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Google Marketing Tools
Google has become the dominant search engine on the Internet. It would be hard to imagine a web without Google. For that matter, it would now be hard to imagine a world without Google. As frightening as that may seem to many people, it is none the less true.
For better or worst, Google has permeated into almost every aspect of our everyday life. Being Googled is now a common expression and an act carried out by millions of users around the world each day. New Google products and services are coming on stream at a frightening pace, further increasing Google's impact on our lives.
Despite this dominating presence, many people still don't realize Google offers some excellent free marketing tools for marketers and webmasters. Marketing tools which can prove extremely valuable to any webmaster or marketer trying to promote their sites or products online. Useful tools that will make your promotions easier and much more profitable.
Don't be fooled by the 'free' label, these marketing tools might be free but there are also valuable. One even wonders why Google would be giving away these tools and services for free? It probably makes good business sense in the long run, by providing these free tools Google is fostering a lot of company good-will and building up the Google brand name in the process. Good PR is good business.
Every marketer and webmaster should be taking advantage of Google's good-will and snapping up these professionally run services and marketing tools. Here's a quick run-down of the 10 most valuable free Google Internet marketing tools:
1. Google Analytics
Perhaps the premier marketing tool offered by Google. It will prove helpful to both the marketer and the webmaster. Google Analytics gives you a daily snapshot of your web site. Google Analytics analyzes your traffic, where it comes from and what it does once it enters your site. You can monitor up to three sites for free.
Google Analytics is extremely valuable in analyzing your marketing funnel, it tracks all the steps leading up to your sales or checkout page. Vital information for raising your conversion rate and ROI.
You may be placed on a waiting list for this highly in demand service from Google.
2. Google Sitemaps
Webmasters can use Google Sitemaps to almost instantly place newly created pages on their site into the Google Search Index. This is an XML file that is uploaded to Google as new pages are added on your site. Needless to say this can be a valuable service for any webmaster or marketer who wants to get their information on the web quickly.
3. Google Alerts
Be notified when someone or another site lists your site or mentions your name. Great way to keep track of all your online activities. Great way to monitor all your online business interests and products.
4. Google Froogle
Froogle is Google's price directory! It simply lists all the cheapest prices for different products on the web. For marketers and webmasters who are promoting products, it should be studied and analyzed. Optimizing your site's content for Froogle may prove to be very beneficial.
Follow Froogle or Google directions exactly on how to list or display products on your site. Froogle will spider your site and display your prices and products to thousands of targeted customers. That, as they say, is priceless.
5. Google Checkout
Not exactly free but for those marketers who use AdWords – for every $1 spent on AdWords you can process $10 for free. You can also place the shopping cart logo on your AdWords ad and take advantage of the prestige and trust the Google brand name has built up.
Over time marketers may find this tool to be very effective and valuable.
6. Google eBlogger
Blogging has become vitally important to the health and functioning of your web site. No site should be without at least one blog and RSS feed. Creating a blog (online journal) on the topic of your web site or product will bring in extra traffic and targeted customers. eBlogger is a simple free blogging service that even lets you publish or post your blog files to your own web site server. Keep in mind, each blog has that all important Google Blog Search bar.
7. Google Toolbar – Enterprise Version
Try the new enterprise version of the Google Toolbar for your company or business. Integrates countless features with all your employees or corporate network. These could include a common customer database, company calendar, financial news…
Keep in mind, Google also ranks every page it indexes on a scale of 0-10. While it is important to know the Page Rank of your own pages, it is even more important to know the PR of your competitor's pages. You can use the toolbar to get the PR of each page you're visiting. Extremely helpful information for webmasters and marketers to know when forming online linking or business arrangements.
8. Google Groups
Every marketer knows the important of having a large contact list of people with a similar interest. Social networking will play an ever increasing role in your success on the web. Just look at the growing popularity of sites like MySpace and LiveJournal.
Google groups is another form of social and business networking that every marketer should be aware of and pursuing.
9. Google Adsense
One simple way to monetize your web content is to use Google Adsense. Just place the Adsense code on your site and receive a check from Google each month. For webmasters who are not really into online marketing (does such creatures exist?) Adsense can be a painless way to earn extra income from your site.
For professional marketers using the Adsense system can supply a tremendous amount of marketing information on the keywords in their particular niche. It keeps the marketer informed on what keywords are being bid on and how much advertisers are willing to pay.
Adsense also has an excellent real-time tracking system you can use to keep track of all your important web pages.
10. Google Writely
A recent addition to Google's stable of free products. Writely is a full featured online writing editor with spellcheck and great collaborating features. It also lets you publish your content directly to your blogs. One feature that may be of interest to marketers, it lets your save files in the popular download format of PDF.
Lets face it, until video takes over the web in four or five years time – the written word is still king on the net. It is the medium that markets, promotes and sells your content or products. Writely will help you write better.
Honorable Mention – Google Trends
This Google program will let you search popular trends, important for marketers searching for the latest hot product to promote. You can also break down these trends by different regions.
Please take note that signing up for a Google account will usually help you in obtaining most of these free services or programs. Some of these programs may have to be applied for individually. But be assured, all these free Google marketing tools are well worth your time and effort. They will make your marketing easier and they will help any webmaster or marketer run their online business more efficiently.


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Our goal is to serve microbial ecologist and the wider community by supporting research and education. We strive to be open and approachable by keeping members updated via our newsletters and sharing all our reports online. Below you can find an overview of our goals and products:
3 Key Activities of ISME
The Society
Anyone with an interest in Microbial Ecology can become a member. For more information about the memberships and its benefits please click here.
The society enjoys close collaborations with other key scientific organizations, and has established effective scientific interactions in all geographical regions through a network of scientific leaders who serve as ISME National Ambassadors.
ISME reaches out to the wider-community, sponsoring/co-organize external events (workshops, meetings, lectures), providing travel grants and other fundings and we focus on under-developed regions in these fundings too.
The Symposia
Organized every two years, the ISME symposia are the largest not-for-profit international meetings addressing the wide range of topics in Microbial Ecology. With an average delegate number of 2200 people representing over 50 countries worldwide we are truly international. At the symposia we display the current trends and topics in microbial ecology by organizing lectures, roundtables, poster viewing sessions and social events, with a break-even budget. The next meeting, ISME19, will be held in Cape Town, South Africa, 2024. We happily invite you to attend!
The ISME Journal & ISME Communications
The journals are produced by ISME Publications bv in cooperation with our publisher partner Oxford University Press. ISME J currently holds impact factor 11.0 The journals address interdisciplinary microbial ecology. More about The ISME Journal and ISME Communications.
Photo credit: Dr. Roland Hatzenpichler, California Institute of Technology, USA
ISME is registered at the Chamber of Commerce in Arnhem, The Netherlands (#09191073), RSIN 820279328

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text: The checkered past of Capt. Jack Sparrow (Johnny Depp) catches up to him when he encounters Angelica (Penélope Cruz), a beautiful pirate that Jack once loved then left. Angelica forces him to accompany her to the Queen Anne's Revenge, the ship of the notorious Blackbeard (Ian McShane). Accompanied by a zombie crew, the trio sets sail to find the legendary Fountain of Youth. However, Jack's rival, Barbossa (Geoffrey Rush), also seeks the fountain, as does a ship from Spain.


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Synthetic collagen invented at Rice University may help wounds heal by directing the natural clotting of blood.
The material, KOD, mimics natural collagen, a fibrous protein that binds cells together into organs and tissues. It could improve upon commercial sponges or therapies based on naturally derived porcine or bovine-derived collagen now used to aid healing during or after surgery.
The lab of Jeffrey Hartgerink, a chemist and bioengineer based at Rice's BioScience Research Collaborative, developed synthetic collagen several years ago. The lab's analysis of KOD for use as a hemostat, or clotting agent, appears this month in the American Chemical Society journal Biomacromolecules.
Hartgerink and lead author Vivek Kumar, a postdoctoral researcher at Rice, viewed clotting as a good avenue of investigation for practical application of KOD, a synthetic protein made of 36 amino acids that self-assemble into triple-helix nanofibers and hydrogels.
"We showed we can make small peptides that we can easily synthesize chemically, which means we can purify them for a completely homogeneous material," Hartgerink said. "Those peptides self-assemble into fibers that in turn become a hydrogel. This hierarchy of assembly — from a peptide to a triple helix to a fiber to a hydrogel — mimics much of the hierarchy of assembly of natural collagen."
Hartgerink said collagen's importance goes beyond its role as a scaffold for cells. "How a cell determines what it's going to do depends in large part on the chemical surface it's attached to," he said.
"We've been thinking about KOD for hemostasis for a long time. Natural collagen is already used in a variety of on-the-market products for hemostasis, but there are benefits to a synthetic system. We can avoid the immune problems associated with using collagen from cows, for example. The ability to synthesize KOD chemically gives us a pure product."
Lab tests showed KOD hydrogel traps red blood cells to stop bleeding and, unlike commercial barriers, binds and activates platelets that form clots to promote healing. The tests also determined KOD does not promote inflammation.
"We wouldn't envision using KOD for major trauma, because there are conventional methods like tourniquets or using clay-based materials that are much more effective in that immediate situation," said Kumar, who often used his own blood to test the hydrogel against commercial hemostats. "We see using this for more specific, site-directed applications, like to stop surgical bleeding."
"This is not going to be a battlefield dressing or something a first responder is likely to use," Hartgerink said. "But when the goal is to promote delicate and natural healing where scarring is a concern, this can be more nuanced and effective."
While validation is needed for KOD to be used in operating rooms, the researchers are already considering applications for wound healing and graft support. "We have the flexibility to incorporate higher levels of complexity within our peptide matrix," Kumar said. "We can incorporate cell adhesion or degradation sites to recruit cells or draw in different components from native tissue."


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Folk Stories From Southern Nigeria, by Elphinstone Dayrell, [1910], at sacred-texts.com
IN the beginning of the world when the Creator had made men and women and the animals, they all lived together in the creation land. The Creator was a big chief, past all men, and being very kindhearted, was very sorry whenever any one died. So one day he sent for the dog, who was his head messenger, and told him to go out into the world and give his word to all people that for the future whenever any one died the body was to be placed in the compound, and wood ashes were to be thrown over it; that the dead body was to be left on the ground, and in twenty-four hours it would become alive again.
When the dog had travelled for half a day he began to get tired; so as he was near an old woman's house he looked in, and seeing a bone with some meat on it he made a meal off it, and then went to sleep, entirely forgetting the message which had been given him to deliver.
After a time, when the dog did not return, the Creator called for a sheep, and sent him out with the same message. But the sheep was a very foolish one, and being hungry, began eating the sweet grasses by the wayside. After a time, however, he remembered that he had a message to deliver, but forgot what it was exactly; so as he went about among the people he told them that the message the Creator had given him to tell the people, was that whenever any one died they should be buried underneath the ground.
A little time afterwards the dog remembered his message, so he ran into the town and told the people that they were to place wood ashes on the dead bodies and leave them in the compound, and that they would come to life again after twenty-four hours. But the people would not believe him, and said, "We have already received the word from the Creator by the sheep, that all dead bodies should be buried." In consequence of this the dead bodies are now always buried, and the dog is much disliked and not trusted as a messenger, as if he had not found the bone in the old woman's house and forgotten his message, the dead people might still be alive.


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Black indowestern with zardoshi work
It's simple and understated, but it manages to capture your heart. With all of its components and creation method, it is simple, sober, and attractive. Open the door to occasions with this light-coloured ensemble and dazzle everyone.
Notes: Color variations are possible due to lighting and device differences during photography and viewing. Please note that the outfit's color may appear slightly different due to digital photography.
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The KTunerFlash V2 Touch Unit is the new All-In-One solution from KTuner.
Part numbers for usable ECUs include:MT37820-RL5-A01 through A0737820-RL5-A11 through A12ATComing Soon.
The KTunerFlash V2 Touch features a 5″ touchscreen display that can show essential sensor data in real-time as a digital dash display. Though it's meant as a handheld a simple Dual-T bracket can be added to allow mounting on a variety of inexpensive Dual-T mounts.
Through a simple to use touch interface you can choose between different layouts, multiple data items, and even color options on layouts that support color changes.
Via full integration with our KTuner Tuning Software you are able to load the factory tune and multiple custom tunes to the KTunerFlash V2 Touch allowing you to switch tunes without the need for a laptop. Easily flash back to factory with the touch of the screen. If you're making quick changes or on the dyno you can also flash through the KTunerFlash V2 Touch without having to load the tune to the unit first, as a pass-through device.
5 Programmable LEDs can be set to show any combination of colors (RGB) and even allow for fading between a start and end color based on your settings. Customizable intensity settings for each breakpoint allow you to fade in or out at your desired breakpoints. Warnings allow an LED to flash rapidly to easily grab your attention. This can be used for shiftlights, an overheat warning, overboost warning, and other options.
KTunerFlash V2 Touch features On Board Logging With Programmable On/Off Parameters for recording datalogs without a laptop! We allow up to 1000 datalogs to be recorded with no limit on length, so you'll never miss a beat. Quickly enable or disable on board logging from the menu and once your parameters are met it will record all essential data for later review.
KTunerFlash V2 Touch has built-in bluetooth integration. With a supporting app, like TunerView for Android ($5), you are also able to add additional gauge integration for real-time data display and more. The TunerView app allows you to use your Android device as a video camera and overlay real-time data from the KTunerFlash V2 Touch.


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47When Jesus saw Nathanael coming towards him, he said of him, Here is truly an Israelite in whom there is no deceit! 48Nathanael asked him, Where did you come to know me? Jesus answered, I saw you under the fig tree before Philip called you. 49Nathanael replied, Rabbi, you are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel! 50Jesus answered, Do you believe because I told you that I saw you under the fig tree? You will see greater things than these. 51And he said to him, Very truly, I tell you,* you will see heaven opened and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of Man.
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DeltaV™ Remote Client allows you to locate full-function operator and engineering workstations remote from the DeltaV™ control network.
Engineers can configure and troubleshoot DeltaV™ systems from their desktops with a direct LAN connection or from remote locations using any Microsoft-supported communications method. Operator Interface capabilities are also provided to personal computers or thin-client hardware located on the plant LAN or other remote locations.


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For 60 years, the Grugahalle has guaranteed top-quality entertainment: Visitors can look forward to a wide range of musical styles, experience comedy greats and always discover new event formats. Anything is possible.
As the centre of the Rhine-Ruhr cultural landscape, the Grugahalle presents jazz, pop and rock stars from around the world. It is a show stage and concert hall for stars and orchestras, and a sports venue for tennis, handball, gymnastics, boxing and football. It is a circus ring and ice palace. Whether federal party rallies, church gatherings, general meetings or trade union meetings, everything happens under the landmarked roof of the butterfly.


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Once upon a time, setting up a business meant opening up a shop somewhere where you could be sure that customers would come to see you.
You needed to order stock and keep the shop tidy, well-heated or ventilated, and you needed to always be there.
All of this meant that starting to sell would be preceded by weeks, even months of extremely diligent work, and with no guarantee of success anyone looking to set up a business would often decide that, on balance, the risk was too big.
Now those problems are things of the past, and the potential businessperson can get things up and running very quickly.
The thing about "bricks and mortar" businesses is that they relied a lot on location and the other factors mentioned above. By going electronic, your sales room can be a small study under your stairs and your customers can be anybody.
There is plenty of technology available which allows you to process payments electronically from a customer's credit card or online banking facility.
But even if you are not in a position to do this, you can set up a PayPal account and do your selling on eBay. Scarcely any initial outlay for you, and potential for the money to come flowing in with scarcely any delay.
And now you can do business in your pajamas at 1.30am. so many of the obstacles to someone hoping to make a way in the business world have been removed, and it is all thanks to the Internet.


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In my last Superstition Review blog post, I wrote about how to have the best possible experience at writer's workshops and conferences. At that point in my life, I'd started branching out from the big conferences, like AWP, that can feel overwhelming, and finding smaller, more personal conference experiences that combined a little workshopping and a little craft. I still find great value in these experiences and attended the Kentucky Women Writers Conference this September for the first time in several years; however, what I'm coming to understand about myself, is that the most productive experiences for my writing–times when I can actually get the job done–are not conferences or workshops, but residencies and retreats.
Of course, I am not saying anything revolutionary here. Writers and artists have been going to residencies and colonies for a century or more, communing with other artists, secluding themselves from the "real world" to create their craft. There is a certain romanticism that comes with thinking about places like Yaddo and McDowell. One imagines lots of champagne, and long walks, and beautiful people lounging around thinking deep and beautiful thoughts. There is a certain prestige connected to attending these colonies, and what writer doesn't want to find themselves among the small and elite group accepted to the "best places"? Here is the truth, though: we aren't all going to get there, for a variety of reasons. Another truth: just because these are the "best places" for some, does not mean they are the best for all.
In 2015, I decided I needed to see what this writer's residence business was all about, and applied for entrance to the Virginia Center for the Creative Arts. VCCA is on a beautiful compound about six hours from where I live (so driveable) and not far from family members that live in Fredericksburg, VA (in case, you know, I break a limb or something). I am lucky enough that I could take two weeks in the summer and head to Amherst, VA (just outside Lynchburg). I was doubly lucky to receive a grant from the Mid-Atlantic Arts Foundation that paid for my stay.
I was assigned to a coveted location (though I didn't know that at the time). I was in one of the apartment studios, so I slept and worked in the same location, which was separate from where most of the other residents were staying. There were sculptors, painters, composers, other fiction writers and poets. Every evening at dinner I listened to people talk about their amazing projects, and felt incredibly inferior. I don't know that I was, and everyone was very kind to me, but my own insecurities and social awkwardness were inhibiting the work I'd set out to do.
It was only towards the end of my time at VCCA, when I'd begun finally to adjust to my surroundings, take lots of walks, and relax at dinner, that I became a bit more productive. I came away with a couple of new stories–one that I know I would not have written had I not been inspired by some things that happened there. It was also very helpful when my friend, the excellent writer Laura Long who lives in nearby Lynchburg, rescued me for an evening, took me out to dinner and a poetry reading, and told me that she'd felt much the same way her first time at VCCA, that–in fact–lots of people do. Someday I might go back, give it another shot.
Last summer, I decided to try and arrange my own little retreat. I would not spend money on applications, but on rent. I posted a general question to Facebook, asking for ideas about a place where I might seclude myself for a few days. I had a ton of amazing suggestions for rental cabins and resorts. One friend offered her entire house while she was traveling. Another suggested Friends of Silence, a retreat community here, in my own state, not far from where my friend Melissa lives. I started looking into Friends of Silence and, even though the dates I wanted were pretty close to the date I started my queries, I was able to confirm a reservation for a cabin (which actually turned out to be a pretty large house). I was too late to reserve the smaller places that would been a little cheaper and more suitable to a solo resident (like the yurt–yes, the yurt), but the price was still very reasonable and the location ideal.
There's remote, and then there is remote. My cabin was at the very top of a long, windy road. Actually, there was a road, which then turned into a gravel road, and then turned to dirt. From the large back deck of the cabin, I could look out over the mountains. Somewhere down below was the Potomac River. I was there for four days and saw not one other person. I heard a bear, but luckily didn't see one. I walked the labyrinth, a meditative rock garden. It was totally magical. And I did almost no writing.
I was distracted by my solitude. When I did finally sit down to write, I wrote about being alone. Again, it was also near the end of my time with Friends of Silence that I was able to settle down and do some work.
For some, being completely isolated–no people, no outside influences (like tv, radio, internet) is just want they need. For me, though, I've realized that when I'm completely isolated, I think a lot about being completely isolated. I miss tv because it helps my brain calm down a little and then I can get back to work. I've decided to stop feeling guilty about this. I want to be out of my house, but I also need some of those familiar comforts in order to feel like myself. Too many people is too much, no people is not enough. What is a girl to do?
So far, the very best and most productive experiences I've had have been at the Troublesome Creek Writers Retreats at Hindman Settlement School in Hindman, Kentucky. These retreats–which happen twice a year and last from a Friday evening to a Sunday morning–take place at the same location as the famous Appalachian Writers' Workshop. If you're a writer living in the Appalachian region, chances are you've been told that you need to get to Hindman, and I concur. The retreat is a smaller, condensed version of the workshop with only about 20-25 people attending.
The very first time I stepped out of my car there, I knew this place was different. It felt like home, like a place I knew and understood, and that understood me. I know that sounds crazy, but that's how it was.
The retreats are loosely organized. Each as a facilitator, a writer who organizes a couple of optional craft classes and a community reading at the end of the weekend. Primarily, this is a weekend designed for writing. You are encouraged to do what feels best for you. There are community dinners where people sit on rickety chairs and eat excellent home cooking and talk. I have never come home from Hindman without having written a new story–sometimes three. I've done as much there in a couple days as I did at VCCA in two weeks.
The difference, you see, is me. And the moral of my story here is to find what works for you. Just because everyone says the thing to do is to "go to Breadloaf" or "go to Yaddo", doesn't mean that these will be the best, most productive experience for you.
It's also really important for you to determine what "productive" means for you at that moment, and what you hope to get out of the experience. For instance, I expect very different things from AWP than I expect from Troublesome Creek Writers Retreat. At AWP, I want to learn from other presenters, fangirl when I see some famous writers, and hopefully find some good books. I know going in that I will likely not write a word. That conference is not productive for me in that way.
Also, don't be afraid to try a bunch of different things until you get what you want. In April, I'm going back to Hindman, but my friend Melissa and I have also talked about going to a resort in Maryland for a weekend or getting a cabin in Hocking Hills, Ohio for a self-made retreat. That will be a little isolated, but not so much so that it will be distracting because another person will be there, sharing that creative spirit. We've also both applied for the first time to Barrelhouse Magazine's Writer Camp in August. Who knows how that will be, but I'm excited to find out.
Stay tuned. My next dispatch may be from a yurt high in the Appalachian Mountains, a cabin along Troublesome, a hammock at Writers Camp, or maybe even near a lake in Wales. Happy retreating!


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Dr. Nicholas Franco, MD, Explains Bladder Tumors and Bladder Cancers: Differences, Causes, and Treatments
Michigan, US, 11th June 2024, ZEX PR WIRE, Dr. Nicholas Franco MD, a retired urologist with a career spanning Montreal, New Orleans, and Southwest Florida, provides an in-depth explanation of bladder tumors and cancers. He is expounding the difference between superficial bladder tumors, bladder cancer, and Carcinoma in situ (CIS), as well as their causes and treatment options.
Dr. Franco states that bladder cancer typically begins in the urothelial cells that line the inside of the bladder. These cells, he says, are also found in the kidneys and the tubes (ureters) that connect the kidneys to the bladder, though urothelial cancer is more prevalent in the bladder. Superficial bladder cancer, also known as non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer, Dr. Franco adds, accounts for about 75 percent of new bladder cancer cases. This type of cancer is confined to the lining of the bladder and has not spread beyond it.
Superficial bladder tumors, Dr. Franco says, represent a heterogeneous group of cancers. They include tumors that are papillary and limited to the mucosa, high-grade flat tumors confined to the epithelium, and those invasive into the submucosa or lamina propria. The primary goals of treating superficial bladder tumors, he says, are to reduce tumor recurrence and prevent progression to more aggressive forms of cancer. This, he says, helps avoid the need for more intensive therapies.
According to Dr. Nicholas Franco, carcinoma in situ (CIS) is a type of bladder tumor where cancer cells grow locally within the epithelium but do not invade the basement membrane or subepithelial connective tissue. CIS, he states, is characterized by atypical cells throughout the epithelium, with a marked loss of polarity in the epithelial tissue. This condition, he says, can progress to invasive cancer if left untreated.
Dr. Franco notes that the potential causes of bladder cancer are multifaceted. They include environmental factors, such as exposure to certain chemicals and smoking, a significant risk factor. Chronic bladder inflammation and infections, family history, and specific genetic mutations also contribute to the development of bladder cancer.
The symptoms of superficial bladder cancer, Dr. Franco says, often include blood in the urine, frequent urination, a persistent need to urinate despite an empty bladder, pain or burning sensation during urination, and a weak urine stream. These symptoms can mimic those of urinary tract infections (UTIs), making it crucial to seek medical advice for an accurate diagnosis.
Dr. Franco notes that recent research has advanced the understanding of bladder cancer, mainly through molecular mechanisms. A study by researchers from Aarhus University in Denmark, he says, classified early-stage urothelial carcinomas into three primary classes, each with distinct molecular and disease characteristics. These classifications, Dr. Franco notes, provide insights into the cell cycle, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and differentiation processes involved in bladder cancer, potentially leading to targeted treatments based on genetic mutations and molecular pathways.
Treatment options for bladder cancer, Dr. Franco says, vary based on the type and stage of the tumor. For superficial bladder cancer, treatments aim to remove or destroy cancer cells while preserving bladder function. Standard therapies, Dr. Franco says, include transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT), where the cancer is surgically removed via the urethra. Intravesical treatment, which involves delivering medication directly into the bladder, is used to treat superficial tumors and CIS. He states that, Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) therapy, a type of immunotherapy, is particularly effective for CIS.
For more advanced cases or recurrent bladder cancer, Dr. Franco notes, radical cystectomy, the surgical removal of the bladder, may be necessary. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy, he adds, are additional options for treating invasive bladder cancer.
Dr. Franco also emphasizes the importance of early detection and personalized treatment plans for effective management of bladder cancer. Regular check-ups and consultations with healthcare professionals, he says, are crucial for at-risk individuals or those experiencing symptoms.
As Dr. Nicholas Franco, MD, enjoys his retirement, his legacy of excellence in urological care inspires and informs the medical community. His expertise provides invaluable guidance in understanding and treating bladder tumors and cancers, contributing to improved patient outcomes and advancing medical knowledge.
About Author
Disclaimer: The views, suggestions, and opinions expressed here are the sole responsibility of the experts. No Market Sounds journalist was involved in the writing and production of this article.


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Photograph of Vincent van Gogh
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Does Vincent portray his age in his self portraits as in his photograph?
What about that collar and jacket as in most of his self portraits?, just as Dr. Gachet's jacket.
Here in his drawing you will see every hair is drawn from the photo.
Who knew Vincent had a sty on his eye, see it? Why would he have drawn that perhaps because it is in his photograph.
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US officially rejoins Paris climate accord as Biden administration works on new 2030 emissions goal
LOS ANGELES - World leaders welcomed the United States' official return to the Paris climate accord Friday, but politically trickier steps lie just ahead for President Joe Biden, including setting a tough national target in coming months for cutting damaging fossil fuel emissions.
And even as Biden noted the country's first day back in the climate pact, the globe's dangerous warming was just one of a long list of urgent problems he raised in a video speech to European leaders on Friday, a month into his administration. Before bringing up climate issues, he touched on the global pandemic, sputtering national economies and tense relations with China, among other matters that threaten to impede and delay tackling the nation's status as the world's top carbon polluter after China.
Despite all the other challenges, Biden said, speaking to the Munich security conference, "we can no longer delay or do the bare minimum to address climate change. This is a global existential crisis, and all of us will suffer if we fail."
Biden signed an executive order on his first day in office reversing the pullout ordered by President Donald Trump. Trump said soon after he took office that he would start the process of pulling the U.S. from the Paris accord, but it didn't take effect until Nov. 4, 2020, because of provisions in the agreement.
RELATED: Paris Climate Agreement: What it is, how it started and what happens now that the US has rejoined
Officially, the United States was only out of the worldwide global climate pact for 107 days. It was part of Trump's withdrawal from global allegiances in general and his oft-stated but false view that global warming was a laughably mistaken take by the world's scientists.
More broadly, Trump reversed Obama-era initiatives to rein in oil, gas and coal emissions and opened new federal lands and waters to exploration and drilling. Biden is working to overturn those measures and additionally has pledged a $2 trillion remake of U.S. power grids, transportation systems and other infrastructure to sharply cut fossil fuel pollution.
While Friday's return is heavily symbolic, world leaders say they expect America to prove its seriousness to the cause. They are particularly eager for the United States to announce its new national 2030 target for cutting fossil fuel emissions, which scientists agree are altering the Earth's climate and worsening the extremes of drought, hurricanes, flooding and other natural disasters.
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said Thursday that the official American reentry "is itself very important," as is Biden's announcement that the U.S. will return to providing climate aid to poorer nations, as promised in 2009.
"It's not about how many days. It's the political symbolism that the largest economy refuses to see the opportunity of addressing climate change." said Christiana Figueres, the former United Nations climate chief. She was one of the leading forces in hammering out the mostly voluntary 2015 agreement in which nations set their own goals to reduce greenhouse gases.
One fear was that other nations would follow America in abandoning the climate fight, but none did, Figueres said. She said the real issue was four years of climate inaction by the Trump administration. American cities, states and businesses still worked to reduce heat-trapping carbon dioxide but without the participation of the federal government.
"We've lost too much time," Figueres said.
RELATED: Biden signs executive orders on COVID-19, immigration, rejoining Paris climate accord and WHO
Inger Andersen, the environment program director at the United Nations, said America has to prove its leadership to the rest of the world, but she said she has no doubt it will when it submits its required emissions cutting targets.
"We hope they will translate into a very meaningful reduction of emissions, and they will be an example for other countries to follow," Guterres said.
The Biden administration is working now on a target that balances meaningful cuts in emissions with political and financial realities. Settling on a U.S. emissions goal by April, when Biden plans to host world leaders for an Earth Day summit, would help the administration prod other countries for ambitious emissions cuts as well. That spring meeting should see countries start "to put the down payments on the table," John Kerry, Biden's climate envoy, said Friday.
Republican leaders already are fighting it.
Wyoming Sen. John Barrasso, the top Republican on the Senate energy panel, has criticized Biden for rejoining the Paris accord, tweeting: "Returning to the Paris climate agreement will raise Americans' energy costs and won't solve climate change. The Biden administration will set unworkable targets for the United States while China and Russia can continue with business as usual."
University of Maryland environment professor Nate Hultman, who worked on the Obama administration's official Paris goal, said he expects a 2030 target of cutting carbon dioxide emissions between 40% and 50% from the 2005 baseline levels.
A longtime international goal, included in the Paris accord with an even more stringent target, is to keep warming below 2 degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit) since pre-industrial times. The world has already warmed 1.2 degrees Celsius (2.2 degrees Fahrenheit) since that time.
The United States' return to the Paris accord and an ambitious target for emissions cuts would make limiting warming "to well below 2 degrees — not just to 2 degrees but below 2 degrees — a lot more likely," said climate scientist Zeke Hausfather, energy and climate director for the Breakthrough Institute.
Knickmeyer reported from Oklahoma City. Associated Press writer Matthew Daly in Washington contributed to this report.
The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute's Department of Science Education. The AP is solely responsible for all content.


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Grow Your Business by Increasing Process Efficiency
In previous blogs we have examined three of the four ways you can grow your business. In this final post in the series we look at the fourth way to grow your business - increase the effectiveness of each process in your business.
This is really the last piece of the jig saw and glues the whole series together. The truth is, your business will never reach its full profit potential without efficient systems and processes. It would also be very difficult to implement the ideas we discussed in the first 3 methods unless the business is functioning smoothly. Technology can help, the right people are critical but without proper systems and processes the 'machine' won't function very well. Are your processes streamlined, documented, consistent and standard?
In business, the definition of a process is 'a series of steps and activities that transform an input into an output that is valued by the customer'. Basically your business is a series of processes including production, marketing, selling, distribution and planning. The quality of these processes really determine the quality of the outcomes. For example, increasing the number of customers will depend on the effectiveness of your marketing processes while retaining your customers will hinge on how good your customer service processes are.
To illustrate the importance of efficient processes let's assume your business is struggling to win new customers. You might think the solution is to give your website a makeover or ramp up your marketing budget to drive more leads. However, the issue might not be the number of leads you are getting, it could be the failure to convert those leads into customers. That's a sales process that needs improvement and the solution might be to get your sales team to perform more effectively or respond to emails and telephone enquiries faster. The secret is to identify the inefficiencies and make changes, not necessarily throw more money and resources at your website, advertising or marketing.
Most owner/managers don't see their business as a series of processes. However, it's important to examine each of your processes and identify what's working, what's not working and what needs working on. The rate of technological change has forced us to review our processes because there always seems to be a better, more efficient way to do things on the horizon. In the above example, you could measure and monitor the average time your staff respond to emails and phone calls plus measure the conversion rate for every member of your sales team. There may be no need to spend any money, just improve the processes so your team convert more leads to sales.
It is an ongoing challenge to improve the processes in your business but they can drive productivity and profit improvement. This might involve automating processes, improving facilities, implementing technologies or training staff. The processes also include the administrative side of your business such as the potential to use cloud based accounting software, the process of recruiting and employing staff and distribution.
The Four Ways of growing a business work best when all four cogs are working together. In fact, if you could increase each one of these four factors by just 10% the compound effect would be a staggering 46.4% increase in your revenue.
The mistake many business owners make is they focus on just the customer/sales process and ignore the other processes. For example, we find a lot of businesses are focused on winning new customers and almost ignore their existing customers who should be targeted to come back, buy more often and increase their average sale value.
A report prepared for the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) in connection with the public inquiry "Reconnecting the Customer" suggests business owners should address customer retention strategies before acquisition strategies because:
- Increasing customer retention by only 2% has the same effect on profits as cutting costs by 10%
- Reducing customer defection rates by 5% can increase profits by as much as 125% and
- It costs 5 to 7 times as much to acquire as retain customer
If you're looking to grow your business talk to us today.


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- Events
Marlin, an anxious and over-protective clownfish, lives in the Great Barrier Reef with his kid Nemo, who longs to explore the world beyond their anemone home. But when Nemo is captured and taken to Sydney, Marlin faces his fears and sets off on an epic adventure across the ocean. With the help of lovable characters such as optimistic Dory, laid-back sea turtle Crush, and the supportive Tank Gang, Marlin and Nemo both overcome challenges on their journey to find each other and themselves.
Featuring memorable songs from the Tony Award winning songwriting team Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez such as "Just Keep Swimming," "Fish Are Friends Not Food," and "Go With the Flow," Finding Nemo JR. brings a vibrant underwater world to life on stage in a story full of family, friendship, and adventure.


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Privacy Policy
a) Personal data
Through our Web site, Nimans will not collect any personal data about you (e.g. your name, address, telephone number or e-mail address), unless you voluntarily choose to provide us with it (e.g. by registration, survey), respectively, provide your consent, or unless otherwise permitted by applicable laws and regulations for the protection of your personal data.
b) Nimans' Commitment to Data Privacy Protection
Protecting the security and privacy of your personal data is important to us; therefore, we conduct our business in compliance with applicable laws on data privacy protection and data security. We hope the policy outlined below will help you understand what data Nimans may collect; how we use it and safeguard that data and with whom we may share it.
c) Purpose of Use
When you do provide us with personal data, we usually use it to respond to your inquiry, process your order or provide you access to specific information or offers. Also, to support our customer relationship with you:
• we may store and process personal data and share it with our affiliates to better understand your business needs and how we can improve our products and services; or
• we (or a third party on our behalf) may use personal data to contact you about an offer in support of your business needs or to conduct online surveys to understand better our customers' needs.
If you choose not to have your personal data used to support our customer relationship (especially direct marketing or market research), we will respect your choice. We do not sell or otherwise market your personal data to third parties.
d) Purpose Limitation
Nimans will collect, use or disclose personal data supplied by you online only for the purposes disclosed to you, unless the disclosure:
• is a use of the personal data for any additional purpose that is directly related to the original purpose for which the personal data was collected,
• is necessary to prepare, negotiate and perform a contract with you,
• is required by law or the competent governmental or judicial authorities,
• is necessary to establish or preserve a legal claim or defence,
• is necessary to prevent fraud or other illegal activities, such as wilful attacks on Nimans' information technology systems.
e) Communications or Utilisation Data
Through your use of telecommunications services to access our Web site, your communications data (e.g. Internet protocol address) or utilisation data (e.g. information on the beginning, end and extent of each access, and information on the telecommunications services you accessed) are technically generated and could conceivably relate to personal data. To the extent that there is a compelling necessity, the collection, processing and use of your communications or utilisation data will occur and will be performed in accordance with the applicable data privacy protection legal framework.
f) Non-Personal Data Collected Automatically
When you access our Web site, we may automatically (i.e., not by registration) collect non-personal data (e.g. type of Internet browser and operating system used, domain name of the Web site from which you came, number of visits, average time spent on the site, pages viewed). We may use this data and share it with our affiliates to monitor the attractiveness of our Web sites and improve their performance or content.
g) "Cookies" – Information Stored Automatically on Your Computer
When you view one of our Web sites, we may store some data on your computer in the form of a "cookie" to automatically recognize your PC next time you visit. Cookies can help us in many ways, for example, by allowing us to tailor a Web site to better match your interests or to store your password to save you having to re-enter it each time. If you do not wish to receive cookies, please configure your Internet browser to erase all cookies from your computer's hard drive, block all cookies or to receive a warning before a cookie is stored.
h) Children
It is important to protect the privacy of children on-line and encourage parents or guardians to spend time on-line with their children to participate in and monitor their online activities. We do not collect personal data from children under the age of 16, even with parental consent.
Note to parents of children under the age of 16. We recommend that parents/guardians regularly check and monitor their children's use of e-mail and other on-line activities.
i) Security
To protect your personal data against accidental or unlawful destruction, loss or alteration and against unauthorized disclosure or access, Nimans will use technical and organisational security measures.
j) Links to Other Web Sites
Nimans' Web site contain links to other Web sites. Nimans is not responsible for the privacy practices or the content of other Web sites.
k) Questions and Comments
Nimans will respond to reasonable requests to review your personal data and to correct, amend or delete any inaccuracies. If you have any questions or comments about the Nimans' Data Privacy Protection Policy (e.g. to review and update your personal data), please click on "Contact Us" at the top of any page and submit your request. As the Internet matures, so will our Data Privacy Protection Policy. We will post changes to our Data Privacy Protection Policy on this page. Please check this page regularly to keep up-to-date.
l) Use of Google Analytics
Nimans' web site uses Google Analytics, a web analytics service provided by Google, Inc. ("Google"). Google Analytics uses "cookies", which are text files placed on your computer, to help the website analyse how users use the site. The information generated by the cookie about your use of the website (including your IP address) will be transmitted to and stored by Google on servers in the United States. Google will use this information for the purpose of evaluating your use of the website, compiling reports on website activity for website operators and providing other services relating to website activity and internet usage. Google may also transfer this information to third parties where required to do so by law, or where such third parties process the information on Google's behalf. Google will not associate your IP address with any other data held by Google. You may refuse the use of cookies by selecting the appropriate settings on your browser, however please note that if you do this you may not be able to use the full functionality of this website. By using Nimans' website, you consent to the processing of data about you by Google in the manner and for the purposes set out above.
How do we use cookies?
Cookies enable us to identify your device, or you when you have logged in. We use cookies that are strictly necessary to enable you to move around the site or to provide certain basic features. We use cookies to enhance the functionality of the website by storing your preferences, for example. We also use cookies to help us to improve the performance of our website to provide you with a better user experience.
If you wish to control what cookies are set on your device through our website then you can do this by selecting the Cookie icon located at the bottom left of the website.


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- Excellent components
- BK is the OEM manufacturer for REL subwoofers
- Attractively priced ; you are buying them directly from the OEM and they make virtually no marketing (except the word of mouth on the Internet)
- They're UK built
Although everyone knows they're very well manufactured and excellent purchases... they come with a major issue: they forgot the wife acceptance factor. And the name "Monolith" certainly does not help. Which wife would want a huge wooden monolith sitting in her living room?
This was exactly the problem a friend of mine was facing: he quickly realised his wife would never agree with him spending the cash for a big block of wood sitting in the living room. This is the very reason why he asked me whether we could build one ourselves. He figured if he came back with a beautifully built subwoofer that he made himself, his wife would never dare to say no. And the story proved he was right.


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I have this little area in my kitchen that I love to change out for the seasons.
From Summer {Summer Mini Gallery Wall}:
To Halloween {Creepy Specimen Art}:
To Winter {Snowflake Specimen Art}:
And I thought it would be fun to make some paper flowers to use as Spring Specimen Art!!
Here's how to make it:
I used Ikea Ribba frames, scrapbook paper including Canvas Corp Chevron paper, vintage buttons and Command Sticky Nail Sawtooth Hangers and Command Picture Hanging Strips.
To make the flowers:
- I downloaded the 3-d Loopy Flower template from the Silhouette online store. I used my Cameo machine to cut out the pattern for each flower. But if you don't have a craft cutter, you can make rectangular shapes, fold them in half and then cut lines through the middle of the rectangle.
- Then I took the coordinating piece of paper and wrapped it around a pencil, securing the end with hot glue.
- I attached the rolled up paper to the edge of the rectangle and used a pencil to curve the rectangle in half, instead of folding it.
- I wrapped the folded rectangle around the rolled paper until it was all folded up and secured that with hot glue.
- Then I pressed down on the top of each flower, spreading out the cut paper to make petals.
- The last thing I did was add a vintage button over the top of the rolled paper, covering it up. Then I flipped the whole thing over, holding onto the button and filled the bottom with hot glue, securing the button to the top of the flower.
I was thrilled to be contacted by Command Brand to make some projects for them last month. I had so much fun coming up with fun ideas using Command Brand products. I had never used Command Sticky Nail Sawtooth Hangers before. They ended up being one of my favorite Command Brand products. I used them in this project. I am SO excited to share all of the projects with you soon!!
It was fun finding vintage button to use for each flower. I found this bottle of buttons at a garage sale a couple of years ago.
I love that Command Brand products let me be creative with my decorating without putting holes in my walls.
Happy Monday!!


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Dictionary of National Biography, 1885-1900/Dudley, Ambrose
DUDLEY, AMBROSE, Earl of Warwick (1528?–1590), born about 1528, was third son of John Dudley [q. v.], created Earl of Warwick early in 1547, and Duke of Northumberland in 1551. Like all his brothers, he was carefully educated, and Roger Ascham speaks of him as manifesting high intellectual attainments. He served with his father in repressing the Norfolk rebellion of 1549, and was knighted 17 Nov. During the reign of Edward VI he was prominent in court festivities and tournaments, and was intimate with the king and Princess Elizabeth (cf. 'Edward VI's Journal,' in Nicolas, Literary Remains, pp. 384, 388, 389). He joined his father and brothers in the attempt to place his sister-in-law, Lady Jane Grey (wife of his brother Guildford), on the throne in 1553; was committed to the Tower (25 July); was convicted of treason, with Lady Jane, and his brothers, Henry and Guildford, on 13 Nov., but was released and pardoned 18 Oct. 1554. In 1555 his mother's death made him lord of Hale-Owen. Two years later he and his brothers, Henry and Robert, joined the English troops sent to support the Spaniards at the siege of St. Quentin. All fought with conspicuous bravery at the great battle there, and Henry was killed. In consideration of this service Queen Mary (7 March 1557–8) excepted the two survivors, Ambrose and Robert, and their three sisters from the act of attainder which had involved all the family in 1553 (cf. 4 and 5 Phil. & Mary, cap. 15). The accession of Elizabeth, who had been friendly with Ambrose in earlier years, secured his political advancement. He was granted (12 March 1558–9) the manor of Kibworth Beauchamp, Leicestershire, together with the office of chief pantler at coronations—an office which had been hereditary in his father's family. He became master of the ordnance 12 April 1560, Baron de L'Isle 25 Dec. 1561, and Earl of Warwick on the day following.
In September 1562 the French protestants occupied Havre and offered to surrender the town to Elizabeth if an English force were sent to their aid in their struggle with the Guises. The offer was accepted, and on 1 Oct. 1562 Warwick was appointed captain-general of the expedition. He issued strict orders to his soldiers to treat the inhabitants with courtesy, and rendered effective assistance outside the town to Prince Condé, the protestant leader (Forbes, State Papers, ii. 181, 332, 368). In April 1563 Condé came to terms with the catholics, and Warwick was directed to evacuate Havre. Elizabeth, dissatisfied with her allies, ordered Warwick to hold it against all comers. On 22 April he was installed K.G. in his absence, and Sir Henry Sidney acted as his deputy (Machyn, p. 308). A plot on the part of the inhabitants of Havre to murder Warwick led him to expel all the French. Thereupon protestants and catholics combined to besiege the city. The English suffered terrible privations; sickness was terribly fatal, and after three months' endurance Warwick capitulated with Elizabeth's consent (29 July 1563). While negotiating the terms from the ramparts Warwick was struck by a poisoned bullet, which permanently injured his health. He was ultimately allowed to leave with the remnants of his army, who spread through London the plague that had devastated Havre. On his return there was some talk of a marriage between Warwick and Mary Queen of Scots. On 10 Aug. 1564 he was created M.A. at Cambridge, and in 1566 D.C.L. at Oxford. He was a commissioner for the trial of Mary Queen of Scots in 1568.
In 1569 Warwick and Clinton were nominated the queen's lieutenants in the north for the purpose of crushing the rebellion of the Earls of Northumberland and Westmorland. On 4 May 1571 he was made chief butler of England; was a commissioner for the trial of Thomas, duke of Norfolk; was admitted to the privy council 5 Sept. 1573, and became lieutenant of the order of the Garter in 1575. In October 1586 he took part in the trial of Queen Mary of Scotland, and the prisoner specially appealed to his sense of justice before the proceedings terminated. His old wound grew troublesome in the following years: his leg was amputated, and he died from the effects of the operation at Bedford House, Bloomsbury, 20 Feb. 1589–90. Sir William Dethick conducted the elaborate funeral, which took place in the chapel of the Blessed Virgin at Warwick on 9 April 1590. An altar-tomb with a long inscription was erected by his widow. Lord Burghley, the Earl of Cumberland, and the Earl of Huntingdon, his brother-in-law, were overseers of his will. Much of his property reverted to the crown, and the park of Wedgenock, Warwickshire, was granted in 1601 to Sir Fulke Greville. Small bequests were made to the Countess of Pembroke, his niece, to Sir Francis Walsingham, and to Lords Cobham and Grey de Wilton. Warwick married: first, Anne, daughter of William Whorwood, by Cassandra, daughter of Sir Edward Grey; secondly, before 13 Sept. 1553, Elizabeth, daughter of Sir Gilbert Talboys, and heiress of George, lord Talboys; and thirdly, on 11 Nov. 1565, Lady Anne, daughter of Francis Russell, earl of Bedford. By his first wife, who died 26 May 1552 at Otford, Kent, Warwick had an only child, John, who died before his mother. His third wife died 9 Feb. 1603–4. He was popularly known as the 'Good Lord Warwick,' and was attached to the puritans (cf. Marprelate Tracts, ed. Arber, p. 28). He was governor of the possessions and revenues of the preachers of the gospel for Warwickshire. He also encouraged maritime enterprise, and was the chief promoter of Martin Frobisher's first voyage in 1576. Portraits are at Hatfield, Woburn Abbey, and Lumley Castle. An engraving appears in Holland's 'Herωologia.'
[Cooper's Athenæ Cantab. ii. 66, 594; Biog. Brit. (Kippis); Doyle's Baronage; Burke's Extinct Peerage; Froude's History; Wriothesley's Chronicle (Camd. Soc.), ii. 91, 104; Machyn's Chronicle (Camd. Soc.); Sydney Papers, ed. Collins, where will is printed, p. 40.]


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Chef's Cup Südtirol is going to start in Italy
Read the article
S.Pellegrino and Acqua Panna will meet the ever increasing number of enthusiasts of both skiing and fine cuisine at the end of January, to take a break in Alta Badia, a ski area in Northern Italy renowned for its warm hospitality and top quality culinary offering.
This celebration of taste and entertainment will take place from 18to 23January 2015, marking the tenth edition of the Chef's Cup Südtirol. This popular initiative brings together some of the most respected Italian and international chefs,who have a shared culture of high quality and the common aim of serving up tasty, contemporary dishes whilst keenly preserving traditional artisan principles and the careful selection of raw ingredients.
Among the most important events to look out for, as always, is the Acqua Panna/S.Pellegrino Chefs' Ski Cup, which is scheduled for Monday 19 January. This unmissable ski race will see sports personalities and top chefs competing on the famous World Cup ski slopes of Gran Risa. In addition to that, the enjoinment of food and drink tasting will be one of the most important activities during the week-end together with seminars and other initiatives for the public. Proceedings will culminate with the grand finale on 23 January, a closing dinner entitled "S.Pellegrino welcomes the world to Italy", which promises an original menu collaboratively designed by great Italian and international chefs. From Italy to Sweden, from Russia to Costa Rica, the six leading protagonists of the closing event are as follows:
- Edin Dzemat –Linnéa Art Restaurant, Gothenburg (Sweden)
- Enrico Bartolini ** –DeveroRestaurant, Cavenago di Brianza (MB)
- Felice Lo Basso * –Unico MilanoRestaurant, Milan (MI)
- Marco Antonio Ganoza –La Divina ComidaRestaurant, Escazú (Costa Rica)
- Petr Stádník – Makro (Czech Republic)
- Sergey and Ivan Berezutskiy –TwinsRestaurant, Moscow (Russia)


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For Immediate Release
Office of the First Lady
January 26, 2006
Mrs. Bush's Remarks after a Visit to St. Bernard Unified School
St. Bernard Unified School
Chalmette, Louisiana
MRS. BUSH: Well, we are here today in Louisiana to visit schools specifically. Margaret Spellings, Secretary of Education, is traveling with me, and we just were in a school, a charter school in Algiers, Algiers Charter School, that's up and going. And then, of course, we're here in St. Bernard Parish at this one school where every student who has come back is now housed. And we're seeing really what -- we heard some great stories from students, but we're seeing what can happen when the few people who are left work as hard as they do to start really renewing school.
And this school, fortunately, had a second floor. We heard the stories about the people who stayed on the second floor for a week before they got help during the flood, and how the people who were here saved people as they came by in boats, or swam up to the second floor of the school.
As we drove in, we drove from the airport to Algiers, and then drove in this way from there to here. We saw the whole scale of what the destruction is, and I think still people around the country don't realize how huge it is. We're going to go on to Mississippi, where we'll see very similar sights. We'll visit a school there that's open, one of the schools that's open in Mississippi.
But I want people around the country to realize how big the devastation is, how important it is for people around the country to continue to volunteer, to continue to send money to the Katrina fund or other funds of their favorite charities that are working down here, because it's really important for everybody in the United States to stand with the people on the Gulf Coast as they rebuild.
I also want people to know here how discouraging I know it is to see what we saw today, to know how long it's going to take to rebuild, to know how long it's going to take just to rebuild the levees so that people will feel safe enough to come back, to move back. But I also want people to know that the government and the people of the United States are standing with you, that we want people to be able to move back as fast as they can. We know the schools are crucial to that. If schools are open, families can come back. If communities can't get schools open, then it's really, really hard for families to be able to move back.
We hope and we encourage families to make sure your children are in school. Even if you're not yet back in your home district, make sure your children are going to school wherever they are. But if we can provide schools, when communities can provide schools, then children have a chance to go back to live a normal life. And when children are taken care of, then parents feel comfortable in being able to move back and try to rebuild their lives in this community.
So thank you all, thanks for coming out to see us today. If you have specific school questions, Secretary Spellings, of course, can answer those. But I'll be glad to take questions, too.
Q Mrs. Bush, were you surprised by the lack of progress you've seen in some of the areas?
MRS. BUSH: Well, I think every part of it is progress. I mean, this is progress when you see here how the cafeteria was opened today, when you see how this school is being rebuilt. I mean, each one of those steps are very important. When you know how long the flood waters stood, how dispersed the citizens are all over the country -- they've move everywhere -- how long it's taken them to get back, really it hasn't been that long. And so the progress is good. But I know it's discouraging to people to still have debris everywhere. There's something about that that's very, very discouraging.
But I want people to know they need to come on back, they need to get to work trying to build. I know that a lot of businesses around here are desperate for workers, and I know it's the same thing -- if they can have schools for their kids and if they think they can find a place to live, or rebuild their own houses, people will come back. I know the people want to be back where they're from.
Every one of the kids that we talked to, they wanted to be here because they wanted to be in St. Bernard's Parish, in their school. They didn't want to be in school in Tennessee, even though they said people were really nice to them there. But they wanted to come home.
Q The President has vowed to help rebuild this area, but this school was rebuilt and reopened with no federal money.
MRS. BUSH: We've discussed that. We've already talked about that.
Q Any response?
MRS. BUSH: Well, I mean, federal dollars have to come here, and they will. There's money through the Department of Education. And I expect that the school will be reimbursed.
MS. VOITIER: Right. We're going through the paperwork now for the reimbursement process, and we feel we'll be successful in securing those funds.
SECRETARY SPELLINGS: The Congress passed the $1.6 billion school aid package just late in December, and on January 5th, the Department of Education, before we counted noses or knew exactly where students were finally settled, sent $100 million to Louisiana immediately. And by February 1st, the count will come in and we will begin the process of reimbursing schools for the expenditures they've made to reopen.
Q Mrs. Bush, you talked about a little bit about the people of this area. What do you say to them? You say that the government is on their side, but some people really don't feel like that. Just this week the White House said no to the Baker bill that could have bailed a lot of people out here. What do you say to those people who are just feeling that the government is not on their side?
MRS. BUSH: Well, I know that's it's very, very slow. And of course, that's how government always is. It's bureaucratic and it's slow to -- for instance, the Congress had to appropriate the money for the schools, and then the Education Department did disburse it quickly.
But there was money yesterday that was announced for Community Development Block Grants, which states can use just like the Baker bill proposed. Once states write their plans for how they want to use Community Block Development money, they can start that out. And if they want to do what was in the Baker bill, which was to buy out areas, they can write that in their proposals for their Community Block Grants.
It takes a plan, and that's the really hard work. Your temptation is just to throw your arms up and say, this just looks like too much work. And you might have thought that. But you didn't. And you went to work, even though there was not FEMA money yet. And this is where you are, after just really a few months of devastation.
So it's really important for local people, for local officials, for state officials to work as hard as you can, to meet with your community, to see what your needs are, to draw out your plans that you want, and then to access the federal money. And there is federal money. I think yesterday it was $6.2 billion for Louisiana, and approximately a little over $5 billion for Mississippi, for Community Block Grants, that sort of money that the Baker bill proposed.
So once states really figure out either are our neighborhoods safe -- we don't want people to move back until neighborhoods are safe. We want to make sure the levees are safe. We want to make sure any runoff or debris that make a site unsafe is removed. But at that point, we want people to come home.
Q What do you plan to tell the President when you get back?
MRS. BUSH: Well, I'll tell him -- he knows, believe me, he knows. He's briefed on the Gulf Coast almost every single day. He's been here a lot, as you know. He was here last week. But I'm going to tell him what I see is the courage of people that live here. And people here are solid as rocks. And they want to be at home and they want to rebuild their homes. These kids wanted to be at this school because they wanted to rebuild their school. And they're on the front lines, really, of the rebuilding, because they came back so early that none of this part of the building is finished. But I'm encouraged, I really am.
And the other thing that's difficult is -- imagine, one little girl I met left with her family, and her dad was missing for three weeks. I mean, she found him and he was okay, but for three weeks she didn't know where her dad was. So you can imagine the emotional trauma and the grief that families are going through because they lost everything they had. It will be slow, but I know it will happen.
Thanks, everybody. Thanks a lot.


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Migrate a Local PHP Application to the Cloud
This guide describes the process of migrating a PHP-based Bitnami application (such as Moodle, SugarCRM or Magento) that is locally installed on your system to a cloud server. At the end of the process, you will have an exact copy of the locally installed Bitnami application running in the cloud.
NOTE: This is a general guide that describes the steps you should perform to migrate any PHP-based Bitnami application to the cloud. Given the diverse nature of PHP applications, these steps are indicative and not exhaustive. You may need to perform additional steps apart from those described here. You can also refer to specific migration guides for WordPress, Drupal and Joomla!.
Step 1: Backup existing data
Back up the existing application database, either by using the command-line mysqldump tool or the browser-based phpMyAdmin application.
Using the command line
Use the mysqldump tool to create a backup of the current database as follows:
Open a new console window on the local system.
Execute the following command to create a backup of the current database. In this example, the database is named bitnami_app. Replace this with the name of the database you wish to export.
$ mysqldump -u root -p bitnami_app > backup.sql
Enter the database password when prompted. This is the same password entered by you when installing the Bitnami stack.
This will produce a backup.sql file in the current directory with the content of the selected database. Store this file carefully, as you will need it in the next step.
Using phpMyAdmin
You can also accomplish this with the browser-based phpMyAdmin application included by default with Bitnami stacks.
Select the application database in the left navigation menu.
Select the "Export" menu item.
On the resulting page, select the "Custom" export method and the "SQL" output format.
In the "Object creation options" section, tick the "Add DROP TABLE / VIEW / PROCEDURE / FUNCTION / EVENT statement" checkbox.
Click "Go".
An SQL export file will be created and downloaded to your desktop. Store this file carefully, as you will need it in the next step.
Step 2: Launch a cloud server
The next step is to launch a cloud server with the Bitnami application you wish to migrate. To do this, you would typically log in to the Bitnami website, select the Bitnami application and deploy a cloud server with the application. For complete details and a walkthrough, refer to our "Get Started" tutorials.
Step 3: Copy files to the cloud server
IMPORTANT: When a new cloud server is launched, its database is configured with a random password and the Bitnami application on it is automatically configured to use this password. This password will be different from the database password on your local system. Therefore, when copying files from the local system to the new cloud server in this step, it is extremely important to ensure that you do not overwrite the application configuration file on the new cloud server with the corresponding file from your local system.
To copy and restore files from the local instance to the new one in the cloud, complete the following steps:
Most PHP applications include a configuration file that contains access credentials for the application database. Identify this file on your local system.
Connect to the cloud server using SFTP or SCP. For more information, refer to the FAQ.
In your SFTP or SCP client, in the left pane for your local system, navigate to the directory containing your Bitnami application and within that, to the apps/APP_NAME/htdocs directory. Replace the APP_NAME placeholder with the correct directory name.
Similarly, in the right pane for the cloud server, navigate to the /opt/bitnami/apps/APP_NAME/htdocs directory. Replace the APP_NAME placeholder with the correct directory name.
Copy all the files from the htdocs/ directory on the local system to the htdocs/ directory on the cloud server by dragging and dropping them from the left pane to the right pane. Ensure that you exclude the PHP configuration file containing database access credentials, to avoid overwriting the pre-configured credentials on the cloud server.
TIP: In case you accidentally overwrite the configuration file on the cloud server with your local version, all is not lost. You can always obtain the database access password for the cloud server from the server detail page in your cloud dashboard, and then manually update the PHP application's configuration file with the correct credentials.
Copy the database backup file from Step 1 to the same htdocs/ directory on the server.
Step 4: Transfer the application database to the cloud server
The final step is to populate the new application database with data from the previous installation. Again, you can do this by using the command-line mysqldump tool or the browser-based phpMyAdmin application. Follow these steps:
Using the command line
Use the mysql command-line client to connect to the database instance on the cloud server and import the previous database content as follows:
Log in to the server console via SSH. Refer to the FAQ for more information.
Change to the htdocs/ directory (or, if you copied the database backup file from Step 1 to a different directory, change to that directory instead). Replace the APP_NAME placeholder with the correct directory name.
$ cd /opt/bitnami/apps/APP_NAME/htdocs
Execute the following command to connect to the remote MySQL database. Replace the example database name bitnami_app with the correct database name.
$ mysql -u root -p -D bitnami_app < backup.sql
When prompted, enter the database password for the root user. You can obtain the database password from the server detail page in your cloud dashboard.
The original application database content will now be imported into the database on the cloud server.
Disconnect from the remote MySQL database by typing:
mysql> exit
Using phpMyAdmin
You can also accomplish this with the browser-based phpMyAdmin application included with the Bitnami stack.
Browse to the phpMyAdmin application on the cloud server using these instructions.
Log in with the database username root. You can obtain the database password from the server detail page in your cloud dashboard.
Select the application database in the left navigation menu.
Select the "Import" menu item.
On the resulting page, select the SQL export file created in Step 1.
Click "Go".
The original application database content will now be imported into the database. A confirmation message will be displayed.
IMPORTANT: Once the application database has been imported, note that the credentials to log in to the cloud version of the application will change and become those originally set in the local version of the application.
Step 5: Restart the server
Some applications require a server restart. This can usually be done from the cloud dashboard for the server.
Your PHP application should now be available in the cloud, with the same data as was originally present on the local system.


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Monday, June 16, 2008
I think this needs a whole new category...
Monday, June 16, 2008
[Drum roll, please]
The new category IS...
"Close-Your-Eyes Cakes"
[cymbal crash]
Because while we can appreciate the talent required to make a cake that looks like, for example, a bloody steak (I mean, just look at that fat casing!), we don't really relish the thought of eating it with our eyes open. We're pretty sure we'd be half-cringing up until the last second, praying all that "blood" really is icing.
22 comments | Post a Comment
I keep checking in just to see what you come up with! This one is unreal..would someone really pay money for this? Poor Dad! This would be one time where he probably wishes he got the tie instead.
- June 17, 2008 at 8:09 AM
- Laura said...
The late George Carlin surely saw this when coming up with his "meatcake" routine. Could be meat? Could be cake? What is it? I dunno, maybe it's Meatcake!
- July 22, 2008 at 4:21 PM
The USDA sticker is especially well done.
- July 22, 2008 at 4:36 PM
I think this cake is brilliant! Especially if the cake itself is red velvet.
- July 22, 2008 at 11:19 PM
Oh cool, my dad is a butcher, this cake would be perfect for him!!
Or for my friend's birthday who has been trying for years to get me to be a Vegan. - July 23, 2008 at 1:54 PM
mmm... beefcake... ::: gurgle :::
- July 23, 2008 at 6:19 PM
I have to say that I love this cake!
- July 23, 2008 at 10:16 PM
- RJ said...
It is a cake worthy of being on one James Lileks' "Meat!" pages, truly.
- July 24, 2008 at 1:51 AM
I've actually seen a similar cake from "Mike's Amazing Cakes" - though with much better execution. http://www.admit-one.net/webimages/meatcake.jpg I seem to recall reading it was made for a vegetarian birthday party as well!
- July 24, 2008 at 12:12 PM
I love this site! Love what you do! But I gotta say, I love this cake! I would be proud to receive a cake like this! :-)
- July 25, 2008 at 1:25 AM
- badfae said...
Honestly? I think this one is *brilliant*.
- July 25, 2008 at 1:54 PM
- Sasha Kovich said...
You should look into meat cakes. They're made from meatloaf, but then frosted with mashed potatoes and decorated to look like meat again.
It's a whole genre of creepy cakes that this one may just fall into. - July 26, 2008 at 10:39 AM
As a girl wearing a steak necklace and who has steak earrings and hair clips, this is the coolest damn cake ever.
I want this for my birthday, and it's gotta be red velvet cake OMG yes!!!! best cake ever. - July 28, 2008 at 3:02 PM
- ILoveMNStateFair said...
I Love the idea of the cake being red velvet. Genius.
I'm so glad others posted about meatloaf meat cake too.
Here is a link:
enjoy. - July 28, 2008 at 9:20 PM
- Jen said...
@ the "anonymous" whose comment I had to delete:
Just wanted you to know your comment was not published due to your use of profanity, not due to your criticism of me and my writing style. I don't claim to enjoy reading stuff like that, but I still try to be fair in publishing everyone's opinions.
So next time, just nix the four-letter-words, k? - August 12, 2008 at 1:16 PM
- Leslie said...
Aw I just made a steak cake for a birthday, and it was a thrilling challenge! Yeah, yeah, I'm a dork. (I did Red Velvet for extra gross effect and cream cheese icing made a perfect bone color...and they loved it.)
Love this blog, btw! - August 12, 2008 at 4:29 PM
- Cullen said...
As a dad who loves his steak, I would be honored and awed to receive a cake like this for Father's Day.
- August 15, 2008 at 2:23 PM
this is actually not bad. actually, it's freaking brilliant -especially the realistic skin and that usda stamp.
the only complaint i could possibly lodge is that the meat isn't marbled -but then i'd be a dick :p - August 16, 2008 at 9:58 AM
- Misty said...
I showed this to my husband and he immediately asked for one for Father's Day. Ew. :P
- September 27, 2008 at 9:27 AM
See i want to make a meat cake because im strange and work as a butcher :P
But i want to make a cake out of actual meat not just a cake that looks like meat although im seriously impressed by it :D - October 13, 2008 at 5:11 AM
LOL! Husband is a well known carnivore who hates veggies. He'd absolutely love this cake. And, yes, it'd have to be red velvet!
- March 9, 2009 at 11:45 AM
- Cupcakes Lady said...
As a cake model of a piece of meat, its not bad. But why would you do this...or get this for someone?
- October 7, 2010 at 1:40 PM
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A Cake Wreck is any cake that is unintentionally sad, silly, creepy, inappropriate - you name it. A Wreck is not necessarily a poorly-made cake; it's simply one I find funny, for any of a number of reasons. Anyone who has ever smeared frosting on a baked good has made a Wreck at one time or another, so I'm not here to vilify decorators: Cake Wrecks is just about finding the funny in unexpected, sugar-filled places.
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text:
A little dream is on the way! And these Dream Catcher Printable Favor Tags are the perfect way to send your guests off from your bohemian themed baby shower!
Digital parties are digital, printable files. NOTHING is shipped to you. These listings contain affiliate links that I may make a profit from at no extra cost to you.
Printables are created and are saved at high quality 300 dpi resolution and as JPG files in the size mentioned on each product.
These Party Circles are approximately 5 inches in diameter.
Your files are available to you instantly once you purchase them. After that, you will receive an email after purchase from me with the download link for your files. (Make sure to check your spam folder!) Above all, I want you to be happy with your purchase. Therefore, if you do not receive your files, please email me at [email protected] and I will make sure you receive them.
Some files may come in a .ZIP folder and you will need to unzip them to get the files.
In addition, I have created a few tutorial videos to help you put some of these items together, which you can view below.
View all of the tutorial videos.
RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS FOR COMPLETING THIS PARTY: Dream Catcher Printable Favor Tags: Bohemian Baby Shower
I want to share all my favorite products with you so that you can DIY your Pinterest perfect party! Therefore, I have listed a few recommended items below that I like to use when DIYing my parties. Additionally, you may want to watch the videos listed above to get further instructions on how to use them.
8.5 x 11 Quality Paper
8 x 10 Paper
Quality 5 x 7 Paper
A Small hole punch
1/8 Ribbon
Wooden dowels
Mini glue gun
Glue gun glue
Candy bar Favor Treat Bags
Printing Posters: I recommend Walgreens because they always have coupons on their site. Secondly, you can order your print online and pick it up within the hour. (A regular 16 x 20 Poster that you can frame or have it mounted on Poster board.
Artwork is from:
https://www.etsy.com/shop/Wowtiful and https://www.etsy.com/shop/Democosmos
Lastly, due to the nature of digital downloads, there are, therefore, no refunds on this item. Files are for personal or non-profit use only. Additionally, they are not for resale or commercial use.


text:
Created by Jijith Nadumuri at 31 Mar 2010 17:19 and updated at 31 Mar 2010 17:19
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Section 11
XI Dhritarashtra said, Hear, O Sanjaya, the celestial feats of Vasudeva, feats that Govinda achieved and the like of which no other person hath ever been able to achieve. Whilst being brought up, O Sanjaya, in the family of the cowherd Nanda, that high-souled one, while yet a boy, made the might of his arms known to the three worlds.
Even then he slew Hayaraja, living in the woods on the shores of the Yamuna, who was equal to the celestial steed Uchchaisravas in strength and the wind itself in speed In childhood, he also slew with his two bare arms, the Danava, in the form of a bull, of terrible deeds, and risen like Death himself unto all the kine. Of eyes like the lotus petals, he also slew the mighty Asuras named Pralamva, and Naraka, and Jambha, and Pitha, as also Mura, that terror of the celestials. And so also Kansa of mighty energy, who was, besides, protected by Jarasandha, was, with all his followers, slain in battle by Krishna aided by his prowess alone With Valadeva as his second, that slayer of foes, viz, Krishna, consumed in battle, with all his troops, the king of the Surasenas, viz, Sunaman, of great activity and prowess in battle, the lord of a full Akshauhini, and the valiant second brother of Kansa, the king of the Bhojas. The highly wrathful regenerate Rishi gratified with the adoration gave him boons Of eyes like the lotus petals, and endued with great bravery, Krishna, vanquishing all the kings at a self-choice, bore away the daughter of the king of the Gandharas. Those angry kings, as if they were horses by birth, were yoked unto his nuptial car and were lacerated with the whip. The mighty-armed Janardana also caused Jarasandha, the lord of a full Akshauhini of troops, to be slain through the instrumentality of another The mighty Krishna also slew the valiant king of Chedis, that leader of kings, as if he were some animal, on the occasion of the latter's disputing about the Arghya.
Putting forth his prowess, Madhava hurled unto the sea the Daitya city called Saubha, moving in the skies, protected by Salwa, and regarded as impregnable. The Angas, the Vangas, the Kalingas, the Magadhas, the Kasis, the Kosalas, the Vatsyas, the Gargyas, the Karushas and the Paundras, all these he vanquished in battle. The Avantis, the Southerners, the Mountaineers, the Daserakas, the Kasmirakas, the Aurasikas, the Pisachas, the Samudgalas, the Kamvojas, the Vatadhanas, the Cholas, the Pandyas, O Sanjaya, the Trigartas, the Malavas, the Daradas difficult of being vanquished, the Khasas arrived from diverse realms, as also the Sakas, and the Yavanas with followers, were all vanquished by him of eyes like lotus-petals. In days of old, penetrating into the very sea, he vanquished in battle Varuna himself in those watery depths, surrounded by all kinds of aquatic animals. Slaying in battle the Danava named Panchajanya living in the depths of Patala, Hrishikesa obtained the celestial conch called Panchajanya. The mighty Kesava, accompanied by Partha, having gratified Agni at Khandava, obtained his invincible weapon of fire, viz, his discus called Sudarsana. Riding on Vinata's son and frightening the denizens of Amaravati, the heroic Krishna brought from Mahendra himself the celestial flower called Parijata. Knowing Krishna's prowess, Sakra quietly bore that act We have never heard that there is any one among the kings who has not been vanquished by Krishna. That exceedingly wonderful feat also, O Sanjaya, which the lotus-eyed one performed in my court, who else is capable of performing it?
And since, humbled by devotion, I was suffered to behold Krishna as the Supreme Lord; everything about that feat is well-known to me, myself having witnessed it with my own eyes, O Sanjaya, the end can never be seen of the infinite achievements of Hrishikesa. of great energy and great intelligence. Gada, and Samva, and Pradyumna, and Viduratha, and Charudeshna, and Sarana, and Ulmukha, and Nisatha, and the valiant Jhilivabhru, and Prithu, and Viprithu, and Samika, and Arimejaya, these and other mighty Vrishni heroes, accomplished in smiting, will, standing on the field of battle, take up their position in the Pandava host, when summoned by that Vrishni hero, viz, the high-souled Kesava. Everything on my side will then be in great danger. Even this is what I think. And there where Janardana is, there will be the heroic Rama, equal in strength to ten thousand elephants, resembling the Kailasa peak, decked with garlands of wild flowers, and armed with the plough. That Vasudeva, O Sanjaya, whom all the regenerate ones describe as the Father of all, will that Vasudeva fight for the sake of the Pandavas? O son, O Sanjaya, if he puts on his armour for the sake of the Pandavas, there is none amongst us who can be his antagonist. If the Kauravas happen to vanquish the Pandavas, he, of the Vrishni race, will then, for the sake of the latter, take up his mighty weapon. And that tiger among men, that mighty-armed one, slaying then all the kings in battle as also the Kauravas, will give away the whole earth to Kunti's son.
What car will advance in battle against that car which has Hrishikesa for its driver and Dhananjaya for its warrior? The Kurus cannot, by any means, gain victory. Tell me, then everything about how the battle took place. Arjuna is Kesava's life and Krishna is always victory; in Krishna is always fame. In all the worlds, Vibhatsu is invincible. In Kesava are infinite merits in excess. The foolish Duryodhana, who doth not know Krishna or Kesava, seems, through Destiny, to have Death's noose before him. Alas, Duryodhana knows not Krishna of Dasarha's race and Arjuna the son of Pandu. These high-souled ones are ancient gods. They are even Nara and Narayana.
On earth they are seen by men as; two separate forms, though in reality they are both possessed but by one soul. With the mind alone, that invincible pair, of world-wide fame, can, if only they wish it, destroy this host. Only, in consequence of their humanity they do not wish it Like a change of the Yuga, the death of Bhishma, O child, and the slaughter of the high-souled Drona, overturn the senses. Indeed, neither by Brahmacharya, nor by the study of the Vedas, nor by religious rites, nor by weapons, can any one prevent death. Hearing of the slaughter of Bhishma and Drona, those heroes accomplished in weapons, respected by all the worlds, and invincible in battle, why O Sanjaya, do I yet live? In consequence of the death of Bhishma and Drona, O Sanjaya, we will henceforth have to live as dependants on that prosperity beholding which in Yudhishthira we had before been so jealous. Indeed, this destruction of the Kurus hath come in consequence only of my acts. O Suta, in killing these that are ripe for destruction, the very straw becomes thunderbolt. That prosperity is without end in this; world which Yudhishthira is about to obtain, Yudhishthira through whose wrath both Bhishma and Drona have fallen.
In consequence of his very disposition, hath Righteousness gone over to the side of Yudhishthira, while it is hostile to my son. Alas, time, so cruel, that hath now come for the destruction of all, cannot be overcome. Things calculated in one way, O son, even by men of intelligence, become otherwise through Destiny. This is what I think. Therefore, tell me everything that has taken place during the progress of this unavoidable and dreadful calamity productive of the most sorrowful reflection incapable of being crossed over by us
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