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Good news from August 2010 is that the S&P 500 market index is back on the track predicted couple years ago. Figures 1 and 2 update the previous versions published on Seeking Alpha in August with the closing level of ~1050 reported on August 31. Both predicted curves are very close to the observed ones over the whole period between March 2009 and August 2010. This prediction would have been a convincing one for everybody except market players who do believe that stock prices are unpredictable.
So, we will continue tracking the level of S&P 500 and its returns. The next move is likely below the trend to compensate for a short positive excursion in July 2010. This might be a drop by 40 to 80 points, likely to the level below 1000. It might be accompanied by a small panic. However, a positive jerk associated with local positive news is not excluded but it should not be high in amplitude.
Our concern about possible repetition of the 1987 fall, if the index would continue its deviation from the predicted trend into October 2010, has been resolved by the drop of around 50 points from the July's level of 1101. So, there is no danger of a severe panic on the stock market.
Below we repeat a mandatory part with a bit of mathematics for the readers interested in details of our excellent (in terms of predictive power) model. The model is also presented in our working paper [1] and monograph [2].
The original model links the S&P 500 annual returns, Rp(t), to the number of nine-year-olds, N9. In order to extend the prediction in time we use the number of three-year-olds, N3, as a proxy to N9 and obtain a forecast at a six-year horizon:
Rp(t+6) = 100dlnN3(t) - 0.23 (1)
where Rp(t+6) is the S&P 500 return six years ahead (in 2010 one can foresee the returns in 2016). Figure 1 depicts germane S&P 500 returns, both actual one and that predicted by relationship (1). Both curves are coinciding in practical terms.
Because of the observed linear growth in N3 one can replace it with linear trends for the period between 2008 and 2011, as Figure 2 shows. This model predicts that the S&P 500 stock market index will be gradually decreasing at an average rate of 37 points per month. All fluctuations in N3, as observed in Figure 1, are smoothed in this linear representation.
Figure 1. Observed and predicted S&P 500 returns. The last point for the observed series is August 2010.
Figure 2. Observed S&P 500 monthly close level and the trend predicted from the number of nine-year-olds. The slope is of -37 points per month. The same but positive slope was observed between February 2009 and April 2010. The last point in the observed series is August 2010. All in all, the S&P 500 is back on the predicted trend.


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The Inspiration:
Valentino SS 13 Menswear
|Valentino SS 13 Menswear. style.com
The Elements:
Valentino S/S 2013 collection is all about keeping its aesthetic as a luxury brand. With the combination of sporty trend and luxe wear, Valentino delivered to its clients a modern and matured men dressing. Contrasting color and camouflage print are dominant in the runway. No ties were seen unlike from the previous collection according to style.com who had an interview with the duo designer. Mixing of different materials were define by the big proportions of the clothing which give more space and free movement.
The Materials:
Bomber jacket – From the Valentino collection, jacket is almost seen in every set of outfit, contrast in color, mixed materials and even in camo print.
|Asos Camo jacket. asos.com £31.00
|Tim Coppens jacket. ln-cc.com £3035
Shirt – Poplin shirt is the best pair for the jacket just like from the collection. But you can still wear the usual shirt, it doesn't make any big difference at all.
|T by Alexander Wang barneys.com $175
|Balenciaga barneys.com $355
Trouser – Best to wear a trouser in cotton materials, but light denims can be consider.
|Skopes tailored trousers houseoffraser.co.uk £ 27.50
|John Lewis johnlewis.com
Sneakers – to complete the sporty look and contrast the casual wearing.
|New Balance barnyes.com $150

subset: commoncrawl


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Team loyalties are crazy fierce, fans go to the ends of the earth to support, defend and rally their players.
And as far as beautiful games are concerned, football is king.
> Awesome ways to use the football beverage - beer!
> What to do when things get hot (under the collar)!
> Get through the late nights, with chocolate
As certain as politics and religion can.
In this World Cup season, I want to celebrate the joys of sports, and the happiness it brings.
Presenting... The green, blues and yellows of.. Henry Hugglemonster!
> Who's Henry Hugglemonster?
> More yellow desserts
- Busy day at the construction site
- Minions at work
- A Rilakkuma birthday
Right: The real Henry
Left: My version!
I know it's not what you'd associate with football. But besides the colors of Brazil, Henry also does his part rallying little kids in the challenges of life, teaching extermination, diversity and drive.
Just like sports and football do.
You see the similarities I'm sure :)
Happy splash of colors paying World Cup homage
The starting point: Base cake layers decked with surprise fillings (crushed oreos, chocolate
chips, mango), and chocolate and vanilla buttercream. These get stacked and covered with
blue fondant, before a smaller 2nd tier goes on top.
With a fairly flat top tier, you can try and cover the entire cake with a single piece of fondant
like I did here. If your top tier is high, you should cover the 2 tiers separately and stack them.
Recipe for the cake base:
> Martha Stewart's delectable Chocolate Torte
> Bakerella's amazing Chocolate Cake
Handpainting takes a steady hand, and good spelling.
Practice, practice, practice till you get good at it, like sports!
Final touch: Cake pops for a poppin' backdrop, they add such a wonderful cheer!
Ole World Cup!


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In my summer art class, we painted superhero canvases. The kids decided what superhero they would like to be and drew these on dry wax paper with markers and colored pencils. Then I used gel medium (on the backs of the paper) to adhere their images to the canvas board. Then, they used paints to paint a background. I love them!! There is a link to the dry wax paper at the bottom of this post. The ages of my summer class was K-4th, mostly K and 1.
|The drawing has been glued to the canvas.
|Starting to paint the background
|Painting canvases
|A superhero that can turn things into animals!
|Bomb dude... ok, so this one is a bit violent.
Below is the wax paper we used. As you can see it comes 2 boxes, 500 ct. each box, so this would last a LONG time. I found out about this stuff by reading Art Projects for Kids.. she uses dry wax paper a lot.


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Houlihan Lokey Appoints Timblick Head of Asia
Houlihan Lokey appointed David Timblick managing director and head of Asia, including Houlihan Lokey's Tokyo office. Timblick is based in Hong Kong.
Timblick joins from Lazard Asia, where he has held a number of roles over the past 14 years. He recently served as head of Lazard's Asia advisory practice, overseeing strategy, planning and client coverage across the region. Prior to Lazard, Timblick held senior positions at the Korea Merchant Banking Corporation and Arthur Andersen Consulting. Timblick began his banking career in 1990 at Arthur Andersen & Co.
"David brings a wealth of operational experience and deep client relationships to the firm. He will be instrumental in helping Houlihan Lokey continue to grow throughout Asia and become the premier advisory investment banking firm in the region," said Scott Beiser, CEO of Houlihan Lokey. "David will be a critical resource to colleagues and clients alike as we increasingly bring our expertise in corporate finance, restructuring and financial advisory to clients across Asia."


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Hello! Second post of the day but I just wanted to introduce you to a magazine called Tinsel Tokyo. I recieved an email from the company informing me about their magazine so I checked it out online and I was so impressed! I straight away loved the fashion photography as it is so powerful and engaging - infact everything in the magazine kept my attention. I was not once bored whilst looking through this magazine, it is so inspirational, colourful, very pop and very Harijuku and I am so glad they contacted me.
Here is a little bit about the magazine itself:
'We connect independent artists, writers, musicians, poets, designers, and models with photographers, editors, and creative forces to make things happen! We celebrate art, fashion and culture in the LA Underground as well as take a peek into what's happening above the surface. We work regularly with professional, top notch industry photographers, but we are also excited to discover new talent. We accept submissions from around the globe. We've worked with photographers from Australia, New Zealand, Indonesia, England, Japan and more!
It's Tinsel Town meets Tokyo.'
The following iimages have only been taken from the most recent issue of Tinsel Tokyo. To see the other issue's online click here.


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Allo polish Pals
How are you all doing today? Are you excited for Christmas?!
This year I'll be posting again on Christmas day, since my blog schedule just happens to fall on the actual day I figured I may as well post!
For today thought I've got two more little snow buddies to share with you, I wanted to have a very delicate and pretty holo manicure so I decided to really only paint on two nails. You'll see what I mean. This manicure was inspired by this picture I found on Pinterest.
For this manicure I began with my Mezmris Nail Lacquer base coat, Armor Up and once dry I applied two coats of Le Beaut in no.24 in a dusty lilac shade – this was a polish my mum bought for me during her last holiday to Greece, I can't find much information about the brand! Once this was dry I added a delicate, thin coat of Polish Me, Royalty!'s 'Unicornucopia' which added a beautiful holographic sparkle. I then freehanded my snowman and rabbit using my fave Pure Color brush in #9 and finished off by sealing it all in with two coats of Mezmris Nail Lacquer's 'Armor'.
What do you guys think of this manicure? It was sort of nice to do something detailed but without having to do EEEEVERY nail. How lazy does that sound? I still spent a lot of time on those two nails, ha!
I'm off to a Christmas concert later today with my sister-in-law, I'm excited!
I hope you guys have a beautiful day, Let me know in the comments what you are getting upto! I'll be back on Sunday...Christmas day, wahoo!!


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"Review of student feedback critiques and interviews of their life coach training with students of Bennett | Stellar University demonstrates that students are extremely satisfied with the quality of training and Bennett | Stellar University's methodology. Students were observed to be highly engaged in the programs."
You know what the best thing is about your interest in being a life coach? You can do it. In fact, anyone who wants to make a difference in the lives of others can do it. All you need is the desire and the training in the skills to be a successful life coach and here is the best place to do it.
Our Life Coach Training Programs will teach you everything you need to know to be a highly successful life coach and much, much more. Including education and training in complementary subjects that will expand your effectiveness and client base.
Transformational Life Coach Training is an advanced professional certification training that blends our proprietary cutting-edge coaching platform – DreamSculpting® with the methodologies of Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP), clinical Ericksonian hypnosis, and energy healing. The results? You become a Life Transformation Coach. This expanded training will result in you being the most skilled life coach in your area and the most marketable. You will also receive extremely valuable postgraduate education to help you build your business and be a true master in the art and science of life coaching.
We take great pride in guiding you to evolve into being the best of life coaches. To ensure this outcome, we offer unlimited postgraduate education and support – a priceless value at no additional charge. This includes weekly business and skill building tele-classes, video access to the entire program, and unlimited re-attendance of our courses for increased retention and practice. When you re-attend, you participate as an assistant instructor for additional learning. There is no better offer to master your craft in this or any other professional field.
Our heartfelt and engaging life coach training instructors have been practicing and training life coaching for a combined total of over 35 years, and are truly the best of the best. When the sponsors of the NLP MindFest researched to find the world's best coach trainers to speak at their highly-attended event, two of those chosen few were Bennett | Stellar University instructors, Michael A Bennett and Sandra Vesterstein. Even after you graduate this program, you will continue to learn from Michael and Sandra via weekly tele-classes and business-building coaching calls.
The research on learning is clear: The brain learns faster than you think. Condensed, accelerated, and intensive learning models are far more effective than the antiquated teaching method of spreading information out over time. In other words, submerge yourself into your learning.
For this reason, our life coach training programs condense the equivalent of four-college-semester course hours into 16 full days of life enhancing study presented in a fun and rejuvenating resort setting. The result? Your education is accelerated and you profit much sooner! Which would you prefer? A few hours a week for two years or 16 days of immersion, self-discovery, and fun? The total class hours are the same.


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German gross domestic product grew 1.5 percent in 2018, compared with 2.2 percent in 2017, the latest data from the Federal Statistics Office (Destatis) showed. Source: CNBC
GEFIRA provides in-depth and comprehensive analysis of and valuable insight into current events that investors, financial planners and politicians need to know to anticipate the world of tomorrow; it is intended for professional and non-professional readers.
Yearly subscription: 10 issues for €225/$250
Renewal: €160/$175
The Gefira bulletin is available in ENGLISH, GERMAN and SPANISH.
Honda is closing its factory in Turkey as the country's new-car sales collapse.
Vehicle sales in Turkey dropped 35 percent last year to 612,607 as the value of the local currency fell, figures from JATO Dynamics show. Honda's sales bucked the trend by rising 8.5 percent due to the popularity of the locally made Civic sedan, Turkey's fourth best-selling car last year.
- Car sales fell 17.7 per cent last month from a year earlier, while total vehicle sales in January fell 15.8 per cent to 2.37 million units overall
- Seventh straight monthly decline in the world's largest car market, and adds to wider concerns over domestic consumption and economic growth
Zimbabwe could run out of bread in a week after flour stocks dwindled due to the country's failure to pay for imported wheat, according to a confidential letter written to bakers by the country's grain millers' group on Monday. Source: Reuters


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Diana Beltran Herrera | Paper Birds
Colombian artist Diana Beltran Herrera shows her incredible dexterity in her new project for Longwood Gardens. Her accurate reproductions of birds using coloured paper is almost perfect.
Beltran Herrera's sculptures are made by attaching together little pieces of coloured paper to creates the most beautiful birds. She was inspired by the filigree beauty of birds' wings in motion to recreates the three-dimensional collages from photographs and succeeded to replicate them through the use of paper.
The artist was commissioned by the Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, one of the premier botanical gardens in the United States to create 6 garden bird species that will be exhibited at the Webb Farm House display at Longwood Gardens.
[divider]About [/divider]
Diana Beltran Herrera (b. 1987, Colombia) is a designer and artist that has been working over the past years with paper as the primary medium in the production of her work. After graduating from her BA degree in industrial Design at the Jorge Tadeo Lozano University in 2010, Herrera realized that she wasn't interested in pursuing a design practice as a life career, as she was more interested in the theories of understanding of nature and material as an element that exist around us and is present in an everyday routine. For Herrera, there is a considerable distance in the relationship between human and nature, and throughout her work, she aims to repair this relation by producing elements that are constantly removed, altered and forgotten. Her work is presented as a resistance where those sculptures remain in an ideal state and act like a model of representation of a reality that doesnt suffer any change.
Trough her practice in sculpture, Herrera has is been representing corporality in movement trough her extensive work with birds. Herrera has exhibited in her country as well as participating in solo and group shows in Europe, Asia and USA. She has been cooperating with artists as well as organizations and private clients as 215mmcann, Olivari Olive Oil, Volevatch, Longwood gardens US, ENI, Marina Rinaldi, Lebeau- Courally, and many others.
The interest that Herrera has in economic materials in general, is the potential of transformation that may occur with just the implementation of simple techniques and process based on repetition. Just as the patterns found in nature, her sculptures comprehends massive groups of elements that together compose a major complex system. She is currently living in Bristol, where she is studying a MA in Fine Arts at the UWE. (university of the west of England). Recent commissions includes a piece for the Festival of ideas (program developed by Bristol City Council), and an upcoming solo exhibition in Jakarta, Indonesia supported by the Embassy of Colombia in Indonesia and Cancilleria de Colombia en el Exterior.


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Corona del Mar High School juniors Andrew Boukather and Cole Friedman used to shop at Jack's Surfboards in Corona del Mar Plaza.
But this summer, the friends and business partners are selling a line of shirts from their newly launched Spruce Clothing company at their favorite local shop.
"Last year, we were dreaming about doing this," Andrew said. "It's really sweet. It's so cool."
Andrew of Big Canyon and Cole of Balboa Island have been friends since pre-kindergarten and first talked about creating a surf/skate clothing line last year.
Both are interested in art, from Southern California street art to 1950s poster art.
Cole had designed and produced a clothing line when he was in fourth grade — although he didn't follow through after his initial production, he said.
"If you want to do it, let's do it legit," Andrew said that Cole told him last summer.
Cole, a graphic artist who has won design awards and had two summer internships at surf/skate labels, began working on designs. Andrew took over the business side of things, including launching a website and social media campaign.


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Dealing with XML files can very easily trigger Flash to "leak" memory. Your app may only keep a tiny fraction of the XML file's contents, but the whole file may stay in memory and never get garbage collected. Today's article examines how this happens and how you can clean up all that unused memory.
Read the rest of this article »


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This is our alphabet strip from this last year of preschool. We do one letter each week and sing the ABC song each week until we come to our new letter. We trace the letter with our finger before we start gluing the objects on. We just have Z to go!
- Introduce the students to an alphabet strip.
- Display it somewhere in your home.
- Check teacher supply stores or the dollar store for tons of different alphabet strips. The one I use is found here (just under $15 including shipping!) I love it.
- Alphabet Collage
- Cut several larger letters from magazines.
- Place them in a bowl or spread them out on the table.
- Supply glue sticks and paper.
- Let the kids glue letters to their paper, then help him identify some of the letters.
- Magnetic Letters
- Get a set (or 2 or 3) of plastic magnetic letters. Target often has these in the dollar section in August & September. Or you can order them from Amazon here.
- Spell simple words or just play "Can you find the (A)?"
- Alphabet Soup Sticks
- Find alphabet letter pasta & mini popsicle sticks.
- Write a simple word on a paper or on the popsicle stick.
- Have the kids find the pasta letters that match and glue them onto the sticks.
Snack Idea: Alphabet Soup or Alpha-bits cereal


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So today I can't think of a theme that relates back to my life no matter how loosely. Perhaps it's because I woke up earlier than usual in an attempt to develop a schedule but am instead just more tired and easily irritated. Thus I am simply picking a topic that I like; The Birth of Aphrodite (or Venus if you prefer). Damn I hear my memory exclaim, I was going to stay clear of the Classics I was going to diversify. Well let's see if I can do both. Ooooh challenge (let me know if you can hear the delirium of tiredness sneaking into my writing).
The Birth of Venus by Renaissance painter Sandro Botticelli (c. 1485) is arguably the most famous depiction o Venus/Aphrodite's birth (though I can't quite stop imagining her wind surfing on a clam shell in Hercules: Legendary Journeys). You've got a lot of classic imagery in this one; the sea of which she was born, the flowers which I'll assume are roses (one of her many attributes), and the shell, although, if memory serves, the conch shell is more typically attributed this our goddess of love (among other things).
This time we have The Birth of Venus (1863) almost 200 years later from Pre-Raphaelite painter Alexandre Cabanel. Again we have that ocean and now she's surrounded by a group of little cupids (There was only one!!... Wasn't there??). And they're blowing on that famous conch shell.
Oh the similarities. William-Adolphe Bouguereau painted this The Birth of Venus in 1879. Ocean: check, conch shell: check, sexy Botticelli pose on shell: check, swarm of cupids buzzing around her head: check. This painting has it all and isn't it pretty too.
And here's one from Symbolist painter Odilon Redon (1912). That pose is really popular.
Now here's me branching out;
Surimono (type of Japanese woodblock print) of Benten the Japanese goddess of love and music by Totoya Hokkei (1828).
This picture depicts three Indian goddesses, Lakshmi, Parvati and Sarasvati. Parvati in particular is connected to femininity, beauty and sexuality. Unfortunately the artist is unknown, to me and to Wikipedia.
Freja by John Bauer, otherwise known as Freya (and other variations) she is the Norse goddess of beauty and war. And what's this? Is she sitting in front of the ocean… I think she is. (There was actually one of Freya doing the Botticelli pose but I decided against it).
Aztec goddess of love, Xochiquetzal. Picture from http://www.mexicolore.co.uk/index.php?one=azt&two=god&id=316&typ=reg.
Now all these goddesses have a scary amount in common apart from simply being their respective cultures lurve goddess. Water and the ocean is a running theme amongst love goddesses, quite a few of them have a dark aspect or double as war goddesses. Most are goddesses of all types of love, familial, friendly as well as sexual. A lot are involved in music and the arts, prostitution which is sometimes included in the arts or considered sacred. And something I found interesting tying our first goddess, Aphrodite/Venus to our last, Xochiquetzal is that these two share the attribute of the dove.
Oh and the Moon too is frequently involved, but having written an essay on that very thing, that could be said of every goddess (imho).
Now I'm full to the brim with love (hope you are too) I'll leave it there and maybe have a nap :)
To keep up to date with the words and pictures I'm sharing now head on over to my new website, www.sarahfallon.net. I'm talking reading, writing and all kinds of daydreamy things.
To keep up to date with the words and pictures I'm sharing now head on over to my new website, www.sarahfallon.net. I'm talking reading, writing and all kinds of daydreamy things.


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With regard to neuromotor immaturity of children to 6 months diet is laid on top of the mouth of a child rather than expectoration is able to swallow solid food only if the food is laid on the back of the tongue.
Foods – At the beginning of the fifth months in artificially fed and beginning of the 6th months in breastfed infants is recommended to add except milk also some other foods. In the beginning of the novel food should be administered at weekly intervals to find out whether a child is not sensitive to this food and avoiding allergic reactions to him gives the child a new food after feeding milk in quantities from 1 to 2 teaspoons, one of scarce materials as iron.
Iron deficiency is manifested frequent infections and loss of appetite. It is therefore highly desirable that non-breastfed children received since 5 month foods that contain iron. It is a nap vegetables, egg yolk, beans and meat. Also in artificially fed children add vegetable soups and meat-vegetable side dish. Prefer to use fresh vegetables (at least two kinds of vegetables and more) and we can add 20-30 grams of lean meat. Add to food quality vegetable oil.You can get much more info About Venus Factor Review ==> http://www.reviewlity.com/category/weight-loss/page/3/
Canned – The market can also buy canned infant. Before using canned is necessary to keep the warranty period and open a can consume during the day. Although these cans made from quality ingredients, is certainly preferable to the health of children preparing meals from fresh vegetables.Read More http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maturity_(psychological)


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Knowledge Resources supports national & local health campaigns
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Body Protectors
The style, design and technology of rider's body protection equipment is continually evolving and improving. We stock body protectors for male riders from the leading manufacturers and suppliers, ensuring we offer the best, lightweight and most up-to-date protection available on the market.
Body protectors are designed to safeguard the chest, waist and shoulders, absorbing the impact in the event of an equestrian accident, be it a fall, being kicked or trampled by a horse.
Wearing a body protector is compulsory in most equestrian competitions, and the equipment has to meet the safety standards for the particular discipline according to levels set down by BETA (the British Equestrian Trade Association).
Most male riders, however, have reportedly told BETA that they do not need to be compelled by regulation to wear protection, which they regard as a necessary and sensible precaution when indulging in equestrian sport, whether it be for leisure and pleasure or serious international competition.


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|Stade d'Olympique in Abate
|Qualifying stage standings Group B
|the Zangalions
In this mornings news show our president Ime Anan said that last nights game was the perfect example of how peaceful the country is now. Anan: "Even when we lose a game we don't lose control. No riots have been reported, no arrests were made. I hear people say we should be concerned by the recent reports of violence in the north but saw nothing to be concerned of last night. We are one nation, one people, loving our country. The people can sleep safely, no need to worry"
In our next show: Troop mobilization in military base "Port Espoir" have been reported but are yet unconfirmed.


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Blossom Multi Fabric
Blossom Multi Fabric
from 2.00
Designer fabric in gray, navy, coral, mint, citron and white.
Printed on 100% Kona cotton fabric, made from ring-spun yarn
Repeat 26.76
3.2 oz per square yard
Thread count: 78 x 76
Appropriate for quilting, appliqué, shirting, dresses, children's clothing, and home decor.
Estimated shrinkage: 3.5% in length and 2% in width
Machine wash warm or cool on a gentle/delicate setting, using phosphate-free detergent
If you would like more than one yard of fabric, adjust the quantity while checking out and one continuous piece will be sent to you.
This pattern can also be printed on other fabrics including organic cotton, linen, and silk. Contact us for more information and pricing.
Please allow 7-10 days for printing
Add To Cart


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Concrete Trucks
Concrete Truck is a concrete drum mixers that mounted on trucks or other vehicles, used for the complete mixing of concrete ingredients after they have been batched at the plant. The truck mixers is the most commonly used equipment for commercial concrete manufacturers. Camelway concrete mixer truck is available in a wide range of options to meet your different demand. The concrete mixer truck is equipped with ultra-high strength integrated auxiliary frame, ensuring its stability. 3-section folded blade, innovative ball-crown structure and rear taper flushing device setting lower the residue rate at discharge port. You can count on the quality and reliability of our concrete mixers.


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Bounty under the bonnet of Mazda's new CX-9
Search Driven for vehicles for sale
A big part of the Mazda CX-9 story is found under the sculpted bonnet.
The new 2488cc SkyActiv-G 2.5T is a turbo-charged version of the direct injection petrol engine that powers Mazda3, Mazda6 and Mazda CX-5 models.
It debuts a system called Dynamic Pressure Turbocharging, which Mazda says is the world's first turbocharger with the ability to vary the degree of exhaust pulsation depending on engine speed.
The system routes exhaust to the turbocharger's turbine through smaller ports at low rpm — effectively like placing a thumb on a garden hose to create an increased amount of pressure through a smaller outlet. This allows the turbocharger to spool up quickly, creating an instant boost — up to 1.2 bar of pressure.
Mazda engineers say the Dynamic Pressure Turbo achieves a 20 to 25 per cent quicker response than a twin-scroll turbocharger at engine speeds below 1500rpm to produce a power delivery equivalent of a larger displacement, naturally aspirated engine.
As the engine revs climb further, the system opens up secondary valves, allowing for greater amounts of exhaust gas to pass through the turbocharger.
Further assisting turbocharger efficiency is a 4-3-1 exhaust layout. The exhaust from the middle two cylinders (2 and 3) are joined into a single port, while the exhausts from the outer cylinders (1 and 4) each have their own ports.
These three ports come together at the entrance to the turbocharger's exhaust side, where there is always one exhaust pulse arriving every 180 degrees of crankshaft rotation. Not only does this very compact manifold keep the exhaust pulses separate for maximum energy extraction, it also harnesses each exhaust pulse to suck the residual exhaust from the adjacent ports.
Speeding up the exhaust gas flow has a similar effect to a variable geometry turbocharger, while a new cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system reduces cylinder temperatures and allows a high compression ratio.
The EGR system helps prevent burning excessive amounts of fuel when the engine is running at higher temperatures. In many turbocharged cars, heat is controlled through adding more fuel to the combustion chamber — called fuel enrichment.
Mazda's cooled EGR reduces the need for that, lowering exhaust temperatures by as much as 100C with cooled air comprising as much as 15 per cent of the fuel mixture.
The new Mazda engine has a 10.5:1 compression ratio — among the highest of any turbocharged vehicles on sale — while the cooler exhaust gases improve the long-term durability of the catalytic converter.


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Diamonbar was the name of the sterling jewelry line patented and made by the Wachenheimer Bros. in the 1920's. The elegant rhinestone studded bracelets are among the most sought after pieces.
This bracelet is the "Lady Gloria" or bangle, with clear brilliant stones, channel set in floral patterned sterling. The safety clasp is a unique patented hinge. The oval bracelet measures 2 3/16" x 1 7/8" in the interior. It is 3/16" wide. It will fit the average to small wrist. It is marked sterling on the interior.
Condition is excellent. It has been buffed with a silver-cloth to bring up the shine. All the stones are bright and clear, and the clasp works perfectly. Nearly 100 years old, this fine piece will probably be just as lovely and desirable a century from now.
I have a second Diamonbar flexible bracelet. It is just a tiny bit larger, but the flexible chain is often more comfortable on a larger wrist. Both bracelets come with a new brocade silk pouch. I may be able to send one in your wedding color!
4 other shoppers are interested in this item
Heirloom and Vintage Jewelry, Antiques and Fine Collectibles
Valentine's Day Special- "Make an offer" on any piece of my jewelry ! Use the 'Offer' option or just email.


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Take a trip to the city of Kristiansand, Norway's holiday beach retreat known for ultimate recreation, leisure, and peace of mind. Now travel over 3,600 miles away to New York City where the hustle and bustle never stops and the city never sleeps. Introducing Kristiansand New York, a new men's fragrance combining the essence of the two very opposite regions.
Kristiansand New York was conceived when two Norwegians, Britt Hovde Ross and actress Elisabeth Steen, met for the first time in NYC through mutual friends at a chic Soho store opening. Britt always dreamed of making her own fragrance even as a little girl. With Elisabeth's background in cosmetics and fragrance marketing, the two friends set out on a mission. They decided they wanted to make a men's fragrance because there were few on the market they really loved and they wanted to make the sexiest fragrance possible. And what better way to create a fragrance than combining inspirations from the two places Britt and Elisabeth love most…New York and Kristiansand.
In the creation of Kristiansand New York, elements were added to represent the elegant New York side. These include chic musks, expensive amber and sophisticated powdery notes. These collide with a wild side that embodies the natural impact of Norway. Masculine woods are spiced up with raw pepper and topped by crisp green notes and clary sage. Kristiansand New York is classy meets wild. Nature meets style. The result is a sexy woody-ambery definition of masculinity.
Drom Fragrances' perfumer Pierre-Constantin Gueros worked with Britt and Elisabeth and created Kristiansand New York with careful detail in drom's Tribeca NYC studio. "It was clear to me that this fragrance needs to reflect the fascinating contradiction that Kristiansand New York stands for," says Pierre. "Kristiansand New York embodies the modern, cosmopolitan and fashion-forward New York lifestyle while paying tribute to the founders' native Norway, a rather quiet place with a lifestyle much closer to nature. Both places are equally fascinating." Pierre notes that New Yorkers long for the peace of the ocean and countryside while Norwegians long for the excitement of the city.


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Its all about getting cozy with a good book...
grey and Purple headbands: coming soon to Urchin Knits
shirt: Old Navy
sweat pants: Target
socks: Old Navy
pillow and blanket: Pier 1
This book has been the girls' weekly favorite- always ending with squeals and laughter.
Have you read any good books lately? I'm currently reading the Hunger Games series, and I have to say, it has greatly cut into my knitting time- I can't put the books down! Well i'm off to cuddle with my puppy and read... chores can wait.


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After the first two days we spent with eating, eating and eating the whole time - we decided with pappa B to do the same in the next few days we are staying in Berlin. So on Sunday we started the day with eating, then with drinking a bottle Riesling at Tucholsky Straße with a friend at a bar which is called Bar (it was called Bar, but now it has a name - I am not able to remember that, so we still call it the bar called Bar). That was followed by the first round sushi for this week at TTP. If you love Sushi as much as pappa B and I do, you have to go to Ishin or TTP here in Berlin! It is cheap, and their fish is always fresh :)
The other days we spent eating again, but this time Sushi at TTP, and some fried champignons and Cordon Blue at a typical German Pub near to the Tiergarten.
cheaper than water
favourite: watermelon mint (all from H&M)


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Zimbabwe Rediscovered (Camping)offered by supplier M20305 (read about supplier)
Key Information:
Tour Duration: 16 day(s)
Group Size: 4 - 24 people
Destination(s): Botswana Zimbabwe South Africa
Specialty Categories: National Parks
Season: January - December
Airfare Included: No
Tour Customizable: No
Minimum Per Person Price: 11950 South Africa Rand (ZAR)
Maximum Per Person Price: 17400 South Africa Rand (ZAR)
Day 1: Botswana – Francistown. The tour begins in Johannesburg where we load up the truck before heading northeast towards the Zimbabwe border. It is a long and fairly uneventful drive to Francistown, Botswana's second largest city and the site of Southern Africa's first 'gold-rush' back in the late 1800's. Nowadays Francistown is a modern African city and home to many jazz-clubs and casinos making for some excellent nightlife. Meals: Lunch, Dinner. Overnight: Marang Hotel Campsite.
Day 2: Zimbabwe – Hwange National Park. It is just less than 100 km from Francistown to the Zimbabwe border and within hours we arrive in Hwange National Park and begin some spectacular game viewing from an open 4x4 vehicle. At around 14650 square kilometres the Hwange National Park is the largest in Zimbabwe and home to one of Africa's largest Elephant populations as well as over 100 other mammalian species and 400 different birds. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Overnight: Main Camp.
Day 3: Hwange National Park and Victoria Falls National Park. In the early morning there we will enjoy another game drive in the Hwange NP. After lunch we drive north to Victoria Falls where we will visit the Victoria Falls National Park in order to experience this magnificent natural wonder. The local people wisely use the expression 'the smoke that thunders', or Musi-o-tunya, to describe the unforgettable waterfall in the Zambezi River. We will also visit a local adventure operator to book activities for the next day. In the evening there are many excellent restaurants to choose from. Optional Activity: Dinner Out. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch. Overnight: Victoria Falls Rest camp.
Day 4: Victoria Falls. Today there is an entire day free to experience some of the exciting adventure activities that are possible from this tourism town. While the White Water Rafting is one of the most popular activities there are many others on offer such as: Walking with Lions, Elephant interactions, Gorge swing, microlighting and scenic Helicopter flights. Meals: Breakfast. Overnight: Victoria Falls Rest camp.
Day 5: Zambia - Livingstone and Zambezi River. Today we cross over the historical railway bridge that links Zimbabwe and Zambia at the Victoria Falls. This bridge was completed in 1905 and was placed, at the request of Cecil John Rhodes, so that the spray from the falls could embrace the railway carriages as they crossed from one side to the other. Once in Zambia there will be a short stop to collect any additional passengers and then we have a long drive to reach the camp for the evening. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Overnight: Machembere camp.
Day 6: Lower Zambezi National Park Canoe Trip. Today we will be beginning our canoe adventure in to the Lower Zambezi National Park. Starting early in the morning we will be taking the minimum of equipment necessary and 'bush camping' on an island this evening, surrounded by wildlife, including the hippo. This is a unique experience as we will be a long, long way from any form of civilisation! Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Overnight: Bush Camp Kakomalala.
Day 7: Lower Zambezi National Park. This is the second day spent on the mighty Zambezi River. As we are travelling downstream with the current the physical effort required to negotiate the river is not extreme and many happy hours can be spent simply drifting and enjoying the beautiful scenery, birdlife and company. At certain times of the year it may not be possible to canoe on the river due to extreme temperatures or water levels. In this instance the 2 days normally spent on the river will be swapped for a 2-night houseboat excursion on Lake Kariba. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Overnight: Bush Camp Nyakasanga Island.
Day 8: Kariba. We finish our canoe trip in the morning and make our way to Kariba where you will have the time to relax next to this famous lake. In the evening there is the chance to enjoy and optional sunset cruise. Kariba is the largest artificial lake in the world. Lake Kariba was filled between 1958 and 1963 following the completion of the Kariba dam. Optional Activity: Sunset cruise. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Overnight: Charara Kariba: No website available.
Day 9: Zimbabwe – Chinhoyi Caves. We will pass through the Chirundu Border (sometimes a time consuming process) and re-enter Zimbabwe. From Chirundu it is not a long trip to Chinhoyi. Probably best known for cave diving, the Chinhoyi caves system is the largest publicly accessible cave system in Zimbabwe and reputably a 'mysterious' area. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Overnight: Chinhoyi Caves.
Day 10: Harare and Chimanimani National Park. After visiting the caves it is a short drive from Chinhoyi to Harare, the capital city of Zimbabwe, where we will stop for some shopping, lunch and exploration. Although Harare has not had a lot of positive press in the last 10 years, many will be surprised at just how safe and accessible this small, modern capital is. After lunch we will be travelling to the Eastern Highlands and the Chimanimani National Park. The Mountain range that separates Zimbabwe and Mozambique is the site of some simply spectacular hiking and scenery and with time permitting we will take a short walk to the well-known Bridal Veil Falls in the late afternoon. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner. Overnight: Chimanimani NP Camp.
Day 11: Chirinda Forest. It is possible to spend another full day hiking in the Chimanimani, or take a day trip to Zimbabwe's only rain forest on the Mozambique Border. Chirinda is the southernmost rain forest in Africa and home to some spectacular large mahogany trees. A short hike to 'the big tree' is a lovely outing and a fantastic spot for a picnic lunch. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Overnight: Chimanimani NP Camp.
Day 12: Great Zimbabwe Ruins. No visit to Zimbabwe could possibly be complete without visiting the world-famous Great Zimbabwe ruins. Dating from around the 11th century these iron-age ruins have been the source of much speculation and disagreement over the years. Built without any mortar some of the walls are up to 5 metres high and still standing after so many centuries. This site was also home to 8 carved Zimbabwe birds, the image of which is found on the Zimbabwean National Flag. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Overnight: Masvingo.
Days 13-14 Matobo: Matopos National Park. It is a long drive to reach Greater Matopos NP area. The next day we enjoy a full day Game drive with a local operator into the Greater Matopos NP area. We head towards the Matobo Hills where we view the Bushman Paintings, rock formations and scenery in the National Park. We briefly leave the National Park pay a visit to the African Villages where we have the opportunity to meet the local community. We re-enter the Game Park section of the National Park, where we track Rhino on foot with our guides, as well as looking for other game. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Overnight: Big Cave Camp: No website available.
Day 15: South Africa – Bulawayo to Messina. After a short visit to the Bulawayo Historical Museum we start the drive back to South Africa. We cross the border at Buitbridge, which can sometimes take a long time, and return to South Africa where we will camp at the border town of Messina. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Overnight: Tshipise Aventura Camp.
Day 16: Johannesburg. Today we leave early for the journey south along the Great North Road for our final destination in Johannesburg, the City of Gold. We will gradually move up from the Bushveld and Baobabs of the Limpopo Province through citrus and maize fields to the heavily populated and industrialised Highveld and Gauteng Province, the powerhouse of Africa. We will travel through Pretoria, one of South Africa's capital cities, before arriving in Johannesburg in the late afternoon. Although this final night is not included in the tour most people choose to get together for a final meal out at one of Johannesburg's many excellent restaurants. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Activity Package: This is an optional payment that covers what we consider to be 'essential activities' on our tours. Ideally we would include all of these, but not everyone can afford this. This payment is 100% transparent and is listed below. The Activity Package can be pre-purchased prior to your arrival or through your guide on day 1 of your tour. The itinerary has been written with the inclusion of the Activity Package items.
Total activity package price: R5450
Note: For this reason the maximum tour price is listed as R17400 - this includes the activity package price.
Click here to email this vacation offer to a friend.
Joined InfoHub: May 2010
M20305 is one of the largest adventure tour companies in Africa. We are bonded members of SATSA and have an impeccable client satisfaction record. To date we have carried 42 500 clients (and counting) and traveled more than 16-million kilometers. We have about 120 full time staff (including our guides) and our tours...


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I bought the fabric for my Pendrell Blouse yesterday!
I almost went with black, as I thought that might be the most forgiving colour if I make any mistakes, and the most understated if I end up feeling that the blouse screams omgRUFFLES!!!. However, in the end I decided that it wouldn't be very smart, as I'll probably end up wanting to pair it with a black skirt or pants (can you see my sewing plans developing here?). So I went with some silk charmeuse in the most beautiful, rich shade of burgundy.
I also bought some simple broadcloth for muslin, which the owner knocked down to $2/meter. Nice! But, inexpensive as that was, I'm starting to wonder if it wouldn't be cheaper just to buy some old flat sheets from the local Salvation Army instead? (As a bonus: they'd probably have better drape!) I'll have to do some research, as our Salvation Army is usually ridiculously pricey and it may actually be more expensive to go that route.
All this fabric shopping has gotten me thinking about my philosophies on buying and stashing. I'm going to take some time to gather my thoughts on the matter - more on that in the next day or two!


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Sold Out.
Let's hope your pet doesn't try to fill itself with candy this Halloween when it wears this Piñata Pet Costume! They'll look colorful and festive enough for any holiday in this red, blue, yellow, and green costume featuring fringe graphics and actual fringe. The costume also has two pointed yellow ears with blue fringe tips and eyes on either side of the face. Just make sure to keep trick-or-treaters with weapons far away!
(based on 1 review)
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By oajd
from san jose, ca
About Me Adventurous
Best Uses
Comments about Spirit Halloween Pinata Dog Costume:
it was amazing
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
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Huge Boobs Sensation, Chloe Vevrier, Gets Inspired @ The Beach
Im pretty sure by now everyone is aware of the fact that the queen of big boobs, legendary Chloe Vevrier, is not really having a straight line between her work/modeling, and her real life.. no matter if you look at her diary posts over @ ChloeVevrier.com, which are for most the best part of her website, or you look at her "behind the scene" videos, her exclusive, hi quality pictorials, or her webcam shows, they all have the same, great, personal, Chloe feel to them… and after writing a LOT lately about her recent Venus Sex Expo experience, even writing this LOVELY note to her Japanese fans, she added this holiday feel pictorial, titled Coco de Mer.. now, if you're member of ChloeVevrier.com, and you regularly follow her diary photos, you'll recognize that these photos were taken @ one of her exotic trips (you'll remember her giant natural tits pressuring this tiny bikini at least).. even she was on holiday there, Chloe loved the setting so much, she gave her camera to a friend, decided to do an exlsive pictorial right than, and right there.. and this is what came out of it:
and just so you know, even she was just a bit off the beaten tourist track, this giant titted lady didn't have any trouble not only taking her top, and flashing those incredible huge tits of hers but also, taking off her panties, and posing there totally naked for all the member of ChloeVevrier.com…. as if she wanted to show you how the rest of your life would look like if you were strangled on a desert island with her.. pretty fuckin awesome if you ask me!
BooB ON!
13 Responses to Huge Boobs Sensation, Chloe Vevrier, Gets Inspired @ The Beach
Who is the girl in the Hollister shirt under the teen category? She is another instant superstar.
she sure is but I have NO IDEA who she is.. if anyone knows, I'd appreciate the info..
She looks like the girl in this video…almost the same shirt too!
yeah, I know that clip, and that IS her.. but still have NO IDEA who she is or how to get in touch with her.. we NEED to get this girl in front of REAL photographers!
I believe her name is Annie Keenan. She has quite a few youtube videos.
thanks for this man!
She goes around the 'net by the name of Annie K. Don't think shes actually been seen topless.
Side note: whats this got to do with Chloe Vevrier? lol
nothing to do with Chloe, so lets go back to the subject.. thanks for your help guys!
Still love Chloe but what the hell did she do to her face? Looks like melted plastic.
Keep posting pictures of her and maybe it will inspire her.
This last picture looks pretty familiar, so I looked up the word sexy in the dictionary, and there it was!
(yes, April Fool's day, but the pic and Chloe are super sexy!)
Chloe = fucking awesome. I keep thinking one day I'll be tired of saying that, but not today
she have nice boobs.
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We're all about celebrating 2018. Why? It marks our 20th year covering the Cape and Islands.
As we look back on two decades of Cape Cod Magazine, we are reminded of why the Cape is so special—the people, places, its rich history and unparalleled views. We look forward to 20 more years as the authority you turn to first for the BEST of Cape Cod!
But for now, we hope you enjoy learning a bit of our history…
March 1998
Cape Cod Magazine is started by John Harvey. Formerly known as the Neon Navigator, Harvey changed the name to Cape Cod Magazine and distributed it as a free monthly publication across the Cape and Plymouth.
January 2002
Liz and Michael Rabideau purchase Cape Cod Magazine. The Rabideaus change the business from a free publication to a subscription-based model, published nine times a year.
March 2002
Rabideau Publishing consolidates offices by moving Cape Cod Magazine from Mashpee to Main Street, Hyannis, joining Cape Cod Guide and Cape Cod Parent and Child, which move from their West Barnstable office.
March 2003
Cape Cod Magazine debuts new flag/logo.
March 2004
Cape Cod Magazine teams up with Puritan Cape Cod to launch Girls Night Out at the Puritan store in Hyannis. The annual event features a night of shopping, refreshments, networking and support for women. Girls Night Out continues to grow every year.
July 2011
The first annual Best of Cape Cod issue is launched, featuring readers' picks and editor's picks of the best places to shop, drink, eat and visit on the Cape.
October 2011
Cape Cod Magazine increases from nine to 10 issues a year.
January 2013
The first annual People to Watch issue makes its debut.
April 2014
Rabideau Media Group, which owns Cape Cod Magazine, South Shore Living, Chatham Magazine and Cape Cod Guide, is bought by Lighthouse Media Solutions.
TWENTY FOR TWENTY: Take a look at 20 of our favorite covers, one for each year we've been in business.


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Nice legs!
Wednesday, September 07, 2011
0 comments
The latest IKEA catalogue arrived in my postbox today, so of course I had to have a flick through it.
I'm very taken with the curvaceous new ISALA line, and this cute little granny chic laptop desk (£149/€169) in particular.
Does the colour remind anyone else of Kelly Osborne's formerly lilac locks?
Labels: House + Home, Interior Inspiration


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Getting Mail Forwarded Directly, Not as Attachments
Novell Cool Solutions: Tip
Digg This -
Slashdot This
Posted: 28 Nov 2006
A Forum reader asked the following question:
"We are migrating from MS Exchange to GroupWise 7. Users want to be able to receive their e-mails that are sent to our GroupWise server at the @somewhere-else.com mailbox. There are also a number of Distribution lists that have similar requirements, as some of the recipients are also on the Distribution List.
I tried setting up accounts for them and creating rules which forward their mail but they get the mail as an attachment and this makes them unhappy because they have to make some extra clicks to open it.
The old Exchange Server handled this without a problem, so they all want to get their mail forwarded like the Exchange Server did it.
Can some kind person who has done this, point me in the right direction?"
And here's the response from a few Forum participants ...
The client-based rule you are using can use the Delegate Action. I use the Delegate Action to forward certain email messages to pagers. This type of action does not send the e-mail as an attachment but sort of "resends" the message. This might work for you, but remember it is a client-based Rule.
Here's how it works:
Client Rule Delegate
+ gwia.cfg /flatfwd /realmailfrom
Novell Cool Solutions (corporate web communities) are produced by WebWise Solutions. www.webwiseone.com


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A glycolipid antigen present on tissue cells of many species, and on the red cells of some species such as sheep. Forssman antibody may be elicited by immunization with the antigen, but often present as a natural antibody in humans. Sheep red cells coated with Forssman antibody are used in complement fixation tests,
Link to This DefinitionDid you find this definition of FORSSMAN ANTIBODY helpful? You can share it by copying the code below and adding it to your blog or web page.
Edited and fact checked by Pam: Google +


text: 'WSJ' breaks campaign Published on April 15, 1999. The Wall Street Journal, New York, breaks a $15 million campaign April 15--its first consumer effort in nine years. The outdoor ads from Goodby, Silverstein & Partners, San Francisco, will carry the tagline "Adventures in capitalism.'' It replaces the paper's 1990 theme: "Daily diary of the American dream.'' For now, the campaign will be primarily outdoor, concentrated in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York and San Francisco. TV spots, still under construction, will air in early summer. Copyright April 1999, Crain Communications Inc. Most Popular In this article: News


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John Buck - C - FLA - I feel confident saying John Buck's all-star season in 2010 was a fluke. Buck was a career .235 hitter coming into last season, never hitting above .242 (hit .247 in 2009 but in only 59 games). I'm not saying he doesn't have a lot of power for a catcher, but hitting 20 home runs this year is a long shot in Florida. I honestly think there was something in the air in Toronto (Ex - Jose Bautista 54 home runs). The Marlins offense is young and I don't expect it to be an explosive offense which also hurts Buck's value. His 409 AB's last year were the most in his career, but he only drew 16 BB's to go along with his 111 K's, not a good ratio. Expect Buck's .281 BA to drop 30+ points, and I can see him hitting 20+ doubles with about 14 home runs and 50-55 RBI's, which is OK for a catcher, nothing special.
Corey Hart - OF - MIL - Like Buck, Hart is another guy who I think over achieved in 2010. Also an all-star posting a .283/31/102 season, and because of this many fantasy players will waste an early pick on Hart only to be disappointed. The guy has talent but he's not the power bat that he showed last season. He struck out 140 times which I think only happened because he wanted to be a power guy, because only in 2008 did he strike out over 100 times (109). In 2007 and 2008 he had 23 stolen bases and in 2010 he had 7. He's not a good average guy and doesn't walk much as his .329 OBP shows. I expect him to fall back down to earth and have a season similar to his 2008 campaign. I see him hitting anywhere from .270-.280 with 30+ doubles, 20-25 home runs and 85 RBI. Again, he's not a big OBP guy so don't expect him to walk much, but you should see his K's drop which is a plus.
Paul Konerko - 1B - CWS - Konerko's 39 home runs were the most he has hit in the past 5 seasons. He's not getting any younger, as he's going to be 35 on opening day in 2011. It's hard to imagine at his age he will continue to keep getting better or even match what he did last year. I'm a fan of Konerko, so I expect a good year from the White Sox first basemen, but he will see a dramatic drop in his offensive numbers in 2011. He wont hit over .300 again, and wont hit more than 35 home runs or reach the 100 RBI mark in my opinion. I can see him hitting around .275 with 25-30 homers with around 88 RBI. Like I said not awful but you can find that in a lot of first basemen this year (especially younger guys).
KeithyP's Sleepers
KeithyP's Busts
LiLbRo's Sleepers


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Every year, federal regulatory agencies praise companies for their supposedly stellar safety records, handing out shiny trophies and plaques. Recent oil rig and coal mine disasters, however, show the award system isn't all its cracked up to be, The Washington Post reports.
According to worker safety advocates, the commendations illustrate the dangers of federal agencies becoming chummy with the industries they regulate.
Both Massey Energy Co., owner of the Upper Big Branch Mine in West Virginia where 29 men perished in an April blast, and Transocean, owner of the oil rig that exploded in the Gulf of Mexico, killing 11 and spewing about 200 million gallons of oil, have been honored with safety awards from the federal government.
In the aftermath of the Upper Big Branch mine disaster, the Mine Safety and Health Administration wrote an 11-page report detailing Massey's "troublesome" safety record. But only six months earlier, the agency and the National Mining Association bestowed on the company three "Sentinels of Safety" awards.
Last week, the Department of Labor, of which MSHA is a part, informed the agency that the safety data that were the basis for Massey's awards were inaccurate. The company had underreported injury data by about 37 percent.
Experts say that's part of the problem — safety awards are based on self-reported numbers.
"These numbers are easily manipulated. Workers are under enormous pressure to not report when they are hurt," Peg Seminario, safety and health director for the AFL-CIO, told The Post. "One of the problems is hazardous conditions are not identified and reported to authorities."
Massey said the inaccurate numbers stemmed from "reporting errors" that have been corrected. MSHA officials would not comment on the awards.
Safety advocates also say they are puzzled by awards to Transocean from the U.S. Minerals Management Service–recently renamed the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, Regulation and Enforcement. In 2009, the minerals service honored Transocean with a Safety Award for Excellence (SAFE) for its work in the Gulf of Mexico, site of the BP oil well blast that sank Transocean's Deepwater Horizon rig.
At the time of the disaster, BP, which was leasing the rig, was in line for a 2010 SAFE award. Bureau officials declined comment.
Experts said the recent string of disasters should convince agencies to reexamine the award system.
Targeting Bogus Injury Records, OSHA Takes Heat from All Sides


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This article:
relates the story of an expat mum in Switzerland succeeding to start his own business (http://genevacakes.ch) on selling custom cakes, cupcakes, ingredients, supplies and
teaching courses on food decoration. It also includes a give away course on fondant
(or sugar paste). A famous social filter web page already echoed the news at:
Thursday, January 17, 2013
Genevacakes: A success story in Geneva family diaries
Posted by Cesar Lopez at 12:33 PM
Labels: cakes, courses, cupcakes, fondant, geneva, genevacakes, mum, success story, sugar paste
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Banks, multinationals and other companies frequently turn to offshore trusts for benefits such as confidentiality, stable governance, segregation of liabilities, financing structuring and tax neutrality. Harneys offers bespoke trust services for corporate clients including trust formation and administration, office and accounting services. Our expertise includes all types of trusts including VISTA and Share Trusts in the British Virgin Islands, and STAR Trusts in the Cayman Islands.
Harneys has acted as a leading expert in the development of Private Trust Company laws and regulations in the British Virgin Islands, in addition to our expertise in other offshore jurisdictions.
Our corporate trust services include:
- establishing all forms of trusts from simple to complex structures and offshore companies;
- acting as trustee, executor, trust administrator, protector, enforcer, nominee or escrow agent;
- incorporating underlying offshore companies to be held under the Trust;
- administering trusts and companies;
- maintaining trustee statutory records;
- providing accounting services;
- assisting with asset protection, tax/ financial planning and succession planning;
- providing nominee shareholder services.


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Hong Kong
27 November 2007
Price realised
The boulder of irregular shape, well hollowed on the interior to form the receptacle, the exterior elaborately carved in high relief with three lively five-clawed dragons, each dragon with its head resting above the mouth rim, the body emerging out of dense ruyi-clouds, all three dragons are in pursuit of a flaming pearl in the near distance, above crested waves on the underside, orginating from whirlpool emanating from the centre of the base, with russet inclusions to the exterior the boulder of a slightly pale celadon tone
12 3/4in. (32 cm.) long, stand
Edward I. Farmer, New York, c. 1930
Count Primo Alsocernatoni Louis von Cseh, New York
Christie's London, 16 July 1963, lot 15
Contact Client Service
New York +1 212 636 2000
London +44 (0)20 7839 9060
Asia +852 2760 1766
The Horizon Book of the Arts of China, 1969, p. 75
Robert Kleiner, Chinese Jades from the Collection of Alan and Simone Hartman, Hong Kong, 1996, no. 45
China House, New York, Selections of Chinese Art, 1967, Catalogue, no. 6
Christie's New York, 13-26 March 2001
Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, August 2003-December 2004
The original rough boulder of the present brushwasher would have been of considerably large size. It is interesting to note the artist's ability in working the natural irregular form of the boulder to convey an overall ethereal theme of dragons emerging out of dense clouds, permitting a portrayal of inquisitive dragons resting their heads just above the mouth rim of the vessel. The interior is well hollowed whilst the thick sides are carved in high relief on the exterior to provide the viewer with a sense of depth created by the multiple layers of clouds.
The unusual treatment of the whirlpool on the underside where it forms the base of the vessel appears on earlier jade carvings dating to the 16th/17th century Ming dynasty period, such as the white jade mythical dragon-tortoise shaped water container, included in the exhibition, Arts from the Scholars Studio, University of Hong Kong, 1986, p. 158, no. 131; and a large spinach-jade bowl from the Bamble North collection, sold at Sotheby's London, 18 June 1968, lot 150.
The earliest example of this form of wave-like base on jade is a massive wine basin measuring 493 cm. across the body, carved in shallow relief with mythical sea creatures on the exterior, and known as the Dushan dayuhai, the 'Du Mountain Wine Sea'. This basin, used as a wine vessel, was believed to have been commissioned by Khubilai Khan, who placed it in the Guanghan Palace on the Hill of Myriad Years, located on an island on Beihai Lake in Beijing. The vessel disappeared during the turbulent transitional years between the Yuan and Ming dynasty, although its existence was known during the Ming period. The basin was later rediscovered by Emperor Qianlong in 1745, who found priests using it as a container for preserved vegetables. Qianlong was so impressed with the basin that he composed three poems based on the vessel and had the text inscribed onto the vessel. The Qianlong jade vessels of this theme appear more regular in form, such as the large green jade vessel, formerly from the H. R. Bishop collection, now in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, p. 30; the white jade example in the collection of Lady Lever, illustrated by S. C. Nott, Chinese Jade, London, 1936, pl. C1; and spinach-green brushwasher dated to the Kangxi period, sold at Christie's Hong Kong, 29 May 2007, lot 1401.
The imagery of dragons emerging out of clouds is a popular theme disseminated from Southern Song dynasty paintings traditionally attributed to the renowed artist Chen Rong (circa 1189-1259). Compare a handscroll painting attributed to Chen Rong depicting a single dragon striding out of misty clouds, in the Palace Museum collection, Beijing, illustrated in Zhongguo Huihua Quanji, Zhejiang Renmin Meishu Chubanshe, vol. 4, 1999, p. 171, no. 132; and another depicting nine dragons by the same artist in the Boston Museum of Fine Art, illustrated, op. cit., pp. 166-9, nos. 127-130. The dragons on the Boston handscroll are variously portrayed rising out of crested waves, clambering on jagged rocks, half-submerged in clouds and in pursuit of a pearl. All these attributes clearly provided the inspiration for later works of art, particularly in scholar's objects, such as present brushwasher.
Respected curator Terese Bartholomew offers an overview of Yixing ware, featuring highlights from the Irving Collection
Outstanding and deeply cherished works from The Irving Collection, displayed in the couple's 5th Avenue apartment and spanning lacquer, jade, bronze and ink
From the colour of your outfit to the number of dragons on your coat, how Qing-dynasty clothing told everyone exactly who you were
Specialist Tristan Bruck advises on how to identify valuable pieces in different styles and materials from across Asia
Andrew Graham-Dixon recalls his encounters with the YBAs, a generation of British artists whose rebellious spirit appealed so strongly to George Michael
Christie's to auction works owned or painted by Frank Stella, one of the most influential artists of his generation


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How well has the audio industry responded to the demand for home theatre? Not very well at all! The solutions offered would seem like a knee jerk reaction to the need for multi-channel audio. We've added centre speakers and small surrounds that can be mounted on walls, but there is little consideration given to what is required to create the genuine experience. Virtually none of the speakers marketed for the purpose have the capability to meet THX standards for home cinema adequately. New designs are needed that reflect the opportunities afforded by having a dedicated room, along with re-thinking the science of reproduction as it applies here. Current products here reflect two channel thinking.
When setting up a dedicated home cinema room, the requirements are quite different. We want to achieve:
Stereo listeningIn a serious stereo system the focus is on music reproduction and that involves both good design and personal preference. The speakers are more likely to be placed into the room and usually there won't be a dedicated room. Room treatment most often won't be included. Only one seat needs to be optimised, so a small single-seat sweet spot is fine. In that seat the imaging needs to work and the sound balanced. The bass requires optimisation only in that spot. Personal preference plays a greater role in the choice of speakers. One might prefer the delicate top end of ribbons or exotic tweeters. The deep sound stage of dipoles. The slam of horns. Or perhaps a slightly warm sound coming from the right mix of speakers and electronics. The imaging of single fullrangers. The range of valid choices for stereo listening is vast, but home cinema suggests different challenges, specific requirements and a much smaller range of options that are well designed for the purpose.
What we need for home cinema
When setting up a dedicated home cinema room, the requirements are quite different. We want to achieve:
- Much greater clean dynamic output - 105 dB in each seat, with 115 dB in the bass
- Balanced sound in every seat with minimal seat to seat variation in response
- Good imaging in every seat, rather than just in one central sweet spot
- A room that has less reverberation
- A good view of the screen
- An enveloping sound stage that extends beyond the walls, coming from any place in the room as well as outside it
- Speakers with high efficiency, high power handling and controlled directivity
- Multiple subwoofers optimised in placement and response with EQ
- Acoustic treatment for the bass so that the much greater amount of bass will remain under control, rather than sound boomy and bloated
- Surrounds installed for maximum envelopment (not floorstanders on the floor!)
- Centre speaker oriented correctly and installed appropriately
- Calibration with measurement tools and all EQ and high and low pass filtering correctly setup and tested
- Acoustic treatment to an appropriate level of reverberation


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I said this no less then three times during our play of Cosmic Encounters, and I meant it every time it was said. I hate this game so much, I hope it gets burnt up in a fire. This is in fact the worst game ever. It is so bad it possibly does not even deserve the label 'game'.
I am eagerly awaiting my next chance to play again.
The Elements: This is basically the card game 'war' with a heavy dash of dragon poker.
The Crux: You attempt to establish colonies on other players planets. Each turn a hyperspace gate will open, that points to a random player, at which point you will launch an attack in an attempt to kill and colonize whatever is beyond the gate. When you encounter the opponent, you each play a card with a number on it, and the higher number + the number of ships wins the combat. You then have a colony. Reach five and win.
However, things are not so deceptively simple.
You play one of a large selection of randomly determined races, and there are a variety of 'flare' cards in the number deck tuned to the races that are in play. There are also cards that neutralize powers. Each race, and all these reusable flare cards each have specific rules that will alter the flow of play. You literally have no idea what could happen next.
|Ships that are lost head to the warp.
(It's that round thing in the middle)
More on that in a second.
The Countenance: When I sit down to play a game, I intend to win the game I'm attempting to play. I develop a strategy.
That is a terrible idea for this game.
I got something I thought was awesome. The race of the Losers. Their power was if you lose you win. Since it is so easy to lose at this game, I was enjoying a string of victories until suddenly someone played a card that allowed them to switch races with me.
Clearly if you are not even assured that you will have access to the same suite of powers on your turn, any sort of long term strategy becomes useless. Also, the game play basically boils down to 'which card is highest' with a ridiculous amount of variables.
The Final Counsel: It may sound as if I am being somewhat negative in this review about the game. I will admit, I was frustrated several times during play - but that was only because I brought my own preconceptions like "planning ahead", "playing to win", and "developing a strategy" to the table. If you sit down to have fun with your friends, this is a fantastic game. We spent a great deal of time during play laughing, and that is always a wonderful thing. I highly recommend it for an evening of off kilter fun.
Normally I would provide links to where you could purchase this game, but due to new state laws created in a vain attempt to acquire money, I am no longer an authorized amazon associate. Arkansas felt that they weren't getting their cut from online retailers, so they decided to punish the population by making them poorer. This should not come as a surprise to anyone living in america.


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Ryan Seacrest's old 'Idol' pal Nigel Lythgoe shared some kind words about Ryan's other gig, "Million Second Quiz" -- is what we'd say if Nigel hadn't actually ripped it to shreds.
We'd totally defend Ryan ... if we had a clue what the hell was happening on 'MSQ.' Nigel was right.


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|Reviewed By
|Room Note
|StevieB (1774)
|Medium to Strong
Planta - MMXV 2015.
The dominant additive in the un-lit aroma is the Lime, there is some sweetness as well but the Lime definitely takes the lead. The mix contains some quite large pieces with the majority of the larger ones being Virginia and the Black Cavendish pieces being much smaller. It's superb in the department of moisture so it can be smoked right away without leaving it to air.
Once lit the flavour matches the description. Very much like the aroma it's the Lime that comes through the loudest. Sadly this blend lacks any soft qualities, the taste is overly zesty with a harshness to it which I don't find amenable. The Nicotine is a decent amount for an aromatic, not too strong yet not too weak. Because the blend has a larger amount of Virginia the smoke is a little warm, a quality that really doesn't work with any blend especially not an aro' where the smoke needs to be palatable as it has added flavours to enjoy. The room note has the same Lime quality that has been there from the beginning which comes across in a lively way. I will end this on another bad point, tongue bite. It really does give my tongue some grief!
This is one of those blends where I can't find many positives apart from 'the last puff'! One lonely star.
Pipe Used: Erik Nording
Age When Smoked: New
Purchased From: G.Q Tobaccos
4 people found this review helpful.
|Reviewed By
|Room Note
|tbear79072 (18)
|Mild to Medium
This stuff was as dry as day old popcorn! I have smoked OTC tobacco that was better. The lime flavor was all I got from it. The smoke was like cigarette smoke. I threw out about half a bowl and pitched the rest of the ounce trial I bought into my scrap heap to get rid of it. This stuff was like hay that had been cut the year before. Won't try anything else form this brand as there are too many good tobaccos out there to try anything else from them.
Pipe Used: Missouri Meerschaum Country Gentleman
Age When Smoked: 1 year
Purchased From: Cup O' Joes
1 person found this review helpful.
|Reviewed By
|Room Note
|Telling it how it is. (73)
|Mild to Medium
|Medium to Strong
|Medium to Full
Being Planta's years tobacco this blend of course is a perfect example of Planta's company policy. Being to make money from selling artificial and chemical tasting flavours by the means of innocent and otherwise probably perfectly good tobacco.
This years blend of the year is another fine example for that even though the flavouring is not as heavy as usual. The open tin smells predominantly of lime which is also how the blend will taste in your bowl. And of course, overall, it has the typical chemical taste which is Planta's trademark. This also is the only taste remaining on the end of your bowl.
Ghosting is less unpleasent than i expected. Even tho not an aggressive blend per se, tongue bite will occur. The price compared to the actual value offered is rather hefty.
I don't really understand blends like this: they are a nightmare for beginners and experienced smokers will steer clear from them anyways. So who are they aiming for?
Ok, on with the positive: the empty tins of the "Anno" series are the most excellent gifts for your kids should there be any about. Every year the tin features a different absolutely lovingly and eye gorging design realized in competent craftsmanship. Oh, and the room note is pleasant-ish.
Around where i live those 5g sample packs for free are the plenty, in fact for most blends sold under the Planta trademark. And, you guessed it, i strongly recommend getting those before you consider shelling out the cash for the whole tin.
Pipe Used: Aldo Morelli 187
Age When Smoked: Fresh
1 person found this review helpful.


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Actress Lupe Ontiveros, who received an Emmy nomination for her role as a nosy mother-in-law on "Desperate Housewives," died Thursday night of liver cancer in a hospital in Whittier, said her agent, Michael Greenwald. She was 69.
Ontiveros, a longtime resident of Pico Rivera, was surrounded by friends and family, including actors Esai Morales and Edward James Olmos.
Though Ontiveros was seen most frequently in maid roles in everything from "The Goonies"to the sitcom "Reba," her most prominent role was in the 1997 movie "Selena," in which she played Yolanda Saldivar, the president of Selena's fan club who was obsessed with the singing sensation to the point of murder. More recently, she had a recurring role on the ABC hit series "Desperate Housewives," playing the mother-in-law of Eva Longoria's character.
PHOTOS: Notable deaths from classic TV
Ontiveros once estimated she had played maids or domestics over 300 times in films, TV and theater. She told an NPR interviewer in 2009 that the maid roles had helped raise her level of fame beyond what any character actor would expect.


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- 85% of the SMEs who adopted e-commerce believe that it is a cost effective medium to grow sales
- SMEs using internet for business saw 51% higher revenues and 49% more profit
- 73% SMEs felt that ecommerce enables them to understand their markets better
- 46% SMEs reported increase in business through listings on online marketplaces
- E-commerce enabled SMEs reported 60% to 80% reduction in distribution, marketing and sales spend to get incremental business
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The whole hearing can be seen in a video here.
News, rumours, analysis and assorted ramblings on the strategies, the missions, the procurement of kit and the future of the Armed Forces.
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Spot the differences!
The whole hearing can be seen in a video here.
18 comments:
But you are missing the point about the French angleReplyDelete
The second CVF will be sold to France at cost to replace CdeG and the UK/France will operate a joint carrier force, taking turns to cover the refit periods
The reason for the split by the way is because the FAA would have trouble manning anything less, as it did with the Naval Strike Wing
It is possible, but i do not think so.ReplyDelete
The carriers will be operated closely with the French, and that's for sure. But i fatigue to see a UK government going in parliament and facing the press and the public over selling an expensive, new british aircraft carrier to France... and then fly planes from it as guests.
Ugly day, was it to ever happen. The old UK would have eaten alive a prime minister envisaging something like this, and i don't think today's UK would be much happier.
Second, it is even less probable that France buys a CVF to replace CdG. At the most, they would PAIR it with CdG.
From dreaming a PA2 to retiring early the pride of their fleet to put in service a british built ship that they deemed too slow when they bought the design is a hell of a stretch.
As to the FAA having trouble to man the squadrons... i don't think you really believe to that bull, TD. Seriously. Look me in the eye and tell me if you really believe to that.
Joint Force Harrier is not a suitable comparison, as there were many good reasons for the problems it had.
If tomorrow it was mandated that the F35 squadrons had to be RN, the FAA would put up its recruiting for them, and i totally do believe that plenty of people would join, just as in the past when the FAA was a great force.
The "trouble manning" the Harrier force was due to lack of funding, lack of appeal in joining a squadron which was going to have NO planes most of the time, unless the RAF gave the pilots something to fly, lack of time due to the commitment in Afghanistan, and lack of training capability since pilots from the Harrier OCU had to regularly go to Stan to support the effort there.
Just as now the Typhoon training is being slowed down by trainers flying frontline missions over Libya, but worse. And I might also suggest that people was probably not really eager to jump onto the Harrier train, which has been constantly under threat of cuts, at low or high risk depending on the moments, for the whole time from 2006 onwards. How many times has the Harrier fleet been offered for cuts? There was just no security at all in entering the community with the risk of being out a month later.
The FAA "impossibility" to man 3 squadrons of fast jets is due to them being denied the chance to do so. It is not realistic to say that people would not want to join the FAA but only the RAF. Particularly if they were given fair economic conditions of service, plenty of people would join.
- TopmanMay 12, 2011 at 6:54 PM
The FAA have always struggled for manning, I doubt they could man the numbers required. They couldn't man all the slots they said they could in JFH, they were lent personnel to assist and Culdrose when they short of manpower. I think this is more a case of cutting the cloth to suit. Don't forget flying is merely an adjuct to the navy, in an inter navy battle for money, they will only be one winner, and it won't be the faa.ReplyDelete
All services, RAF included, go short to requirements in some areas. But NOT in such a way that they are not capable to do what they have money available for.ReplyDelete
The Sea Harrier FAA fleet hadn't serious manning problems. And the last catapults-kitted Ark Royal had not struggled shaping up her carrier wing. Your "always" goes down, once more, to 801 NAS in 2007 as part of Joint Force Harrier. And i keep underlining that that is not a reliable evidence.
- TopmanMay 12, 2011 at 7:14 PM
Well when the FAA say they want 33% of the posts, but then say actually we only manage 25% it's stil an indicator, whether you believe it reliable or otherwise, but no matter.ReplyDelete
What about Culdrose? Why the need to send RAF personnel to assist the FAA there?
I don't know of any RAF personnel in Culdrose save for the ones who work at the common Merlin Depth Mainteinance Facility, those who go to RN School of Flight Deck operations and others who attend the base for the most various reasons. If you have different evidence you can share, you are welcome.ReplyDelete
- TopmanMay 12, 2011 at 7:30 PM
It was about 2004 when there was an uplift in maintence requirements for merlin. There was a rapid requirement for personnel to work in the servicing hangar and again in the engine bay on the same unit. Personnel sent down there, plenty from training sometimes entire courses were posted in a oner. They were posted down there, which isn't that unusual as it's joined manned (but I'm not sure how joint it was then). It was more the nature and speed of it. The FAA couldn't find the people, so the RAF provided the manpower.ReplyDelete
A similar thing happened at Whattisham with Apache on introduction.
And this would be a reason to use against the FAA? I believe you and take it as true even without evidence, but i still find it a bit weak as argument.ReplyDelete
As it is the equally old argument about shortages of Apache pilots. It was only last years's forces pay review that finally thought about giving Army Apache pilots the same kind of scalable pay which rises in the years and makes the career attractive, as for RAF pilots.
You can hardly blame AAC pilots for retiring to go piloting civilian aircraft, with the way they were/are paid and with the requirements put on them. Why staying in the army, under-paid, when civilians helicopter operators pay a lot more and offer a less dangerous and stressful career?
The RAF had the same problem, and adapted pay for countering it, and even offers civilian pilot training at the end of the career as an incentive to complete the time in the force. Things improved. They will improve for Apache too.
Ultimately, if the service, whatever it is, it is given the funds it needs to step up recruitment, it can do it.
Otherwise it can't.
If there's no money to pay the pilot, there's no way you can recruit him.
- TopmanMay 12, 2011 at 7:51 PM
No I don't have any evidence per se, just what I saw, if you find it weak so be it. I can only write what I know and see.ReplyDelete
I'm not refering to Apache pilots, but to groundcrew again. On introduction there was a shortage of experienced AV Tech/Survival Equipement Fitters to assist with the introduction of the aircraft. The REME couldn't/wouldn't provide them. A notice for volunteers went up.
For the AAC/REME it was the most advanced bit of kit they introduced in a long and had problems they had issues with a lack of suitably experienced personnal so they requested help the RAF assisted them by sending FJ experienced personnel, as by all accounts it was a similar level of complexity.
Once the REME were upto speed and the problem was over they returned to normal RAF postings.
Then if tomorrow the FAA goes out helping the RAF for something... it becomes legitimate to call for the merge?ReplyDelete
I do not think so.
But if the RAF once in a while helps the other services, if is the case to suggest merges or take-overs either, don't you agree?
Instead, it is done constantly.
- TopmanMay 12, 2011 at 8:01 PM
No I don't think so either.ReplyDelete
I'm sorry I don't understand your second or third paragraph.
I meant that just because the RAF has provided or provides assistance to AAC and FAA, playing down the AAC and FAA or suggesting their merge into the RAF is not correct, and it simply makes no sense.ReplyDelete
Take 5 Army Cooperation Squadron of the RAF. 330 men, 110 of them Army. A good third.
It is a successful collaboration, and it can continue this way.
Carrier ops are another thing. I once put forward the provocation of pulling the RAF into the FAA... but the actual point is that i do believe that carrier aviation is and should remain a navy affair. While the RAF has embarked on carriers in several occasions, it just does not seem to work well enough.
And that's what bugs me the most, actually.
- TopmanMay 12, 2011 at 8:20 PM
Right I see, no I agree with you, it wouldn't nor should it happen. I think my general point was that the RAF was more capable of filling gaps in manning and if needed is more than willing to listen to requests for assistance from the other two services and meet those requests.ReplyDelete
It's not all the RAF trying to take over morning noon and night.
'While the RAF has embarked on carriers in several occasions, it just does not seem to work well enough.'
At odds to my knowledge, but what makes you think that? In what why does it not seem to work well enough?
I believe the experience in Sierra Leone in 2000 was particularly not positive for what i've heard.ReplyDelete
In the Falklands, RAF pilots fared well, but were not... at home. They did not exactly like working on the carriers, and differently from the RN personnel who knew exactly what to do even when on board of the ship, RAF personnel was kind of "clumsy".
The main worry is, though, that RAF personnel deploying on the CVF would have to either completely broke their deployment harmony guidelines, or be substituted at the end of the first 3/4 months of a easily 6 month deployment at sea.
Another worry is that the RAF, even with the Harrier, has not been really diligent in keeping its pilots carrier capable, even though they were officially capable to go on ships.
In part it was Afghanistan's fault, of course... But the number of RAF pilots cleared for "All Weather" carrier operations was ridiculous, and close to zero at some points.
If this is allowed to happen again... well. It will be like not having a carrier at all, while still paying for it.
It would be horrible.
Besides, cats and traps ops will demand more attention by the RAF for operations at sea, since even with the most modern technology, carriers landing with wires are really complex.
It is not promising.
If the F35C ends up operating from land bases most of the time, acting as a Tornado replacement all along...
carrier qualified pilots will be very very rare, part of those that are there might be capable to work efficiently only in daylight and with good weather, and when the carrier strike is really really needed...
Pants down the legs.
It scares me.
- TopmanMay 12, 2011 at 8:45 PM
I'm sure they weren't quite at home, who would be in an alien environment but they stil performed quite well.ReplyDelete
As part of JFH, I think the amount of people aboard from all services were quite low, but some people did enjoy it some didn't, from both services. I believe at the end of JFH some raf had more sea days than the FAA! But no matter.
They will probably change or brake the guidelines, they did when JFH so no reason to think they wouldn't in the future.
I've no doubt they will mainly be from the land, there simply won't be enough bought to keep one sqn onboard at all times and act as the GR4 replacement. It's default location will probably an RAF station and then deploy to the carrier. If you can only do one land or sea full time, you would choose land simply because of cost. Outside war fighting it's cheaper.
Actually, no. Joint Force Harrier worked to RAF guidelines in Afghanistan, so that the 800 NAS made 4 months tours like their RAF counterparts.ReplyDelete
The 800 NAS also went on the carrier (at times without planes, though, and US and Spanish and Italian Harriers were invited on board...) in addition to that, though.
Last time the RAF embarked on a carrier was probably for a short deployment in 2008 or so.
And it the last before that had been in 2003.
No good.
- TopmanMay 12, 2011 at 9:03 PM
Plenty did rotate through more often than they should have, with 4 month tours, the gaps between were shorter than they should have been.ReplyDelete
I'm sure that as an 'RAF' sqn you are right, but don't forget the sqns were mixed manning, with this, things are not quite so simple. Some got quite a few days in on the boats.
Although I think we've been here before, I know quite a few exJFH and what sort of times and lengths of deployments were.
But I don't want to get bogged down in that, whatever your view point it's all water under the bridge now.
- TopmanMay 18, 2011 at 1:08 PM
I watched the recording of the interviews, I think you've taken it out of context. Read the whole transcript, it's not quite so black and white as you implyReplyDelete
Everybody can comment on this blog without needing a Blogger account. It is meant to keep the discussion free and open to everyone. Unfortunately, anonymous accounts keep the door open for spammers and trolls, so i'm forced to moderate comments and approve them before they appear. Apologies for the inconvenience.


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Daughters Unto Devils by Amy Lukavics Sometimes I believe the baby will never stop crying. When sixteen-year-old Amanda Verner's family decides to move from their small mountain cabin to the vast prairie, she hopes it is her chance for a fresh start. She can leave behind the memory of the past winter; of her sickly ma giving birth to a baby sister who cries endlessly; of the terrifying visions she saw as her sanity began …Read More »
Home / Tag Archives: Amy Lukavics
The Women in the Walls by Amy Lukavics
The Women in the Walls by Amy Lukavics Something isn't right in this house. Lucy Acosta's mother died when she was three. Growing up in a Victorian mansion in the middle of the woods with her cold, distant father, she and her best friend and cousin, Margaret, know the ancient hallways inside out. Or so they think . . . When her beloved Aunt Penelope disappears while walking in the surrounding woods, Lucy finds herself devastated and alone. Margaret, …Read More »


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1 - So good on a hot summer day.
2 - My Grey Ant knockoffs FINALLY arrived. In love already. I don't give a damn if summer is supposedly ending, I'm gonna wear these like there's no tomorrow.
3 - Organic Chemistry, what I have been studying for my summer course. Scared sh*tless for the exam.
4 - Salad with fruit brightens up my life.
5 - Bubble wrap is particularly useful for an extremely frustrated student.
I've been listening to this on repeat as I study, and it's beautiful, although a sense of hopelessness has permeated my being because of it. Probably not a good thing. I'll put on some Top 40 now.


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Starting this blog
I'm going to be using this blog for a couple of things — to reprint some of my plain English computer tips & training articles from my main website, and my free computer tips email newsletter. I'll also be posting some more personal thoughts/musings as I feel motivated and have the free time.
I'm currently running a couple of businesses — I've still been running my long-standing computer consulting business, while working hard (sometimes up past 2am!) on my newer computer training company.
I spent most of 2006 developing a course for Apple Mac and a course for Windows that pretty much takes all of the advantages of me giving a personal lesson like I have been doing for years, and puts them on CDs as video lessons. This summer I'm planning on another course for Mac and one for Windows, that will teach the fundamental underlying skills that so many people never really get taught that makes using your computer so much easier.
The first courses (the ones already available) are focused on the Internet (web, email, etc.), covering a lot of the basics that a lot of people never really learn, plus more advanced stuff. To be honest, the Mac course focuses a little more on the fun aspects of it, while the Windows course unavoidably has to focus a lot on security (although there's still a ton of stuff to help people get better at the web, email, etc., of course, too).
Most people are making a lot of mistakes with their computers without realizing it, especially security-related mistakes. After all, there's still over 80% of people using Internet Explorer for Windows, even though it's where so many viruses, adware, spyware, etc. leak into yours system! It's amazing how few people know how to protect themselves from these things.
Anyway, I'm rambling, so I'll sign off for now. Even though it's a Sunday afternoon and a pretty nice day outside (it's Hawaii after all, so I guess I'm not exactly surprised!) I've got to get more work done. I'm finishing up writing the script for a new audio CD I'm putting together that explains the reasons why traditional computer training really doesn't work (a hard fact I've had to face after years of trying very hard to help people with their computer problems and realizing I can only go so far due to the inherent limitations of consulting and classes).
I've got to finish writing up the script, then record it (hopefully — not only is this a lot of work to get done today, I have dogs barking next door, and some jerk living up the road who thinks it's OK to drive through a residential neighborhood with a deliberately loud muffler and a thumpthumpthumping subwoofer at all hours — literally at 2AM last night, so loud I could feel it vibrating my chest in bed at the other end of the house! Totally inconsiderate.), edit the recording, burn it on a CD, design the cover, and get a few copies ready to mail out to people tomorrow. Yikes.
I can't wait until I get this whole project a little more running automatically and can relax a little and get more of a social life again. Right now I feel like one of those guys you see at a carnival spinning plates on sticks — getting them started is the tricky part, once they're moving smoothly it's a little easier!