.


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Raising Financially Responsible Adults:
See also: Teaching Children Important Values
5 Money Lessons to Teach Your Children
Parents are the first and most influential teachers that any child has.
After all, the foundational lessons parents teach form the basis for life skills those children will use to navigate the world as adults. This includes everything from table manners to attitudes about money.
That latter point is important, too, because schools and other institutions of formal education don't spend much time on financial literacy. So, how do you as a parent ensure that your children will grow up to be financially responsible? You have to teach them yourself.
Here are five lessons that you can teach your kids that will guide them toward financial security.
1. Make Your Money Work for You
One of the big lessons from Robert T. Kiyosaki's classic book Rich Dad Poor Dad involves a wealthy person's understanding of the relationship between work and money. Poor Dad works for money, but Rich Dad makes money work for him.
A common misconception that most children learn is that to be well off they must get a well-paying job and commit to it. If they are dedicated and hard-working, they will be given the opportunity to climb the corporate ladder and increase their incomes incrementally.
And that's a fine model of building wealth, but only up to a point because you can only trade so many of your working hours for money. At a certain point, wealth is a matter of taking what money you do have and making sure it constantly earns you more money through smart investments.
This is a hard lesson for adults to learn, let alone pass on to their children. But understanding this mindset opens up so many opportunities. For example, when income from work is no longer your sole, or even primary, source of revenue, you're free to pursue work that you want to do on your own terms.
And once your children can pass on this understanding to their children, you will have built a foundation for growing generational wealth.
2. Spend Less Than You Earn
A cornerstone of financial security is teaching yourself how to spend less than you earn. Children must learn early on that spending as soon as you get it will lead you into financial disaster in the future. Teach them instead to save.
Saving money is not just about squireling money away in a jar or burying it outside in the yard. Teach your kids that when they are saving, they should imagine medium and long-term goals for their money. Medium-term goals they can save for in a jar or a piggy bank; long-term savings can be put in a savings account.
Getting into the habit of not spending immediately is a hard lesson for most children to learn. As humans, we're not so good with deferred gratification. But as parents, you can make the habit a fun one to adopt, even by simply color-coding the jars in which they save their money, or even matching their savings dollar-for-dollar.
Once children get the habit of putting aside a portion of their allowance early on, it becomes a great habit that they carry with them for life.
3. Maximize Your Assets and Limit Your Liabilities
This is another important lesson from Rich Dad Poor Dad. Teach your children that assets are anything that puts money in your pocket, whether those are businesses they own, properties they rent, or stocks they trade.
Liabilities, on the other hand, take money out of your pocket. Your children need to know the difference and how it applies to them. Liabilities include things like rent, weekly grocery bills, travel expenses, holidays and mortgages. Liabilities are unavoidable; however, if you manage your assets correctly then you won't have to worry about them.
Developing a portfolio of assets is like planting trees. You invest in them when they are young and nurture them until they become large enough to be self-sustaining and bear fruit. People who are able to retire early do so because their assets are large enough that the income their assets bring in sustains them and grows automatically, following the principle set out in Lesson No. 1.
But it's easy to take on liabilities, especially when those things are shiny objects like new TVs or new cars. Even your house is a liability if you only keep pouring money into it. (The flip-side is any property you own can be rented out, or improved upon and sold for more than what you put into it, thereby making it an asset.)
Teach your children these fundamental principles for collecting assets. The earlier children learn how to invest their money in assets while limiting their liabilities, the more time their assets have to reap the rewards.
4. Financial Literacy
"A fool and his money are easily parted."
It's not hard to find stories of people who come into millions of dollars and then within a year are broke again. Teaching your children financial literacy will ensure that one day their money will not make fools of them.
The best place to start is by teaching them to spend less than they earn, and by teaching them how money itself works. By teaching your children about financial literacy, you will introduce them to the relationships between saving, earning and spending. With such lesson, they will come to learn the true value of money and how to control it — rather than the other way around.
5. The Basics of Family Finances
Don't make money a taboo in your home. Show your kids how you handle your own finances once they're old enough to understand things like monthly bills, writes Trent Hamm, founder of The Simple Dollar.
"The best way to start is to introduce them to bills that are relevant to them, like the Internet bill or the cell phone bill," he writes at U.S News & World Report. "Show them the bill and talk about what it means and how that amount has to be paid each and every month in order to have that service."
From there, you can introduce your children to how you budget your family's finance and allocate the money coming in. Many of us learned that these are inappropriate discussions for parents to have with their children, but keeping family budgets a taboo shuts off an important avenue for skill-building that children will carry with them throughout their lives.
About the Author
Casey Meehan is a writer, musician and the founder of Chicago content marketing company Epic Presence.


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Cape Cod is a magical place. A magnet for famous writers and artists, past and present. Playground of sitting and former US presidents, American royalty, and of course the Kennedys.
For good reason.
Seals, whales, fish, and the apex predators who prey upon them. The unique ecology of the Cape astonishes.
Watching countless seals swim by you on the beach, while they watch you right back, is a memorable and special experience.
We know the best spots to watch them as well as the many worry free places to swim.
Whether a charter, fishing adventure, whale watching trip, a sail, a ferry journey, paddle, or all of the above, we have countless opportunities to get out on the water.
The sights, smells, and sounds of Cape beaches are unique. They are among the last of the wild places, a mecca for birdwatching and naturalists of all stripes.
Our beaches are famous the world over, for good reason.
Fresh seafood and shellfish caught on the same day it ends up on your table is a delight.
The range of seafood dining options nearby the inn astounds.
The waters here produce an almost unimaginable richness and abundance.
It is among our favorite Cape destinations, and a must visit.
This is a timeless place that cleanses and restores the spirit.
Home to Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI), along with its labs and diverse population of scientists and miscreants, brings interesting color to our local community.
Quissett Harbor, Falmouth Harbor, and others are nearby.
These marshes and wetland areas act as nurseries to a wide range of species, and absolutely full of life.
Exploring them on countless trails, or paddling them in a kayak, make for memorable days well spent.
We are fortunate so much of this local ecology is so accessible to visitors, it is an inspiring place.
It's also where a few of our favorite restaurants and watering holes are located, and the steamship authority to run back and forth to Martha's Vineyard.


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This is a sight we never want to see:
In the four years we have lived here, there has never been a problem with birds flying into our windows. Somehow, two days in a row, the fates aligned to invite disaster. I heard a whump, and when I went to investigate, there was this sweet little fellow, neck broken from the impact.
Several years ago, I did some research on this very subject. It seems there are several explanations for this kind of bird behavior. If they can see right through to the other side of the house, they think it is a corridor. If they see a reflection, they may read it as a rival bird. In either case, the instinct is to fly smack into the window. People have come up with all sorts of solutions, most of which involve some sort of "danglies" in front of the window, with assurances that their affront to one's inner decorator need only stay in place through the mating season. But wait! This is not the mating season…meaning our window camouflage might need to stay in place indefinitely.
pennants by ricki to the rescue! This pair of pennants, complete with streamers, fills the bill without getting in the way of the view out the kitchen window. They are decorative enough that I won't mind leaving them up. I am sure that this is a seasonal phenomenon having to do with the angle of the light, but with lives at stake, we don't want to take any chances.


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Get to know us, get to know me, get to know yourself!
Just recently, the partners of "Myself&EU" project reassembled in Latvia to complete very important part of their project – running a capacity building activity with the aim to test and present methods how to welcome and introduce the European Union to our newcomers – refugees and also young people, who due to the different reasons were not engaged in average activities. All methods will be compiled in unified toolbox.
Themes of the toolbox for the youth cover such fields as learning about the foundations and structures of the European Union, democracy and citizenship, employment and social rights interculturalism and challenges of the 21st century.
Most of the experts have thought of many interesting and interactive ways to teach about Europe and issues related to the EU. But what about us personally what about people? EU is around 500 billion people. What is the glue or possibility, what makes us feel alike, what makes us feel belonging to the European Union? As we know, all citizens of the EU countries are automatically EU citizens. Thus, if you are the citizen of an EU country, you have to bare it in mind – you are a European. And what, if not? How to explain to newcomers that we are open, respect and care about each other?
The capacity building seminar was attended by representatives from seven countries – Belgium, France, Italy, Latvia, Spain, Portugal. Regarding the presentations and discussions, the countries seemed to be far from each other and with various issues of interest. The meeting in Latvia may be considered as a small experiment – what makes us to feel belonging to the EU. At the end of the day – we rarely knew each other before, a part of some we met only in this project.
Without knowing ourselves, we cannot teach others to open up to trust and to follow, to be part of the community of the EU. Namely, with the project activities we want to ensure that young people will improve their knowledge and also become more open and more engaged in democratic processes – simply in their community as active citizens, maybe associations and foundations, maybe elections etc. – to sustain the principle of the EU alive.
First of all – ice breaking! I know that for those who attend "millions" of seminars it might seem there is nothing more boring than trying to remember somebody's name. Especially when you know that very often you meet this person for the first and for the last time… However, we also all know that the first impression about a person is made at the first minute; hence, if somebody noticed that you are kind and open – most probably you will have possibility to meet these people again. The ice breaking without any doubt is very important not only for the sake of group dynamics, but also for each individual in the group. Therefore, regardless the audience, always be prepared to make good and engaging ice breaking session. Main task of the ice breaking session is to listen, because many people open up and say about their talents when they are relaxed and think that introducing themselves is not work, but at the end of the day these introductions turn out to be like a finding treasures.
Can there be more challenging issue to speak about belonging to the EU if recently there was BREXIT? Not at all – this is about the time to speak about competences of the EU and also personal satisfaction in the context of EU. Have you ever thought how much we have gained by becoming partners in the EU "club", which was founded to organize business better and avoid wars? The founders of EU could never imagine that they would bring for so many people possibility to gain freedom to travel, freedom to learn, live and get old wherever they want – it is possible only here in the EU – this fact was reminded to us by our trainer from Spain – Marta.
Maybe there are some people, who still remember that crossing border could take hours and hours, but now we are free to go wherever we want. Simultaneously citizenship is also responsibility – it was reminded to us by our French partner and trainer Beatrice, who run the session about the democracy and citizenship. Citizenship is like a ticket to get in to the car, but at the same time, you have to be competent to drive or at least to know that to be safe, you have to fasten the seat belt, which is both driver's and your responsibility.
Ensuring employment and social rights may be obvious in the welfare countries, yet the aim of business is to make profit, therefore, in order to protect workers' rights citizens need to be aware about them and stand up for that. Coline and Et-taoufk asked us to solve the problems at an imagined company producing teddy bears. The task seemed easy and understandable, but when there are different interest groups – administrative staff, workers etc. – the dialogue becomes complicated, the solution should fit for all. All of us deserve safety and care at work place; therefore, knowing your rights is very important and requires knowledge you can get only by engaging in understanding your rights.
What is your DNA? Do you know where your routes are from? Am I a pure Latvian, are you pure Belgian, French, Italian or Spanish person? You will be surprised if you find out the truth. And you will wonder that the rejection of other people, prejudices and stereotypes come from your inner fear. Overcoming the fear is crucial to understand that people may have different origins, different life experiences and different patterns of behaviour. Only when you start thinking to whom you will let your apartment (if need be), you realize – life with different people in the same community can be rich and great, if you are open to change some prejudice. It was amazing to listen to Dalmar's (a trainer from Italy) own experiences (some very humorous) as a black person being Italian. Nevertheless, changing attitudes is very often struggle for many people and we can be the ones to help others overcoming this obstacle.
Challenges in the 21st century are so great and little, at the same time. If we consider that our generation lives more comfortable than our grandmothers and grandfathers lived 50 years ago. However, we seem to be more focused on finding problems than living a simple, decent life. Of course, security and cyber security is an issue in this century, when half of the life or more is spent with gadgets. This life style brings along cyber bulling between the youngsters. It also brings us obligation to think whether we are all equal and have the same possibilities. There is one question to ask – do I have ability to think critically, because overcoming challenges is the issue of my readiness, willingness and courage.
Yes, there are many topics to think about, but simultaneously possibility to be friends and learn about yourself is openness and smile to everybody who approaches to you. I did it we all Uldis, Pauls and Liva Agnese did it – we were open to our colleagues coming from other countries, I shared with them all good we have here in Latvia – Jurmala, Jelgava and Riga and it will be unforgettable experience and good and inspiring memories for the rest of my life and at the end of the day – maybe to others as well.
If you did read it – thank you, but now- back to work!
Rasma Pipiķe, team member from "Myself&EU" and Zemgales NGO center.


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Tuesday, December 3, 2013
Rough patch
Oh my Lord, last night's workout should've been so easy. It was an old Tae Bo we still do but so much of the weekend was still hanging on my body that I felt like I was a lead weight. The easy speedbags I do to jack up my heart rate while Billy Blanks babbles between exercises felt like I had another 10 pounds tied to each arm. It was so hard to get through the workout and when I did I was ten calories away from 900 and I was kind of pissed about it because it felt like I should've burned more given how hard it was. I can only hope that the workouts get easier as the week progresses.
The nighttime cravings have also hit an all time high, which sucks because I can eat my snack and still obsess whether or not I can fit anything else in. (I can't.) Last night, despite wanting to dive in to various things scattered about the house that would make workouts even heavier, I opted to make green tea for us.
I hate it when I hit patches like this and it's typically this time of year, just like everyone else. This year feels a little more out of control than previous years though and I have no idea why. Because of this, I will likely not be doing a 12 Days of Christmas recipe countdown this year. I just can't trust myself having that stuff in the house in mass quantities, even overnight until they go to work with the Mr the next day. I usually have that stuff done and photographed in October and I just don't have time to make that many recipes, photograph, edit in time. I'll have to think up something else to do.
I'm sorry I'm such a disappointment right now. I feel I'm barely hanging on by my fingernails, wait, I've bit those back to nubbins so I guess by the skin on my fingers. Thank God our exercise schedule has kept up but I'll be honest, the thoughts of "ugh, I don't want to" pop into my head much more than I'd like to admit. I'd like a lot of snow right now so we can go snow shoeing and skiing. I'm desperate for new workouts to do so I need to go through Amazon streaming or something online until Christmas. I asked for a few workouts so I'm hoping I get a few to throw into rotation. I just saw Amy Dixon has a new kettlebell workout (affiliate link) that comes out today so I'll get that one after Christmas for sure since I'd like more kettlebell options.
Am I the only one in a rough patch or anyone else feel me on this one?
(This post contains an affiliate link to a workout that looks pretty kick ass. Should you buy through it, I will get a nominal kickback and you might get some great ab, back and core strength.)
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29 comments:
We are definitely in this rough patch together. In a way it's helpful that our struggles in the past have taught us what to look for when we really start to slide and I think that is keeping our heads just above the water line so far. We know what we need to do but given the amount of time we've spent spinning our wheels in this plateau it makes it hard to stay the course and maintain our edge. I intend to keep up as much as possible this month and hit it hard in January like everyone else does. The difference being that I know I will not stop after January but keep going because I know for sure that I am going to find a way to break this plateau!ReplyDeleteReplies
Yes, I'd say keeping our heads above water is about the right description...more like our nostrils come up like a dorsal fin on occasion. I hope to be up to a full head above by January or we're in serious trouble.Delete
I blame the lack of sunlight. It really affects every aspect of my life. Less sunlight makes me want to hibernate (eat tons, move little) which makes me all emotional ("I'm such a lazy pig!"). Even my skin is all worked up. My psoriasis HATES this time of year (so it flares up big time, which add to my "I'm gross" feelings) and just to add a nice bit of insult to injury, I'm having crazy breakouts on my chin. I'm too dang old for ZITS!ReplyDelete
I say we all get a big sun lamp and bask under it. Lord knows it can't make anything WORSE.
(man, just think how great spring is going to be once we suffer through this crapola!)Replies
Well considering this patch started in the summer and this is my favorite time of year, I can't blame it on that. I get more energized in the winter with the cold, the light that does come through reflecting off the snow so no "SAD" issues for me. I meant more that fact that the holiday time of year is more acceptable to have crap in the house you wouldn't have any other time of year.Delete
For me, it's this time of year. I love being out in nature, walking, biking, running, etc. When it gets cold, all I want to do is snuggle up on the couch in a blanket and eat. I found myself wanting to do that this weekend, even though I wasn't hungry!? I feel your pain. Just keep battling, you'll make it through. :)ReplyDeleteReplies
I'm completely the opposite. I love getting outside this time of year because I hate the heat (summer is my hibernation especially over 84 degrees). I know, I'm a weirdo. I just wish we'd get more snow so I could put the snow shoes to work asap. A great way to burn 1000 calories while having the trails pretty much to yourself except the birds, squirrels and raccoons. :-) I have the same problem lately, that wanting to eat even when I'm not hungry. That's danger time. I'm fine through the week but the weekend is becoming a big trigger for me. :-\Delete
well its these phases that come somtimes..nothing motivates u or anything...I hope u get out of the funk..well atleast u have the MR. for support..u can do this Anele!!!ReplyDeleteReplies
Me too. Glad I have him for support too but it's bad when we're on the same bad page which seems to be happening more and more lately. No bueno.Delete
I always feel like I'm part bear this time of year. I only come out to forage (food/Xmas gifts).ReplyDelete
I always appreciate your 12 days of Christmas treats and I'm sure you are disappointed not to do it. But have you considered focusing instead on decoration inspiration or a couple of crafts? I enjoy those posts as well.
Of course, I suspect your other readers are like me: content with whatever you choose to share with us. So please don't take this as pressure. Just an alternate suggestion to keep your mind off not doing the treats.Replies
LOL...I couldn't help but picture you as a lumbering bear. I'll probably throw together a few easy recipes and other Christmas cheery kinda things. I'm working on a craft now, maybe I'll whip out the camera.Delete
I'm definitely in a rough patch. I've put on 15 pounds and need to get it off, but know this is not the time of year to attempt that. My goal is to maintain until Jan. 2, (I never start a new losing weight effort on Jan. 1--that's my birthday!), and then drop this 15 pounds by eating right and moving more. Same old....same old. I sure don't want to have to lose any more than those 15 pounds that I'm clinging to right now, however. I think you are wise to forgo your 12 Days of Christmas recipes, I would never be able to resist that temptation. Anything I buy that I shouldn't, calls my name constantly until it is gone and then it is such a relief. So why do I buy it? Katie (Runs for Cookies) said her sister told her you can make the choice in the grocery store NOT to by that item, or be faced with many tough choices over the days or weeks it is in your house. I'm going to try to remember that and just NOT buy the stuff in the first place. Hang on Anele....we're all out here....going through the same thing and rooting for you and ourselves! We can do it.ReplyDeleteReplies
I know you've got a lot going on right now and I think maintenance is a good goal right now. We tend to have a lot of last minute things pop up that I need to make something for so this time of year I stock up on the chocolate chips when they're on sale or condensed milk and stuff like that. I don't have it in the house much any other time of year. I'll be glad when the cookies I'm making for others are done and I don't have to think about them anymore. Why I ever said I'd make it an annual thing, is beyond me. It sounded generous at the time but turned into a pain the azz.Delete
Never a disappointment...it's nice to hear that everyone is human!! Shit happens! This time of the year is crazy...keep doing what your doing to get through the Christmas season and maybe a little re-focus will happen soon. Never a disappointment....thank you.ReplyDeleteReplies
Definitely human here and shit does indeed happen. LOL Thanks!Delete
First, you are never a disappointment. This whole thing can suck the big one sometimes, well, a lot of times... I completely understand where you're coming from and I hope we're both strong enough to crawl up and out of the funk.ReplyDeleteReplies
To quote Rizzo, it bites the weenie with relish. Hopefully we can crawl out together and intact!Delete
It's not just you; as much as I love this time of year and have been able to show restraint around the proliferation of seasonal treats the last three years, I'm having a much harder time with them this year. Being at home because I'm between jobs doesn't help, either, because food is SO readily available. I put back on about 5 pounds this fall, and I have not been able to get motivated to really try to lose it again. If I make it through the holidays without gaining any more, I'll consider it a major success. Hang in there; the plateau will not last forever.ReplyDeleteReplies
What is it about this year? Is it because it's `13? I think it's the motivation I really struggle with but I've done it long enough without it so I don't know why it matters so much to me now. Ugh...Delete
I totally feel you on this. Something about when it gets to be really cold and snowy I just want to hibernate. I agree with you about not doing the 12 days of Christmas thing as well. We're doing cookie exchange for work and I looked up "healthy holiday cookies." Not much out there and I don't want them hanging out at my house. We'll keep keepin on!ReplyDeleteReplies
Yeah, not many healthy holiday recipes out there. I try to lighten mine up where I can but as far as them being healthy...nope. LOLDelete
Oh no, I'm there too. My plate is full and though I know the only way I can continue to handle life is to keep up on my health, I just don't feel like, and I've got crazy bad munchies too:/ Wish I had better news for ya Anele. At least we are in the same boat. Maybe it'll float all the way to Hawaii, lol.ReplyDeleteReplies
Yes, let's float to Hawaii. At least we can do some kayaking and stand up paddling and have it count as exercise!Delete
Only one in a rough patch??? HA!!! I think I've been in a rough patch for about...oh, 3 years or so! ;-)ReplyDelete
Seriously though, this time of year is tough. Keep on keepin' on girlie!!!Replies
Oh, so you've been in a 3 year rough patch too? I'm glad I'm not the only one! I wish I knew what the proper kick in my ass would be. Never mind, I don't want to find out.Delete
You certanily aren't a dissapoiintment!!! I love your blog, and appreciate that you keep it current even when you aren't feeling like She-Ra!ReplyDelete
I've definately been wanting to cram junk food, candies, cookies & such lately...sometimes I have but I do practice at least some restraint...it's not easy. I feel like once the unhealthy food creeps into my life it's all the more tempting to keep eating. Are you going to do any craft projects since you're avoiding cooking? :)Replies
Thanks! Yeah, She Ra has been tied up and chucked in a trunk somewhere. I'm about crafted out but can try to come up with something!Delete
I apologize for the last post - the new gmail kept eating my posts. Stupid changes.ReplyDelete
Anyway - I totally feel you. I've been in a slump myself since around September. I had a much deeper post written this morning, but then gmail happened. Sorry you didn't get to see that one.
All we can do is hang on by our collective fingernails (mine are long enough for both of us) until we can get our heads back on straight.Replies
No prob, I deleted it for ya. I'll need those fingernails of yours and hopefully the rest will fall into place.Delete
I went through a very rough patch this past summer and had to really dig deep to find out what was going on. I came to realize that food still has too much of an emotional pull on me. I'm still viewing food as a 'reward' and I'll never make it long term that way. I rid my email of all the "holiday" recipes that hold so much appeal and don't bring those items into the house. For me, there are certain trigger foods that I just cannot eat. Period. I have to remain abstinent from them because one bite will lead to a binge...if not that day, then down the road. I know how my mind thinks, and I can now acknowledge that I'm not a normal eater, nor will I ever be. And that's ok. Because I can work within a food plan that works for me. And interestingly enough...I haven't fainted because I choose to pass up my trigger foods (many of which focus around those holiday treats). The struggle is still there, but I'm choosing not to give in to it by not setting myself up by having those things in the house. The hubs has zero food issues and can eat whatever he wants till the cows come home and he weighs 180 day in and day out. If I see something in the house that is a trigger for me, but not for him, just by saying "oh, that's his", I don't feel the compulsion to eat it. My triggers are not all sugar/snack related either. Just this week I've learned that hot dogs are a trigger for me! Hot Dogs for pete's sake! So, yes, I totally feel you on this one and can relate. I have to take it each day at a time and have many conversations with myself to overcome. Not easy, but very much worth it by the time I go to bed.ReplyDelete
Thanks for taking the time to comment! I appreciate your time! (Heads up though...disrespectful or spam comments will be deleted.)


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The right one
Are you, is it … ready?
When do you take it out to see the world and let the world consider it's merits? When it's an idea, a proof of concept, a prototype, a first cut, final cut, full production model? At what point do you stop asking for opinions and start asking for money? When do you push the button on the socialising, the schmoozing, the marketing, the selling?
It depends on who you're talking to.
Some people get excited and see opportunity in a notion – they'll dig in right beside you. Some see nothing but problems until the finished article rolls off the conveyor belt and into their life, fully formed and brightly polished. And there's every type in between.
No matter where you are in the process, there's a wrong person to talk to next, and a right person.
Find the right one.
Skippy strategy: Target the type, then the person.
Get a daily nudge by subscribing to email updates.


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The beautiful island of Cyprus, birthplace of Aphrodite Goddess of love and beauty, is a unique place where the legend of 8,000 years of culture joins with modern living in a harmony which gives Cyprus a charm and individuality incomparable to any other place. Cyprus offers the best of both worlds: Excellent cosmopolitan restaurants and night-clubs, famous wines, sandy beaches, windsurfing or water-skiing and facilities for all kinds of sport such as tennis and horse-riding. Alternatively one can visit quiet mountain villages seemingly untouched by the twentieth century.
Cyprus is fast becoming the businessman's newly discovered paradise. Among the reasons for the development of Cyprus as a major commercial centre are the island's key geographical position, its excellent infrastructure and numerous tax advantages.


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Your details
Your policies & services
Applicable insurance premium tax (IPT) is included in premium where relevant. Please note 20% VAT is added at checkout for all contract review services.
We have put together an IR35 Survival Kit, which contains all of the important information you need to make informed choices and to strengthen your case. Written by experts with over a decade of experience in handling enquiries, the Survival Kit contains various helpful sections, including:
The important facts about IR35
A step by step guide to the IR35 enquiry process
An evidence checklist
A DIY contract review
What HMRC's initial letter looks like
A liability checker
Common myths about the legislation
HMRC introduced the 'Intermediaries Legislation' that became known as IR35 in 2000 after it was announced in the 1999 Budget.
The legislation was introduced to combat 'disguised employees'. This refers to an individual who would be treated as an employee were it not for the fact that they provide their services via their own personal service company.
Contractors working via limited companies are not liable to pay NICs on income taken as dividends, resulting in far less tax to the Treasury. As a result of this, IR35 exists to ensure that those working in this manner pay the tax they should.
Being 'caught' by IR35 can have serious financial consequences. If the Revenue investigate a contract and decide that it is inside IR35, they will calculate a deemed payment treating all income received from the contract as salary and demanding PAYE tax and national insurance contributions on payments originally paid out as dividends.
HMRC can go back up to six years, so even if a contract is finished there is still a risk that it could be subject to an enquiry.
The tools and guidance provided in this Survival Kit have been constructed by tax and IR35 specialists, led by ex-HMRC inspectors and contract and status experts. It includes key facts, the dreaded HMRC letter, DIY contract review, liability checker, step-by-step IR35 enquiry, common myths, an evidence checklist and what Qdos can do to help.
To ensure you are paying the correct taxes, you will need to determine your IR35 status.
Take a look at our checklist of what you can do to determine and further support evidencing your position. Even with IR35 reform well on its way, you still need to be able to evidence IR35 status for services provided before 6th April 2021.
You should be able to demonstrate that you have taken due diligence in confirming your IR35 position. A contract and working practices review from a specialist is the best way to do this.
One of the best forms of evidence in an IR35 enquiry is confirmation of your working practices directly from the end user. Unfortunately many organisations are reluctant to sign documents like this, but it's hugely beneficial where possible.
As a business, you should carry any necessary insurance policies such as Professional Indemnity and Public Liability, especially if this is required within your contractual agreement. Any written agreements should reflect reality.
Letterheads, business cards and a company website can all help to demonstrate that you are operating like a true business on your own account.
ID badges or email lists where you are clearly defined as a contractor, evidence of using a substitute, or any other documentation which may support your position should be kept safe for use in the event of an enquiry.
Contracts are often silent on the issue of control. Ideally there will be a clause stating that your company has autonomy over how the services are carried out, but it's also important to look for any negative wording which suggest the opposite.
Read more
Right Of Substitution
There should be a clause in your contract which states that your company can send a replacement contractor should the need ever arise. You have entered into a business agreement and not one of personal service. Because of this, your company should be able to provide the services using whichever representatives it sees fit.
Mutuality Of Obligations
As an independent contractor there should not be any obligation for either party to offer or provide ongoing work. The project should be clearly defined and any additional services should be agreed in a separate contract or extension.
Other indicators to look out for:
Expand all
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Q: I have been working on the same engagement for over two years, does that mean I'm caught by IR35?
A: This is one of the most widespread IR35 misconceptions. The truth is that there is no specific time period after which a contractor automatically becomes inside IR35; indeed, many contractors have won IR35 cases where they have been with the same client for far longer than two years. Naturally, the longer an engagement is with one client, the higher the potential IR35 liability would be. HMRC would also look to argue that you had become 'part and parcel' of the organisation. However, you are not automatically inside IR35.
Q: My agency said the contract is IR35 friendly. Does this mean I am safely outside IR35?
A: While your agency may or may not have taken care to ensure the written contract is carefully worded, they might not know what the actual working practices of the engagement will be. Until 6th April 2021, you are responsible for determining your own IR35 status. This means you must demonstrate due diligence and refrain from relying solely on the words of your agent who may only wish to speed up the onboarding process.
Q: I have more than one client. Does this mean I am automatically outside of IR35?
A: While multiple or concurrent contracts are certainly a positive indication that you are a 'genuine' business, each engagement will still be considered individually. In theory, you could be working on two separate contracts at the same time and one could be inside IR35 and the other outside. If you do have multiple contracts with different clients, you must still ensure that both the contracts and working practices are compliant. Remember, IR35 status is not established by any one factor. Instead think of it as a multitude of factors working together to indicate IR35 status.
Under the new off-payroll working rules to take effect from 6th April 2021, medium-large end clients will take on the responsibility of determining the IR35 status of their contractors. The fee-payer in each engagement will then be responsible for deducting the relevant tax and National Insurance at source. Depending on the structure of the contractual chain, this responsibility usually sits with either the end client or the recruitment agency in the engagement.
What you can do:
Open up a Dialogue with Your Agency/End-Client – Understanding their intentions is the first step. Your tax status won't be your decision anymore, so speaking with your end user/agency is the best way of determining what will happen and how.
Encourage Your End-Client/Agency to Speak with Qdos –Whilst it may no longer be your responsibility to assess your status, you can still encourage fair and compliant assessments from your client. We have worked with over 2,200 clients and agencies with this process so far, providing training, consultancy and fair assessment processes.
Check Your Status – Whilst we don't recommend using the CEST tool in general, it is likely to be the first port of call for many end clients. Using this tool will give you a heads up of what your result may be (remember that you might have differing opinions on how some of the questions are answered). For the same reasons, you may prefer to have a independent IR35 contract review completed. Doing so will ensure a higher level of accuracy and provide you with evidence should you require.
A 'Status Determination Statement' (SDS) is a document that states the IR35 status of a certain engagement based upon the results of an IR35 assessment including the IR35 status result and the reasoning for the conclusion.
It will be the end client's responsibility to produce an SDS under the off-payroll rules following their assessment of your status. The SDS must also be shared directly with the contractor.
If, after receipt of the SDS, any party of the contractual chain disagrees with the outcome, they have the right to appeal. This includes you as a contractor.
This is a client-led process and so you should refer to your client for how to dispute your result. However this will usually be in writing and should include detailed reasoning as to your objection.
The end client who issued the SDS must respond to your dispute within 45 days. Failure to do so may result in the end client becoming liable in the event of compliance activity.
If you do choose to appeal the SDS outcome and after reviewing the appeal, your end client decides that the original SDS still stands then they must provide you with their reasoning for such an outcome.
If, however, the initial SDS is proven to be incorrect, then your end client must provide a new SDS. This new SDS must also take into account the changed result.
Having reviewed over 150,000 contracts and working practices over the past 20+ years, Qdos provide one of the most trusted opinions on IR35 status.
From representation to your IR35 liabilities, protect your business against the legislation with award-winning IR35 and contractor insurance experts.
No insurance? No problem. Qdos started out as a tax consultancy and we still provide our services on this basis. From enquiry defence to advice, we are here to support you.
We provide a fair and compliant service for end clients to manage their obligations under the new rules which puts the contractor at the forefront of decisions. Put your client in touch with Qdos for robust status assessments after April 2021.
Qdos Contractor are one of the leading providers of specialist contractor insurance services in the UK. Our online application process takes only a matter of minutes with all documentation issued instantly. Unlike many other brokers, we don't hide our premiums until you've provided your details, as we are confident that our premiums, service and product are the best in the market. In addition, Qdos Contractor is one of the leading authorities on the IR35 legislation and have handled well over 1,500 IR35 enquiries on behalf of UK contractors.
Qdos began in 1988 as a tax consultancy business and has grown significantly over the past two decades, providing expert business services, products and advice. Over the years, Qdos has grown in both size and reputation as a trusted contractor insurance broker as well as an expert tax advisor. Our aim is to provide UK contractors with the assistance and service with IR35 issues they need as well as sustaining excellent quality and competitive premiums in the contractor insurance market.
Qdos Contractor is a trading style of Qdos Broker & Underwriting Services Ltd, a registered company in England and Wales with registered company number 06012716 and registered offices at The Grange, Grange Avenue, Rearsby, Leicester, LE7 4FY.
Qdos Broker & Underwriting Services Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (Firm Reference Number: 460886).
Qdos Broker & Underwriting Services Ltd is a wholly owned subsidiary of HCC International Insurance Company plc, a member of the Tokio Marine Group of Companies.
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A 20-year-old college student Joel Ortiz to face 10 years in prison for stealing $5 Million in cryptocurrency through SIM hijacking attacks and he is the first person to get convicted.
According to Motherboard he Hijacked more than 40 victims and swapped their phone numbers to the SIM card owned by hackers.
SIM-swapping or SIM Hijacking is the technique used by criminals to register an already existing number on a new SIM card, by having control over the phone number attackers can bypass 2FA authentication and reset the passwords to gain access to the victim's accounts.
Ortiz accepted the plea last week and the authorities believe he is the first person convicted for SIM swapping fraud.
Authorities arrested Ortiz last year for hijacking phone numbers and using them to then hack into emails, social media accounts, and online Bitcoin wallets.
"We think justice has been served. And hopefully, this is a strong message to that community," Samy Tarazi on of the investigator in the Ortiz case to Motherboard.
Nicholas Truglia also arrested last year for stealing $1 million through SIM-swapping scheme and he is pending for extradition to Santa Clara.
Last January a Mumbai businessman lost Rs. 1.86cr from his bank account, attackers obtained the unique SIM number and have initiated the SIM swap.
The SIM swapping attacks are in raise and anybody can fall prey to it.
You can follow us on Linkedin, Twitter, Facebook for daily Cybersecurity updates also you can take the Best Cybersecurity courses online to keep your self-updated.
Related Read
Hacker Group Stolen $5 Million Through SIM Swapping Hacks
SIM Swapping Hacker Group Who Managed to Steal $80,000 Worth of Cryptocurrency Got Arrested


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In Alaska, it is not too difficult to save considerable on your car insurance. Insurance companies base the insurance rates or monthly premiums on their risk assessment of the persons purchasing the auto insurance policy. With a few easy steps, you would be able to get comparatively low insurance premiums on your car insurance. A few tips for saving on car insurance in Alaska are furnished here for your benefit.
Driving History
If you have a good driving history, with no accidents or traffic violations, you would command very low insurance premium and save considerably on your car insurance. Hence, you should always try to drive safely and adhere to driving and traffic rules. You should familiarize yourself thoroughly with the traffic rules of Alaska and adhere to them strictly. If, for any reason, your driving history is not that good, you would need to obtain insurance at a higher premium and then improve your record by resorting to safer driving. When your car policy comes up for renewal, you would be in a position to negotiate with your insurance company for lower insurance rates.
Cluster your Policies with One Insurer
If you wish to buy car insurance from one particular insurance company, then it would be better if you transfer your personal life policy, your home policy, and the policies of your family members to that insurance company. Clustering all the policies with one insurance company definitely impresses that company and it would automatically offer you very good rates for your car insurance.
Compare Rates before Buying Car Insurance
Before deciding on the insurance company, you should obtain quotes from different insurance companies. Since the assessment of each company would be different, you might be able to get better rates. Moreover, you would be able to see which factors had been considered risky by which company. When you have the assessment of multiple companies in your hand, this would give you an opportunity to take appropriate remedial steps in those factors.
Accident Claims
Insurance companies consider your past accident claims as very important in their risk assessment. If your driving record is free of accident claims, either by you or by a third party, then you would be able to save considerably on your car insurance. Insurers give more weight to past accident claims than to traffic tickets. If you do have a few accident claims in the past, either explain in person the situations in which those claims were made or attach a letter detailing those circumstances. This would help the insurance company to understand your driving record better. Many insurance companies evaluate driving history and accident claims for even the past five years, though considering the history for three years is normal.
Geographic Area
Insurance companies also take into consideration the area in which you live and the areas in which you regularly drive. Areas with lesser traffic would be considered as lower risk, while congested suburbs with heavy traffic would naturally be high risk areas. Areas with high crime rate of vehicle theft would also be higher risk. This would be another factor that you would need to look into.
If you study the above tips for saving on car insurance in Alaska and take appropriate steps, you would be able to get very good insurance rates for your car insurance.


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All of the benefits and imaging characteristics of our white bond papers are available on our tinted base materials. Add color to your copies to differentiate print routing, distribution, security or other special applications. Available in BLUE, GREEN, PINK and YELLOW.
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Lyve and the Future of Photo Management
We chat with the company's founder and CEO about dealing with 100,000+ photos
In 2013, the people around the world took more photographs than ever before. Thanks to entities like GoPro, smartphones and even drones, this trend is only on the upswing as more and more people gain access to these technologies. Once reserved for professionals and special occasions, photo-taking has become a daily ritual. With billions of photos uploaded every day to Facebook, Instagram and Snapchat, one cannot help but think about how these libraries are being stored and shared. Instead of endless external hard drives or an expensive subscription service, Lyve is changing the conversation about how all those personal images are saved and viewed. The free Lyve App organizes all of your photos into a single collection that you can enjoy on your many devices. Pair it with a 2TB Lyve Home and all your photos and videos will be safely stored and instantly accessible from anywhere.
Founded by CEO Tim Bucher, a Silicon Valley and Apple veteran, Lyve approaches storage with the same innovative spirit that has—up until now—been reserved for cameras. By optimizing images for mobile, the app gives users access to their computer's entire photo library without consuming precious storage. Poised in front of the pack, Bucher and the Lyve team hope to lead the next photo revolution. To get a peek at what's next, Bucher gave us his take on Lyve—its ability to house countless moments and memories—and the future of photo-taking, storing and viewing.
Do I want to post pictures of my kids everyday on Facebook? No, but I do want to keep them.
Tell us a little about how you use the Lyve app?
We always have our smartphones with us these days, but with Lyve, I have all my photos and video literally in front of me, wherever I go. It reminds me of life moments from this month or this day. Today, I actually got a notification for this picture I took of my son when he was four. He is wearing a pot on his head, so I texted it to him with a caption that just said "Nice hat, buddy." Lyve has brought my life memories back to me in a way no other application has. It's reconnected me to family and friends.
I know it sounds corny but it's changed my life. It's made me a lot more social. It's estimated that less than 10% of all photos get uploaded. Do I want to post pictures of my kids everyday on Facebook? No, but I do want to keep them. Lvye also provides me a way to do that.
How has Lyve been received?
We're now at the point where the whole word of mouth thing is starting to take off. When friends and family realize that I can flip through all my photos on my phone, they go and download it. For example, I was at a lunch with two buddies of mine, one of them had an iPhone and the other one had an Android. I was showing them the app on my phone and they both asked could download it. What's really cool is that I could say, "Yes, this is platform independent." Lyve gives you the freedom to capture as much of life no matter what devices you own and I think that is what really appeals to people.
We really opened up our lives on social networks and then we were like, "Oops!" and now we are in the process of reeling it in.
What are your predictions for the future of photo storing and sharing?
I think the world is becoming more personal. We really opened up our lives on social networks and then we were like, "Oops!" and now we are in the process of reeling it in. Social is becoming more about sharing these personal experiences with a small group of friends rather than the entirety of the internet. Personal is about your experiences. I believe that 99% of photo sharing is being done on our phones. Think about your own experience pointing out an image to a friend or colleague—it's never on your laptop, it's on your phone.
What are your thoughts on Lyve's future within that?
When you are capturing these life memories, you want them to last forever. What company in the world is solely focused on that? You can't say that's Google or Amazon or Facebook's main focus. There really isn't today a Kodak of the 21st century—that's what Lyve wants to be. Kodak, during its heyday, wasn't about the camera devices but the data that was represented by the film. We want to be the digital form of that film in the future. So what it comes down to is data. And those personal experiences are the most precious form of information we have.
Portrait courtesy of Lyve, all other images by Cool Hunting


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(click linked text below to jump to related section of the review)
- The Game Itself
- 4 Stars
- The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
- 3 Stars
- The Audio: Rating the Sound
- 3.5 Stars
- Replay Factor
- 4 Stars
- Bottom Line
- Recommended
The Awakened Fate Ultimatum
- Street Date:
- March 17th, 2015
- Reviewed by:
- Elizabeth Henges
- Review Date:1
- March 11th, 2015
- Game Release Year:
- 2015
- Platform:
- Publisher:
- NIS America, Inc.
- Developer:
- Nippon Ichi Software, Inc.
Editor's Notes
Digital PS3 version reviewed.
Another month, another Nippon Ichi title graces are Western shores. This month brings players 'The Awakened Fate Ultimatum', a rouge-like that is a spiritual successor of sorts to the PlayStation 3 title 'The Guided Fate Paradox.' Sticking with genre conventions of ever-shifting dungeons and harsh punishments for failure while injecting a healthy dose of storyline in an otherwise mechanic-heavy genre, 'The Awakened Fate Ultimatum' attempts to appeal to a wider (but still niche) audience.
The Game Itself: Our Reviewer's Take
In 'The Awakened Fate Ultimatum,' you are thrust into the shows of Shin Kamikaze, who has unwittingly been made a God in a brutal war between angels and demons. He is assisted by Jupiel and Ariael, who are tasked with preparing their newly created God for the battles to come. This plot may seem a bit on the simplistic and dull side, but what really makes it stand out are the choices the player, as Shin, has to make. 'The Awakened Fate Ultimatum' isn't one to shy away from tough decisions and really manages to encompass the brutality and moral gray areas associated with war by showing the consequences of the player's decision.
In between these rather lengthy story bits are the Missions. Each Mission is essentially a chapter, and each one contains a dungeon that Shin must work through. These parts play out much like a rouge-like, with randomized floors and items to work through and find. Everything will be different every time Shin enters a dungeon, with the only constant being whether or not a boss is waiting on the final floor.
What sets 'The Awakened Fate Ultamatum' a bit apart from the average rouge-like, though, is Shin's ability to Deitize. Technically, Shin as a human is very weak; he'll take a lot of damage from most enemies and be able to do little himself. However, he can change to Angel and Devil forms, which give him the implied element of said forms and provides extra damage and defense.
This is where a bit of strategy comes in. Every monster (barring bosses, presumably) is either Light or Dark. Therefore enemies will take extra damage from the opposite type of attack. That same rule does not apply to Shin, however; if he is attacked by a monster of the opposite element, he'll take half damage, but getting hit by an element of the same type will have him take double damage. Since remaining in a form takes SP every turn, and since monsters of both types will constantly litter the dungeons, knowing when to Deitize and when to use skills (which require a lot of SP) is important to Shin's survival.
That said, the dungeons aren't actually all that difficult. Provided that the player isn't blowing through each floor as soon as a staircase is found, a typical romp through the dungeon will typically get Shin up to a decent level for the resulting boss or next dungeon. It's also important to note that actual level ups don't provide much: A level up will raise stats slightly and provide one point of CP to level up Angel and Devil forms, but it is the smart use of consumable items and somewhat up-to-date equipment that will make or break a dungeon run.
So, while the dungeon crawling isn't actually dull, the overall lack of challenge does make the gameplay seem secondary to the more interesting plot. There are other little mechanics to help round out the dungeon crawling experience, such as the ability to upgrade equipment and infuse Gems into them, but I was able to go through most of the game without even using these. To the game's credit, the difficulty does ramp up a little during some of the later portions, but by that point the player should be able to keep themselves well-stocked on useful items to mitigate any potential rough points.
As such, this PS3 title's strongest point really is its story. While this does mean that the actual gameplay elements of 'The Awakened Fate Ultimatum' don't particularly stand-out, but they are also decent enough to not detract from the plot itself while providing something substantial for players to diligently work through.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
There are two distinct visual styles in 'The Awakened Fate Ultimatum'. The first, and the one the player will arguably see more, is within the cutscenes. Scenes within the game are played out with character portraits standing on a still background, with little changing other than the characters' expressions. The character portraits are well-drawn and animate their emotions pretty well. It's serviceable, but may be disappointing for those that wanted a little more action in their scenes.
The other style is used when exploring the dungeons. Like many roguelikes, dungeons are shown in a top down view. Shin's model, as well as the models for monsters and items, are simplistic, but they get the job done and the player can typically easily tell what alignment a monster falls in with a single glance. However, the title is not afraid to use the same dungeon design for multiple missions, which can make repeat trips rather dull visually.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
In terms of music, 'The Awakened Fate Ultimatum' is a bit hit or miss. Some of the tracks are quite good, but others can easily grate on the nerves and loop too often, making specific dungeons more annoying to get through than they should.
On the other hand, the voice acting is pretty solid. 'The Awakened Fate Ultimatum' offers both Japanese and English tracks, and in both languages the personalities of the characters and the emotions behind the plot are conveyed quite well. I personally preferred the English track over the Japanese one, but it's really a matter of which one each individual player enjoys more.
Replay Factor
There is quite a bit to enjoy in 'The Awakened Fate Ultimatum' beyond just the main story. As the mechanics suggest, there are a variety of endings to see, as well as extra tid-bits to work through after the main story is complete.
Even beyond the multiple endings, there's a fair bit to do. There are trophies to collect, which involve getting every item and maxing out enhancements, amongst other things that are sure to occupy any fan of the game's time.
Final Thoughts
'The Awakened Fate Ultimatum' may not be the most exciting game gameplay wise, but the title makes up for it with an intriguing story that forces tough decisions on the player. The rouge-like base of the game shouldn't scare those intimidated by the usual difficulty found in the genre, as overall the title isn't very difficult. If the premise of the game and its forced decision making intrigues you, it's worth picking up.
Motion Controls
- No
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Monday, October 5, 2009
Monday's Question of the Day (6)
Monday's Question of the Day is hosted by Eleni at /-LA FEMME READERS-/
Question: If you could spend a day with any supernatural figure, who would you pick and why?
My Answer: A day with a vampire would be too stressful; I'd be wondering if I was just a fang's-prick away from death (or undeath). A day with a werewolf would probably be okay, as they would be human during the day... so that's not very interesting. A day with a Meyer-esque "shapeshifter" would just be nasty. Honestly... rainy location + hairy beast = wet dog smell. Ew.
I think I would have to say that I'd most like to spend a day with a guardian angel. Not necessarily my own (they should be spending every day with me anyway... right?). I think it would be an interesting experience. I'd probably spend it asking lots of questions, picking their brain about stuff like free will, the afterlife, and the nature of the universe. We could do it over herbal tea at the local Starbucks.
I'm not sure that distracting someone else's guardian angel is the best idea, though. I might get answers to my questions... but their charge could get hit by a bus while they're sipping their peppermint tea!
4 comments:
Great answer! I never thought of a guardian angel, you have an interesting mind babe! You make some good points about vampires too but I'll take my chances lolReplyDelete
I really like your thinking process here. I have to agree as much as it would be interesting to spend time with these other creatures to ask many questions, you just don't know what to expect from them. The guardian angel is a great idea. I could go for the fallen angel as well.ReplyDelete
I think I would like to spend time with a wonderful and good wizard. Many things about the world could be learned from them I think.
Very clever response. I hadn't thought of that. Fallen angel is good too. What a fun question for us paranormal lovers!ReplyDelete
O guardian angel! Nice choice. Why didn't I think of that? I was thinking of a faerie. A nice one that is.ReplyDelete


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Currency is the new battleground, and central banks are leading the charge, artificially cheapening their own exchange rates to boost exports as manipulation adds to global tensions and greater Forex opportunities. Alliances keep shifting, as export-fueled markets respond by printing money to buy up US currency and prevent dollar devaluation, while China is unloading dollars for Japanese yen. See the following article from Money Morning for more on this.
If you're like me, and you spend a lot of time perusing financial Web sites in search of the latest global investing news, you've probably started to see a lot of stories about rapid shifts in foreign exchange rates – including some "currency pairs" that have traditionally been rather slow-moving.
Back during the spring, for instance, the news was full of stories about how Switzerland was buying up European euros in an effort to weaken the strong Swiss franc – only to have that country change course and diversify its holdings by purchasing U.S. dollars.
During the summer, we watched as Japan entered the foreign exchange (or "FX") markets for the first time in nearly a decade in order to buy U.S. dollars.
Even South Korea has been a contestant in the currency-transaction arena, with that Asian tiger working to weaken its currency, the won, in an effort to improve its exports. Just yesterday (Monday), the won rose for the sixth-straight day, its longest winning streak in eight weeks, after the nation's foreign-exchange reserves climbed to a record $290 billion.
These events aren't random. But they are related. They're part of a worldwide currency war that's being waged before our eyes – and that will prove very costly to investors who don't recognize the game that's being played. Fortunately, we do – and we're going to tell you all about it.
Central Banks Duke it Out
A new global war has broken out. But this war is economic. So far, it's not a shooting war – at least, not a shooting war involving physical bullets. Yet each nation is firing financial bullets at its own currencies.
This international currency war already involves China, Japan, Brazil, Korea and even the United States, to name just a few of the main combatants, with each country's central bank taking the point position on the front line.
Through the central bank, each nation is attempting to help its own economy by lowering the value of its national currency in foreign exchange terms. The central bank that succeeds will see its country's export total zoom and will either narrow (or even eradicate) an existing current-account deficit, or (as is the case with countries such as Korea and China) will see its currency reserves soar.
You see, this war is over the ability to export finished products, to importing nations. It is about keeping your own citizens employed during an extended economic slowdown in global demand, even if that means damaging national relationships. This war will vault the winners into positions of global leadership, while severely penalizing the losers.
"We're in the midst of an international currency war, a general weakening of currency," says Brazil Finance Minister Guido Mantega. "This threatens us because it takes away our competitiveness."
Here's how this battle gets fought.
Given the budgetary jam U.S. leaders find themselves facing, they understand that one of the few options they have is to boost American exports by devaluing the dollar.
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But other export-driven economies – such as Brazil, South Korea and Japan – don't want to have this happen. They want to stop the drop in the U.S. dollar. And there's only one way to stop this: Print more of their own money and then use that additional currency to purchase dollars out in the international currency market.
Once they have purchased these dollars, they usually park the dollars in U.S. Treasuries, which pay a dividend to their new foreign holder. This has helped the U.S. Treasury issue U.S. government debt at historic low interest rates – despite a staggering budgetary gulf that is threatening to widen.
As investors, there's an important reality, or rule, to understand about currency wars of this type: Unilateral actions by the central banks that are waging these campaigns on behalf of their own government are rarely successful.
Surprised? Don't be, for it gets even better. As an investor, you can profit from this easy-to-predict outcome.
Veteran institutional traders understand this reality. That's why one of the easiest trades in the professional-investor playbook has always been to go against a central bank … after it has shot its currency wad.
News From the Front
It's well known that the central banks of the world will take action on behalf of their national exchange rates from time to time.
These "interventions," as Wall Street refers to them, are sudden-and-rapid currency moves that are usually deadly to the highly leveraged "FX" trader who takes the other end of this transaction.
While brutal and effective for periods that are measured in days or weeks, interventions are rarely characterized as successes when viewed over a period measured in months or years. The market is always bigger than any one player.
In fact, it takes a concerted effort of a group of central banks, to change market direction. It has happened before, an example being the Plaza Accord. These events are bigger than the near-term market movement, as traders understand that all central bankers are on one script.
In the current environment, however, central banks are intervening in currency markets against the best interests of each other. The brawl is actually pitting central banks against each other in the currency trading pits.
In fact, this battle has heated up so much that the U.S. House of Representatives has gotten involved. Growing ever-more concerned about the problem of the U.S. dollar being manipulated by foreign central banks, the House just last week overwhelmingly passed a bill that would enable the Obama administration to impose punitive tariffs on almost all Chinese imports into the United States. The controversial move is intended to punish China for refusing to revalue its currency.
As the world's reserve currency, the United States normally stands clear of these currency skirmishes. In this case, however, each nation is basically attempting to manipulate the U.S. dollar to its advantage.
For instance, the greenback is being held artificially stable by China's yuan policy. This enables China to enjoy any benefits the United States would normally gain from having a weak currency.
"China's persistent manipulation is a major distortion in the international marketplace," said Sander Levin, chairman of the House Ways and Means committee. The yuan "has a major impact on American workers and therefore American jobs. That's what this is really all about."
There's an old saying that you "can't tell a player without a program." So here's a quick rundown on the countries currently involved in the currency war, as well as the objective each of these players is hoping to achieve:
- China is keeping its currency, the yuan, tightly bound to the U.S. dollar, so it gains an advantage if the dollar drops in value.
- China is buying Japanese yen and European euros to hamper the exports of its rivals.
- Japan is selling yen to buy U.S. dollars, hoping to boost Japanese exports.
- Brazil is selling its currency, the real, to buy dollars, hoping to help Brazil's exports.
- Switzerland was a huge buyer of euros this spring, before switching to U.S. dollars.
This new currency war is rapidly expanding into an international economic world war that pits each combatant against all the others. Even formerly "friendly" nations – at least insofar as they'd been major trading partners – have been transformed into combatants. Each day's headlines contain examples of the breakdowns in formerly normal global trade relations. Likewise, a careful read of the daily news roundup will reveal new alliances taking shape.
Celso Amorim, Brazil's foreign minister saidthat he believes "that this idea of putting pressure on a country is not the right way for finding solutions." Amorim also noted that "we have good co-ordination with China and we've been talking to them. We can't forget that China is currently our main customer."
China has been observed selling U.S. dollars and buying up yen, which would cause Japan exports to drop in volume while increasing Chinese demand. This caused Japan to intervene in its own markets, selling as much as $20 billion in U.S. dollar equivalents in one day.
Currently, China is Japan's No. 1 export market, exceeding the U.S. in dollar value. This relationship, however, is not stable, as each nation is taking unilateral actions to defend its economy from the other. This mindset spilled over into a diplomatic crisis last month, when Japan held a Chinese fishing craft.
China responded with restricting exports of rare earth minerals to Japanese refineries during an escalation of diplomacy. It is unknown for how long this restriction will apply, but its impact on strategic planning for Japan is obviously critical going forward.
The era of "friendly globalism" is over. It's been exposed for what it always really has been – a series of negotiations. Now, however, the niceties and decorum that were always displayed to the outside world are gone, having been replaced by hard-ball/take-no-prisoners economic tactics.
In that kind of an environment, however, some very interesting profit opportunities can crop up. We'll keep an eye peeled for those profit plays in the future. For now, here are the best ones to consider.
Action to Take: In my opinion, the currency markets have become too dangerous for retail FX investors to navigate using the widely accepted, "normal" FX arrangements. After all, an FX account can have 50-1 or even 100-1 leverage.
Due to the strategic interventions central banks are engineering on an all-too-regular basis, it is now safer to hold your currency exposure in your regular brokerage account. One way to do this is via exchange-traded funds (ETFs). Some examples include:
- FXA = CurrencyShares Australian Dollar Trust (NYSE: FXA).
- FXB = CurrencyShares British Pound Sterling Trust (NYSE: FXB)
- FXC = CurrencyShares Canadian Dollar Trust (NYSE: FXC).
- FXE = CurrencyShares Euro Trust (NYSE: FXE).
- FXF = CurrencyShares Swiss Franc Trust (NYSE: FXF).
- FXS = CurrencyShares Swedish Krona Trust (NYSE: FXS).
- FXY = CurrencyShares Japanese Yen Trust (NYSE: FXY).
If the currency you are most interested in trading is not this list of pairs, you can also buy options on futures for most FX pairs. This would give you the exposure to your favorite pair that you seek – using futures leverage without taking on the margin risk.
Finally, if you are unable to find the pair you like, or are open to levels of risk above what is warranted for the typical retail investor, the FX market awaits your decision to stand in front of a government printing press that's been shifted into overdrive
(**) Special Note of Disclosure: Jack Barnes holds no interest in any of the FX pairs listed above.
This article has been republished from Money Morning. You can also view this article at Money Morning, an investment news and analysis site.