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Ghosts of Christmas Past: Singers & Songwriters Behind Your Favorite Tunes
"Chestnuts roasting on an open fire…" Six simple words and suddenly you're in the Christmas spirit. Years of tradition have made Christmas carols and holiday jingles a crucial part of the season. In fact certain songs are so connected with Christmas, that without them, it wouldn't feel like Christmas at all. However, if you dig into the history of some of your favorite songs, you might be pleasantly surprised at their backstories. Some songs weren't expected to be popular at all, much less synonymous with the holiday season.
Check out these songwriters and singers that have created some of the most iconic Christmas songs in history.
"Little Drummer Boy": Katherine K. Davis Who could forget the stern drumbeat juxtaposed with the serene flute solo in the song "Little Drummer Boy?" A woman by the name of Katherine K. Davis wrote the melody of the song based off of a common Czech carol that had been passed down for years. The 1941 piece was originally made for choirs, which is no surprise with its strong rhythmic pacing and lyrical harmonies. Originally known as "Carol of the Drum," the tune made its way from obscurity into popularity by way of the Von Trapp singers (see photo), who recorded the song in 1955. Composer Jack Halloran later recorded it on the album Christmas Is A-Comin'. Although the song didn't get released on the album, Henry Onorati, a producer for the track, brought the arrangement to singer Harry Simeone, who renamed it "The Little Drummer Boy" and released the song in 1958. It went on to become a U.S. hit for several years afterwards.
"The Christmas Song": Bob Wells and Mel Torme The last thing that a person thinks of when imagining "chestnuts roasting on an open fire" or "folks dressed up like Eskimos" is an excruciatingly hot summer day. However, these were the forces of nature at work while "The Christmas Song" was being created. Songwriters Bob Wells and Mel Torme created the quintessential holiday tune in 1944 during the hottest season of the year. What helped Wells and Torme keep cool were thoughts of "Jack Frost nipping" and "Yuletide carols," and within an hour, they had a full-on Christmas song and future hit on their hands. From there, musical legend Nat King Cole recorded four renditions of the song, beginning with a recorded version in 1946, which has been cemented as one of the most popular Christmas songs of all time.
"Silver Bells": Jay Livingston and Ray Evans During the creation of the holiday film The Lemon-Drop Kid (1950), writers Jay Livingston and Ray Evans were given the task of writing a catchy tune for a particular scene. Wanting their song to be popular but believing there was slim chance since the holiday was already inundated with tunes, the two writers reluctantly accepted. They came up with a song titled "Tinkle Bell" about the hustle and bustle of daily life in the city, interlaced with Salvation Army Santas who "tinkled" their bells for donations. The title of the song only changed after Livingston spoke with his wife, Lynne, who asked if he was "out of his mind" for writing lyrics about a Santa that tinkled up and down the streets. Livingston and Evans were completely unaware that tinkling could be interpreted as urinating, so they changed the title to "Jingle Bells." The song was first performed by Bob Hope in the film The Lemon-Drop Kid and first recorded in 1950 by the iconic Christmas crooner, Bing Crosby.
"Winter Wonderland": Dick Smith Even though beautiful scenery brought about the vision for the popular Christmas song "Winter Wonderland," you'd be surprised that the person who wrote it was suffering from a bad case of tuberculosis. In 1934 lyricist Dick Smith was motivated to write "Winter Wonderland" when he saw a pristine sheet of snow cover a nearby park from his hospital window in Pennsylvania. Seeing kids innocently combining fantasy and reality with their creation of snowmen, snow angels, and snow forts set the tone for his masterpiece. Smith took his lyrics to musician Felix Bernard, who gave it a playful tune. Although the song doesn't have any direct references to Christmas, "Winter Wonderland" is widely considered one of the most popular Christmas songs of the 20th century. Unfortunately, Dick Smith wasn't able to see the song's success since he died one year after he wrote it. Regardless, the "Winter Wonderland" legacy still continues, as hundreds of singers have taken on the song and made it their own, including Ella Fitzgerald, who released her own rendition of the song in 1960.
"All I Want for Christmas Is My Two Front Teeth": Donald Y. Gardner Christmas songs have made lots of requests from Old St. Nick, from sentimental gifts like love and friendship to materialistic items like jewelry and clothes. But only one song asks for a pair of teeth to make the holiday season complete. Considering a lisp could make it difficult to communicate what gifts you want from Santa, a second grader asking for his/her two front teeth isn't a very startling request...is it? In 1944 second grade teacher Donald Y. Gardner wrote the song "All I Want for Christmas Is My Two Front Teeth" after asking his students what they wanted for Christmas and noticing he was getting a classroom full of toothless responses. He later wrote the song within half an hour, with no intention of making any type of profit. It wasn't until someone heard the tune at the annual school Christmas pageant that the song was recorded by Spike Jones (see photo) and released in 1948.


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On their hands and knees artists work in the hot sun at Grazie di Curtatone, Italy, Santa Barbara, San Rafael. San Luis Obispo and Mission Viejo, CA. With pigment-stained fingers the artists illuminate the pavement to praise God. There are 30-something American college students, 80-year old Italian artisans, teenage Latino tag and graffiti painters; a diverse group of international artists who use chalk and pastels to create large-scale sacred paintings on streets, sidewalks and piazzas around the world.
i Madonnari – so-called because traditionally they painted the Madonna and other holy images – are believed to have roots that stretch back to the Middle Ages when street painters traveled from town to town following the church's calendar of holidays and saint's feasts.
Today, in Santa Barbara, there are scenes to praise God and other scenes as well including paintings of families, famous artwork, people and their dogs, scenes of incomparable beauty and ones of laughter and nostalgia.
i Madonnari is a feast for the eyes and a twang on the heart strings. It's all about feeling good, enjoying art and life. Festival hours are 10-6 daily, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday of Memorial Day Weekend. Admission is free.
Click here to see i Modinnari video: Modinari Blog Video

subset: commoncrawl


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Vornado Realty Trust (VNO) Falls 5.06% for February 08Equities Staff Follow |
One of the S&P 500's big losers for Monday February 08 was Vornado Realty Trust (VNO). The company's stock fell 5.06% to $80.00 on volume of 1.02 million shares.
The stock opened the day at 83.77 and traded between a low of $79.35 and a high of $84.33. The stock finished the day down $4.26 per share. Vornado Realty Trust has an average daily volume of 834,132 and a total float of 188.54 million shares. The 50-day SMA for Vornado Realty Trust is $94.48 and its 200-day SMA is $94.90. The high for the stock over the last 52 weeks is $114.15 and the low is $84.21.
Vornado Realty Trust is a real estate investment trust, which conducts its business through Vornado Realty L.P., a Delaware limited partnership. It invests in retail and office properties.
Vornado Realty Trust is centered in New York, NY, and has 4,503 employees. Today's trading day leaves the company with a market cap of $15.08 billion. The company has a P/S ratio of n/a, P/B ratio of 2.79, and a -21.9.
For a complete fundamental analysis analysis of Vornado Realty Trust, check out Equities.com's Stock Valuation Analysis report for VNO. To see the latest independent stock recommendations from Equities.com's analysts, visit our Research section.
The S&P 500 represents the industry standard for large-cap indices. While the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) may be the most visible stock market index in the country, the S&P 500 has long been relied on by industry insiders and fund managers as the more reliable gauge of portfolio performance.
While the DJIA is price-weighted and only includes 30 stocks, the S&P 500 uses a weighting system that factors in market cap and the size of a company's free float while including some 500 stocks for a more comprehensive look at the broader markets' performance. Its performance is far more representative of the large- and mega-cap stocks for any period of time.
For more news on the financial markets, go to Equities.com. Also, learn more about our independent proprietary equity research reports and our robust do-it-yourself Stock Valuation Analysis reports in our Research section.
All data provided by QuoteMedia and was accurate as of 4:30PM ET.
DISCLOSURE: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors, and do not represent the views of equities.com. Readers should not consider statements made by the author as formal recommendations and should consult their financial advisor before making any investment decisions. To read our full disclosure, please go to: http://www.equities.com/disclaimer


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Notes: These cookies bake up beautifully on their own, and can be served with tea or enjoyed with your favorite spreads. To make sandwich cookies, use a good quality hazelnut spread and dust with organic coco powder. Be sure to flatten cookies with a wet spoon before baking as these biscuits will rise into soft peaks if left alone. Remember that the dough for this recipe will need to chill for 2 hours before baking.
You will need:
3 large organic eggs
170 ml corn oil
385 g flour
200 g granulated sugar
15 g (3 tsp.) baking powder
5 ml (1 tsp.) best quality vanilla
1-500g container of Nutella or best quality hazelnut spread
Chopped hazelnuts and organic free trade cocoa powder for dusting
Blend together eggs, oil and sugar. To this mixture add in 250 g of flour and combine.
Continue mixing batter, and spoon in remaining flour.
When dough is formed add baking powder and vanilla and combine. Cover dough and chill for 2 hours.
Shape dough into balls and place on cookie sheet. Flatten with a spoon dipped in warm water to achieve uniform round shapes that are flat on top.
Bake for 15-20 minutes in a 175 degree oven.
When cookies are cooled completely, spread with Nutella and press together to form sandwiches.


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Once again my family amazed me with their homemade Christmas gifts for each other. They are all so talented.
Brandon picked Ford, this year, and after a lot of precrastinating...he made Ford the coolest baseball pillowcase. Brandon did all by himself using his made sewing skills. What a great dad!
I picked Adam's name. I made him a Star Wars magnet board complete with Lego magnets from the Lego store.
Kennidy picked my name and went onto Shutterfly and made me the cutest book complete with pictures of my favorite people. Family and friends. I loved it.
Adam picked Makinley. He made her a checkbook. It was way cute. At the last minute...and by that I mean Christmas Eve...I whipped up a wallet to put her checkbook in. It's nothing fancy because I used what fabric pieces I had lying around. Maybe next time I'll think ahead and get some cute fabric.
Makinley picked Dad. She made him a DVD with photos and music. It was adorable and I love all the pictures she chose.
And Ford picked Kennidy. We went to the fabric store and he picked out some purple fabric to make Kennidy an apron. After we were done sewing it he gave it lots of kisses. So on the tag we wrote...Made with lots of kisses from Ford.
Some other gifts I made for the kids were...2 Star Wars Posters (thanks to my Silhouette), Crochet Hat and Scarf, 2 Super Hero Capes, Christmas Countdown (thanks to my Silhouette), Creswells Est. board (thanks to my Silhouette), and a Christmas Card (again, thanks to my Silhouette. I love this machine).


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The clutch disc is the clutch's central connection element.
In combination with the clutch pressure plate, it both separates and links engine and powertrain. It also reduces the speed fluctuations in the gearbox caused by the combustion motor. LuK offers the best solutions for every application, from clutch discs with simple torsion damper through to variants with multi-stage dampers, from rigid clutch discs for use in the dual mass flywheel right through to the displacement correction clutch disc.


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Electric Vehicles
Our efforts towards zero emissions
도로위를 달리는 전기차 쏘울
Our efforts towards zero emissions
도로위를 달리는 전기차 쏘울
In pursuit of the ultimate goal of zero emissions, Kia Motors has established an EV mass production system based on our independent technology.
Massive Lithium Ion Polymer Battery
The lithium ion polymer battery improves efficiency while the battery life has been enhanced thanks to low internal resistance and improved design and control that helps maintain optimal status when being charged or discharged.
High Efficiency EV Motor
The EV motor offers better fuel economy by improving efficiency and minimizing losses. Its maximum output of 50kw (68 HP) and maximum torque of 17.0kgㆍm(167Nㆍm) are as powerful as those of gasoline engines.
Built-in Slow Charging System for Domestic Use
The built-in slow charging system maximizes convenience by offering both fast charging at charging stations and easy charging at home.
Supervision Cluster (for EVs only)
The 3.5-inch OLED screen and the round segment LCD provide a range of information, including the driving distance remaining.
Video time elapsed00:00Total video running time00:00
Promotional video for the Soul EV
Recharge your Soul
TV commercial for the Soul EV
Who are U?
Video time elapsed00:00Total video running time00:00
About the Ray EV
About the Ray EV
Related content
HybridA car that combines a conventional engine and an electric mo...
Plug-in HybridTechnology that can extend the duration of electric drive mo...
Hydrogen Fuel Cell CarsOur eco-friendly lineup with proven safety
Internal Combustion EngineTechnology for greater energy efficiency
Design DirectionsThe simplicity of the straight line
AutonomousFuture of Autonomous Vehicles
About DRIVE WiSEHassle-Free, Delightful Driving
About Boundless for AllFuture Direction of Kia Motors
DRIVE WiSE : AutonomousThe Future of autonomous driving
Parking AssistTo Help you park your car quickly and easily
Driving AssistTo Help your delightful driving, and avoid collisions
ECO-Friendly Car Lifecycle ManagementOur eco activities across the whole process of manufacturing...
About ECO dynamicsOur activities to achieve a sustainable future
Eco/ElectricThe coming of eco-friendly energy age
ConnectedHyper-connected Services
Corporate InitiativesOur steps to achieve cleaner nature
Mobility ServiceFuture Mobility Vision of Kia Motors
DrivingIn search of perfect balance between ride and handling
VehicleKia Motors, History of awards (Vehicle)
TechnologyAutomobiles are getting smarter and safer
Our Environmental CertificationsEco-friendly cars certified domestically and internationally
Design CenterWe make the cars of your dreams a reality
SafetyOur efforts to ensure your safety: impact test
RegionKia Motors, History of awards (Region)
ThemeKia Motors, History of awards (Theme)
PerformancePerformance can be heightened with optimized balance
Design PeopleThe people who spawn our beautiful cars
ECO-Friendly MonitorOur efforts to help reduce energy use and emissions


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Déguisements & Cosplay / idées et boutique
Mario's been a doctor.
He's raced cars.
He's even gone to space.
But he's never experienced a Fallout-style apocalypse—until now.
Redditor 3dbdotcom recently cosplayed as a Fallout-themed Mario, and his costume is on point (all that scrap metal!).
He also made his friend and wife equally awesome Fallout-themed Luigi and Princess Peach costumes, which you can check out in the gallery below.
Fallout Mario Group
lire cette news cosplay sur FashionablyGeek


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In a nutshell, it seems that OCLC's policy changes have the intention to restrict the usage of the data in order to prevent competing services from appearing. Competing services such as LibraryThing and the Internet Archive's Open Library but unfortunately, it seems that the changes will also impinge on the rights of users to collate citation lists in software such as Zotero, Endnote and others. Read Rob's post for a well researched view on the changes.
OCLC – viral licence being added to WorldCat data
Posted on November 13, 2008
Very short post on this, as I just wanted to highlight a fantastic piece written by Rob Styles about OCLC's policy changes to WorldCat
Posted in: Uncategorized


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I spotted a rather sorry looking Ludlum Model 3 Survey Meter on ebay UK, the pictures showed it was in very poor condition.
The auction pictures are shown below, with the brown rust and aluminium oxide showing around the battery compartment it clearly indicated there was battery leakage.
Generally though it looked complete, my only concern was there was no picture of the front of the Ludlum 44-3 probe. As this is a scintillation probe the Sodium Iodide crystal used is especially vulnerable to moisture and or damage to the mylar light blocking film, so i did have a concern that the cover was missing and there was no picture of the sensor end.
The ebay auction was a BiN / Make Offer, so placed an offer in for about 60% under the asking price which was accepted.
What i found in the battery compartment was worse than i had expected:
Thankfully though with some basic testing, this involved connecting the power to by HP 6632B bench power supply. At 3v DC the meter powered on and gave a good 900v on the probe output. After altering the voltage to 420v and making a quick connection to my Mini Instruments MC71 Geiger Muller tube the meter was proven to be working. Date codes on the ICs indicate it was manufactured around 1992.
Testing: powered the meter from my bench power supply and made
a crude connection to one of my geiger muller tubes.
After complete disassembly, removing all the switches, circuits, meter movement i was able to remove the batteries and clean out as much of the corrosion as possible.
Thankfully the separate battery compartment on these Ludlum meters saved the rest of the components as it kept all the battery corrosion inside the battery compartment. Although the battery terminals are not serviceable now i am hoping i can get replacement terminal inserts from Ludlum. For the time being i have two Energizer Lithium AA batteries powering the meter located inside the main box.
Remains of the two 'D' cell batteries. Going from the age of the meter and the old style Ever Ready zinc chloride batteries i suspect they had been in the meter for at least 10 years.
The same could not be said for the Ludlum 44-3 probe. The scintillation crystal (Thallium doped Sodium Iodide) was very off colour with blotches of something on it (they are moisture sensitive). The photomultiplier tube and all the internals of the probe were wet and the photomultiplier itself also appeared dead both in darkness and in light. The probe was a total loss, i have kept all the related hardware (aluminium tube, mountings etc) with the aim i might make some kind of probe in the future.
The photomultiplier tube was an EMI 9902KB and has been disassembled in this video: Teardown: EMI 9902KB Photomultiplier
Photomultiplier Tube
In addition to all this the probe cable was completely broken. In the ebay pictures it showed the cable intact but in fact the cable had been ripped out of the Ludlum C connector at both ends, they had just been pushed into the connectors for the photos!
Main PCB with IC references.
So overall i am happy, the meter is working fine and is capable of driving both Geiger Muller tubes and scintillation probes (which use photo-multipliers, driven at a higher voltages) so i will be experimenting with scintillation probes in the future.
Not the cleanest, but it's working!
I may consider sand-blasting the case and having it re-painted.


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Doc Eason's magic takes him on the road
June 4, 2016
If you go …
Magic & Juggling with Doc Eason and Jammin Jim
6:30 p.m., June 10
Glenwood Vaudeville Revue
This is no ordinary magic show.
Only a few magicians in the country can do the style of close-up magic that Doc Eason performs just inches from your eyes and ears. Doc sprinkles his card handling, coin tricks and sleight of hand with his sharp wit and penchant for storytelling for a full, one-of-a-kind performance.
People in Snowmass have known that for years. Locals know and love him. Visitors come back year after year. But now, Eason's gaining more notoriety beyond the Roaring Fork Valley, too.
The Academy of Magical Arts just recognized Eason with his fifth academy award for lecturer of the year. He's also won in the close-up and bar-magic categories.
And he's performing more at the academy's home in the exclusive Magic Castle. Having held a performance recently directed by actor Neil Patrick Harris, the Castle is only open to magicians or guests of magicians, making it one of Hollywood's hottest tickets.
The home of the magical academy and a venue for the world's most prestigious magicians, "It's the epicenter of magic in the world," Eason said. "It's a special place. There's no place like it."
Recommended Stories For You
There are five bars in the Magic Castle, and Eason has been making appearances in the W.C. Fields Magic Bar, named for the vaudeville comedian, for about 20 years. But Eason is being asked back more, thanks to skills he picked up performing at the Tower Restaurant in Snowmass.
Salesman skills, that is — if you've ever sat through one of Eason's shows, you've heard him suggest that you buy a cocktail and give you time to do so without missing a single trick. You were probably convinced, too.
"They like me in there," Eason said.
With his increasing presence at the Magic Castle, Eason also had the honor of hanging his portrait in the W.C. Fields bar. That was the same portrait that used to hang in the Tower, where Eason first witnessed bar magic in action and where he performed for 27 years.
That magical first night took place in 1977, when Eason was here on vacation. Not only did Eason get stars in his eyes watching Bob Sheets practice the art of deception at the Tower, but he also got invited to a camping trip by the owners, who brought along their investor, John Denver.
"It didn't take me long to figure out maybe I wanted to stay," Eason said.
Since the Tower closed in 2004, Eason has been performing regularly during high season at The Artisan restaurant in the Stonebridge Inn. He'll start appearing weekly there in July.
But before then, he's also teaming up with fellow performing artist Jim Pomey for a special event at the Glenwood Vaudeville Revue on Friday.
If you go …
Magic & Juggling with Doc Eason and Jammin Jim
6:30 p.m., June 10
Glenwood Vaudeville Revue
Start a dialogue, stay on topic and be civil.
If you don't follow the rules, your comment may be deleted.


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Queen Sonja's School prize was on Tuesday handed to Ila school in Trondheim.
The award was presented by the Queen, who also did a tour of the Primary school.
Queen Sonja's School prize is awarded annually to a school that has excelled in equality and inclusion.
16 schools were nominated for the award this year. The jury emphasizes that Ila school has a clear, evidence-based and targeted leadership that works to empower all staff in the school and SFO, and to create a good and inclusive school for all.
– This is great fun, and a great inspiration for the work we do.
Inclusion applies to all children, wherever they come from.
They should feel safe and be part of a class community, and only then can they realize their full learning potential, says Rector Trude Mathisen at the Trondheim municipality's website.
It is the Queen herself who initiated the award, which was this year awarded for the eleventh time. The prize consists of a diploma, a cash prize of NOK 250,000 and a woodcut by the artist Eli Hovdenak.


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I'm so torn by this song and video. I read here that the relationship in this story is mutually abusive, that it goes both ways. But I don't think the video shows that. I see Megan Fox as the victim, even if she does throw a punch or two. She is the one running from him, the one hiding in the bathroom, the one having to forgive, the one deciding to leave the relationship, never the other way around.
I can't stop watching the video, and listening/singing this song. Something about it feels so real and raw, that I'm not too critical of it, even with a line like "I'm a tie her to the bed and set the house on fire". Am I a bad feminist? Pop culture have too much of a hold on me? The song's lyrics are explicit and detailed, but also ambiguous. Does Eminem really regret his actions, or is he lying to get her back? Maybe both?
Knowing both Eminem's and Rihanna's history of abuser and victim, does that make this song ok? Does the song and video excuse domestic violence? Why did Rihanna choose to sing lyrics that pretty much excuse Chris Brown's actions?
This is what Rihanna said in an interview with Access Hollywood:
"It just was authentic. It was real," Rihanna continued. "It was believable for us to do a record like that, but it was also something that needed to be done and the way he did it was so clever. He pretty much just broke down the cycle of domestic violence and it's something that a lot people don't have a lot of insight on, so this song is a really, really powerful song and it touches a lot of people."
This seems to be empowering to Rihanna. Maybe this is her way to deal with the abuse she experienced. And who are we to judge her? To tell her that "No, you're doing it wrong"? This is her taking her experience, her life, into her own hands and making a statement.
The fact that this song is making me feel all conflicted and bringing up so much emotion from me makes it successful in a way. On the other hand, the way I read and interpret this song/video might be part of the minority. The other day while listening to this song on the radio, after it finished the DJ said something along the lines of, "oh boy, I bet a lot of girls are singing this at the top of their lungs after a few drinks". Is he saying that girls like being in abusive relationships? That they will in the end forgive if they're drunk (there is a lot of alcohol involved in this video)? More victim blaming?
I'm aware that these are all questions and not a lot of answers, but this is all I have right now. Just questions.
One positive thing I can say is that after making this video, Megan Fox donated the money she made from it to a women's shelter, Soujourn House. So it looks like if the song's goal was to raise awareness and help for domestic violence, it is getting there.
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Lava Mobile, an Indian company in north, has announced the launch of its another affordable Lava M23 music series mobile phone that is a dual-SIM capable handset which is packed with exciting features like call recording, FM recording and Bluetooth+A2DP wireless connection.
Lava M23 music series handset is Java enabled allowing integration of down-loadable applications and games and it features 2.2-inch, 176 x 220 pixels, 65K color capable TFT color display and has unspecified amount of internal memory with microSD memory card slot supporting upto 8-GB expandable memory allowing 1000 entries Phonebook and 500 SMS memory.
The Lava M23 phone comes equipped with 1.3 Megapixel camera having maximum of 1280 x 1024 pixels still image resolution with video recording capabilities besides can also be used as webcam when connected to PC using USB cable.
The Lava M23 music phone also offers GPRS class 10 and WAP/xHTML browser connectivity options along with Bluetooth v2.0+A2DP wireless connectivity and it also features built-in FM radio with recording, MP3 media player that supports MP3/MIDI/AMR and WAV audio file formats, video player that supports standard 3GP video file formats and is equipped with JAVA MIDP 2.1, WAP 2.0/xHTML browser.
Bluetooth technology enables communication with other Bluetooth compatible devices and gadgets such as color printers, PDAs and laptops for instant sync-ups, data transfer and print jobs in a flash.
The Bluetooth with A2DP profile allows listening to music in stereo on compatible wireless Bluetooth enabled headsets totally wirelessly.
The handset also features Side Keys for Music controls, 3.5 mm audio out port and offers support for Hindi language along with default English in menu and navigation.
The Lava M23 mobile phone also armed with mobile tracker feature that helps users track their phone in case they happen to lose it. In an event of being lost, stolen or misplaced, the Mobile Tracker feature sends an SMS prompt to a pre-determined number whenever the SIM card is changed thus improving chances of recovering the handset.
Lava M23 phone comes equipped with 850 mAh Li-ion rechargeable battery that provides upto 5 hrs talktime and upto 400 hrs of standby time, and some other features of this ultra-low-cost handset includes Call recording, Vibrate mode, Handsfree Speakerphone, SMS/MMS/EMS messaging, MP3/MIDI ringtones, and few embedded games.
The new Lava M23 music series mobile phone is available in India in silver and white colors for Rs. 4,499 with one year warranty.


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Billionaire hedge funder Steve Cohen, whose SAC Capital has come under scrutiny lately, has been snapping up real estate left and right.
He recently purchased a $60 million Hamptons home. He also bought 145 Perry Street in the West Village, the New York Post reported citing property records.
He's not only buying. He also put his Upper East Side duplex penthouse on the market for $115 million.
Now the latest chatter, according to the Post, is that Cohen snapped up an apartment in The Abingdon located on 320 West 12th Street by Abingdon Square Park in the West Village.
We called The Abingdon up to confirm this. They had no comment.
Street Easy's website shows that there are nine listing currently in contract at the ten-home apartment building.
There are two penthouses — East Penthouse and West Penthouse, according to the Abingdon's website. There are two "mansions" — East Mansion and West Mansion.
The lowest priced unit in the building is a three-bedroom 3,263 square-foot apartment for $8.75 million and the most expensive is a three-bedroom 5,602 square-foot penthouse for $25 million. There is also a 9,600 square-foot West Mansion costs $25 million, according to Street Easy.
The most recent sale at The Abingdon was for $13.2 million, the site shows. That was the 5,951 square-foot East Mansion.
The Abingdon is a newly converted condominium building. The building was originally a home for working women and later a nursing home with 200 beds for its residents, according to the New York Times.
It looks super nice, according to promotional photos posted on Street Easy. We have included those pictures in the slides that follow.


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Bell offers Palm Treo Pro
We know that the world is abuzz with the upcoming Palm Pre, but that doesn't mean it should overshadow news of the new Palm Treo Pro that is now available from Bell Mobility in Canada. This Windows Mobile 6.1 Professional powered smartphone will target serious business users who want to simplify their IT infrastructures while keeping costs low, ensuring their users remain productive and happy. It is able to ride on 3G networks, making it suitable for on-the-go Internet surfing as well as keeping tabs with the latest emails without missing a beat.
Being a business-centric smartphone can only mean one thing – the Treo Pro will boast a wide range of connectivity options, including email, Wi-Fi, GPS, web and CDMA EV-DO Rev. A network capabilities. You won't find the Treo Pro to be as bulky as its earliest predecessors, as it comes in a thin design that blends with a flush, high-resolution color touch screen display. One touch buttons for quick access to various functions make life a whole lot easier, while the full QWERTY keyboard remains to let you send out a flurry of text messages and emails without having to fumble with less than perfect virtual keyboards on the display. Nice to know Palm has not gone the way of the iPhone by offering a removable battery behind which is able to offer up to four hours of talk time.
Bell Mobility's Treo Pro features a tightly integrated Palm and Windows solution for mobile workforces, supporting Microsoft Direct Push Technology that hooks up to Microsoft Exchange Server 2003 SP2 or 2007, letting users remain up to speed with their email, contacts and calendars at all times. With Microsoft System Center Mobile Device Manager 2008, you will enjoy increased security, easier smartphone management and access to information on the corporate network. Bell Mobility clients can pick up the Palm Treo Pro for $99.95 on a three-year contract for a limited time only.


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What was the initial project brief?
Chuck and I generated the brief which was simply, let's make some films with some of our friends. The agency composed a list of a few themes and I solicited treatments.
At what point in the campaign did the hands-off approach to production become the main thrust? When did you make your minds up to go at it like that?
Essentially Chuck and I basically served as executive producers. Creating commercials is extremely expensive and has to involve a lot of parties, and we were just looking to create more assets for the client. [This approach gave]us more shots at it, and created more opportunities for our clients to see what sticks to the wall.
Did you have to say to the directors, "Look, this is your opportunity to really do whatever you want," or did they latch onto the idea intuitively?
I think there's a whole huge population of filmmakers who are not getting giant, mainstream opportunities and there's a tremendous amount of resources out there in the world with enormous talent. It was just a matter of being resourceful. The talent was still very thoughtfully selected; it wasn't by any means arbitrary. A lot of thought went into this process. We did have people submit treatments, so we selected among the treatments and there was a dialogue [in the selection process]. Then we talked about how the product would be featured. It varied from case to case. In some cases the directors really wanted our involvement, so there's still a good amount of checking in.
So break down the differences between this and the standard fashion or accessory launch.
I think at the end of the day it's really the same, because you're employing artists on behalf of a brand. Here the artists were given a lot more space, and as filmmakers they're responsible for the entire entity, from soup to nuts—the editorial, the shoot, the casting. And it creates opportunities for us to work with friends, and for these filmmakers to work with friends. We really want to put the spirit of play, fun and opportunity back into the filmmaking. And it's alleviated of much of its structure and confines. Here, you're free to go. Grab a camera, grab your friends and make it great.
Hours of client pre-production meetings: 0
Hours of client on shoot: 0
"Sunglass Catch" views on YouTube alone: Over 3,110,245
Number of hipsters seen sporting Wayfarers this summer: Too many


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Driven by mere curiosity, this is a simple study on the relationship between gender and authorship in the Journal of World-Systems Research. The Journal has been published as an on-line, open-access and refereed journal since 1995. There is a total of 23 published volumes that are accessible to anyone on-line.
Gender issues have increasingly become salient in sociology, political economy and political science. The fact that the World Bank has a whole bunch of gender-related indicators is a reflection of the need to create awareness of gender disparities and the immediacy of addressing this problem so that appropriate policy options can be created. In some countries this is less of an issue because the social and economic disparities between men and women are minimal whereas in some others the differences are quite dramatic.
The present Secretary General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, has "made parity our central reform objective. We have already reached parity in the Senior Management Group, the top level of the administration of the UN. And we will soon reach it at the level of the country leaders of the UN. But our aim is to have parity across the board in the whole of the United Nations; and this will be a key instrument for us to be able to fight sexual exploitation with zero tolerance to fight sexual harassment and to make sure that we create an organization in which women and men can work together in full equality and contribute to a world in which women and men can also be in full equality." (http://www.un.org/en/index.html, 7 march 2018). It is encouraging to hear such commitment from the head of the UN, who is right on the mark by stating that the problem is a matter of power inequality and therefore it is important to empower women.
A study on gender inequality in the LSE International Relations reading lists done by ". . .about twenty or so PhD candidates at the department manually (!) scraped the reading lists of 43 courses that were on offer during the 2015-2016 academic year, resulting in a dataset containing 12,358 non-unique publications. Of those, 2,574 involves at least one female author, while 9,784 features at least one male author. Moreover, 81% of the syllabi is written exclusively by male scholars." (https://www.r-bloggers.com/quantitative-story-telling-with-shiny-gender-bias-in-syllabi/ Accessed 7 March 2018). The study found that there was an increase in female authors after 1990; however, when analyzed together, male authors also displayed a remarkable increase, indicating that the trend is universal. In the words of the author "Our illustration demonstrates two separate effects. First, there is absolute improvement over time; in syllabi, the number of publications by female authors tripled in the last three decades. Second, there is comparatively little relative progress in the same time frame." (https://www.r-bloggers.com/quantitative-story-telling-with-shiny-gender-bias-in-syllabi/ Accessed 7 March 2018).
The study also found that the majority of the publication years included less than 20% female authors. ". . . we observe a similar trend after 1990; the relative improvement is about double: pre-1990, the female author ratio averages around 10%, while post-1990 it's about 20%." (https://www.r-bloggers.com/quantitative-story-telling-with-shiny-gender-bias-in-syllabi/ Accessed 7 March 2018).
According to Catalyst, "Women academics held 40.6% of academic positions across the 28 countries of the European Union (EU-28) in 2013." Furthermore, and more importantly, "Women were a minority among senior academics (Grade A) in many European countries, including Belgium (15.6%), Germany (17.3%), the United Kingdom (17.5%), France (19.3%), Switzerland (19.3%), and Sweden (23.8%)." (http://www.catalyst.org/knowledge/women-academia accessed 7 march 2018). The same source indicates that in the United States "While women held nearly half (48.9%) of all tenure-track positions in 2015, they held just 38.4% of tenured positions."
In a male-dominated world, as aptly expressed by the head of the UN, I wanted to see how this disparity of power manifests itself in JWSR. As I was recording the data I did not make any distinction between editorials, articles or book reviews. I did not specify articles or book reviews that are coauthored, either. In the case of an article or book review with more than one author, their names are entered separately.
This is dirty work in terms of data collection because you just have to record the names and gender of authors one by one, which is quite time-consuming. I don't think web-scraping would work to get these data; at least I'm not aware of it. The database I formed includes volume and issue number, author's name, gender and the year of publication.
The database contains a total of 792 entries as explained above. Within this total 180 are female and 612 are male authors. This results in a female/male ratio of 29.4%. For each publication by a female there are 3.4 published by males. No effort was made to classify authors on the basis of ethnicity as this would be rather nebulous and make things complicated.
A few other remarks are warranted. A time-series plot of publications reveals that male publications seem to have more noticeable fluctuations compared to female publications. Moreover, female publications surge in 2010 and between 2010 and 2017 they have more fluctuations.
Such an analysis of authorship in and of itself may not be very meaningful unless these data are compared to other journals or viewed within the context of general statistics on women in academia. For the 23 years in question, females published 7.8 articles per year, and males 26.7. The ratio is 1 to 3.4. It can be seen that the increase in female publications in JWSR is greater than the one in males but there is still a long way to go in reaching parity in academia in general. It is pleasing to see that women are publishing more in a journal that is dedicated to world-systems analysis, a perspective that focuses on the nature and underlying dynamics of inequality on a global scale. To what extent this inequality in academia is a reflection of material conditions in which individuals find themselves trapped and to what extent it is a result of ideological (gender-based, male-oriented) or social prejudice is a question that needs to be addressed.


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Charity shop shopping is a fickle mistress. Sometimes you find lots, sometimes you can go months without finding anything. I've been through a dry spell and lost heart a little bit.
This week I nipped out to the post office at lunchtime and decided I had time to pop into one or two charity shops. I found a lovely Meakin teapot in Oxfam but the £9.95 price tag seemed rather steep. Next door in British Heart Foundation I found three Britvic glass and three CherryB glasses priced just £2. I love vintage glassware and have some Britvic tumblers that my Mum bought me.They have so much character and I knew I had to have them! When I got them to the till the manageress gave me a kind of sideways look and asked if I was interested in retro glasses. I confirmed that I was and she said she had six Babycham glasses out in the back room that she hadn't put out yet.I don't really need to tell you my response do I? I'm very happy with my vintage glassware for just £4 in total. Now I just need to host a little winter party to make the most of my beautiful new glasses. What are your best charity shop bargains?
It is with a plan forming I say:
It's only vintage but I like it…
2 comments on "It's only vintage glassware but I like it…"
These are lovely finds! Those cherry glasses are really sweet; and I think a party must be in order to use this delightful glassware. ❤
bonita of Lavender & Twill


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Will Market Hunting Make a Comeback?
by Steve Sorensen
(Originally published in the Warren Times Observer, December 24, 2010.)
Did you know American sport hunters were the saviors of many species that were headed for extinction almost a hundred years ago? It's true.
If you think hunting is facing
serious challenges now, wait until
every deer is turned into dollars.
In those days whitetail deer were rare, partly because of market hunting. Wild turkeys were scarce except in isolated pockets. And market hunting forced passenger pigeons into extinction. Sport hunters saw other species also heading for disaster, and we spoke up.
We asked for hunting regulations. We promoted the idea that wildlife populations should be a public resource in every state. That became a core principle of wildlife management, and that's when wildlife began to thrive.
Today, that principle is being challenged. A September 2010 article in Michigan Farm News outlined an idea to create a "licensed cadre of Elite/Master Hunters to sell wild Michigan venison commercially to restaurants, food distributors, grocery stores, individuals and other outlets."
Yes, some people are saying that hunters should be permitted to profit by selling the meat they harvest. It's a thoroughly bad idea because historically, market hunting was not good for wild animal populations.
Sport hunters were the saviors of wildlife because we advocated restricted seasons, bag limits and other regulations. We volunteered to pay special taxes for game conservation. Why would America want to turn away from what spared species from extinction?
Not only does sport hunting conserve healthy wildlife populations, sport hunters are also the drivers in the conservation organizations that spend millions and millions of private dollars annually, investing in wildlife habitat and lobbying for sound wildlife management.
Not only have game animal populations thrived because of sport hunting, but so have all other animals that share the habitat.
Not only has sport hunting created countless opportunities for the common, everyday hunter to enjoy a wholesome pastime, it has also created a thriving economic industry that thousands upon thousands of hunters participate in – even though sport hunters have never asked to make a direct profit from the game they bag.
The hunting industry already offers endless ways for hunters to make a living in the hunting industry. Plenty of hunters invent and market animal calls, treestands, clothing and other products. Hunters are writing books, selling photographs, creating artwork, conducting seminars, developing television programs, promoting sport shows and more.
You say, "Wait a minute, Sorensen – only a few people can do that." Yes, that's true – as it's true in every field – not everyone becomes an entrepreneur.
But suppose we create a class of privileged elite market hunters. Suppose I'm one of them, and I make an agreement with several farmers to kill and sell the deer that are eating their corn. That gives me an enormous advantage over you, the ordinary hunter. My market hunting is taking deer that you might otherwise have an opportunity to hunt.
Anyone reading this like that idea? …. I didn't think so. You might say, "But I don't live in Michigan." True again, but an idea that takes hold in one place will spread to others.
Sport hunting is one of the things that still works well across this great nation. Yes, we continually tweak it, but it certainly isn't broken, so it doesn't need fixing.
Establishing elite class of hunters will create a new rift in the ranks of hunters, and end up monetizing wild animals in a way that would likely eliminate sport hunting altogether and remove wildlife from public interest.
The people who have come up with this terrible idea label it a "win-win," but it would end up being a "lose-lose" because government tentacles seldom know their limits. It would be a way for states to sell a new kind of license and give deer a commercial value.
Then, what's to stop government from taxing you when you harvest a deer? Ultimately, wildlife would become a commodity and market hunting would end up becoming a cost to us all. It would eliminate sport hunting. It would remove wildlife from the public interest. Wildlife would no longer exist for its own sake. It would be regulated to benefit government, and not the interests government should serve.
If you think wildlife and hunting are facing some serious challenges now, wait until every deer is turned into dollars.


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Recommended byCK2S Kwips and Kritiques, Night Owl Sci-Fi, Night Owl Teen
The Twenty-First Wish by Debbie Macomber
Anne Marie Roche and her adopted daughter, ten-year-old Ellen, have each written a list of twenty wisheson which they included learning to knit. But Ellen has quietly added a twenty-first wish: that her mom will fall in love with Tim, Ellen's birth father, who's recently entered their lives .
Coming Unraveled by Susan Mallery
When Robyn Mulligan's dreams of becoming a Broadway star give way to longing for her childhood home, she returns to Texas, running her grandmother's knitting store. But the handsome, hot-tempered T. J. Passman isn't making it easy on her. If he can learn to trust Robyn, and overcome his tragic past, they just might discover a passion like no other.
Return to Summer Island by Christina Skye
After a devastating car accident, Caro McNeal is welcomed by a community of knitters on Oregon's sleepy Summer Island. She also finds meaning and purpose in the letters she exchanges with a marine serving in Afghanistan. But when life takes another unexpected turn, will Caro pick up the threads of hope, opening her heart to wherever it takes her?
About Debbie MacomberSee more books from this Author
These simple and pleasant romances will warm readers' hearts.Read Full Review of The Knitting Diaries | See more reviews from Publishers Weekly
...nothing really jumped out at me as memorable.Read Full Review of The Knitting Diaries | See more reviews from All About Romance
Each story was very different in plot, yet equally heartwarming, uplifting and enjoyable to experience. This anthology is definitely for the keeper shelf. Don't miss it!Read Full Review of The Knitting Diaries
I absolutely loved this anthology. I easily fell in love with each set of characters and wanted them all to find their way home during the most troublesome times of their lives.Read Full Review of The Knitting Diaries
I really enjoyed these stories. I know that two are somewhat tied into a series that the authors write but you don't have to know that or read them to thoroughly enjoy these stand alone short stories.Read Full Review of The Knitting Diaries
An aggregated and normalized score based on 204 user ratings from iDreamBooks & iTunes


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For the third time in 25 years, we find ourselves being governed by a party that had not expected to be in Government (or in the case of the Tories after the Election in May, in Government by itself) and now finds itself with the problem of having to implement policies that it had never expected to.
In April 1992, most people expected Labour to win. Indeed the Tories knew that there were a number of bear traps waiting for the incoming Government (ERM, ratification of the Maastricht Treaty, etc.) that the incoming Government would have to face and, as I have though since then, they would prefer labour to deal with.
However, John Major managed to snatch victory from anticipated defeat (with, it must be admitted, with help from Neil Kinnock's ineptitude) and lead the Tories back into Government. Then, not only did the Tories fall into the expected the bear traps but were also saddled with policies in the 1992 Conservative Manifesto that were simply ridiculous like the privatising British Rail, a disaster we still haven't sorted out. Indeed, John Major's Government is rightly regarded as one of the worst ever and crashed to electoral disaster for the Tories in 1997.
In May 2010, everyone expected a victory for David Cameron's Tory Party over a lacklustre Gordon Brown and a tired discredited Labour. It says much for how much the Conservatives were distrusted that even when presented with such an opportunity, they failed to win a majority and no-one, not least the Liberal Democrats, expected the outcome to be a Coalition Government. It is not an understatement to say that the Lib Dems were as surprised as anyone to have to face up to promises made with no expectation of being in a position to have to meet them.
It says much for the calibre of Nick Clegg & the Lib Dem Ministers that, in spite of having great policies but no real plan for implementing them, they achieved so much from their unexpected arrival in office but, as was predictable even in 2010, the party paid a heavy price for not being able to fulfil all they promises they made in the 2010 campaign.
This year, everyone (including most Tories) full expected that there would be another Coalition after the General Election and framed their polices accordingly, The Tories especially though that they would be able to dich the one they had included in their manifesto to get votes to appease the right wing of their party but would be hard (or simply wrong for the country) to implement in the Coalition negotiations and then blame their Coalition partners for not fulfilling their promises. However by a cruel twist of fate, the Tories have been caught out (again due in no small part to Labour ineptitude and the failings of their leader) and now find themselves in a position of having no excuse not to implement those policies that appeal to the rabid right-wing of the party but that most of us realise will be a disaster if implemented.
From the impossible negotiations on the EU to reversing all the Coalition's policies on Green Energy; from having to increase defence spending while cutting welfare to removing privacy rights in the name of defeating "extremism"; from botched attempts block Scottish MPs voting on some issues to trying to bring back hunting with dogs, we see Cameron (who seems more interested with simply being in power than actually having a vision of what he want to achieve with that power) having to oversee a sharp turn away from the moderate polices under the Coalition that benefited he country to regressive, often repressive, ideas that will neither help the majority of the population nor improve the economy.
It is too early to predict the outcome for this Government, even if their small majority of 12 will survive a full 5 year term, but if past precedent is anything to go be, a party that finds itself in Government in a situation that it wasn't expecting will get hammered at the next election.
The moral of this is simple, be honest with promises before the election. Make sure you only promise what you know you can do if elected, don't rely on the vagaries of the electoral system to get you out of having to deliver on promises only made to get votes or for appearance but were not intend to be fulfilled. However, I don't expect parties (not even the Lib Dems) to take this moral to heart and come the next election surprise, watch out for another party suddenly look wide eyed in horror at having to implement policies that were only promised for show.


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Arts Garage
94 NE 2nd Ave., Delray Beach, FL
Featured Event
Cece Teneal
Blues, Funk, R&B/Soul
Portrait of a Queen, featuring the Voice of the Century, Cece Teneal, is a dynamic musical production, created by Cece Teneal & Soul Kamotion, that will have you on the edge of your seats from start-to-finish. This show will energize you with the many life lessons imparted through Aretha Franklins 50+ year musical legacy. The Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin taught us how to Think and demand Respect while riding down the Freeway of Love.
• Sun 3/24/19 at 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Other Upcoming Events
Watercolor Explorations
6 week program starting February 19. The class will take place on Tuesdays from 6 pm to 9 pm. In this course, we will review the fundamentals of watercolor painting application and techniques. The goal of the course is to create works geared toward the development of personal style and expression. We will explore expression through the use of vibrant color, material experimentation, abstraction of the subject, and more.
• Tue 2/19/19 at 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Acting for Adults 1
8 Week Acting Workshop. Tuesdays from 12 pm to 2 pm starting February 19. This class is about self-discovery and fun. For an actor to embody a character, he/she must first feel connected to him/herself. We will work together to create a safe, non-judgmental environment conducive for trust and exploration.
• Tue 2/19/19 at 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Acting for Adults 2
8 Week Acting Workshop. Thursdays from 12 pm to 2 pm starting February 21. The goal of this class is to introduce exercises, vocabulary, and concrete tools needed to understand script analysis and characterization. Through assigned scene work, we will delve into the process of scoring a script in order to make informed creative choices and believable characters and relationships. Cost: $175.
• Thu 2/21/19 at 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Youth programs (ages 11-14); 10 Week Program. Starting February 21. $125 per student. Scholarships Available. This class will introduce students to the wonderful world of clay. Clay is a tactile and intricate medium that has no limits on how the artists can express themselves. Its three-dimensional nature forces them to think about structure, shapes, and forms. Young artists will experiment with air dry clay, practicing traditional techniques in ceramic-making, including pinch, coil, and slab methods. The focus of the class will be on understanding the creative process in both functional and creative works. Then, they will develop basic skills creating clay sculpture taking inspiration from nature & even the human form.
• Thu 2/21/19 at 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM
Fiber Art Fantasy
4-week program, Fridays from 4:30 6:30 pm starting February 22. For ages 9-12. $60 per student (scholarships available). This class is an exploration of mix media/fiber using recycled materials. Each week will provide curious kids with a hands-on project, including Basketry, weaving, and more. Here are some of the creative projects young artists will have fun with: Record bowls and baskets to paint and design. Creating and designing postcards. Spinning thread and off-loom weaving.
• Fri 2/22/19 at 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM
Claudens Louis - The CieL Experience
R&B/Soul, Jazz
The CieL Experience combines the styles of R&B, swing, hip-hop, and traditional Haitian music, rooted in the harmonies and improvisation of the American jazz tradition. Saxophonist and bandleader, Claudens Louis, explores the infinite possibilities of these genres by presenting fresh compositions and arrangements accessible to a wide range of listeners. Each piece is a personal extension of his soul.
• Fri 2/22/19 at 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Harmonica Workshop Series
8 Week Program, Saturdays from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM starting February 23. All ages welcome. Entry level harmonicas are provided; participants are welcome to bring their own. The class aims to teach students the fundamental techniques of the diatonic harmonica spanning several genres of music, including blues, country, jazz, and folk. Students will also be able to participate in harmonica jam sessions and ensembles. Students with little or no musical experience are encouraged to attend to learn basic music theory and techniques. Cost: $100 per student (Youth Scholarships available).
• Sat 2/23/19 at 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
The Florida Highwaymen Renaissance Art Exhibit
Floridas historic landscape artists known as the Florida Highwaymen will be coming to Delray Beach for pop-up exhibits & live painting demonstrations. The pop-up exhibits will take place at both Arts Garage and Spady Cultural Heritage Museums Williams Cottage. There will also be live painting demonstrations at both locations from 1pm-2pm. **There will be a special panel discussion on Sunday, February 24 at 1 pm followed by a reception at Arts Garage featuring the original Florida Highwaymen. Tickets are $10.
• Sat 2/23/19 at 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Lenore Raphael & Doug MacDonald
Jazz, Blues
Renowned international jazz artists Lenore Raphael and Doug MacDonald celebrate their recording reunion on a year-long tour. Lenore Raphael (piano) is a Steinway artist, she sold out her first performance at Arts Garage with her brand of swinging, powerful mainstream jazz. Lenore is a 2-time Grammy nominee and has performed internationally at major jazz venues and festivals including Jazz at Lincoln Center, The Blue Note, Ronnie Scotts, The London, Tel Aviv, Ottawa, Jazz Cruise, Joy of Jazz (South Africa) and many more. She has performed with jazz greats such as Warren Vache, Howard Alden, Harry Allen and Jon Hendricks.
• Sat 2/23/19 at 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Ian Maksin
Classical, Jazz, World
Russian-American cellist and composer Ian Maksin's has gained worldwide recognition by having created his own unique style bringing together jazz, classical and world music. He performs over 150 concerts annually from San Francisco to Eastern Siberia and from South America to Australia and New Zealand.
• Sun 2/24/19 at 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
The Florida Highwaymen Renaissance Art Exhibit
Floridas historic landscape artists known as the Florida Highwaymen will be coming to Delray Beach for pop-up exhibits. It will take place in the Arts Garage Grassroots Gallery. **There will be a special panel discussion on Sunday, February 24 at 1 pm followed by a reception at Arts Garage featuring the original Florida Highwaymen. Tickets are $10.
• Sun 2/24/19 at 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
The Florida Highwaymen Renaissance Panel Discussion
Art Talk
The City of Delray Beach, Arts Garage & the Spady Cultural Heritage Museum are proud to present a panel discussion featuring four original Florida Highwaymen artists including Curtis Arnett, R.L. Lewis, Willie Reagan and Isaac Knight. The discussion will be followed by a one hour reception with beverages and lite bites. Art exhibits and live painting demonstrations (free events) will take place throughout the weekend. You can learn more at ArtsGarage.org.
• Sun 2/24/19 at 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
To the Beat
8 Week Program. For ages 12 and up. Youth Scholarships Available. This class is designed for percussion students ages 12 and up with varying skill levels. Whether its your first time picking up a pair of sticks, or youre an experienced player, there will be a spot for you. Learn all the basics of marching percussion. Learn techniques for snare drum, bass drum, toms, and cymbals.
• Thu 2/28/19 at 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM
Surreal Whimsy Art Exhibit Opening Reception
Enjoy wine, cheese, and art at the opening of our Surreal Whimsy Exhibition featuring local emerging artists Sari Pardorr and Sanna Hormander. The event is free.
• Fri 3/1/19 at 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Chuchito Valdes
Jazz, Latin/Salsa
Chuchito Valdés, following in the footsteps of his famed father Chucho Valdés and grandfather Bebo Valdés, continues the legacy of great piano players from Cuba. With the influences of Caribbean rhythms and jazz, Chuchito and his band generate an exciting and energetic blend of spicy music
• Fri 3/1/19 at 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM
An Evening with Steve Ross
International cabaret and concert performer Steve Ross brings his sophisticated touch, delicious sense of humor and his heartfelt ballads together in this program. As a major proponent of the International Songbook, he will offer an eclectic program consisting of songs by the Gershwins, Cole Porter, Irving Berlin and Noel Coward with a special nod to the incomparable Fred Astaire.
• Sat 3/2/19 at 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM
The Cultured Tour Presents: Church Boy Gangsta
Rap/Hip Hop
Chris Redding is an urban fusion artist and internet sensation. Redding creates a fun atmosphere for all ages and demographics. Audiences cant help but sing and dance along to the soulful and infectious PANGEA sound. He has been featured on an internationally syndicated TV show, 106 and Park, and in Harlem's historic Apollo Theater. Now embarking on an international tour, Chris Redding brings a high energy live performance.
• Sun 3/3/19 at 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Kevin Maines and the Volts
From deep and dirty Duane Allman-esque slide guitar rockers to sweet gospel-inspired falsetto singing, Kevin Maines doesnt just play in the southern soul traditions. He also consumes and then gives them back bursting with his own unique twist. From gritty to ethereal, this music speaks for itself.
• Fri 3/8/19 at 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Ruben Caban Septet
Jazz, Latin/Salsa
They say that music is the language of the soul, and nothing could be truer for Jazz Trombonist and Composer Ruben Caban. He earned his reputation as a talented musician and skillful performer. From live gigs to studio sessions and more, Ruben Caban continues to touch fans around the world with his distinct and enjoyable musical style.
• Sun 3/10/19 at 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Dante Vargas and the Cat Band
Dante Vargas is a musical producer, arranger, musician and multiple Grammy winner. He was born in Peru in the city of Trujillo, where he started to explore the infinite world of music as a trumpet player, which would take him to visit the most important stages of the world.
• Fri 3/15/19 at 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Carole J. Bufford - You Don't Own Me: The Fearless Females of the 1960s
With music made famous by Janis Joplin, Dusty Springfield, Tina Turner, Carole King, Lesley Gore, Dionne Warwick, Jeannie C. Riley and more, Carole celebrates the songstresses of the 1960s. Putting her own inimitable spin on these classics, she will commemorate a time of significant change and transition in America and across the pond.
• Sat 3/16/19 at 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Biscuit Miller and the Mix
Biscuit and his band, The Mix, have been touring extensively since 2012 when Biscuit won his first Blues Music Award (BMA). He earned a second BMA in 2017 for Best Bass Player. MA in 2012 followed by a second BMA for Best Bass Player in 2017. Biscuit is known for his high energy shows and blazing million dollar smile. He is a born entertainer and is at home on the stage where he connects with his audience through a fun and funky approach to the blues. But dont let the fun songs fool you. This band is a dedicated group of musicians with an incredible depth of talent.
• Fri 3/29/19 at 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Yamit and the Vinyl Blvd
7-Piece Band Playing 1920s-1960s Golden Era Classic Jazz. Vinyl Blvd is the brainchild of vocalist and violinist Yamit Lemoine. The bands repertoire consists of up-tempo Swing tunes, Bossa Novas, Gypsy Jazz, New Orleans Jazz, and some beautiful ballads as well. Their primary focus is on classical material from the 1920s through 1960s era and is known for their lush, sophisticatedly vintage sound.
• Sat 3/30/19 at 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM
The Wildfire Band
Rock, R&B/Soul
The Wildfire Band performs an eclectic mix of various styles of music ranging from classic rock, R&B, country fusion, to innovative jazz rock. The band, which includes their superstar violinist, Randi Fishenfeld, brings an unforgettable and entertaining experience.
• Sun 3/31/19 at 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Acting for Teens
6 Week Acting Workshop, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4- 5:30 pm starting April 2. For ages 15 18. $100 per student (scholarships available). At some point almost everybody has that dream, to break out of the norm and live life upon the stage. This class will give you the basic knowledge to break down text and make it come alive through performance. We will be learning terminology and techniques of stagecraft, as well as how to put together an audition and rehearse a piece. If you have a flair for the dramatic or a love of the limelight, then come learn acting at Arts Garage.
• Tue 4/2/19 at 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM
Stanley Jordan
Jazz, Classical
In a career that took flight in 1985 with commercial and critical acclaim, guitar virtuoso Stanley Jordan has consistently displayed a chameleonic musical persona of openness, imagination, versatility and maverick daring. He can go from bold reinventions of classical masterpieces or soulful explorations through pop-rock hits, to blazing straight ahead jazz forays and ultramodern improvisational works. Jordan can perform solo or with a group and can always be counted on to take listeners on breathless journeys into the unexpected.
• Fri 4/5/19 at 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Troy Roberts and Nu Jive
Two-time Grammy-nominated Australian saxophonist and composer, Troy Roberts, is based in New York City. His latest release Nu-Jive Perspective is the convening of five soulful beings who take the listener on a creative journey through the architecture of Troys original compositions. The music is an eclectic, yet head-bopping concoction of Soul, Funk, R&B and Gospel music, all musically glued together by each members deep sense of Jazz etiquette.
• Fri 4/5/19 at 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Stanley Jordan
In a career that took flight in 1985 with commercial and critical acclaim, guitar virtuoso Stanley Jordan has consistently displayed a chameleonic musical persona of openness, imagination, versatility and maverick daring. He can go from bold reinventions of classical masterpieces or soulful explorations through pop-rock hits, to blazing straight ahead jazz forays and ultramodern improvisational works. Jordan can perform solo or with a group and can always be counted on to take listeners on breathless journeys into the unexpected.
• Sat 4/6/19 at 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM
The Jontavious Willis Trio
Hailing from Greenville, Ga., Jontavious Willis grew up singing gospel music at the Mount Pilgrim Baptist Church with his grandfather. At the age of 14, he came across a YouTube video of Muddy Waters playing Hoochie Coochie Man and was hooked. Thats when he set his course on the blues. He began playing all types of the Blues -- Delta, Piedmont, Texas, and Gospel.
• Sat 4/13/19 at 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Troy Roberts and Nu Jive
Two-time Grammy-nominated Australian saxophonist and composer, Troy Roberts, is based in New York City. His latest release Nu-Jive Perspective is the convening of five soulful beings who take the listener on a creative journey through the architecture of Troys original compositions. The music is an eclectic, yet head-bopping concoction of Soul, Funk, R&B and Gospel music, all musically glued together by each members deep sense of Jazz etiquette.
• Fri 4/19/19 at 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Frank Bang and the Cook County Kings
Frank Bang (Blinkal), on guitar and vocals, has played and recorded blues for the past 25 years and is a solid leader for an amazingly talented group of Chicago Bluesmen. Born and raised in Chicago, he worked his way up through the ranks to play with Blues Master and Legend, Buddy Guy.
• Sat 4/27/19 at 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Proud Mary 2! Featuring members of the Gay Mens Chorus of South Florida
Broadway, Pop
Join select members and ensembles from the acclaimed Gay Mens Chorus of South Florida for a thrilling concert featuring some of the most wonderful pop and Broadway music ever written. Oh yeah...did we mention that all of the music was written for women? Finally, the men of the Chorus get to perform their favorite diva hits publicly.
• Sun 4/28/19 at 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Kat Riggins
Kat's own musical style is a blend of the blues with hip-hop, pop, rock, gospel, and even country music. "It's all related anyway," If I can move someone to feel what I feel when I sing a song, then it's all worth it." With her own band, Blues Revival, she travels the world with the intent to "wake up the blues one song at a time!"
• Fri 5/3/19 at 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Jethro Tull's Martin Barre - A Night of Acoustic Delights
Classical, Rock
Two 60 minute sets with 15-20 minute intermission. A special evening of acoustic delights. The Martin Barre Band playing on this very special night will consist of Martin Barre, Alan Thompson, Ali Hart, Becca Langsford and Dan Crisp. Martin Barre has been the guitarist of Jethro Tull for 43 years.
• Fri 5/3/19 at 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Marlow Rosado
Two-time Grammy winner, artist, producer, and songwriter, Marlow Rosado, always delivers a high-energy, eclectic, and amped-up performance. This year he released a record called FEMINOMANIA, with all female vocalists.
• Sat 5/4/19 at 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Jethro Tull's Martin Barre - A Night of Acoustic Delights
Classical, Rock
Two 60 minute sets with 15-20 minute intermission. A special evening of acoustic delights. The Martin Barre Band playing on this very special night will consist of Martin Barre, Alan Thompson, Ali Hart, Becca Langsford and Dan Crisp. Martin Barre has been the guitarist of Jethro Tull for 43 years.
• Sun 5/5/19 at 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Jah Movement
Since the launch of the Reggae band Jah Movement in May 2015, they established a well-known name and reputation throughout Florida. They have a passion for performing live for different audiences of different ages and have won the hearts of many fans. The band comes equipped with not only the best live Reggae music but also their own touch of R&B, Soul and Funk music.
• Sat 5/11/19 at 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Mac Arnold & Plate Full O' Blues
Mac Arnold is back at it with Plate Full O Blues. Mac is one of the few remaining old school bluesmen who are still putting on a fine show. His musical journey began in the 1950's when he and his brother Leroy fashioned a guitar from a steel gas can, wood, nails, and screen wire. Mac was born in Ware Place South Carolina, one of 13 children born and raised on a sharecropper's farm. His early career included working with a young James Brown in the band, J. Floyd & the Shamrocks.
• Sun 5/12/19 at 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Shamarr Allen and the Underdawgs
Rap/Hip Hop, Funk, Jazz
Shamarr Allen and the Underdawgs is a New Orleans based band fronted by trumpeter/ lead vocalist Shamarr Allen. They bring a New Orleans party wherever they go. Shamarr Allen is the definition of New Orleans! Allen has influences in Jazz, Rock, Hip Hop, Rock, Funk, Blues, R&B and Country.
• Sun 5/19/19 at 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Yvette Norwood-Tiger
Yvette Norwood-Tiger, vocalist, songwriter, vocal coach, recording artist and The Recording Academy (GRAMMY) voting member, is a Detroit, Michigan native who hails from a family of musicians, including a father who played guitar and a mother who played drums. Yvette is the founder and director of the Palm Beach International Jazz Festival Organization. Her CDs, A'LA ELLA! and whY NoT... Love, Peace, Joy, Jazz, features music from great composers such as Cole Porter, Duke Ellington, and the Gershwins. Her current project, CD titled LOVE IS, celebrates the many aspects of love with jazz standards and original compositions. Yvettes general repertoire includes jazz standards, bebop, and Latin jazz. She performs with vocally clean and pure interpretations of the great American Songbook, while emphasizing intonation and storytelling. Her vocal styling and texture is often compared to that of Ella Fitzgerald and Billie Holiday.
• Sat 5/25/19 at 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Tito Puente Jr.
Jazz, Latin/Salsa
Son of the legendary American salsa and Latin jazz musician Tito Puente, Tito Puente, Jr. has big shoes to fill. And boy does he! Tito Puente, Jr. returns for another night of exhilarating Latin rhythms that will get your feet moving.
• Fri 5/31/19 - Sat 6/1/19 at 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM
The Chris Thomas Band Sinatra to Soul
The Chris Thomas Band is bringing collaborations like Basie and Sinatra back bigger and better than ever before to audiences all over the world. Chris Thomas is an exciting entertainer fashioned in the way of the great performers of years gone by. Chris has the style and swagger of Sinatra and the performance excitement of James Brown and Bruno Mars. A professionally trained and competitive dancer, Chris combines dance, vocal, and the best musicians to deliver an unforgettable performance.
• Sat 8/31/19 at 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM


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Ronan O'Shea
Ronan J. O'Shea is a writer and journalist from London. Bad Bread, Good Blues is his first novel
I have written for titles including New York Post, National Geographic Traveller, Medium, Evening Standard, The Independent, The Telegraph, Lonely Planet, Escapism, Foodism, Travel Weekly, LADbible, Headspace, Talkspace, bInspired, easyJet Traveller, Oryx, Hotel F&B Magazine and more.
I have also worked as a sub editor for Tatler, Vanity Fair, Thomas Cook Magazine, Oryx, bInspired and Privat Air, and a commissioning editor at British Airways. I previously worked for Square Up Media as web editor on music festival website Festival Baby.
After pitching and writing a health feature for LADbible, I've been a regular news writer for the website and a frequent contributor of sponsored content. In March 2018, the title asked me to conduct an interview on the topic of domestic abuse with Home Secretary, Amber Rudd.
I have strong experience as a news writer for The Independent and LADbible, and have written numerous advertorials (in-house) for Atlas, bInspired, Oryx, easyJet Traveller, N by Norwegian and Wizz Air.
I have also worked as a content writer for various private clients and welcome enquiries regarding freelance feature commissions, branded content and advertorial work. For business enquiries, please contact me at: email@example.com. My travel blog, The Anxious Travel Writer, can be found here.


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- $32.3-million design-build expanding treatment capacity from 10 million gallons per day (mgd) to 14.5 mgd
- Retrofit of existing facilities to support Modified Ludzack-Ettinger (MLE) treatment process
- High-efficiency design that reduces energy demand, improves lifecycle cost, and supports safe operations
- Promotes economic development through partnering with local engineering firms
- First municipal design-build water/wastewater project in Texas.
The Brownsville Public Utilities Board's (BPUB) provides quality electric, water, and wastewater services to over 50,000 customers in the City of Brownsville and surrounding area. Portions of its wastewater system are over 80 years old, and the Robindale Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) is near capacity. Funded in part by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), this $32-million renovation and expansion project will cover the city's north service area to ensure high-quality effluent water through 2025.
The design-build team of CH2M and Ambiotec Engineering Services was selected to work with BPUB providing full design, construction, startup and management services necessary to meet upcoming Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) treatment deadlines.
The plant design will deliver a technical solution that aligns with defined permit regulations within BPUB's capital budget. The base design includes elements to increase overall plant capacity, support nitrogen removal, incorporates Class B biosolids productions, and implements high-efficiency blowers.
To support nitrogen removal, the base process design modifies the existing secondary clarifiers to serve as aeration basins for the MLE activated sludge treatment process.
The CH2M team has developed innovative design technology focused on improving lifecycle cost and environmental sustainability by using "green" technology, including:
- High-efficiency turbo blowers to reduce energy use.
- Increased treatment capacity from 10 million gallons per day (mgd) to 14 mgd, to support the needs of the expanding community.
- Bioscrubber that uses biology to manage odor, without using carbon or chemicals for operation.
- UV light disinfection technology for final plant effluent disinfection, a safer and more environmentally-friendly alternative.
The flexibility of the design solution allows the plant effluent from the Robindale WWTP to be used for reuse applications if additional treatment to conform with Texas Type I reclaimed water regulations is provided in the future. This allows BPUB to add reclaimed water treatment capacity incrementally; as both the WWTP influent flow permits; and users are identified and conveyance to them is completed. Reclaimed water is a drought-proof resource that can be used for improving resacas.
This is the first municipal design-build water/wastewater project in Texas. The project achieved 100% design completion in June 2012, with construction beginning in July 2012 and schedule for substantial completion in January 2014.
As of September 2012 the project had more than 22,000 hours worked without a safety incident.


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Photo Credits: © iStockphoto.com/ Alison ConklinFor information about how to legally obtain these images, click here.
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.The National Collaborating Centre for Healthy Public Policy (NCCHPP) seeks to increase the expertise of public health actors across Canada in healthy public policy through the development, sharing and use of knowledge. Contact us. _______________________________________________.
In the Spotlight this Month.
Urban Traffic Calming and Health: Effects on Air Quality and Environmental Noise.
Urban Traffic Calming and Environmental Noise: Effects and Implications for Practice
_______________________________________________.The Centre in Action.
TOPHC 2012 - Producing Knowledge Syntheses that are Both Rigorous and Relevant to Policy Makers .
.CPHA 2012.The Centre will present several workshops at the Canadian Public Health Association's (CPHA's) Annual Conference, to be held in Edmonton from June 11-14 2012.We have organized a day-long preconference session for June 11th, where we will focus on traffic calming along with speakers Dan Burden and Catherine Berthod. Click here to read more.A workshop on Using Deliberative Processes to Inform the Development and Application of Knowledge Syntheses will be co-presented by the Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI) and the NCCHPP. This will be held on June 13th from 11:00 to 12:30.Two presentations entitled 'Traffic Calming: A Literature Review' and 'Traffic Calming and Health Inequalities' will be held on June 13 from 2:00 to 3:30.To learn more, or to register, click here (on the CPHA website). .
Citizen Participation in Health Impact Assessment: Overview of Issues.
The aim of this report is to introduce public health actors to the issues surrounding citizen participation in HIA. We will first examine the principal arguments in favour of citizen participation. We will then put these arguments into perspective, by also addressing some of the obstacles and risks associated with citizen participation in HIA.Click here to read more.Click here to download the document. 1.9 MB.
.Developmental Health Knowledge as a Catalyst for Healthy Family Policies in Canada .
This short document discusses how developmental health knowledge can act as a catalyst for family policies that support developmental health for all children in Canada and for the health of Canadian society more generally. Click here to read more.Click here to download the document. 728 K
_______________________________________________.Thank you for reading. As always, we would like to hear your comments on this and all of our work..


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Scores of South Yorkshire jobs have been put at risk after fashion retailer Bank was put into administration.
The chain, with stores in Sheffield Meadowhall and Doncaster, has 1,555 employees across the country in 84 stores.
A total of 41 people are employed at the Meadowhall store, and 17 people work at the Doncaster store in the Frenchgate Centre.
It has become the first major retail casualty of 2015 after announcing it has been put into administration, putting all 58 South Yorkshire jobs at risk.
Bank also runs a clearance store in Parkgate, Rotherham, but it is not clear if it has been affected.
Bill Dawson, Daniel Smith and Paul Meadows of Deloitte, were appointed as joint administrators to Bank Fashion Limited yesterday.
Bank was described as 'loss-making for a number of years' by Deloitte, which also said no redundancies have been made 'at this time', that stores are still open and trading as normal, and that staff have been paid.
The firm also said it has been approached by 'several parties' who have 'expressed an interest' in buying out the struggling retail chain.
Mr Dawson, joint administrator and partner in Deloitte's Restructuring Services practice, said: "Bank has struggled in a highly competitive segment of the retail industry and has been loss-making for a number of years.
"A review of the business has determined that a solvent turnaround would not be possible and so its director has sought the appointment of joint administrators.
"All stores are open as normal, staff have been paid and additional sale discounts will be implemented later this week.
"The company has already been approached by several parties who have expressed an interest in the business and the administrators are trading as a going concern with a view to progressing these options and seeking further interested parties for some or all of the business."
* Read today's other stories:
Sheffield housing market in best shape since recession began
Breaking - Man admits causing death of jasmyn Chan in Sheffield road smash
£1m festive lottery delight for South Yorkshire man


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Kuwait closes down Iranian affiliate missions, asks for diplomatic reduction
The State of Kuwait took the decision to close down the Iranian cultural mission along with other affiliate offices in the country and asked for reducing the number of Iranian diplomats operating in its embassy here, said a statement by the Foreign Ministry Thursday. According to the statement, the decision was made on the backdrop of Al-Abdali terror cell's case.
The Iranian ambassador was notified with the decision, it pointed out.
Source: KUNA
"It is hard to fail, but it is worse never to have tried to succeed."
"Envy comes from wanting something that isn't yours. But grief comes from losing something you've already had."
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Unique and Archival Materials for the Packing, Shipping, Storing and Displaying of Fine Art, Artifacts and Antiques.
145 East 57th StreetNew York, New York 10022Telephone: 1 (800) 922-5522Fax: 1 (212) email@example.com
In response to many requests, four new sizes in both lines and unlined versions have been added to accommodate deeper frames which are frequently antique. Internal dimensions of these new sizes:
Enter the number of items you would like in the boxes below and click
"Add" to add them to your cart. You can save by ordering case packs
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Scenario-driven planning – Learning to Manage Strategic Uncertainty 2009/02/20Posted by gsavix in Memorando.
19.02.2009 quinta-feira
citação do livro:
Nicholas C. Georgantzas,
William Acar
1995 – First Edition
Quorum Books, Westport, Connecticut ; London
Scenarios are about the multiple perspectives that strategic thinkers use to defeat the tyranny of dogmatism that has assailed American business for the past two decades. This book introduces the scope, methods, and uses of scenario-driven planning. Its extensive literature review, numerous examples, practical guidelines, and real-life cases show how scenarios help firms manage uncertainty, that necessary disciple of our free enterprise system.
Scenario-driven planning is a new management technology. Often, it is the technology behind the superior performance of world-class firms. Their managers use scenarios to articulate their mental models about the future and thereby make better decisions. Their outstanding performance is the result of their continuous effort to improve their strategy design, which scenario-driven planning enhances through a tireless renewal of organizational mind-sets. Computing scenarios can help a management team produce insights much richer than those expected from a single-point forecast.
In writing this book, we gathered our clues from a variety of sources – from the literature and from many colleagues and friends. We drew on talks, published works, presentations and personal communications. It is hoped that we have put them together in a way that will help ours readers get more than a glimpse of the emerging management technology of scenario-driven planning.
Sincere thanks to our mentors, friends, early draft readers, and families.
In the last decade. Western economies have felt the pinch of foreign competition, particularly from the Pacific rim nations. A recent Business Week, article reports that Edith Cresson, the French prime minister, has been marshaling European countries into organized resistance. Political barriers to business may become one of Europe's answers to the Japanese onslaught. From a practical perspective, erecting political barriers to business and trade is much like taking arms against a sea of trouble. Trade barriers are not part of the United States' mercantile tradition.
Us firms have made an implementation-oriented response to the Japanese challenge, shifting from the overcautious just in case approach to the exhilarating dare of just in time (JIT), rediscovering of statistical quality control (SQC), and placing a strong emphasis on total quality management (TQM). JIT, SQC and TQM stem from the wisdom and experience of Western Europe and the United States before World War II. While the West later abandoned these techniques, Japan both perpetuated their use and enhanced them.
Not only was the Western line of defense against foreign competitions ineffective, but if was not even sustainable. Hard times require new organizational mind-sets. Confusion still reigns in the West about the perspective from which to approach long-term strategic thinking and strategy design. In start contrast to the multidisciplinary approach to management originating from the European tradition, the US consulting tradition has been primarily mono-thematic. Consequently, most US firms are designed to function according to a simple scenario, the one representing "the official corporate future" (Schoemaker, 1993, p. 199).
Our more prominent learned societies, such as the Academy of Management and the MS/OR group, operate in near-isolation. Quantitative management scientists have devised problem-solving methods which have met with success in the military and business spheres, but have not sat well with generalists. When asked, the Japanese insist that ours is not a worker but a management problem.
Firms around the globe use scenarios to enhance institutional learning, to reengineer their systems, and to bolster productivity. In the US, however, debate is lively between those who feel that Americans do no plan enough for the long term and those who see us reach paralysis by analysis. Thus far, the "quick fixers" have dominated the business press while purists have tied up the academic literature. This state of affairs has been more favorable to strategic implementation theory than to design. We hope that this book will redress this imbalance by appealing to both the academic and the consulting publics.
Learning about the subtleties of scenario methods and their variations can produce the best of both worlds in the 1990s. One is better management of strategic uncertainty through sharpened intuition, whereas the other is conducive to a deeper understanding of the principles underlying existing scenario methods and their range of variations. In order to disseminate this information to academics as well as managers and strategy consultants, this book undertakes the following tasks.
1. Charting the principal weakness of disconnected forecasts or wishes, including their lack of compatibility both in substance and in terms of their implicit assumptions.
2. Explaining the advantage of using internally coherent scenarios or scenario bundles.
3. Explaining the advantage of using computed decision scenarios. These allow an examination of the joint consequences of changes in the environment and in a firm's strategy, and not mistaking mere environmental hipothesizing for scenario-driven planning.
This important information should bu disseminated to business managers, consultants, and academics. We try to do this here gradually, with increasingly focused chapters, and then we give illustrative examples. Our real-world examples emphasize how the value of scenario-driven planning lies in its ability to determine what changes in strategy can make its design more robust if a firm's desirable future shows signs of not happening.
Intended Audience
Planning with scenarios is exciting. It permits firms to transform themselves and their environment by managing strategic uncertainty and interdependence. At a modest price, planning with scenarios can make the work of managers and planners easier, yet more productive and rewarding.
Instructors of business policy and strategic management will find this book a useful companion to cases, for environmental and strategic scenarios bring creativity to the classroom. In addition, they complement the conventional approach to cases, that is, by argumentation alone. By computing scenarios, both student and instructor can learn much more from the strategic situations described in the cases. Action recommendations derived from computed scenarios give a whole new meaning to case analysis. Scenario-driven planning enables strategy students to move up toward higher learning and to build confidence and intuition beyond their instructor's initial insight.
Executive trainers will find the ideas underlying scenario-driven planning readily applicable to real-life strategic situations. The book will provide their course participants with a good introduction to this exciting and rapidly evolving management technology. It invites open communication and participation in a process of new information creation. Because scenario-driven planning does not solicit single-point forecasts from participants, it eliminates the need for any face-saving strategies.
Corporate planners will find in this book a critical evaluation of modern scenario techniques as well as procedures for tailoring these techniques to a firm's particular needs. Scenario-driven planning will help them revive and extend their field of competence beyound strategy design to the larger context of governing strategic uncertainty and interdependence. Those with expertise in scenarios will find the book valuable for sharing their knowledge with co-workers.
General managers concerned with creating a promising future will find a useful frameword in this book. It can help them implant the systems view into their organizations and reengineer the process of strategy design so that strategic uncertainty can be transformed into opportunities for competitive advantage. The book may even help them stem the tide of offshore competitors. It is through institutional learning that world-class firms design their future.
Rather than being simply a gift, intuition is often the result of accumulated knowledge that comes from hard analytical thinking. Because computed scenarios sharpen intuition, then speed up organization learning and better process reengineering efforts (Davenport, 1993; Tobias, 1991). A firm's capability of learning faster than its competitors may be the only sustainable competitive advantage (de Geus, 1988)
Driving Principle
Looking beyound the quick fix, Ralph Kilmann (1989) urges managers to stop seeking single-track answers to business problems. Similarly, proponents of total quality management (TQM) dismiss the United States' fixation on worker motivation, which is often viewed as the sole task of managerial work (Zeleny, 1991). The progression from fig. 1a to fig. 1b illustrates the positive effect of management technology on productivity. This is the technology to which the Japanese attribute their worldwide business success. To these two factors, strategy researchers add the cricial role of the business environment.
This book subscribes to the expanded view of fig. 1c. It examines how firms account for environmental changes in their business strategies through scenario-driven planning, which blends hard and soft components of strategy design. The book addresses basic questions about what the future may hold for this new management technology.
Part I creates the context required for answering these questions, while providing a comprehensive glossary. This is necessary because, outside our teachng in the Management Systems Area at Fordham University and Administrative Science Department at Kent State University, business courses rarely cover the material treated in this book. Assuredly, MBA and undergraduate business policy and strategy courses cover some of our topics occasionally, but then only cursorily and without the benefit of a text. Nowhere else is scenario-driven planning treated in a unified and systematic way with other important aspects of strategic intelligence.
We bring to the consulting and upper-level management audiences a better way to deal with strategic uncertainty. We do not talk about environmental scenarios alone because these are merely inputs to strategy design. Neither is our message about the usual sense of hypothesizing about a future. That may be the state of current practice, but it makes feeble use of scenarios. We promoto scenarios with an analytical twist, putting forth scenario-driven planning as a multirational inquiry process for strategic scenarios, the outcomes of modeling strategic situations.
Conceptual confusion can lead to language games at best and to operational confusion at worst (Donaldson, 1992). Using the most recent technologies available, we can avert both types of confusion. Instead of shifting their focus away from actuality and rationality, our managers can improve their understanding of the fundamental assumptions underlying changes in strategy.
- 1. leitor ambiente web - 2009/02/26
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