text:
One of the most time-honored remedies for a variety of skin conditions and irritations is witch hazel. This all-natural, anti-microbial, and anti-inflammatory substance has been shown to be effective in the treatment of minor injuries and burns, bruises, sunburn, insect bites, oily skin, varicose veins, diaper rash, several types of rash, dry skin and even helping acne-prone skin.
Its anti-inflammatory properties make it a valuable ingredient in commercial products for the treatment of conditions ranging from acne to hemorrhoids. It is often included in cosmetic products but is an effective facial toner used by itself.
In this article, we will explore the uses of witch hazel toner and provide sound advice on choosing or creating the best quality product. We will also offer tips on adding this all-natural remedy to your daily health and beauty routine. Read on to learn more.
What is Witch Hazel?
This light, all-natural, clear liquid is extracted from the witch hazel bark and leaves of the Witch Hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) plant, which is a small, tough deciduous bush or shrub that is native to the eastern United States. This plant has been used for centuries in Native American medicine.
The witch hazel plant does not contain oil, and its extract is not an essential oil. It is a distilled plant water (aka hydrolat or hydrosol). Distilled plant water is a light substance with a mild aroma. It has strong benefits of its own, and it makes a good carrier for more concentrated substances, such as essential oils.
What Is Witch Hazel Shrub Used For?
Witch Hazel uses and benefits are quite renowned. Research published in the European Journal of Pediatrics (2007) confirms that witch hazel extract contains a wealth of falconoid (antioxidant), tannins, and phytochemicals. Additionally, the antiviral, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties of the substance are confirmed. These qualities convey a healing and natural astringent effect that is valuable in both cosmetic and personal care applications.
In 2014, the International Journal of Trichology published the results of a study conducted with subjects suffering from sensitive scalp. The results indicate that use of shampoo containing witch hazel extract is effective in treating sensitive scalp when used consistently over a month's time.
Anecdotal evidence points to use of witch hazel to treat a variety of skin irritations and conditions; however, the Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database reports that there is not conclusive evidence of this assertion. Still, centuries of experience have led many people to turn to witch hazel for temporary relief of itching, swelling, and inflammation of the skin.
Is it Safe to Use?
Pure witch hazel is mild, pleasant, and effective. Sensitivity to it is quite rare. Be advised that if you are using the common drugstore variety, it will contain isopropyl alcohol and may contain fragrance and other substances. These could cause skin irritation and further side effects. Additionally, additives detract from the efficacy of the witch hazel.
When shopping, you will usually find this type of witch hazel stocked alongside hydrogen peroxide and rubbing alcohol. While this is a good product to use on minor injuries, sunburn, and bug bites, it is not conducive for cosmetic purposes because the alcohol is very drying and can break down your skin's protective barrier.
For cosmetic use, you should seek out alcohol-free witch hazel in the form of witch hazel extract or witch hazel distillate. These are the pure substances you need to create your own witch hazel astringent. Alternately, some high-quality commercially produced witch hazel toners are made without alcohol and unnatural additives.
Using Witch Hazel as a Facial Toner
An effective toner helps balance the pH of the skin. While your skin is naturally slightly acidic, many of the products we use on the skin are somewhat alkaline. Using a good toner can help restore your skin's ideal pH while protecting your skin against makeup and other products that may contain impurities or simply be too alkaline.
Witch hazel extract contains a great deal of tannin. This is a substance that lends powerful cleaning and astringent properties. These are the basic qualities of a beneficial skin toning product.
A facial toner should be applied with a cotton ball at the end of a facial cleansing routine. It serves as an antiseptic and antibacterial agent and closes the pores to protect from environmental dirt and grime. This helps reduce excess oil production, thereby preventing problems such as acne and blackheads.
While there are alcohol-based skin toners that perform these functions, they have the unfortunate side effect of drying the skin and killing off beneficial skin fauna. Witch hazel extract is mild, discerning, and safe for sensitive skin.
Ready-made Witch Hazel Toners
There are also ready-made witch hazel based toners that are alcohol-free. These alcohol free toners are quite inexpensive compared to most commercially prepared facial toners. Some of the most established brands are dickinson's original witch hazel and Thayers witch hazel. Some of their offerings also include beneficial essential oils, such as lavender essential oil or rose oil.
There is also a number of higher end hydrating toners that are concoctions of natural witch hazel and other natural ingredients to benefit the skin. These products may contain ingredients such as witch hazel with aloe vera gel, rose petal, citric acid, apple cider vinegar, green tea, vitamin E, and various other hydrating and protective natural agents.
These ingredients are all beneficial to your skin, but to reap the most benefits from witch hazel, make certain it is listed first (or very high) on the ingredients list. Remember to look for the Latin name, Hamamelis Virginiana.
DIY Witch Hazel Face Wash Recipe
For greater control over the ingredients in your facial toner, you can always do it yourself. You can begin with a pure witch hazel extract or witch hazel water, and add your own essential oils and hydrating ingredients.
Ingredients you might wish to add to your organic witch hazel include:
Both of these are very beneficial to aging skin.
- Tea Tree Oil
- Lavender Oil
These have powerful antibacterial & antifungal properties. They are good for acne treatment.
Add essential oils at a rate of 3-6 drops per ounce of liquid.
Give Your Skin a Vitamin Treatment
You might also wish to add ingredients to support the process of removing dead skin cells and promoting a fresh, young-looking epidermis to your skin care regimen. Vitamin C is one such ingredient.
Because it is acidic, vitamin C helps restore the natural pH balance of the skin. Dermatologists often use vitamin C as an exfoliating agent to help break down acne scars and reveal fresh, new skin.
It can be added to witch hazel extract in small amounts to be used as a daily toner. Be careful not to use too much because the acidic nature of the vitamin can burn your skin. There is a fine line between benefit and detriment.
Generally speaking, a half teaspoonful of powdered vitamin C mixed with a quarter cup of witch hazel extract makes a nice, mild toner. You can add essential oils to the mix at a rate of 3-6 drops of essential oil to one ounce of witch hazel. Some desirable choices include lavender, patchouli, frankincense, and/or rose oil.
To use this toner, use a spray bottle and simply apply to your face with a clean cotton pad after completing your usual skin cleansing routine.
It's important to note that you should only make a small amount of this toner at once because vitamin C breaks down very quickly. Be sure to store the mixture in a dark brown or blue bottle in a cool, dry place such as your medicine cabinet. You may even want to keep it in your refrigerator.
Witch Hazel Facial Toner is a Natural, Affordable Choice
Alcohol-free toner like this is excellent for both cleansing and toning your facial skin. It helps keep oil production under control while tightening and toning your pores. Because it is all-natural and gentle, it is hypoallergenic, and a wonderful choice for people with sensitive skin.
Witch hazel has been in use for soothing and healing skin for many centuries. It is simultaneously mild, powerful, and versatile. Used as a toner in conjunction with the appropriate choices in essential oils and other healing ingredients, it can bring relief from sunburn, windburn, razor burn, acne, excessive oil production, and numerous other conditions that may plague your facial skin.
Its antioxidant properties make it an effective treatment for fine lines, wrinkles, age spots, and other signs of aging. Its cleansing, soothing, healing properties, along with its attractive price, make witch hazel a valuable addition to your health, beauty, and personal care arsenal.


text:
Last time I checked Rice Krispies weren't part of the traditional Thai pantry. That doesn't prevent me from thinking of khao taen—crispy disks of fried rice drizzled with cane sugar caramel—as Thai Rice Krispy treats. They're a common street food in Thailand. Here in Queens, I found them at Sugar Club.
They're made with sticky rice as I learned from reading a recipe over at She Simmers Thai Cooking. Truth be told they're way crunchier than Rice Krispy treats and eminently craveable. I usually buy a box for dessert with Thai coffee after chicken and rice soup at Eim Khao Mun Kai. I always promise myself that I'll eat only one or two pieces—four at most—but wind up polishing off the whole lot.
Sugar Club, 81-18 Broadway, Elmhurst, 718-565-9018

subset: commoncrawl


text:
About Brenda Bernhard, Your Business Broker for Business Advisory, Business Buying, and Business Selling Services
Brenda embodies the ideal combination of skills for a business advisor; with successful small, mid-market and large corporation transaction history, superb negotiation skills, expertise in marketing and relentless effort and enthusiasm for your transaction. Brenda understands what clients want from a business advisor when it comes to transitioning their business; She will package your business information to maximize transaction amount, get your information in from of receptive audiences of potential buyers, and be a strong negotiation advocate on your team to assist you from initial decision through closing. All with a precise attention to detail so that nothing gets missed.
Business savvy, transaction experienced, valuation and accounting experienced, strong negotiation skills, combined with impeccable integrity and true desire to succeed make Brenda a prudent choice as your Business Broker!
Contact Brenda today to discuss your buying and selling needs today!
Why Choose Brenda Bernhard
1. Experience in Consulting
2. Experience in Negotiating
3. Experience in Valuation
Business Broker Associations & Memberships
California Association of Business Brokers (CABB)
Member in Good Standing
The California Association of Business Brokers is a professional trade association whose members are actively involved in assisting their clients in selling, buying, and evaluating businesses. CABB was organized to recognize the professionals of business opportunity brokerage, to help educate the public on the benefits of using licensed intermediaries, and to establish a code of ethics to which members adhere.
National Association of Certified Valuators and Analysts (NACVA)
Member in Good Standing
The National Association of Certified Valuators and Analysts (NACVA) supports the users of business and intangible asset valuation services and financial forensic services, including damages determinations of all kinds and fraud detection and prevention, by training and certifying financial professionals in these disciplines.
International Business Brokers Association (IBBA)
Member in Good Standing
The International Business Brokers Association is the largest international non-profit association operating exclusively for the benefit of people and firms engaged in the various aspects of business brokerage and mergers and acquisitions.
M&A Source
Member in Good Standing
The mission of the M&A Source is to promote members' professional development and interests to better serve their clients' needs, and maximize public awareness of professional intermediary services available for middle market merger and acquisition transactions. The Source was established in 1991 to address the professional issues of merger and acquisition professionals. This organization currently has more than 200 cooperative intermediaries across the world.
Southern California Business Broker Network (SN)
Mergers & Acquisition Analyst
The Southern California Business Brokers Network is a co-operative association of CDRE licensed agents, brokers, as well as support professionals in the Southern California area who specialize in the buying and selling of "Business Opportunities" within the fast food, restaurant, service, retail, wholesale, manufacturing, and auto related industries.
Business Brokerage Press (BBP) Industry Expert
Contributor: Annual Business Valuation Publication
Business Brokerage Press is one of the premier sources of business valuation publications referred to by business brokers and business professionals who are looking to discover the criteria for evaluating existing businesses in today's competitive marketplace. The BBP offers an industry-specific newsletter along with a comprehensive selection of books, videos, CD's, software, websites and marketing materials. Each one bears the mark of being created by industry professionals with a commitment to lead in the research, development and deployment of the industry's most informative and advanced publications and services.
Brenda & Strong Business Advisors
Brenda is proud to be Director of Business Opportunities for Strong Business Advisors, a dedicated and trusted business brokerage firm. Strong Business Advisors is the dedicated and trusted brokerage partner that can help you sell and buy a business confidentially and successfully. We will develop a strategy for your business, package it for your sale, confidentially promote your listing to our global network, and support you throughout the process. Our goal is to effectively find the ideal qualified buyer in the shortest amount of time necessary. Our efforts result in producing the greatest possible selling price in today's marketplace. Our team has the knowledge, experience, and skills to help you be successful with any type of business sale, merger, or acquisition.


text:
What's so great about Second Life?
I paid a visit to SecondLife a couple of years ago to find out what all the buzz was about. It was a bit like the Sims meets Grand Theft Auto but with no missions to do. After a while I felt it was a bit of a glorified chat room albeit one where you could actually laugh-out-load or roll around on the floor laughing rather than write the instant message equivalent. It didn't really grip me at the time. Then I found out the the Open University was getting seriously involved in the "game?" and I decided to pay it another visit.
I met up with a couple of Second Life residents — Magus Burton (MB) and Zandra Fraisse (ZF) to find out more.
How did you discover Second Life?
MB: Some years ago I stumbled across an intriguing article in a Sunday supplement about an online gaming phenomenom by the name of Second Life. Although in (voluntary) incarceration at the time, I vowed to remember the name and investigate it further upon my release.
ZF: My son was looking in Popular Science Magazine and decided to get me a gift certificate for SL. He thought it would amuse me .
How long have you been using Second Life?
MB: Almost as soon as I returned home I logged on to SL to see what it was all about, so I have been 'playing' for maybe three years now.
ZF: Approx. 2 1/2 years
How many hours a week on average do you spend in Second Life?
MB: To be honest it really varies upon what projects I am involved with, the status of my friends, aqquaintances and business partners. I do a lot of artistic support for people and make textures, skins, eyes, clothing, furniture and buildings, so some weeks I will spend upwards of 30 hours and others I will spend maybe 2 or 3.
ZF: Approx. 25 hrs. a week, some less some more…depends on how much I have to do there or in real life.
What attracted you to it?
MB: have been fascinated by virtual reality and synthetic realities ever since I first saw Disneys Tron (1983) and the possibilities within SL seemed a perfect outlet for my creativity and thirst for knowledge.
ZF: Everything- the creativity, the people, the opportunity to meet people from all areas of the globe….
How does Second Life compare to things like text forums and instant message systems?
MB: I personally prefer the perceived 'interactivity' granted by SL, with a traditional messenger such as MSN you can be limited by text only and emoticons, therefore a lot of feeling can be lost in the substandard communication (over 95% of human communication is non-verbal). In SL we can more easily use poses and animations to express ourselves, for instance, if a friend is feeling down I can 'physically' give that person a hug etc. It does make a good deal of difference all though it is only 1 step up from an emoticon.
ZF: In some ways its the same but with avi's to act out what ur trying to xpress in chat.
What or who helped you understand how to operate in Second Life?
MB: I taught myself most of what I know, but by its very communal nature the residents tend to be willing to help each other if asked politely and granted patience. I have a solid core group of close friends, people who I met 'inworld' who I now communicate with by phone, text, email etc. We all look out for each other although we exist in different timezones, countries and states. We all look after each other and provide for one another, even offer emotional support in times of difficulty.
ZF: In the very beginning it was trial and error until I met Magus Burton and Tanya Matahari, they both had a great deal of patience and kindness…without them I probably wouldn't have stayed in SL as long as I have.
Is there any special jargon or terminology that newbies to Second Life could do with understanding?
MB: There are many differnt 'inworld' terms, and of course abbreviations just like with any other messenger. SL however as a far more comprehensive lexicon than most. This is due to the nature of the 'game'. With any new idea, new terminology is necessary in order to describe it efficiently and effectively.
ZF: The terms SL for Second Life, RL for Real life , Ruthed meaning ur avi is all screwed up at its beginning appearance stage- the rest…I guess they will have to come and find out.
What do you most enjoy doing whilst in Second Life?
MB: I generally enjoy chatting with my friends and creating new things, I like to challenge myself and see how the world around me evolves.
ZF: Besides talking and sharing with my friends, I would have to say creating various things out of mere prims (primitives- basic shapes)
Have you spent any money in Second Life? How much?
MB: I have spent countless linden dollars (SLs currency) but that is not affected by my real life investment. The most I have ever paid in real life cash is only around £5, everything else is money I made 'inworld'.
Have you made any money in Second Life? How much?
MB: Again I couldn't quantify the ammount I have made in SL. But to give you an Idea, at the peak of my productivity, myself and my business partner had 8 shops, a club, a mall various houses and building estates. I ceased involvement in in our company last year and gave away my designs. I found SL had stopped being enjoyable and had become a labour so I went back to the nature of exploring and having fun.
ZF: I've spent alot of money,I have no idea, BUT I have made money as well….so to me, it all evens out for the pleasure that SL and my friends there have given me.
What have you created in Second Life?
MB: I have created numerous lines of fashion (somewhere in the region of 2000 odd garments), many vehicles, artworks, sculptures, furnishings,eyes, jewelery, skins scripts (to run animations etc.) and buildings.
ZF: Too many things to list but in general, clothes , furniture, music boxes, snow globes, motorcycles, cars, seasonal displays…so many things I can't remember.
What's involved in making a really great avatar?
MB: The key to a great avi, in my opinion is to customize and create as much as possible. I start with a decent shape, modify the features and the height and weight etc, next I use photoshop to make some nice eyes and upload them when satisfied. I then make a new skin, again using photoshop and upload that. Then either make or buy some clothes and finally buy some appropriate hair (if the avi is to have hair). Until recently I had never worn any clothing that I hadn't made for myself.
ZF: Aside from the usual avi parts, skin, shape, hair, so on and so forth..I believe Heart….No matter what, ur RL personality shows up in ur avi eventually, so my advice is, follow ur heart when making ur avi, u can't go wrong then.
Where are some good places to visit to get a feel for things? Why?
MB: There are plenty of good places to visit, I like a lot of the clubs but it really depends on your agenda. My advice to people is to get chatting and meeting people, they will often tell you about or teleport you to places that you never would have thought to search for.
ZF: There is something to be learned anywhere u go in SL…something learned about urself, about people, about SL in general, and all are willing to help a newbie…We were all newbies at one time or another, so we understand and know what newbies are going thru.
Are there any gaming elements to Second Life?
MB: There are many, there are of course the role play sims for people who like that-they range from fantasy to war games and everything inbetween. There are also a wide variety of contests and competitions to take part in and of course little interactive games like Pool, skating and even motor racing. I have even been fishing and skydiving.
ZF: I suppose if ur into roleplay there are so called gaming elements…but for me, I'm very competitive, in a nice way, so when one of my fashion designer friends asked for something for their treasure hunt or fashion show, I like to push my creativity to the limits and make them something fabulous, or at least I try for fabulosity.
What's been your best experience in Second Life?
MB: Sounds sentimental but my best experience has been meeting the people who I am now so very close to. The kindness, openess and generosity of like-minded individuals is a real pleasure to experience.
ZF: Besides meeting ALL my SL friends….I would have to say meeting my soulmate here….and finding out there really is someone perfect for everyone somewhere
..and your worst experience?
MB: Probably losing my job as club host at Sphynx after a griefing attack (when people enter sims and wreak havoc upon any residents there) that was beyond my control and most certainly not my fault. Also the people who fail to differentiate between SL and real life can really make life miserable for others.
ZF: *Laughs* Finding out my soulmate was married but its all good, at least, we can be friends.
What do you think are the biggest opportunities for Second Life in the future?
MB: The opportunities really are endless, SL has a huge community (enough to make its currency have value within the real world), has made millionaires of people, has married people andcontinues to support users who need the help or support of those who think and act alike. It can progress in any way it chooses so long as Linden Labs listens to the views of residents.
ZF: In the future as well as now….I feel SL offers the opportunity for people who are handicapped to be able to dance, or to do things they just aren't able to do in RL….Endorphins have no idea these people are doing these things in a virtual world…they just make the person feel good, so the depression is alleviated….it still amazes me..
What advice would you give to a Second Life newbie?
MB: Be polite, be humble, be whatever you want to be. If it's not for you then that's fine. Nothing ventured-nothing gained.
ZF: First I would tell them to NEVER forget there is a RL person behind that avi….so be respectful and kind….but to also take advantage of all the things SL has to offer that RL doesn't, like dancing on a star, or the moon. Enjoy it, be yourself, and just have fun…..


text:
Design - Kauppi & Kauppi
A muted pavilion, for meetings and work. The design has a clear horizontal expression, inspired by the landscape of Swedish Lapland. The system is based on identical acoustic baffles of fabric, mounted at consistent distances, giving the furniture a balanced combination of sound absorption and transparency, for large-scale repetition in public interiors.
Questions? Speak directly with one of our experts. Leave your phone number or email address and we will contact you.Contact me


text:
Frequently Asked Questions about security mailing lists, products, vendors and organizations .
This FAQ about security mailing lists, products, vendors and organizations was compiled and written by Christopher Klaus email@example.com with numerous contributions by others.
This paper is Copyright (c) 1994, 1995, 1996
by Christopher Klaus of Internet Security Systems, Inc.
Permission is hereby granted to give away free copies electronically. You may distribute, transfer, or spread this paper electronically. You may not pretend that you wrote it. This copyright notice must be maintained in any copy made. If you wish to reprint the whole or any part of this paper in any other medium excluding electronic medium, please ask the author for permission.


text:
Hire Compactors or Buy Compactors! Hireco Plant and Tool are specialists in Plant and Tool Hire. With Depots in Naas – Dublin – Cork, we have the perfect solution for you. Scroll down to view our range of Compactors for Hire and Sale below.Simply contact us today!
Showing all 3 results


text:
Systematic review of efficacy of topical rubefacients containing salicylates for the treatment of acute and chronic painBMJ 2004; 328 doi: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.38040.607141.EE (Published 22 April 2004) Cite this as: BMJ 2004;328:995
- Lorna Mason, research associate1,
- R Andrew Moore, director of research (andrew.moore{at}pru.ox.ac.uk)1,
- Jayne E Edwards, senior researcher1,
- Henry J McQuay, professor of pain relief1,
- Sheena Derry, senior researcher1,
- Philip J Wiffen, coordinating editor, Cochrane Pain and Palliative Care Group1
- 1Pain Research and Nuffield Department of Anaesthetics, University of Oxford, Oxford Radcliffe Hospital, Headington, Oxford OX3 7LJ
- Correspondence to: R A Moore
- Accepted 20 February 2004
Objective To determine the efficacy and safety of topical rubefacients containing salicylates in acute and chronic pain.
Data sources Electronic databases and manufacturers of salicylates.
Study selection Randomised double blind trials comparing topical rubefacients with placebo or another active treatment, in adults with acute or chronic pain, and reporting dichotomous information, around a 50% reduction in pain, and analyses at one week for acute conditions and two weeks for chronic conditions.
Data extraction Relative benefit and number needed to treat, analysis of adverse events, and withdrawals.
Data synthesis Three double blind placebo controlled trials had information on 182 patients with acute conditions. Topical salicylate was significantly better than placebo (relative benefit 3.6, 95% confidence interval 2.4 to 5.6; number needed to treat 2.1, 1.7 to 2.8). Six double blind placebo controlled trials had information on 429 patients with chronic conditions. Topical salicylate was significantly better than placebo (relative benefit 1.5, 1.3 to 1.9; number needed to treat 5.3, 3.6 to 10.2), but larger, more valid studies were without significant effect. Local adverse events and withdrawals were generally rare in trials that reported them.
Conclusions Based on limited information, topically applied rubefacients containing salicylates may be efficacious in the treatment of acute pain. Trials of musculoskeletal and arthritic pain suggested moderate to poor efficacy. Adverse events were rare in studies of acute pain and poorly reported in those of chronic pain. Efficacy estimates for rubefacients are unreliable owing to a lack of good clinical trials.
Rubefacients may work by counter irritation to relieve pain in muscles, joints, and tendons and in non-articular musculoskeletal conditions.1 By contrast, topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) inhibit cyclo-oxygenase, responsible for the biosynthesis of prostaglandin which mediates inflammation.2 Rubefacients are usually used as adjuvants to other therapies, such as oral analgesics, support bandages, rest, ice, and compression and may be useful for patients who cannot tolerate oral analgesics.
Although most sources stated that rubefacients act by counter irritation, it is less clear which drugs fall into this category. Salicylates are particularly difficult to categorise.3 4 They do not seem to work in the same way as other NSAIDs.3 4 There is still no common agreement about the mechanisms of action of salicylates.5 Thus the ability of topical salicylates to relieve pain through inhibition of cyclo-oxygenase is unclear.
We have included in our review only rubefacients (salicylate and nicotinate esters). Other categories of topical analgesics include capsaicin and capsicum; newer NSAIDs (diclofenac, felbinac, ibuprofen, ketoprofen, piroxicam); and a miscellaneous group including benzydamine, mucopolysaccharide polysulphate, salicylamide, and cooling sprays.6
We found no systematic reviews of rubefacients alone, other than one that included some salicylates with topical NSAIDs.7 Another review reported that there were no randomised controlled trials of rubefacients8; we believe this was due more to problems of definition than to absence of trials. We performed a meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials to determine the efficacy of topical rubefacients for the relief of acute or chronic pain.
Relevant studies were sought through the Cochrane Library (Issue 2, 2003), Medline, PreMedline, Embase, and PubMed up to March 2003, regardless of publication date, type, status, or language. We also searched an in-house database of 13 000 randomised clinical trials in pain research from 1950 identified through a refined Medline search strategy together with handsearching of 40 biomedical journals.9 We searched for all products in which the principal active ingredient was listed as a counter irritant or rubefacient in Martindale's pharmacopoeia.4 The search strategy (see bmj.com) contained "rubefacient" and "counter-irritant" together with generic and proprietary preparations.1 4 We did not include preparations containing only or mainly capsaicin or its derivatives. We asked 48 pharmaceutical companies (Europe, the United States, Canada, Australia, and South Africa) known to manufacture rubefacients if they could supply trials. Reference lists of retrieved articles were searched.
Selection criteria and trial validity
Trials were included if they were randomised, active or placebo controlled in which patients were treated for acute pain (strains, sprains, sports injuries) or chronic pain (arthritis, musculoskeletal problems). We excluded trials for oral conditions. Other inclusion criteria were outcomes closest to seven days (but at least three days) for acute conditions and closest to 14 days (but at least seven days) for chronic conditions, a minimum of 10 patients per group, and treatment applied at least once daily.
For efficacy analysis, we included trials only if they reported dichotomous information; we excluded trials reporting only mean or median pain relief, reduction in pain, or continuous data because we were unable to calculate numbers needed to treat. Trials that did not contain extractable information on efficacy but met all other inclusion criteria could be included for analysis of adverse events or withdrawals.
We assessed the quality of each potentially relevant trial using a scale with a maximum score of five.10 Studies had to score at least two points (randomised and double blind) to be included for efficacy analysis. Trial validity was assessed on a 16 point scale.11
Data abstraction and study characteristics
At least two reviewers independently assessed the trials for inclusion and quality, which were verified by another reviewer. Disputes were settled by consensus.
We defined our own outcome of clinical success as around a 50% reduction in pain. This was the number of patients with either a "good" or "excellent" global assessment of treatment or "none" or "slight" pain on rest or movement (or comparable wording), measured on a categorical scale. A hierarchy of outcomes was used to extract efficacy information (see bmj.com).7 We also accepted trials of patients showing undefined improvement; we performed a separate sensitivity analysis for these trials as the outcome may not have represented a 50% or more reduction in pain.
Quantitative data synthesis
For the efficacy analysis we took the number of patients randomised into each treatment group (intention to treat). Numbers needed to treat with 95% confidence intervals were calculated from data for patients obtaining at least 50% pain relief for both active treatment and control.12 The fixed effects model was used to calculate relative benefits with 95% confidence intervals.13 Homogeneity of trials was assessed visually.14 Numbers needed to harm and relative risks for local adverse events were calculated in the same way as for numbers needed to treat. All calculations were performed in Microsoft Excel and RevMan 4.2. The z test was used in sensitivity analyses.15 QUOROM guidelines were followed.16
Our prior intention was to perform separate sensitivity analyses on pooled information for trial size (< 40 > 40 patients), type of placebo (undefined or defined as vehicle described as vehicle with principal active ingredient removed, leaving some other potentially active counter irritants), type of outcome, quality score (low quality trials (≤ 3 points) higher quality trials), validity score (> 8 9 points out of 16), and product type (salicylates alone other products alone in a given pain condition).
Two of 48 pharmaceutical companies responded to our request for studies, but neither provided data. Overall, we identified 29 potential papers (fig 1). Fifteen other trials failed to meet the inclusion criteria (see table A on bmj.com).
Twelve studies, totalling 862 patients, met the inclusion criteria (see table B on bmj.com).1728 Three were active controlled trials and were not included in the meta-analysis.20 27 28 Two additional reports in acute conditions contained extractable information for only adverse events.29 30
Quality scores ranged from two to four; all trials were double blind. Of the 14 studies, 11 had quality scores of three or more and six had validity scores of nine or more. The participants' age ranged from 14 to 86 years. All treatments contained salicylate as the principal ingredient. In some of the trials patients took concomitant physical therapy or oral drugs.
Efficacy analysis
Acute conditions
Three placebo controlled trials had information on 182 patients with acute pain,17–19 one of which had a low validity score.18 The mean treatment response rate (percentage of patients with at least 50% pain relief) was 67% (range 25% to 90% in individual trials). The mean response rate with placebo was 18% (range 0% to 59%). Treatment with rubefacient was significantly better than placebo (relative benefit 3.6, 95% confidence interval 2.4 to 5.6). The number need to treat was 2.1 (1.7 to 2.8) for at least 50% pain relief at seven days compared with placebo (table and figures on bmj.com). Sensitivity analyses were not performed owing to lack of data. One larger trial (161 patients) could not be classified as either active or placebo controlled because of a supposed homoeopathic control; there were more local adverse events with salicylate but with no greater efficacy.20 We identified no conventional active controlled trials in acute conditions.
Chronic conditions
Six placebo controlled trials had information on 429 patients with chronic pain (26 of whom received both treatment and placebo in a crossover study).21–26 Three of the trials had low validity scores (see table B on bmj.com). The mean treatment response rate was 54% (range 35% to 80% in individual trials; fig 2). The mean response rate with placebo was 36% (range 20% to 53). Treatment with rubefacient was significantly better than treatment with placebo (relative benefit 1.5, 1.3 to 1.9). The number needed to treat was 5.3 (3.6 to 10.2) for at least 50% pain relief at 14 days compared with placebo (see table and figures on bmj.com). Two small active controlled trials with low validity scores and outcomes at seven days provided no helpful information (see table B on bmj.com).27 28
In sensitivity analyses of pooled information for placebo controlled trials in chronic conditions, there was no significant difference between type of outcome (z = 0.34, P = 0.76) or type of placebo (z = 0.55, P = 0.58) (table), but higher validity scores produced statistically less analgesic effect (z = 2.61; P = 0.009). Better trials had less effect. Owing to insufficient data, we could not perform sensitivity analyses for size, quality score, or type of rubefacient.
Adverse events and withdrawals
Local adverse events were rare, with no significant difference between treatment and control groups (table). No withdrawals related to adverse events were reported.
The quality of reporting was poor, and there were insufficient data for statistical analysis. Adverse events were rare in trials that did report them, with the exception of one study using copper salicylate gel (see table B on bmj.com).25
Trials of rubefacients are limited by number, size, quality, and validity, which weakens assessment of their efficacy. We included trials of seven types of rubefacients, found as principal ingredients in more than 30 counter irritant preparations available in Britain through pharmacies.1 For almost all of these products, specific evidence of effect is lacking.
The best assessment of limited information suggests that rubefacients containing salicylates may be efficacious in acute pain and moderately to poorly efficacious in chronic arthritic and rheumatic pain. In acute conditions, the number needed to treat was 2.1 (95% confidence interval 1.7 to 2.8) for at least 50% pain relief compared with placebo at seven days. For chronic conditions, the number needed to treat for topical salicylate compared with placebo was 5.3 (3.6 to 10.2), compared with that for topical NSAIDs of 3.1 (2.7 to 3.8) with the same comparator (placebo) and with similar outcomes in similar conditions and trials of similar duration.
Insufficient data precluded us from accurately judging the effect of trial size or quality score, but high validity trials of chronic pain showed significantly less analgesic effect than low validity trials. Small, low quality trials are more likely to overestimate efficacy.7 11 Half of all trials contained 50 or fewer patients. Although a meta-analysis may be more robust than relying on the results from a single small trial, limited data may still not overcome chance effects.31 In addition there was considerable variability in outcomes, scales for recording outcomes, and quality of reporting, in common with older trials on arthritis.32
The longest trial lasted only 28 days, and most lasted 14 days or less. For chronic conditions in particular, information is needed on long term efficacy and adverse events. In acute pain, local adverse events seemed to be rare (2% of patients). Data on chronic pain were insufficient to evaluate the long term effects of continuous irritation on the skin, which may vary according to drug and vehicle. Less rigorous reporting of adverse events and withdrawals compared with data on efficacy is not unusual in randomised controlled trials.33
It has been suggested that topical analgesics owe much of their efficacy to rubbing during application, giving a high placebo response rate.34 Evidence suggests otherwise. The placebo gels were rubbed on to the skin in the same way as active treatments, and we found that active treatments were significantly better than placebo in double blind clinical trials.
Creating double blind conditions in trials of counter irritants can be problematic; rubefacients irritate the skin whereas inactive placebos do not. Some studies tried to allow for this by removing the principle active ingredient from the treatment, leaving a placebo vehicle containing some other potentially irritant ingredients. Although the number needed to treat for combined outcomes of trials of this type was greater (worse) than for trials with inactive placebo, the difference was not statistically significant and there was insufficient evidence to draw conclusions.
Only two of 48 pharmaceutical companies replied to our request for studies. Our electronic and in-house searches identified few suitable studies. The inability to uncover any trials in the past may be due to a lack of consensus on the definition of rubefacients. Flawed search strategies may therefore have led to the assumption that the only evidence in support of rubefacients was anecdotal.8 It is more than likely that nobody really looked for the evidence until now.35
What is already known on this topic
No systematic reviews have studied topical rubefacients containing salicylates for the treatment of acute or chronic pain
A seeming lack of clinical trials may be partly due to lack of consensus on a definition for rubefacients
What this study adds
Randomised double blind trials have studied topical salicylates in acute and chronic pain
Trials were limited by small size, inadequate design,and validity, making results tentative
Topical salicylate may have efficacy in acute pain at seven days but poor to moderate efficacy in chronic pain at 14 days
Better trials showed little difference from placebo
Details of the search strategy and studies are on bmj.com
Contributors LM was involved with planning, searching, reading the papers, quality scoring, data extraction, analysis, and writing. RAM was involved with planning, reading the papers, quality scoring, analysis, and writing. JE was involved with reading the papers, quality scoring, data extraction and analysis, and commenting on the text. HJM was involved with planning and commenting on the text. SD was involved with analysis and checking and revising. PJW was involved with planning and commenting on the text. RAM and HJM will act as guarantors for the paper. The guarantors accept full responsibility for the conduct of the study, had access to the data, and controlled the decision to publish.
Funding The work was supported by research funds from the Oxford Pain Relief Trust
Competing interests RAM and HJM have consulted for various pharmaceutical companies. RAM, HJM, and JE have received lecture fees from pharmaceutical companies related to analgesics and other healthcare interventions. All authors have received research support from charities, government, and industry sources at various times, but no such support was received for this work.
Ethical approval Not required.


text:
The son of former Libyan president, Colonel Gaddafi has mysteriously reappeared and now says he wants to run the war-torn country.
Saif al-Islam Gaddafi, 49, was sentenced to death after being captured in 2011 just days following the toppling of his father and was believed by many to be dead.
For years, mystery had surrounded the precise whereabouts of a man wanted for war crimes by the International Criminal Court.
But he has now broken his silence to speak to the New York Times and said he wants to unify Libya, which has been torn apart by civil war since his father was killed.
"I've been away from the Libyan people for 10 years," he said.
"You need to come back slowly, slowly. Like a striptease. You need to play with their minds a little."
Saif al-Islam has not been seen or heard from since June 2014, when he appeared via video link from a court where he was tried for war crimes and sentenced to death.
He said in the interview that he was a free man organising a political return and that his former captors "are now my friends".
Any possible return by Saif al-Islam to Libyan politics would face hurdles, including his conviction by the Tripoli court and the ICC warrant for his arrest.
But the Britain-educated son of Muammar Gaddafi seems undeterred.
"We're like fish, and the Libyan people are like a sea for us," Saif al-Islam replied.
"Without them, we die. That's where we get support. We hide here. We fight here. We get support from there. The Libyan people are our ocean."
Saif al-Islam was reported to have been released in 2016 but was not seen in public, leading to speculation that he was dead.
His father ruled Libya from when he seized power in 1969 to his death, during which time he was accused of being a sponsor of global terrorism.
Gaddafi was killed in a frenzied execution staged by rebels who staged an uprising against his brutal rule after being found hunkered down in a storm drain.
The chilling video captured the tyrant's final moments as he was seen covered in blood amongst a crowd of fighters who are chanting "God is great".
He can be heard begging for mercy in the clips, saying "what you're doing is wrong".
"What is the matter? What's going on? What do you want?" the bloodied tyrant pleaded.
Jeers of "you dog" and cheers of "victory" can be heard as the bewildered dictator was captured by the mob.
He is reported to have been beaten and tortured by the rebels – including having a knife or bayonet inserted into his anus.
In recent years Libya has been split between two rival administrations backed by foreign forces and countless militias.
The two camps agreed to a ceasefire in Geneva and the security situation has been slowly improving since.
A provisional government was agreed in March, and general elections are expected to take place on December 24.
The Sun


text:
Inside the tiny hole-in-the-wall gym Mikey Williams calls home during coronavirus pandemic
At 5:58 p.m. on a Thursday evening, a text comes through on trainer Ryan Razooky's
At 5:58 p.m. on a Thursday evening, a text comes through on trainer Ryan Razooky's phone. "Can we go at 9?" The sender is Mikey Williams, one of the top high school players in the country. Razooky responded with the same answer he's been giving Williams since early March when gyms closed due to COVID-19: "No problem."
Razooky's gym is east of San Diego, located off a frontage road where there's a tractor business, auto body shops and gas stations lining the street. There's a row of small warehouses with gated access that includes a plumbing business, construction storage and Ryan Razooky's Hoop House.
"We pulled up the first time and I was thinking it was the big building next door, and when I walked in I thought, 'How is there a gym inside this little building?'" Williams told Yahoo Sports. "It's a small space, but you can work with it."
The gym is a 40-foot-by-20-foot space. That's smaller than a half-court. There are four hoops spaced out on three walls with 3-point lines marked for high school and college range. The ceiling is high but Williams has still managed to break two lights after a couple of hard dunks bounced off the back rim and sailed high into the air, hitting the hanging fluorescent lights.
A typical workout now consists of five to eight teammates piling into the gym for two hours. Temperatures are checked at the door and hand sanitizer is given to players and staff. Things are slowly starting to open up with strict guidelines, but back in March it was only Williams, his younger brother, Marvin, and a couple teammates who were allowed in the gym.
"Mikey reached out right when quarantine hit and said, 'Hey, we're trying to get in the gym.' And I laughed and told him that everyone's trying to get in the gym," Razooky told Yahoo Sports.
Public gyms like LA Fitness, 24 Hour Fitness and the YMCA are still closed in San Diego. Even Williams' high school team, San Ysidro, can't access the gym on campus and has to practice outside at a nearby park. The small warehouse that Razooky bought a year and a half ago has become a second home to Williams and his teammates during a time when basketball was essentially shut down for four months.
"I remember a time during quarantine when there was a two-week run where I was coming in here at seven in the morning and then again at 10 at night just getting shots up and working," Williams said.
Williams, 16, doesn't have his license yet and depends on rides from high school coach Terry Tucker, his parents or friends. There have even been a few occasions when Tucker's son, Tyler, will drive up from Mexico, where he lives, to take Williams to a workout. That sometimes consists of waiting in the line to cross the border for two or three hours before picking up Williams and his teammates just to drive them to a workout. Razooky's gym is a 30-minute ride from Williams' house in San Ysidro, and workout times change depending on the ride situation.
"In the beginning it was kind of a mess," Razooky said while laughing. "But people forget that Mikey is still just a high school kid, and if he doesn't have a ride, then I'm going to adjust my schedule to make it work for him."
After consistently being in the gym for a few months, clips started to emerge online of this unique gym where top players like Williams, Bryce Griggs and Jahzare Jackson have been working out. Razooky already had a decent following on Instagram with 100,000 followers, but that number quickly doubled once fans figured out he was the one training Williams during quarantine.
"When you're with those guys all the time and working out with them, people will start to take notice," Razooky said. "I have all these kids following me now because I'm in the gym with their favorite player. It got to a point where I had to take my business phone number off Google because I was getting so many calls and fans were starting to come by and see if Mikey was in the gym."
Williams recalls only one time when a fan was waiting outside the gym for an autograph. Every other time he's free to come and go as he pleases like any other kid leaving a workout.
The time Williams has put in at Razooky's gym during quarantine paid off in a big way when he took a month-long trip to North Carolina and Atlanta starting in July to visit family and play in some local tournaments. The incoming sophomore also took an unofficial visit to Tennessee State, an HBCU.
"It was dope. It was super hot but they showed us around and gave us a nice tour. I had a great time," Williams said about the visit.
It's a far cry from the Duke, Kentucky, North Carolina and Kansas visits most top players take but Williams isn't impressed with flashy campuses and brand-new training facilities. "All I need is a gym and a place to sleep and I'm good to go," Williams said while shrugging.
The five-star prospect rocked the recruiting world with one tweet back in June when he said, "Going to an HBCU wouldn't be too bad…" Almost every HBCU school was quick to offer in the days that followed and Williams now has four HBCU schools in his top 10, including NC Central, Hampton University (where his mom went to school), Alabama State and Texas Southern.
"Why does it always have to be the big names?" Williams said in an Instagram post. "Have you ever thought about helping your own people out? We are the reason that these schools have such big names and such good history. But in the end, what do we get out of it?"
An HBCU school is definitely a viable option for Williams but so is the pro route with the new G League Select Team. Top players like Jalen Green, Jonathan Kuminga and Isaiah Todd all decided to forgo college and joined the inaugural G League team this year. Being a sophomore, Williams still has plenty of time to make a decision but will be watching the development of the program closely.
"I'll still be watching the G League super close. Especially now that it's an option for us to either go to college, the G league or overseas route." Williams said. "I think it's great that a lot of players don't have to go overseas and they can stay home. I'm definitely going to be watching what they do this year with guys like Jalen and Jon Kuminga."
Williams still has three years of high school basketball left and a lot of time before a decision needs to be made. That means hundreds of more hours spent at Razooky's gym getting reps with his teammates and possibly breaking a few more lights.
As it neared midnight after one of his workouts at Hoop House recently, Williams checked his phone and changed his shoes. Razooky asked him when he wanted to get back in the gym. "Can we go again tomorrow?" Williams asks. It's the same question Razooky has been getting for the last five months.
More from Yahoo Sports:


text:
Your cart is currently empty.
XO Bottles
Jolly Snowman Jar
Heart Tree
You're Grate Graters Handmade Card
Turtley Amazing Turtle Card
Piece of My Heart Card
Hogs And Kisses Card
Wifi Card
We'll send you project ideas, tips and techniques, new product announcements, plus special offers.
Copyright © 2023 Technique Tuesday, LLC.


text:
Community Reconciliation and Post-Conflict Reconstruction for Peace
The purpose of this chapter is to examine diverse methods of community reconciliation and peacebuilding following armed conflicts in sub-Saharan Africa. Three case studies from Angola, Sierra Leone, and Liberia, respectively, emphasize reconciling formerly recruited young people, defined as people under 25 years of age, with communities in rural areas. Although the case studies emphasize the importance of community empowerment and reliance on local cultural understandings and practices, they also point out the value of constructive partnerships between Western psychology and local practices.


text:
Ohio State, Michigan State, Indiana and Wisconsin aren't the only Big Ten teams still alive in the college basketball postseason. Last night, Minnesota beat Middle Tennessee 78-72 to book a trip to New York for the NIT semifinals. "Getting to New York to play in the Garden is special for anybody," said junior forward Rodney Williams
Williams must have been especially excited to play at Madison Square Garden, as he scored 8 points, including 2 three-pointers, in the game's first four minutes to get the Gophers off to a hot start. Williams continued to score throughout the game to post a career high 24 points on 8 of 11 shooting.
Despite only averaging 12.1 points per game on the season, Williams now has at least 21 points in every NIT game. Just before that, he scored 20 in the regular season finale at Michigan. This surge by Williams may be evidence that his basketball skills are finally catching up to his boundless athleticism. That's a scary thought for other Big Ten teams.
Williams' driving layup with 2:21 left in the game gave Minnesota a 67-58 lead that it would not relinquish.That's not to say the game wasn't close at the end, though.
After MTSU's Raymond Cintron hit a three-pointer with just over seven seconds remaining, the score stood at 74-72 with Minnesota having to inbound the ball in order to hold onto the lead. However, LaRon Dendy let the Gophers off the hook when he slapped the ball out of Williams' hands as he was trying to throw the ball in.
"I had the ball in front of me and I pulled it back," said Williams, who was the inbound man on the play. "He just reached over and slapped the ball out of my hands. Luckily, the ref saw it because it took me a minute to realize what happened."
That's a technical foul that gave Minnesota two free throws and the ball. Once Andre Hollins hit a pair from the line, the game was effectively over.
A couple of strong freshman performances showed that Minnesota could be an even tougher team to deal with next season. Tennessee native Andre Hollins was not shy about showing off his skills to his homestate homies. Hollins shot 7 of 18 from the field and scored 24 points with 6 rebounds and 4 assists. He showed a ton of confidence by not waiting to get open before firing three-pointers, on which Hollins hit 2 of 5.
"It felt homey for me," said Hollins of playing in the Murphy Center, "It was great to come back to Tennessee and play MTSU. It was a great game."
Big man Eliott Eliason also had a solid game with 12 points and 7 boards on 6 of 8 field goals. Combined with the imminent return of Gopher MVP Trevor Mbakwe and the strong play of Williams at the end of the season, youngsters Hollins and Eliason could make Minnesota a very tough out next season.
Of course, we have the whole off-season to project on next season. For now, Minnesota has at least one game left. The Gophers take on Washington this Tuesday at Madison Square Garden in New York.


text: Fusion Sunshine Coast Want to make an impact? Volunteer Now! Youth Mental Health First Aid Training Find out more Elemental Holiday Program Register for our Elemental Youth Holiday Program Volunteers Wanted! Volunteers wanted for youth programs and op shops. Discover a rewarding way to give back to your community! Hall for hire Is your group looking for a hall to hire? FollowFollowFollowFollow DONATE VOLUNTEER Partners Buderim Lions Club Sunshine Coast Council Buderim Foundation Our Links Fusion Australia Sleep In Your Car Fusion Training


text:
Friday, February 12, 2010
Things are Look'in UP!
6 comments:
Looks like some real good working weather ahead...ReplyDelete
Yep, if the wind would stay down, but I knew that was too much to ask for. Its now windy as heck. I'll try to make the best of it though now that I'm back from Study Butte and had a fresh shower. Can't stay clean for ever I guess.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousFebruary 12, 2010 at 4:36 PM
At least your not sitting in a cold dark metal dungeon anymore.ReplyDelete
I remember going into town 2 hrs away to get my weekly shower at the laundry mat in a small bush town in Alaska. sponge baths had to due during the week.
I'm thinking about trying out one of the 7 gallon jugs on a solar shower. I have plenty of sheets of Lexan the right size to box it in and spare blue board for insulation. The jugs have spigots so I'd be able to reach up and regulate the flow or turn it on and off so it has the makings. I think I have some large PVC fittings at the storage so could drill a bunch of holes in a cap and use that for a shower head. I've got the studs I didn't use and tarps to cover the frame with when taking a shower so it would probably work. Wouldn't want everyone driving down 118 crashing and burning because of a nude man on the hill. ;)ReplyDelete
Good luck getting the shower put together. A hot shower is one of life's great pleasures. Be very careful about showering in the out of doors, though - you don't want to start a stampeed!ReplyDelete
Allen, after building the shelves and if I build the others I probably won't have enough lumber to build one. Will just have to see. Would be nice to have enough storage space in the back and a shower to though. I may figure something out and have both.ReplyDelete


text:
Our Founders
One day in 1980 four entrepreneurs, young and close relatives gentlemen named: Mohammed Suliman Al Yahya, Othman Abdulrahman Al Hosaini, Abdullah Suliman Al Yahya and Mohammed Abdulrahman Al Hosaini, met to discuss the possibilities of starting their own business. They dreamed to put their mark on the growth of their country.
Thinking was based on having a project which help in food security, where the Saudi government seeks to develop agriculture sector at that time. These entrepreneurs agreed to participate in the national agricultural development project. So, they decided to develop the first brick for this project by starting their farm project in Sajir city.
To realize the dream that was created in the imagination of each one of them, they faced the problem of choosing a unique name for this edifice. The name was chosen (AKEL), the old name of the city of Ashikar, the ancient city in the Al Washm area, located 200 km in the north-west of Riyadh city. Since then, the glory of that city from which the name was chosen, the bricks continued to be built on top of each other, diversifying the business into a company that develops from the agricultural field to intervene in the field of construction sector such as low voltage panels, pumps and boosters.
Al-Sheikh Mohd. Al Yahya
Al-Sheikh Othman Al Hussaini
Al-Sheikh Abullah Al Yahya
Al-Sheikh Hammad Al Hussaini
Message From Chairman
We initiated our journey 40 years back by establishing a company that is specialized and highly professional in producing electromechanical & irrigation systems to provide solutions to construction sector, agriculture sector and energy sector.
Our business ideology is mainly based on the four pillars of Adhere to principles, Knowledge transformation, Environmental care and Labor development.
We have gained the trust of our valued customers by making "Customer Focus" our top priority. We are continuously upgrading and developing our services & employing highly skilled and qualified staff to meet the demand for superior services whether in manufacturing, assembling, marketing, selling, distributing and providing solutions.
We have developed a unique quality assurance system to ensure that the product you receive is most reliable, efficient and accompanied with high standards of after sales services.
We look to the years ahead we renew our pledge to remain committed to excellence, keep abreast of changes and innovations. We continue to develop entrepreneurship to make AKEL self-sustained in order to help boosting the overall economy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
I am confident that our company will see even greater growth, scale and even greater heights.
Saad M. Al Yahya
Board of Directors
Saad M. Al Yahya
Adil Hamad Al Hussaini
Vice Chairman
Abdulrahman Abdullah Al Hussaini
Waleed Abdullah Al Yahya
Abdullah Abdulaziz Abdullah AlYahya
Emad Bin Khalid Sadique
About Us
AKEL trading & industrial co. is a closed joint stock Co., established in 1980 to cover market demand in the sectors of energy, fluid management & agriculture.
Long since its establishment, AKEL formed strong partnerships with world renowned brands such as Schneider Electric, Grundfos, a sole agent for Socomec in KSA & number of others. Through continuous improvement we managed to become one of the leading panel builders, boosters assemblers & center pivot irrigation system manufacturer in KSA.
In the present time, our factory resides on a 10,000 square meter land located in Riyadh's 2 nd industrial area with state of the art facilities and equipment.
Our wide customer base varying from public to private organizations in various residential, industrial, and agricultural projects.
Message From CEO
It is my pleasure to welcome you to AKEL. We have put together as one team considerable efforts to provide you a comprehensive view of what we stand for, our vision, mission, values and how we consistently fulfilling our promise to our partners.
Whether you're a potential client with a challenging project ahead; an existing client checking up on our latest news; or a supplier or future employee looking for new opportunities, I trust you'll find what you're looking for here.
AKEL is a company that is driving progress and with our partners, building better communities through safe, smart, efficient solutions. Something we have been doing consistently since 1980.
Our progressive thinking and creative approach is what makes us stand out from the crowd. It's why our products and services are preferred by owners, consultants and contractors and why so many of our clients keep coming back to us.
We have a clear vision of what we want to be; a clear mission of how to be there; and we guide our business using four core values. I am proud of the work we do and give you my personal commitment that we will deliver what we promise and do it safely and sustainably.
To make our products and services instantly accessible, we have nine showrooms operating from different prominent locations in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Enjoy our website and feel free to contact your local AKEL office for any additional information.
Yours Sincerely,
Vision & Mission
"A Strong Position In Manufacturing And Distribution Of Energy, Water Solutions And Irrigation Systems In MENA"
"Provide Markets With Quality Products & Services And Support Local Content Development And Know How Transfer"
dhere To Principles:
1. Customer Focus
2. Transparency In Dealing
3. Justice And Equality Of Staff
4. Dealing With Credibility
nowledge Transformation:
1. Acquire Knowledge From Its Sources
2. Encourage Our Employees To Acquire Knowledge
3. Exchange Of Experiences
4. Knowledge Documentation
nvironmental Care:
1. Create Effective Working Environment
2. Advanced Status In A Competitive Environment
3. Keeping The Surrounding Environment Green
4. Create A Safe Working Environment
abors Development:
1. Employee Training
2. Taking Care Of Staff
3. Keeping Interest In Saudization
4. Building Leaders
Organizational Structure
Executive Management
Mohammad Akram A. Radwan
Khalid M. Al Sufyani
Hussain Bin Mahdi
HR Manager
Mahmoud Metwally
Finance Manager
Trading Sales Manager
Talal AlRaie
Projects Sales Manager
Ibrahim Abdullah ElDirdiry
Agriculture Export Sales Manager & Senior Customer Services
Raid Al Ali
Mfg. & Production Manager
Adam Mahat
HUYA Factory Manager
Ashiq Gulzar Khan
Supply Chain Manager
Yahya Otayf
Technical Affairs Manager
Quality Assurance
In AKEL we have a dedicated quality team that employed a rigorous quality
system to insure the maximum satisfaction of our customers.
Our quality system insures that all our products are assembled, built, and tested
to the highest standards.
We are proud that AKEL is certified to meet ISO 9001:2015 standard.
Quality Policy
- It is the policy of AKEL to fulfill the requirements of customers through providing quality services and products.
- We survive from the confidence of our clients.
- It is client's right to demand quality and quality is our combined responsibility.
- We always enjoy our work and brighten our working atmosphere.
- Through the review of problems, customer feedback and regular meetings, AKEL always set areas where improvement is needed and identify these as quality objects.
- We belive this policy can be achieved through the implementation of QMS of BS EN ISO 9001:2015
Authorized Distributor of SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC
AKEL is an authorized distributor of Schneider Electric products (including Square-D safety switches) in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Authorized Distributor of GRUNDFOS
AKEL is an authorized distributor of GRUNDFOS products in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Certified Panel Builder by SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC
AKEL Electromechanical Products Facotry is the certified panel builder in "Gold" category by SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC the global specialist in energy management.
Employee's Training
AKEL's Training Program
Purpose to provide guidelines and rules for employees who participate in the AKEL's training program.
AKEL is committed to the development of highly qualified staff and to the enhancement of job‐related knowledge and skills.
The objective of the training program is to provide employees access to training and development opportunities necessary to perform official duties.
The highest priority will be given to those programs that add value for our employees by promoting efficiency, effectiveness and competency; and develop the maximum performance of job duties.
Training Categories
- Technical Training
- Management Training
- Sales and Marketing Training
- Safety Training Standards According to OSHA
Training Program Gallery
Years of Experience
Business Units
Low Voltage Solutions
AKEL-SWITCHGEAR (AKEL Electromechanical Products Factory) is aimed at being a serious contender in the distribution panel boards, automation & drives business of Saudi Arabia.
The corporation already represent & distributes for a number of top specialized companies in the field of LV switchgear, automation, drives solutions.
In addition, AKEL-SWITCHGEAR continuously monitors technical and business development in its line of business and strive to ensure that it offers the widest possible systems portfolio comprising the latest solutions available from around the world.
AKEL-SWITCHGEAR has successfuly established strong technical enterprise. Its comprehensive engineering capabilities, backed by the extensive engineering expertise of our associates and the substantial financial and managerial resources, represent a unique & qualified source for innovative concepts, designs, engineering, installation management and operations support in our specialized area of engineering. Across the spectrum of program management and applied technology.
AKEL-SWITCHGEAR is serving public & private sector with following products range;
- LV Distribution Switchgear
- Motor Control Center
- Automation Panel Boards
- Lighting Panels
- PFC (Power Factor Correction) Panels
- MV Switchgear
- Energy Management Solutions
Fluid Management Solutions
Reliable supply of water at static, high-lying taps. Fluctuating water consumption in different types of buildings, such as schools, hospitals, airports or hotels, requires flexible systems that meet individual demands. With AKEL pressure boosting systems, you can ensure that water will be supplied reliably.
Akel capitalizes on its extensive industrial exposure to offer a comprehensive range of pressure- boosting systems, gaining reputation as the manufacturer and supplier of world-class water pressure boosting pumps.
Akel has established its foothold as the manufacturer of some of the most sophisticated fire fighting systems. The specialized department of design and engineering houses some of the most talented professionals working on dedicated software to deliver reliable fire-fighting systems that meet international design and safety standards including the standards of SASO.
AKEL also known as a leading name in the distribution field of internationally renowned quality pumps. We offer you an extensive product line of pumps, that are consumer's first choice in the Industrial, Commercial, Municipal, Domestic, Fire, Flood Control, sewage, & HVAC markets. For over 4 decades, we have the unique distinction of being the prominent distributor and reseller of GRUNDFOS & WELL pumps.
- Available in standard and custom range.
- Consist of automatic pressure controlled pumps along with pre-charged water in a pressure tank.
- Custom-built systems available for higher water requirements.
- Easy to install, operate and require not much of maintenance.
- Useful for both domestic and industrial use.
- The value of water with more than pumping power!
Irrigation Systems
AKEL has emerged as a leading name in middle-east for agricultural and irrigation solutions. We resolve to boost the agriculture sector in the region with our know-how, partnerships and feasible farming solutions. We have provided ceaseless support at every stage of the irrigation or agricultural project with our superior quality equipment that have been manufactured in our state-of-the-art facility.
Our significantly valuable contributions over the last 40 years to the agricultural community stems from our core guiding principles of the division:
- Emphasis on the individual requirements of different irrigation systems.
- Rationalization of water consumption.
- Provide after-sales service for installation.
- on-site testing, commissioning and maintenance.
AKEL through its dedicated agricultural equipment manufacturing facility has made commendable progress in the area of design and manufacture of precision irrigation choices that match the needs of each of its customers. To answer to the high demand of center pivot irrigation systems in the Kingdom, we have set up a core team that is solely responsible for the manufacture and assembly of pivot irrigation systems, fertilizer injectors of all types including their spare parts.
Key Features
- Pivots & Towers galvanized for longevity and designed for specific needs to enhance the value.
- High efficiency irrigation of planted areas with immense saving of water and power.
- Available in different diameters and lengths of towers.
- Best choice for low pressure irrigation.
- Combination of superior technical skills and latest technologies.
- Our Fertilizer injector provides efficient control of the quality of fertilizers and insecticides.
- Increased production, Reduced costs with Intelligent Irrigation
HUYA PRE-INSULATED DUCT System
HUYA Pre-Insulated Duct Factory is a pioneer in pre-insulated foam ducting. HUYA is the first company in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to introduce the innovative and revolutionary foam based pre-insulated ductwork as the new generation material that replaces traditional sheet metal in ductwork.
Thanks to the special technical and structural characteristics, HUYA panel ductwork can be used in any project typology: offices, industries, commercial centers, airports, hospitals, clean rooms, laboratories, public buildings, hotels, quarantine rooms, isolation rooms, etc.
In addition to the panel, HUYA offers a complete set of tools and accessories that allow HUYA ductwork to satisfy any project and installation requirement as well as thermal insulation panels for roof insulation, wall insulation, floor insulation and false ceiling with different sorts of facing like Kraft Paper, Asphalt Paper and Glass Fleece.
Key Features;
- Construction:
- Easy to Design:
- Hygiene:
- Cost Saving:
- Excellent Reaction to Fire:
- Clean Transport of Inside Air:
- Lack of Condensation:
- Improve the Performance of your Installation:
Pre-insulated panel systems offer undisputed advantages in comparison to conventional sheet metal systems, specifically in the fabrication, construction, and installation phases. Modification or enlargements of existing systems are particularly easy.
Pre-insulated panels can be designed by a computerized CNC machine which reduces the time required in comparison to the conventional method. This machine can tailor the panel to the best possible and most efficient method to reduce waste.
Pre-insulated panel are extremely hygienic because of the possibility of washing the outer and inner surfaces, which guarantees maximum possible hygiene.
Pre-insulated panels initial cost is economical compared to the conventional GI ducting system. The required time to fabricate the Pre-insulated panel is significantly reduced due to duct fabrication simplicity. Time factor ultimately reduces labor costs.
When in contact with fire, the feature of the polyisocyanurate foam favors the formation of a carbon cellular structure that protects the inner foam parts. Thus the speed of combustion is slow.
The air circulating inside the duct is always kept in its purest stage, as the inner surface of the duct is made of aluminum with a purity of over 99%, not allowing for condensation or for the accumulation of dust or micro-organisms.
The highest level of heat insulation of the Pre-insulated panel prevents condensation on both sides of the panel. Even on extreme weather condensation its outer surface will remain intact. Likewise, the aluminum facing acts as a water vapor barrier to prevent water particles from forming on the inner insulation.
The use of ducts made using Pre-insulated panel will notably improve the performance of your installation because of its low heat conductivity, together with the water tightness of the products, the minimization of frigories loss, and avoidance of air leaks through the joints.
BS 476 Part 6 1989 CERTIFICATE
BS 476 Part 7-1997 CERTIFICATE
Duct is a key part of central air-conditioning system. It plays a very important role in adjusting air condition in buildings. The air condition and appearance of buildings are related with duct quality. The material used for duct is constantly evolving in order to satisfy the demand for higher and higher quality, greater respect for the environment, and increased savings in energy. Many different materials and systems such as magnetite composite, PVC and so on have been developed as alternatives to the galvanized sheet metal used traditionally, but pre-insulated duct is a fresh blood of duct systems. It is a sandwich panel that is made with PIR (Polyisocyanurate) foam faced with aluminum foil. It seemed to be a trend to use AIR pre-insulated duct on world duct market instead of traditional duct systems. AIR pre-insulated duct has been steadily developed and spread around the world, as its application has been gradually extended to every type of air distribution system: industrial, civil and commercial.
For construction of air ducting in heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems (HVAC), the Polyisocyanurate (PIR) foam panel with 45kg/m3 density, coated with 80/80µm thick embossed aluminum foil have two panel types:
HuYa PI-20: 20mm thickness - Indoor
HuYa PI-30: 30mm thickness - Outdoor
HuYa PUR Panel of 20mm Thickness with 80 micron embossed Aluminum foil on both sides
HuYa PUR Panel of 20mm Thickness with 60 micron embossed Aluminum foil on both sides
HuYa PUR Panel of 20 mm thickness with one side 80 mic Aluminum smooth and another side 80 mic Aluminum embossed
HuYa Panel of 30 mm thickness with 200 mic Aluminum embossed on both sides
HuYa Panel of 30 mm thickness with one side 60 mic Aluminum and the other side 200 mic Aluminum embossed.
Thermal Insulation Board
HuYa panel can be easily and effectively applied to the insides of roofs and walls as well as for floor insulation. The seamless foam layer follows all the contours of the surface and sticks to all kinds of materials and surfaces. PIR insulation protects against cold, heat, damp and draughts. It is the perfect insulation.
Roof insulation: Just like the inside of a roof, you can have the outside of a roof insulated. PIR insulating foam can be applied to both existing roofs and new roofs to prevent damage by sun, wind, and rain.
Wall insulation: It can be done quickly and effective using PIR foam. The PIR foam sticks easily to any surface and follows all the contours, of in this case, the gable closely. There's no chance of cold bridges.
Floor Insulation: PIR foam has exceptionally good insulating and damp-proofing characteristics. The polyurethane is applied seamlessly against the underside of the floor of the ground floor, around floor boards and up to a certain height on the foundation joints. The result is a perfect separation between the climate in the crawlspace and that in the living room.
Healthy homes, offices etc with an acceptable humidity level in the house. PIR foam seamlessly seals the floor, in contrast to systems that seal off the ground.
HuYa PUR Panel of 50 mm thickness with both side Asphalt paper
HuYa PUR Panel of 50 mm thickness with both side Kraft paper
HuYa PUR Panel of 50 mm thickness with both side Glass wool
Business Partners
AKEL has a very long and productive partnership with Grundfos pumps. We are an authorized dealer for the Grundfos products with our long expertise in their excellent services and technical support for Grundfos products.
From the dawn of the company, Well Pumps has evolved to become a
front-line player in the pump market. Firstly, it increased its borehole
pumps range, to offer all size from 3" up to 10" of full stainless steel
pumps. Nowadays, Well Pumps is recognized as a leader in the
borehole stainless steel pumps market all around the world.
Well Pumps has also developed solar pumping solutions. The solutions it has to offer always uses state of the art technology to maximize efficiency of the system and its lifespan.
AKEL is a Golden Partner in Schneider Electric panel builders alliance
program and an authorized distributor.
This partnership insures that our factory is periodically audited by Schneider Electric and our products meets the high specifications Schneider Electric had for their products.
Founded in 1922, Socomec is an industrial group with a workforce of
3100 people. Our core business – the availability, control and safety of
low voltage electrical networks with increased focus on our customer's
power performance.
As undisputed specialists in UPS systems, main supply changeover, power conversion and measurement, Socomec dedicates nearly 10% of its turnover to R&D. As a result the Group can achieve its ambition of always being one technological step ahead.
Aquasystem is a one of the main brand of Zilio Industries company that
was born 40 years ago, a few kilometers far from Padua and Venice, in
the heart of Italy's small and medium enterprises.
Aquasystem is the main character of a new industrial age, where research, competitiveness and sustainability are the basics of its development project.
CAG electric machinery is a leading European manufacturer of control
technology. The company focuses its efforts on cutting-edge
development and innovation to increase efficiency and reduce emissions.
Thanks to engineering, innovation and design activities that are permanently located in Europe, CAG products can be branded with the "made in the EU" brand, which strengthens customer confidence in the brand and improves market potential. All CAG production network companies use high-precision manufacturing engineering to ensure compliance with the ever-increasing quality requirements of the CAG concept.
|Riviera Compound
|China Railway Contracting Co.
|AKEL Water Booster Sets
|Al Wataniya Plastics
|Al Sahman Contracting Co.
|Power Factor Panels
|KSU Endowment-B-03, 05&06
|Drake & Scull
|AKEL Water Booster Sets
|Al Rashid Tower
|Al Khobar
|Al Rashid Trading & Contracting Co
|AKEL Water Booster Sets
|Al Rashid Hotel
|Al Khobar
|Al Rashid Trading & Contracting Co
|AKEL Water Booster Sets
|Kinana Center
|Adex Company
|Hydro Booster Sets
|Senior Commander Housing Project MODA
|Adex Company
|AKEL Water Booster Sets
|Al-Marai Plant Extension
|Hadaeq Establishment
|AKEL Water Booster Set, Loose Pumps
|National Guard
|Karmal Arabia Trading
|UL/FM Fire Fighting Sys.
|Moda Al Kharj
|The Address Works
|AKEL Water Booster Sets
|Rosa Farm
|First Fix
|Non UL/FM Fire Fighting Sys., AKEL Water Booster Sets, Transfer Pumps Sets
|Military Hospital
|K. Al Hussien Co
|AKEL Water Booster Sets, Water Circulating Systems
|Taif University
|AKEL Water Booster Sets
|Al Sudair Food Industries
|Al Sudair
|Al Della Food
|AKEL Water Booster Sets
|Cap France Bat
|UL/FM Fire Fighting System
|KSU Avenue
|Fawaz A. Al Hokair Real Estate
|AKEL Water Booster Sets
|AL Safa Compound
|Al-Faneyah Electromechanical Co.
|AKEL Water Booster Sets, Submersible Pumps, Fire Fighting System
|Dammam Mall
|Fawaz A. Al Hokair Real Estate
|AKEL Water Booster Sets
|King Faisal Specialized Hospital
|K. Al Hussien Co.
|Irrigation Booster Sets, Fire Booster Set
|King Faisal Specialized Hospital
|Al Hada Contracting Co.
|AKEL Water Booster Sets
|Medical College Hail University
|Harmain High Speed Railway
|Al Hussaini Co.
|Al Rajhi Admin Building
|Star Delta
|Various Pump Stations
|Al Kobrish
|GCC Electrical Testing Lab
|GCC Electrical Testing Lab
|Various Pump Stations
|Various Places
|Deffallah Al Otaibi
|Nafa Co.
|Center Pivot Irrigation Sys.
|SMI Co.
|Center Pivot Irrigation Sys.
|Al Nawres Co.
|Center Pivot Irrigation Sys.
|Abutaeh Co.
|Center Pivot Irrigation Sys.
|Al Yamama Co.
|Center Pivot Irrigation Sys.
|Al Taleb Gro.
|Center Pivot Irrigation Sys.
|Nadec Co.
|Center Pivot Irrigation Sys.
|Al Ojemi Co.
|Center Pivot Irrigation Sys.
|Tala Project.
|Center Pivot Irrigation Sys.
Projects Gallery
Projects of Huya
|Al Ghamdi Masjid
|Pre-Insulated Duct Systems
|Al Hussaini Commercial Center
|Pre-Insulated Duct Systems
|Al Rabiya Villas
|Pre-Insulated Duct Systems
|Al Shati Villas
|Pre-Insulated Duct Systems
|Al Shiraa Mall 01
|Pre-Insulated Duct Systems
|Al Shiraa Mall 02
|Pre-Insulated Duct Systems
|Al Swailem Tower 2
|Pre-Insulated Duct Systems
|Pre-Insulated Duct Systems
|Duct Plastic Research Factory
|Pre-Insulated Duct Systems
|Golds Gym
|Pre-Insulated Duct Systems
|Holiday Inn
|Pre-Insulated Duct Systems
|Marina Café
|Pre-Insulated Duct Systems
|Pre-Insulated Duct Systems
|Private Mansion
|Pre-Insulated Duct Systems
|Ramada Hotel
|Pre-Insulated Duct Systems
|Salahuddin Masjid
|Pre-Insulated Duct Systems
|Tower 7
|Pre-Insulated Duct Systems
|Tadawai General Hospital
|Pre-Insulated Duct Systems
|Toys R Us
|Pre-Insulated Duct Systems
Projects Gallery
Saad M. Al Yahya
Mohammad Akram A. Radwan
Khalid M. Al Sufyani
Subscribe Our Newsletter
Branch Offices


text:
"JCG Performance Tracker™ provides the most accurate and comprehensive reports of
its kind. It's revolutionized the way our directors do performance analysis of arrangers
and management staff."
"Very inclusive tool with countless features that take the time consuming work out
of daily jobs, allowing my staff and I to focus on the important things; like taking
care of our families at need. Excellent tool!"
"Highly impressed with how the complex calculations are made easy to understand and
interpret in all of the Sales Analysis and Sales Snapshot reports. JCG Performance
Tracker™ is a "must have" application for anyone working in the funeral home industry."
"Thoroughly enjoy working with this user-friendly software; with ease of operation
and the versatile options and enhanced features that allow me to stand apart from
my local competition for all of my business divisions. Thank you JCG Performance
We will contact you shortly after we receive your request to setup a personalized
showing of Performance Tracker.


text:
New film traces Tampa's race issues
TAMPA (FOX 13) - A new documentary film recounts what happened in Tampa in June of 1967. A young man was killed and an entire community rose up in protest.
From June 11 to 14, the unrest continued following the shooting death of 19-year-old Martin Chambers, a black man who was shot by a white police officer following a burglary. USF instructor Travis Bell produced the film that premiered on the 50th anniversary of the shooting, June 11.
The film is called "The Tampa Technique: Rise, Demise, and Remembrance of Central Avenue."
Many believe the riots were the beginning of the end for the Central Avenue district, which was a center for black culture.
The Tampa Technique is what some call the way leaders handled race relations.
"The city fathers in Tampa utilized it to control the pace of integration and also to avoid being a Birmingham or Selma," explained Bell, who spent 15 months working on the film, which includes many interviews with people who lived through it.
Tampa formed a biracial commission of both black and white leaders. The idea was later adopted by the state, but Bell says the Tampa Technique had both benefits and failures -- and race is still a part of our story.
"I think it resonates now as much as it did 50 years ago in the current climate we live in."
He says he hopes to offer the film to Hillsborough County schools for African-American studies.
LINK: For more information, click over to https://www.facebook.com/tampatechnique/


text:
- The Paradox of History
- The Essence of God
- Raw Material
- Available People
- Humility
- Spiritual Gifts
- Meekness
- Baptisms
- Three Functions of the Believer
- Ambassadorship
- Seven Figures of Christ and the Church
- The Mature Believer and Personal Accountability
- Tongues as a Spiritual Gift
- Prophecies of Jesus Christ in the Psalms
- The Perspective of Grace
- Discipleship
- Blessing and Reward
- How to Redeem Time
- Dispensations Timeline
- The Rapture
- The Day of the Lord and The Day of Christ
- The Good Fight of Faith
- Suffering
- Decisions
- No Truce
- Peace
- 10 Principles of Warfare
- God is Able, God Is Faithful
- Present Session of Christ
- Religion: The Enemy's Ace
- Power In Us
- Faith
- Small Things
- Five Techniques (to spirituality)
- Eight Sabbaths
- Faith-rest
- Strange Tests
- Daily Disciplines
- The Faith-rest Technique
- Three Sources of Temptation
- Divine Wisdom
- The Value of Wisdom
- Evil
- The Royal Code
- The Character of Grace
- The Cross to the Crown
- Water and the Spirit
- Spirituality
- Synonomous Terms
- Reversionism and Recovery
- Soul Strengths and Soul Kinks
- Discipline
- Seven Steps of Spiritual Advance
- The Race of Life
- The Will of God
- The Old Sin Nature
- Energized Prayer
- Abiding: Absolute Thinking
- God's Faithfulness
- Salvation in The Book of James
- "All things work together …"
- Biblical Spirituality
- Dispensations
- Death
- Endurance
- Essence of God Acronym
- Eternal Security
- Fellowship with God
- Five Commands for Christian Soldiers
- Five Factors of Effective Faith
- Five Techniques of the Christian Way of Life
- Five works of the Holy Spirit
- Five Works of the Spirit in Regard to the Word
- Free Will
- Freedom
- God is Able
- God Revealed
- Greek
- Hebrew Words for Faith
- Hermeneutics
- Imitation of Christ
- Man's Barrier with God
- Parakaleo
- Seven Steps of Spiritual Recovery
- Seven Steps of Spiritual Retreat
- Spiritual Flexibility
- Spiritual Rest
- Stages of Spiritual Growth
- Take up Your Cross and Follow Him
- The Blood of Christ
- The Call of God
- The Daily Care of the Soul
- The Doctrine of Sin
- The Good Soldier of Jesus Christ
- Christ's Work on the Cross
- The Church
- The Holy Spirit and Christ
- The I AM Sayings of Christ
- The Importance of the Word of God
- The Overcomer
- The Plan of God
- The Spirit in the Old Testament
- The Way of Salvation
- The Way to be Salt and Light
- The Words of Jesus
- The Work of Christ on the Cross
- Using the Physical to Learn the Spiritual
- Ways of Learning
- The Christian Way of Life
- The Christian Walk
- Scriptural Proof of the Pre-tribulation Rapture
Small Things
Shamgar had an ox goad
David had a sling
Dorcas had a needle
Rahab had some string
Mary had some ointment
Moses had a rod
What small thing do you have
That you'll dedicate to God?
What can God use to accomplish His purpose? Anything we will give Him, but especially He delights in using small things:
A shepherd's rod
(Exo 4:2)
The jawbone of an ass
(Jud 15:15)
Five smooth stones
(1Sa 17:40)
A handful of meal
(1Ki 17:12)
A little jar of oil
(2Ki 4:2)
A small cloud
(1Ki 18:44)
A little man
(Zec 4:10)
A mustard seed
(Mat 13:32)
Five loaves and two fishes
(Joh 6:9)
This material was originally a highlighted topic in "The Basics".


text:
Endgame Interactive Facebook Episode Nabs Digital Emmy
The International Academy of Television Arts & Sciences announced the winners of the International Digital Emmy® Awards at a ceremony last evening. Organized in partnership with Reed Midem and attended by over 300 international executives from the television, broadband and mobile industries who are in Cannes for MIPTV 2012.
Endgame Interactive: Facebook Episode, developed by Secret Location for Shaw Media and Thunderbird Films for the television series Endgame, won the Fiction Category. The Facebook Episode is a transmedia experience created to extend the Showcase television drama Endgame in an online property. Although the series was cancelled by Showcase at the end of its first season, the show has become a cult favourite, recently finishing a very successful first run on Hulu. It is the hope of fan group Save Endgame that the series will be given a reprise and return to production in the near future.
In Endgame Interactive: Facebook Episode, the audience participates in an interactive mystery where they take on the main role in the narrative, which is populated with information from their Facebook account. Fans interact with the cast, search for clues, question suspects, and unravel the mystery in a cinematic and personal experience.
The episode seamlessly integrates elements of the viewers Facebook profile into the video and places the users friends at the center of a kidnapping mystery. The online experience is built on a platform that builds social media directly into the story, posting cryptic messages to viewer's Facebook accounts and weaving the need to share the content right into the story's conclusion.
The objective was to draw the audience into the Endgame show world with an immersive experience and create a direct interaction with Arkady Balagan, the charismatic star of the show played by Canadian actor Shawn Doyle. By joining Balagan's band of investigators, users experienced the show content through online video and casual gaming elements in a new and unique way.