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If you're looking for the best tips to sell a home in Carlsbad you've come to the right place! Selling a home is a lot of work, but these tips to sell a home in Carlsbad will help you prepare. Be about how you use your time and energy in order to smooth the way for a sale that satisfies your goals by maximizing the sale price in the shortest amount of time. Below you will learn some of the best advice to sell a home in Carlsbad. These home selling tips include pre-sale preparation for both the interior and exterior of your home.
Best Tips to Sell a Home in Carlsbad
The following tips are tried and true ways to make selling a home a bit easier and more profitable. Try a few out, or if you are a high achiever try them all! You are sure to see some benefits when you do. Be sure to also check out the links below that will also give you some great home selling advice surrounding the process including picking a top Real Estate agent, pricing the home correctly, and addressing needed repairs. Enjoy these best tips to selling a home in Carlsbad!
15 Tips to Sell a Home in Carlsbad
1. Take care of your landscape.
First on the best Tips to sell a Home in Carlsbad is maintaining your landscape. Some of the first things buyers are going to notice as they pull up to your house is the landscape, lawn, plants, flowerbeds, etc. You don't have to be extravagant by installing a fountain or hiring a professional, but it is important to keep the landscape alive, freshly trimmed and tidy. By mowing the lawn, trimming your bushes and pouring mulch in to the flower you can turn your landscape into stunning curb appeal. In real estate sales first impressions really count. This is one of the simple improvements that will increase home value. Make it count!
2. Remove clutter.
One of the most cost effective tips when you sell a home is to make your home clutter free! You want to maximize the perceived space in the home. The more clutter, the more cramped things will feel. Go through everything and clear out all the non-essentials. Even if you don't feel like going though all of your things and sorting them, you should at least put things away in places where buyers won't be looking. Don't just cram stuff into closets or the garage, if necessary rent a storage space.
A cluttered home can make your home feel a lot smaller than it really is. This is not a good thing when trying to get the highest price when you sell a home in Carlsbad. Many buyers like bright open spaces without an abundance of someone else's personal property. Additionally, keep in mind there is a large percentage of people who have a hard time visualizing how to utilize space. Make things easier on the buyer by tastefully arranging your furniture in each room. For example, add a desk to a room without a closet, remove your pool table from the formal living room and move it into the bonus room. Take a look at some of the top tips for clearing the clutter when selling your home for more ideas.
3. Paint your interior if it needs it.
Dreary colors can really shrink the perception of a space and make the room appear dark. Old, stained paint makes rooms look decrepit. By painting with contemporary colors and insight from a knowledgeable Real Estate agent or interior designer, you can change the whole feel of your home. There is not another home improvement that will give you more bang for your buck than a fresh coat of paint. From a selling standpoint it is important to stick with neutral colors. Remember selling your home is not about personal preferences but appealing to the masses. Stick with off white and light creamy colors for maximum benefit.
4. Hire a great Real Estate agent.
If you are noticing a trend here, that's because there is one. Working with a professional to sell your home has a ton of benefits, and relieves a lot of the stress when you sell a home in Carlsbad. An experienced Realtor can often sell your home faster, and for a better price, than you can on your own. This in fact is one of the most important tips to sell a home in Carlsbad. Just make sure you hire the right agent!
Before a real estate agent even begins their work of selling a home they can be a great source of knowledge in pricing your home correctly. Without the right price your efforts are wasted and is a recipe for failure and frustration.
An exceptional local real estate agent who knows the market like the back of their hand is worth having in your corner. Here are some great tips on how to pick a top Carlsbad real estate agent worth checking out. The article addresses what you should be thinking about when you are hiring a Real Estate agent, including important interview questions. Keep in mind that pricing a home properly is vital to your success and some agents will intentionally mislead you just to get your business. Avoid this kind of agent at all costs! There is nothing that will prevent you from getting top dollar faster than hiring a real estate agent who overprices your home.
5. Put up a sign in the yard.
Finally on the best Tips to sell a Home in Carlsbad is putting a sign in your yard! With all the emphasis on online marketing, which is extremely important, it can be easy to forget about the basics. Putting a "For Sale" sign in the yard will make it easier for people to find your house. There are some folks who want to "keep their home a secret" for a multitude of reasons, which is a big selling mistake. Home sellers should never under estimate the power of real estate signage. Many homes have been sold over the years due to a sign promotion.
More often than not this can happen with a person who was not thinking of buying but have always said to themselves if that certain home comes on the market they would be interested. That home could be yours! Always keeping an eye on the real estate market is important too. Download my app from any mobile device to view all homes for sale in Carlsbad and La Costa.
6. Make sure your photos are exceptional.
The pictures you post on your listing are the first thing someone sees online when buying a home and they can make or break a sale. The best Carlsbad real estate agents always hire a professional photographer, so ask the agent in their interview if this is included with their listing. Having premier photos online when marketing your home is essential, and if the photos aren't exceptional then regardless of your home's exposure, all efforts are withered. This is such a vital consideration, yet so many sellers underestimate the importance. Your homes photography is the gateway to a buyers perception of the property whether it is good or bad.
7. Consider a video tour.
The best Real Estate agents today are utilizing some form of video or virtual tour, in addition to professional photos. Buyers like to take a digital tour before they decide to visit, and a video tour does this. Again, working with a professional here is important, make sure your real estate agent hires a professional to create and promote your real estate video. Do you want to see an example of what a professional real estate video tour looks like? Take a look at this video tour of Via Monteverde in Encinitas (Olivenhain) California. Would you not agree that this is an exceptional way to market a property? Home buyers will probably look at the photos first but once they take a look at the video, it will seal the deal and they will be scheduling a showing.
8. Make sure you are marketing using all channels – particularly online.
Old school Real Estate agents can sometimes be slow to adopt new marketing channels, which is why you should hire someone who has demonstrated their ability to utilize the web. A Realtor with a website is great, but you also want to use someone who has a complete understanding of how to make your home shine online. Real Estate agents who have perfected their online presence through years of experience understand the importance of making your home "stand out" from the competition.
Real Estate agents who have a solid understanding of advertising also use social media, online magazine, local news and real estate websites. Nearly everyone owns a smart phone today and an exponential amount of people are starting their real estate search online.
9. Take advantage of good lighting.
A bright, cheery home is more inviting to buyers. Remove large drapes, let the sunlight in if you can, and add some better lighting if your home is dim. Even buying brighter light bulbs can help. One of the things I always mention to my clients is to make sure all of their curtains are drawn and lights remain on when there is a scheduled showing, as the presentation of your home is critical.
10. Consider a professional cleaning.
A clean home is inviting to buyers, and portrays how well you have taken care of your home. A dirty home can deter a buyer away quicker than anything. The easiest way to know your home is spotless and looking its best is to hire a professional cleaning company. Make sure your kitchen and bathrooms are spotless, buyers will pay close attention to these areas. In addition make sure your carpets are as clean as possible. If need be consider having your carpets professionally cleaned. Spending a few hundred dollars can save you thousands by preventing the buyer from thinking they need to replace the carpets immediately.
11. Make sure you repair the things that your Real Estate agent advises.
Many renovations are arguably a bad investment for sellers, as it is hard to get your money back in the sale. However if your real estate agent advises that you fix faulty wiring, a hole in the fence, a leaking toilet or a visible stain in the ceiling, you should do it. Similar to having a dirty home, these are things that the buyer may balk at, and may demand a lower price because they feel immediate attention is needed. Moreover when the buyer conducts their home inspection it will more than likely appear on their request for repairs ultimately resulting in a renegotiate of the sales price or worse asking to back out of the deal.
One of the things I constantly stress to my clients is being well prepared for the buyers home inspection. This is the number one place where home sales fall apart. It only makes sense to address the problems before hand. If you know about a problem, a good home inspector will more than likely find it.
12. Address all odors.
Everyone knows smell is powerful, but you may not realize that it can easily drive someone away from buying your home. It is possible you may not realize there are unpleasant smells in your home so ask an outsider that you trust, like your Realtor, to let you know if there are any deterring odors such as pet or cooking smells, and remove them before you begin showings. Believe it or not pet odors can kill a home sale. This happens because some buyers fear they won't be able to get rid of the odor once they purchase the house.
13. Make your kitchen appealing.
Many buyers are very focused on kitchens, which is why you want to make sure yours is appealing. Formica counter-tops from the 70s may need to be updated, and you might want to install a new appliance or two if the existing ones are in really bad shape. Most Real Estate agents will tell you that the kitchen is the most important room in the home. It makes sense as it is typically the place where we spend most of our time. Do what you can to make you kitchen is appealing as possible.
14. Get organized.
The people that are looking at your home are going to open every door, including closets and the garage. You may help your sale by making sure these areas are relatively organized. The better they look, the easier it is for buyers to imagine that they can fit all their things in the home. This again goes back to one of my previous home selling tips of DE-cluttering. Organizing your closets and garage should be done as part of the process. Anita Clark, a Georgia Real Estate agent offers some fantastic tips on how to organize your closets when selling a home.
15. Take your pets somewhere for showings.
It is hard for pet owners to imagine sometimes, but some people really don't like pets. As a dog or cat owner, you may not want to hang out with such people, but they might make a great offer on your home. Take the pets somewhere safe and comfortable, like a friends. Having evidence of your pet, including their odors can be a real turn off to some people. Have a look at some of the best tips to sell your home with pets for some sound guidance.
There you have it – these are some of the best home selling tips to get you on your way to a successful home sale!
Related articles to Best Tips to Sell a Home in Carlsbad
- How to find a Carlsbad Realtor to Sell Home
- 15 Ways to Prepare your Home For Selling
- How to Value a House
- Selling Real Estate For Sale By Owner
Use these additional top home selling tips to make the right decisions when selling. Mistakes can happen very easily when you don't follow sound advice.
About the author: Information regarding Best Tips to Sell a Home in Carlsbad – Carlsbad Real Estate was constructed by James Jam, the #1 Individual Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Real Estate Agent in San Diego County and Top Carlsbad Real Estate Agent. James can be reached via email at email@example.com or by phone at 858-210-0509. James Jam's personal philosophy is "Dreams Made Real" that encompasses the perfect real estate experience. It is the gold standard that he has strived to provide throughout his career as a residential real estate agent since 1989.
Thinking of selling your home in Carlsbad? I have a passion for Real Estate and love to share my exclusive marketing plan with you.
I service Real Estate sales in the following San Diego County areas: Carlsbad 92008, Carlsbad 92009, La Costa Carlsbad 92009, La Costa Valley 92009, La Costa Oaks 92009, Carlsbad 92010, Carlsbad 92011, Encinitas 92024, Olivenhain 92024, Rancho Santa Fe 92067, Rancho Santa Fe 92127, La Jolla 92037, Lake Hodges Escondido 92029, Elfin Forest 92029, Solana Beach 92075, Del Mar 92075, Cardiff by the Sea 92007, Del Mar 92014, San Marcos 92069 and Carmel Valley 92130. If you don't see your neighborhood listed, please don't hesitate to contact me regarding the marketing and sale of your home.


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Mortgage interest rates have risen sharply in the past year, having bumped around the 3% -4% range for the last decade. After getting so accustomed to that range of rates, many borrowers are struggling with today's level in the 6% span. However, historically speaking, today's home loan rates are actually below average. What does that mean for the current market and how can you make the best of these higher-but-still low rates?
Buyer Expectations
While mortgage interest rates stayed low during the pandemic, home prices skyrocketed. Thanks to low rates, buyers were often able to stretch a little and keep up with the growing prices, but once mortgage rates began to jump as well, the new higher monthly payments were frequently out of reach for buyers. For example, a home purchase for $350,000 at 4% would yield a monthly principal and interest payment of about $1,670. But the same amount at 6.25% would bump the payment up to $2,155, an almost $500 a month increase.
A recent survey by John Burns Research and Consulting found that buyers have been so conditioned to lower rates that 71% say they will not accept a 30-year fixed rate mortgage rate over 5.5%. At the time of the survey the average rate was 6.4%.
Buyers also believed that a "historically normal mortgage rate" was under 5.5%. However, the data from Freddie Mac going back to 1971 shows that the true average is 7.75%.
Another survey from U.S. News and World Report found that 66% of those planning to buy a home this year said they are waiting to buy until rates fall. That may put a damper on the housing market, as mortgage interest rates have averaged over 6% for over seven months now. And the Federal Reserve is not done fighting inflation, which means there is the possibility of more rate hikes this year.
Homebuilders seem to have clued in to the 5.5% tipping point for buyers. Many are subsidizing borrower rates to that level or lower to clinch their sales.
"Our consulting team has witnessed this across the country, noting that home builders who choose to subsidize buyers' mortgage rates, bringing the overall rate down below 5.5%, have been achieving the most success. Many of the largest builders in the country have been buying mortgage rates down below 5.0%," said CEO John Burns and Maegan Sherlock, a senior research analyst, in the report.
Sellers Expectations
If buyers are not interested in home purchases until rates fall below 5.5%, home sellers are even less interested in selling while rates are at their current levels. The majority of current homeowners have mortgage loans with rates well below today's rates. It is very difficult for sellers to stomach giving up their nice low rates and manageable payments in exchange for rates that might be double what they are used to. This is contributing to less inventory on the market, which in turn pushes prices higher and makes it harder for buyers to afford the available stock.
How to Make the Most of Today's Rate Climate
If you are a potential homebuyer, it's important to reset your expectations that interest rates may not go down much in the foreseeable future. There are a few things you could do to lower your interest rate in today's economic climate. If you are able to significantly increase your down payment, your risk as a borrower goes down and your lender can knock off a little from your rate. To guarantee a lower rate, you can pay discount points to your lender. A point is equal to 1% of the loan amount and each point paid can lower the offered rate by roughly 0.25%. While this feels like a lot of money upfront, it will save you lots of interest over time and bring your monthly payment down to a more manageable level.
Also, it's important to realize that rates will come down again in the future and that when they do it might make sense to refinance your home to a lower interest rate. If you have any specific questions on this topic or any other mortgage related questions - we'd love to discuss those with you by phone. Give us a call today!

subset: commoncrawl


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Email: email@example.com | Phone: 0097(0)2-298-2059
Pro-Israel organizations pressured an Oakland children's museum to cancel an upcoming exhibition of drawings made by Palestinian children in the Gaza Strip. Community leaders say the shutting down of the exhibition is the result of a disturbing — and well-funded — campaign to silence Palestinian voices across the US.
On 8 September, just two weeks before the exhibition was set to open to the public, the board of directors of the Museum of Children's Art (MOCHA) announced that they had canceled "A Child's View of Gaza." The board shut down the show due to pressure from "constituents," according to a statement made by Randolph Bell, the board's chairman, in the San Francisco Chronicle ("Oakland museum cancels Palestinian kids' war art," 9 September 2011).
The show was curated in partnership with the Berkeley-based non-profit group Middle East Children's Alliance (MECA), which has been working for 23 years to advocate for Palestinian, Iraqi and Lebanese children's rights. Barbara Lubin, MECA's executive director, told The Electronic Intifada that it was "upsetting and infuriating" that the show was canceled, but she wasn't surprised.
"Anybody who knows this issue knows that the Jewish Federations of North America and the Jewish Council for Public Affairs have launched a multi-million dollar project to combat what they call the 'delegitmization' of Israel," Lubin said. "They try and suffocate the boycott, divestment and sanctions movement and censor Palestinian cultural initiatives. What they're doing is financing the work of silencing and shutting down anyone who wants to talk about what's really happening to Palestinians."
The Chronicle also reported that the board of directors at MOCHA vaguely cited the "inappropriate nature" of the content of the children's drawings in their decision to shut down the exhibit. Some of the Palestinian children's illustrations show tanks, guns and explosions, but the board's assertion that these images are "inappropriate" enough to censor is clearly selective.
In years past, MOCHA had successfully exhibited strikingly similar artwork by children in Iraq who drew from their personal experiences of war following the 2003 US-led invasion and subsequent occupation. Another exhibition several years ago showed artwork by children made during the Second World War that "featured images of Hitler, burning airplanes, sinking battleships, empty houses and a sad girl next to a Star of David," the Chronicle added.
Lubin said that the difference in this context is simple: "The pro-Israel groups are afraid that people will start understanding what's really going on with Israeli policy through seeing exhibits like the one we put together. They don't want people to know that Palestinian children are suffering. They're afraid of us hearing that other side. For 63 years we've heard one side in this country and around the world, and it's time for the other side to be heard."
Stretching Israel's siege from Gaza to Oakland
The censored drawings were created through local children's mental health initiatives in Gaza immediately following Israel's attacks in the winter of 2008-09, during which approximately 1,400 Palestinians, including more than 300 children, were killed.
Ziad Abbas, associate director of MECA, told The Electronic Intifada that several art-based organizations in the Gaza Strip began working with traumatized children in an effort to help them channel their fears, anger and trauma through artistic expression. Those drawings resulted in the collection of artwork that was to be showcased at the children's museum.
"The art projects were born out of a necessity to try to reduce the impact and effects of the attacks which killed hundreds of children in Gaza. These drawings came from that kind of therapy to express their feelings," he said.
Abbas added that the child artists were thrilled that their work had "broken Israel's siege on Gaza" when the drawings made their way to a museum halfway across the world.
"It was important for these children to know that their voices were going to be heard in Oakland. However, they didn't expect the siege to stretch all the way from Gaza to California, which is essentially what happened when MOCHA canceled the exhibit due to pressure from these groups," Abbas said.
Major donors: "Funding was not jeopardized"
Upon investigation, it emerged that those "constituents" who got the ear of MOCHA's board chair included pro-Israel public relations institutions with extraordinarily large budgets and organized community outreach programs. In the Bay Area, these organizations include the Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC), a subsidiary branch of the Jewish Council for Public Affairs (JCPA); and the local chapter of the Jewish Community Federation (JCF), which operates under the umbrella of the Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA).
The JCRC and the JCF both receive substantial funding from the Walter & Elise Haas Fund, which has also funded MOCHA.
The fund, based in San Francisco, is a major donor to arts, science, social justice and Jewish organizations around the Bay Area across the political and cultural spectrum. MOCHA received $30,000 in grants from the Haas fund in 2011 (Recent grantmaking: The Arts," Walter & Elise Haas Fund website, accessed 9 September 2011).
However, a program coordinator with the Walter & Elise Haas Fund told The Electronic Intifada that their staff had talked to the museum about possible public concern with the exhibit, but that the art show "was their decision and their funding was not in any way jeopardized with their doing it."
Pam David, the executive director of the Haas Fund, declined to comment for this article.
John Patchner, communications director for the East Bay Community Foundation — which has awarded tens of thousands of dollars in grants to MOCHA over the years — told The Electronic Intifada that they had "not been contacted by anyone in connection with the cancellation of the exhibit and we're currently seeking additional information from the Museum of Children's Art."
But there are many other foundations that support MOCHA. And in August at least one pro-Israel online campaign encouraged the general public to directly contact MOCHA funders, and published a list of various foundations, in a bid to cancel the children's art exhibition.
"No fight is too small" for pro-Israel groups
Whether or not MOCHA's funders were directly intimidated by pro-Israel groups in the Bay Area, it's certain that top leadership from groups such as the JCRC had a hand in shutting the exhibit down. The JCRC has repeatedly thwarted art and cultural initiatives in the Bay Area which highlight the Palestinian struggle, and has used the guise of "fighting anti-Semitism" to censor alternative voices.
At San Francisco State University in 2006, a proposed mural in honor of the late Palestinian-American intellectual Edward Said was attacked by the JCRC, which helped convince the university administration that the mural sent a "chilling" and threatening message to Jewish students and therefore should be blocked ("SFSU president keeping Jews safe with mural censure," Jewish Weekly, 6 October 2006).
In 2007, the JCRC also worked hand-in-hand with the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), one of the largest and most influential Israel lobby organizations in the US, to force the San Francisco Arts Commission to exert pressure on a local grantee of theirs, an organization for at-risk youth in San Francisco. A mural, planned and painted by Homies Organizing the Mission to Empower Youth (HOMEY), depicted symbols of Palestinian struggle and resistance, including a Palestinian woman with a kuffiyeh (the traditional checkered headscarf) and a crack in the wall that resembled historic Palestine.
The JCRC and the ADL put pressure on the Arts Commission to make the artists omit or modify some of the images after claiming that the symbols were anti-Semitic and "out of touch with the overwhelming majority of Jews," as reported in the San Francisco Examiner ("Controversial mural to be altered in S.F.," 20 September 2007).
The two organizations also worked together to stifle free speech on college campuses in the Bay Area, censoring academic lectures by attempting to conflate criticism of Israeli policy with anti-Semitism. Other pro-Israel groups, backed by the ADL, have pressured faculty boards to deny tenure to university professors who openly criticize Israeli policies.
Following MOCHA's cancellation of the exhibit, Rabbi Doug Kahn, executive director of the JCRC, admitted to the online blog Muzzlewatch (a project of Jewish Voice for Peace) that he was "working closely with the Jewish Federation of the East Bay [which is part of the JFNA]" and "shared with the leadership of MOCHA our concerns about the inappropriateness of this exhibit given the fact that MOCHA — an important and valued community institution — serves very young children" ("Oakland children's museum cancels Palestinian children's art exhibit under pressure from local Jewish groups," 10 September 2011).
Rabbi Kahn refused to respond directly to The Electronic Intifada's questions via phone, but emailed a statement from the JCRC on 12 September. Entitled "Jewish Community Applauds Children's Art Museum's Decision on Exhibit," it alleges that the art show "contains violent images that dehumanize an entire ethnic and religious population."
The JCRC adds that MOCHA's leadership "recognized the negative effect that this inflammatory exhibit would have on young children, Jewish and non-Jewish alike," adding that the drawings could "potentially create an unsafe atmosphere for Jewish children."
However, nowhere in the children's drawings are there anti-Semitic images or phrases. The only Stars of David that are drawn are the ones that Israel itself has put on its flags, F16 bomber jets, tanks and soldiers' uniforms — ubiquitous Israeli national symbols that any Palestinian child living under Israeli military occupation would see on a daily basis, especially during times of wanton attacks.
The cancelation of the children's exhibition was celebrated as a victory by pro-Israel groups. On 7 September, the day before MECA was informed by the museum's board of directors that the exhibit had been canceled, the Jewish Federation of the East Bay (JFEB) had already received information that the show was shut down — and boasted about the cancellation of the exhibit on its official twitter account.
JFEB (@JFEDeastbay) tweeted: "Great news! The 'Child's view from Gaza' exhibit at MOCHA has been canceled thanks to some great East Bay Jewish community organizing."
Pro-Israel groups to "pressure civic leaders" in new $6M initiative
The timing of Kahn's determination to pressure the MOCHA board is significant. Just eleven months ago, the JFNA pledged to invest $6 million in a new, three-year initiative they call the "Israel Action Network."
Working alongside the JCPA — of which the JCRC, Kahn's organization, is a subsidiary — the Israel Action Network "is expected to serve as a rapid-response team charged with countering the growing campaign to isolate Israel as a rogue state akin to apartheid-era South Africa — a campaign that the Israeli government and Jewish groups see as an existential threat to the Jewish state … The network will monitor the delegitimization movement worldwide and create a strategic plan to counter it wherever it crops up" ("Federations, JCPA teaming to fight delegitimization of Israel," Jewish Telegraphic Agency, 25 October 2010).
The JFNA stated that this new campaign would seek to influence "civic leaders," and said that it would be fully staffed and "up and running" by 1 January 2011.
According to their recent tax forms, the JFNA's investment of $6 million in this new campaign should not be a financial burden — they listed more than $197 million in total assets between June 2009 and June 2010 (Return of organization exempt from income tax, 2009, 2009-2010 [PDF]).
The fact that these enormous, well-funded Israeli advocacy organizations have turned their attention to a singular, modest children's art exhibition in Oakland highlights the Israeli lobbies' tireless efforts to silence Palestinian expression. Deborah Agre of MECA agreed, saying that "no fight is too small" for these groups.
MECA's Barbara Lubin added that the attack on this children's art show is just one in a long line of such campaigns.
"But this is particularly saddening to me because these are voices of children," Lubin said. "And as I said to the head of the board of directors at the museum, MECA loses, MOCHA loses, but more importantly, the children from Gaza lose the most. They've always been the ones to lose the most. Not only do they have to live through these bombings and the siege, but then when they try to express their experiences through art, they're shut down."
"There's only one winner in all of this," Lubin added, "And that is the Zionist lobby who intimidate, harass and do everything they can to make it impossible for people to have these kinds of exhibits."
MOCHA's board of directors: supporting all children, or just some?
According to its tax documents, accessed from public records, it is clear that MOCHA is a grassroots organization highly dependent on funding from outside grants and foundations. MOCHA listed just over $700,000 in contributions and grants in 2009 — whereas salaries and employee benefits accounted for approximately double that amount. Their fee-based children's art programs bring in additional revenue of just under $1 million for that year.
If pro-Israel lobbyists indeed placed threatening calls to foundations that support MOCHA, it is understandable that they could feel frightened by the potential loss of money for the next fiscal year and would therefore bend to pressure by these outside groups. But MOCHA may have violated its own mission statement in doing so. On its tax forms, MOCHA states its mission is "to ensure that the arts are a fundamental part of the lives of all children."
Ziad Abbas said that it's wrong for the board of directors to put conditions on that support. "Do they really support all children, or just certain ones? Certainly, in this situation, the Palestinian children who made this artwork are not being supported at all," he remarked.
The Electronic Intifada asked whether the children in Gaza had been informed that their exhibition was shut down, and what their reaction was to the news. Abbas explained that he had just received a call from one of the young artists in Gaza who saw MECA's press release on the Internet that explained that the show was canceled.
"He was extremely disappointed, and the other children were obviously shocked and sad as well," Abbas replied. "It's upsetting to them to hear that a children's art museum across the world decided that their personal [narratives] are offensive, and then silenced their voices and artwork. When you hear about an art museum that has violated its own mission to censor children's artwork and children's artistic expression, it's extremely disappointing."
Community support is out in force
Following Thursday's announcement by the MOCHA board of directors, MECA has been flooded with phone calls and emails from supporters not only just across the Bay Area but worldwide who are appalled at the shutting down of the children's art show. And Lubin said that while outrage at the museum is understandable, the institution is not the enemy.
"MOCHA is very dear to our hearts," Lubin emphasized. "We love this organization and respect the work they do. It's an essential institution in the Bay Area. Our anger is not at the people who work at MOCHA; rather, our anger is at the board who do not have the courage to stand up to this kind of intimidation from the pro-Israel groups. We're asking people to direct their anger at the board and at the Zionist organizations who do this kind of muzzling. But certainly not at the organization itself."
MECA has started an email action campaign in an effort to counter-pressure the board of directors with support and gratitude for hosting the Palestinian children's artwork. They are also asking people to come to the gallery on 24 September, on the planned opening day of the exhibition, in a show of support for the show even if it remains canceled.
Meanwhile, Lubin and the MECA staff are busy figuring out alternative venues for the exhibition.
"We're not sure where the show will be yet, but we'll continue to work on seeing that these voices are heard and that these pictures are shown. People want to do something, and have been offering space in their homes, shops and even in schools," Abbas said. "They won't shut down these children's voices."
Nora Barrows-Friedman is an award-winning independent journalist, and is a staff writer and editor for The Electronic Intifada. She also writes for Inter Press Service, Al Jazeera, Truthout and other outlets, and regularly reports from Palestine.
The Right to Education Campaign at Birzeit...


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WEEKLY ADDRESS: Ensuring a Fair Shot for the Middle Class
President Obama calls on Congress to do what's right for the American people by extending the payroll tax cut and confirming Richard Cordray to lead a new consumer-watchdog agency that will protect families from dishonest business practices.
WASHINGTON— In this week's address, President Obama told the American people that the United States succeeds when everyone gets a fair shot, does their fair share, and engages in fair play. This is why the President nominated Richard Cordray to lead a new consumer-watchdog agency designed to protect families from being taken advantage of, but Republicans in Congress have blocked the nomination. They have also stood in the way of a balanced plan to extend the payroll tax cut for working families – and the President made clear he believes that elected officials should not go home for the holidays until they've done what is right for the American people and for the economy by extending this tax cut.
Remarks of President Barack Obama
As Prepared for Delivery
The White House
Saturday, December 10, 2011
Today, America faces a make-or-break moment for the middle class.
After the worst economic crisis of our lifetimes, some still want to return to the same policies that got us into this mess. They're the same policies that have stacked the deck against working Americans for too long. They're part of a philosophy that says we're better off when everyone is left to fend for themselves and play by their own rules.
But I have a different vision. I believe that we are greater together than we are on our own. I believe that this country succeeds when everyone gets a fair shot, everyone does their fair share, and everyone engages in fair play.
To ensure fair play, last year, we passed the toughest financial reform in generations.
See, for too long, the rules weren't the same on Wall Street as they were on Main Street. Risky bets were made with other people's money. Some folks made a lot of money taking advantage of consumers. It was wrong. And this irresponsible behavior on the part of some contributed to the worst financial crisis since the Great Depression.
So this financial reform refocuses the financial sector on what's really important: getting capital to entrepreneurs who want to grow their businesses, and financing to millions of families who want to buy a house or send their kids to college.
A key part of that was putting in place the first-ever consumer watchdog – someone whose job it is to protect American families from being taken advantage of by mortgage lenders, payday lenders, and debt collectors.
Tens of millions of Americans use these services. Protecting them from unscrupulous practices is an important job. And that's why I nominated Richard Cordray to serve as the head of this consumer watchdog agency.
As the former Attorney General of Ohio, Richard helped recover billions of dollars on behalf of retirees and stood up to dishonest lending practices. He has the support of most Attorneys General across the country, both Democrats and Republicans. Members of Congress from both parties say he's more than qualified for the job. And yet on Thursday, Republicans blocked his nomination. They refused to even allow it to come up for a vote.
That doesn't make any sense. Do Republicans in Congress think our financial crisis was caused by too much oversight of mortgage lenders or debt collectors? Of course not. And every day America has to wait for a new consumer protection watchdog is another day that dishonest businesses can target and take advantage of students, seniors, and service members.
So I refuse to take "no" for an answer. Financial institutions have plenty of high-powered lawyers and lobbyists looking out for them. It's time consumers had someone on their side.
And while they're at it, Republicans in Congress should stop the games and extend the payroll tax cut for working Americans. Because if they don't, nearly 160 million Americans will see their taxes go up at the end of this month.
Congress can't end the year by taking money out of the pockets of working Americans. Now is not the time for playing politics. Now is the time to do what's right for the American people.
No one should go home for the holidays until we get this done. So tell your Members of Congress, don't be a Grinch. Tell them to do the right thing for you and for our economy. Thank you.


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Lorenzo Sanchez-Stewart was my solicitor in Spain for 15 years.
His father and the company also worked with my with my father and brother for many years.
Lorenzo guided and administered all matters regarding the purchase, running and the sale of a property in Spain. All of the matters were dealt with extremely competently.
I have no reservations in confirming his ability in all of these matters.
I confirm I am delighted with the service and advice provided to me by Lorenzo Sanchez-Stewart and Sebastian Sanchez-Stewart regarding my wealth management.
I have known this firm for a number of years and find them to be of the highest calibre and would have no hesitation in recommending the firm of Sanchez-Stewart Abogados.
Frank asked me who is the best lawyer in Marbella and there was only one name in my mind.
Please Frank contact Mr Lorenzo Sanchez Stewart if required.
I have been a client for some fifteen years or more of Sanchez-Stewart Abogados. I came to them through recommendation, when buying a property in Spain, which like anywhere else, if not done properly, can have its challenges. Following my first purchase they saved me from a very bad second purchase where the entreaties of the vendor and their agent were entirely believable, but ill-founded as Lorenzo Sanchez-Stewart carefully managed me through the process. Saving you from yourself is a key asset of your legal adviser!
That said we moved onto what you want in an attorney, steering me and my family with thoughtfulness and consideration through the larger and smaller issues that arise in dealing with a different legal system.
With changes in European law inevitable and unknown, strong legal and financial skills are essential to avoid problems and take the strain from you and your family and I am confident in having Sanchez-Stewart Abogados protect me and my family going forward.
I have been a client of Sanchez-Stewart Abogados for a number of years. The firm has, on my behalf, handled property transactions, the creation of wills and various areas of general advice.
I have found them to be diligent, efficient and effective. In my experience they respond to issues promptly and I have every confidence in the quality of advice I receive. I find the firm both highly professional and friendly in their dealings.
'Sanchez-Stewart Abocados' were priceless in establishing myself and my family in Marbella, Spain in the mid-1990's.
Since then, whether helping with property deals or legal and investment advice, the Sanchez-Stewart family has always been at the top of their game.
The firm has been an absolute pleasure to work with and over the years we have developed a very special friendship.
Since 2005 have worked with Lorenzo Sanchez-Stewart on a number of Spanish property related transactions as well as receiving services related to owning property in Spain.
Throughout this period the service I have received from Sanchez-Stewart has been outstanding both in terms of the quality and clarity of advice but as importantly the proactivity with which they deliver services.
Having dealt with many law firms I would rank Sanchez-Stewart as probably my strongest relationship and I would highly recommend them.
I first met Lorenzo Sanchez-Stewart in 2012 when he was an Expert Witness on Spanish law and procedure in a case in which I was instructed in London. His report was well written, succinct, clear and right. He was not afraid to remain objective and independent even though his evidence contradicted the views of my clients' own Spanish lawyer.
My wife and I then instructed him when we were looking to buy a house in Andalusia. He was meticulous visiting the property which we wanted to buy. He strongly advise us not to proceed. We were disappointed but his advice was absolutely correct. He also visited the second property which we wanted and uncovered irregularities on the part of the vendor.
The third property he allowed us to buy but insisted that the vendor produced the appropriate licences for every structure on the land before completion.
At completion the Notary asked who our lawyer was and when he was told groaned "We'll be here all day!" We were not but clearly, and correctly, the firm has a reputation for careful attention to detail in the interests of its clients.
He and his brother have since advised us about Spanish Wills and tax.
We have complete trust in the firm. They act expeditiously but their charges are very reasonable. The members of the firm are always professional, friendly and courteous. We would not hesitate to recommend them to anyone and have, indeed done so.
We are not alone. The very good Estate Agent who sold us the property has told us that she has never known any other lawyer who insisted on visiting any property his client wished to buy and also that the firm work more quickly than any other she has come across.
Thank you. It has always been a pleasure dealing with you and your firm over many years.
I am very pleased to recommend Lorenzo Sanchez-Stewart and his Practice. He has been our Solicitor for 17 years and we have enjoyed his company immensely. He is a very well respected Professional


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We are an IT consulting firm that functions as your in-house IT department. In supporting all of your information technology networking needs, we will ensure that you receive personalized service and top quality results. Our services have been trusted by the community for twenty years.
We work in partnership with our clients to ensure all of their current and future needs are met. As the world gets more evolved, it is our job to make ensure your network evolves with you as well.
We analyze and monitor your IT infrastructure 24 hours a day, so that you can have peace of mind knowing your data is secure. We are compliant with all the major government requirements to include PCI, HIPAA, and FISMA.
If you need to remotely access your network or even an individual computer, we can help! We understand that your world doesn't stop at 5PM, and we can ensure you are able to work securely from anywhere. It is that remote connectivity that also allows us to quickly respond to your support needs for any issues not requiring an onsite presence.
We support many types of software programs so that your organization can efficiently and effectively fulfill business objectives. As an additional (and highly valued) service to our customers, software application training programs are also available.
In addition to traditional IT support, we also pride ourselves in excelling in the areas of support that are not always so obvious. We care about you and your business, and if we encounter something that that is outside the usual scope of our work (such as an unreliable telephone system) we can use our vast business relationship infrastructure to put you in touch with someone who can help. We will never leave you with support.
We are not resellers, which means we help you make decisions based on what is best for you and not what we happen to have in stock. We do not "push" one technology over another, rather we work with you to help you decide what with help further your business.
Carolina Information Technology Resource Corporation is a complete IT solutions provider with a strong emphasis on network and data security. We are a group of dedicated professionals whose core philosophy embodies our strong commitment to providing superior support and expertise to our clients. Using our unique backgrounds and knowledge bases, we are able to provide exemplary levels of service to many industries and professions.
If you think you might need IT support, the first step is to contact us. We will be happy to discuss what your needs might be. The second step would be for us to come meet with you, and view your current IT infrastructure. There is absolutely no cost or obligation on your part. The following step (also free of charge) would be a written proposal clearly stating what we envision our support for you would entail, and exactly what it would cost. There are never any surprises; for this reason our client retention rate exceeds 99% and several have been with us for almost two decades.
We strive to provide the highest possible level of service to you, our client. We believe that integrity, honesty and clear communication is essential to building and maintaining business relationships. We will never recommend, sell, or even advertise any service that is not in your best interest.
We have adopted an approach that focuses on the customer's needs and IT services. We continuously strive to make your experience better by implementing and managing IT Systems that are usable and secure.
Implement quality IT services that meet the needs of our customers through an appropriate mix of people, process and information technology.
We are currently hiring, including opportunities for apprenticeships! If you have an interest, and an aptitude, please contact us today at email@example.com.
We feel that by keeping our client list confidential, we are able to provide maximum data and network security. This allows us to provide the best possible service to our clients. References are of course available, so please fill out our online information form and we will contact you immediately.
21 Welcome Street
Brevard, NC
Phone: (828) 333 4956


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We are looking for models in the Midlands of all ages and sizes !
As a responsible and highly regarded company, we are committed to providing outstanding service to ensure that our clients get the perfect shots and enjoy their experience.
Children's modelling requires a little more paperwork and general organisation than adult modelling. Portfolios and stock photographs must be updated much more regularly to reflect the changing face and body of the child. It is recommended that parents follow the general rule of updating photographs every six months from baby to walking stages, then every 12 months as young children and 18-24 months as they grow older. Of course, if there are any big changes seen before these time periods, it would be wise to invest in a new set, to ensure the most up to date and correct photos are representing your child fill in our short application below.
Model agencies represents models of all shapes, sizes and ages. Baby modelling is no exception. With the natural fast turnover of rapidly growing and changing young babies, we are often looking for new young potential to maintain our books to our high standards.
As well as child and baby modelling, teens are also covered under the remit of 'kids modelling' and of course, Model agencies have a strong market presence in this area also. If you're a teen looking to embark upon a modelling career, please do not hesitate to contact us for a friendly and supportive chat. A hugely transitional time of life, Model agencies are sensitive and manage their teen models carefully to prevent any risks of exploitation in any way. Our ethos is to provide outstanding service to both clients and models, with a professional yet friendly environment to nurture a fledgling career in the modelling industry.
Whilst not exclusive to female models, We have a strong presence in the female model section Model agencies offer a wide range of female models and should have a versatility favoured by many clients and expertise in many different spheres of modelling, well suited to represent you as one of our models. If you are looking to break into the world of fashion modelling, or you're an existing model looking for a new representative, We would love to hear from you via the form below.
Fashion models are versatile and can work in both print and catwalk environments. Some fashion models also attend castings for video and film work. The beauty of a fashion model can vary quite dramatically from what is considered conventional, with quirky signature styles and different facial features often highlighted to add a subtle edge.
A face model must have well proportioned, symmetrical features and a reasonable skin tone. If you think face modelling is something you'd be suited to, We welcome your application. We require a frontal head shot, free of distractions such as make up and jewellery and promise to give you a professional critique along with expert guidance. Face modelling requires a greater level of scrutiny and analysis, with a focus on classical beauty. We are proud to have shot a variety of different, yet similarly classically beautiful face models for clients to choose from.
An area that has seen a huge uprising in mainstream popularity over the past few years, WE are strengthening our portfolio of plus size models and welcome enquiries from potentially suitable models. As with face modelling, plus size modelling requires good proportion, however this time both face and body are important. A good plus size model nowadays must be prepared to be photographed in various items, not just working for plus size brands, but on campaigns for accessories and jewellery too. Plus size models are frequently required to walk in catwalk shows too, so a strong walk is a great asset
If you are interested in becoming a male model, or are currently working in the industry and wishing to take on male modelling jobs, WE would like to hear from you. A good male model must have a good physique, as versatility is key in the male modelling industry. Many male models are strong in a range of areas; campaign shoots, face modelling, catwalk and video or film to name but a few. If you have particular strengths in a certain area that you wish to showcase, we will help you in representing you to get your modelling career off to a great start.
Providing the highest standards of quality male models, we are always on the lookout for new talent and the next new look. Clients can be assured that our male models are versatile, with unique signature looks to give your campaign an added edge. We aim to maintain a range of male models to deliver a complete range of looks to our clients, from lean indie types, to the toned muscular physiques of fitness modelling and everything in between!
Male modelling jobs are wide ranging in terms of genre. One day a male model could be walking a runway show wearing a full suit, the next day he could be stripped to boxers or swimwear for a designer photo shoot. It's varied work, with a great rate of pay, particularly as you build a portfolio and gain a good reputation in the industry.
Often, male models are required as complementary models for a fashion shoot and many runway shows are put on to showcase a mixed collection, so you'll find life as a male model does incorporate a female element too when you're working in a large mixed group of models. The lifestyle can be very social so it's important to remain focused. Contact us to discuss your current situation and gain constructive feedback on your portfolio. We welcome applications to join our team and we hope to help your modelling career soar.


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Tuesday of the Twenty-eighth Week in Ordinary Time
Lectionary: 468
Reading I
Brothers and sisters:
I am not ashamed of the Gospel.
It is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes:
for Jew first, and then Greek.
For in it is revealed the righteousness of God from faith to faith;
as it is written, "The one who is righteous by faith will live."
The wrath of God is indeed being revealed from heaven
against every impiety and wickedness
of those who suppress the truth by their wickedness.
For what can be known about God is evident to them,
because God made it evident to them.
Ever since the creation of the world,
his invisible attributes of eternal power and divinity
have been able to be understood and perceived in what he has made.
As a result, they have no excuse;
for although they knew God
they did not accord him glory as God or give him thanks.
Instead, they became vain in their reasoning,
and their senseless minds were darkened.
While claiming to be wise, they became fools
and exchanged the glory of the immortal God
for the likeness of an image of mortal man
or of birds or of four-legged animals or of snakes.
Therefore, God handed them over to impurity
through the lusts of their hearts
for the mutual degradation of their bodies.
They exchanged the truth of God for a lie
and revered and worshiped the creature rather than the creator,
who is blessed forever. Amen.
Responsorial Psalm
R. (2a) The heavens proclaim the glory of God.
The heavens declare the glory of God,
and the firmament proclaims his handiwork.
Day pours out the word to day,
and night to night imparts knowledge.
R. The heavens proclaim the glory of God.
Not a word nor a discourse
whose voice is not heard;
Through all the earth their voice resounds,
and to the ends of the world, their message.
R. The heavens proclaim the glory of God.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
The word of God is living and effective,
able to discern reflections and thoughts of the heart.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
After Jesus had spoken,
a Pharisee invited him to dine at his home.
He entered and reclined at table to eat.
The Pharisee was amazed to see
that he did not observe the prescribed washing before the meal.
The Lord said to him, "Oh you Pharisees!
Although you cleanse the outside of the cup and the dish,
inside you are filled with plunder and evil.
You fools!
Did not the maker of the outside also make the inside?
But as to what is within, give alms,
and behold, everything will be clean for you."


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Local Trucking Company in Columbus
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Want to learn more? Click the link below to get a quote from one of our experienced booking agents.
Get A QuoteThe Local Trucking Company with a Diverse Fleet
Whether you need to ship goods within Columbus, around the region, or across the country, we have a vehicle for you. We maintain a fleet of vehicles designed for a wide range of uses. We have something for everyone, from small local delivery trucks to large shipping freights.
All our vehicles undergo regular inspections and tune-ups to ensure that if they are road-ready when we need them to be. For us, safety and efficiency go hand in hand. Not only does this protect our drivers and your freight, but it also ensures that there are fewer delays and hold-ups down the road. And guess what? That means lower costs and more affordable pricing for all our clients.
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Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman
Herman MillerThe Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman have their origin in Charles and Ray's investigations into molding plywood and a desire to improve upon a familiar fixture in many living rooms: the lounge chair. A universally recognized form, the set is available in a variety of veneers, multiple leather options, and two sizes. Whatever selection you make, you can be assured of the quality and authenticity of this design.
- Learn more at hermanmiller.com
- Download PDF
- Interested in a Quote?


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There Are Probably Way More Earth-Like Exoplanets Than We Imagined
A new analysis indicates that 22 percent of Sun-like stars may harbor planets roughly the size of Earth in their habitable zones
Over the past 18 years, astronomers have discovered 1038 planets orbiting distant stars. Disappointingly, though, the vast majority don't seem like candidates to support life as we know it—they're either so close to their home star that all water would likely evaporate, or so far away that all of it would freeze, or they're made up of gas instead of rock and more closely resemble our solar system's gas giants than Earth.
Or so we thought. Today, a group of scientists from UC Berkeley and the University of Hawaii published a calculation suggesting that we've overlooked evidence of a vast number of Earth-sized exoplanets in the habitable zone of their stars, simply because these planets are harder to detect with current methods. They believe that, on average, 22% of Sun-like stars (that is, stars with a size and temperature similar to the Sun) harbor a planet that's roughly Earth-sized in their habitable zones.
"With about 100 billion stars in our Milky Way galaxy, that's about 20 billion such planets," said Andrew Howard, one of the study's co-authors, in a press conference on the findings. "That's a few Earth-sized planets for every human being on the planet Earth."
The team, led by Erik Petigura, came to these conclusions by taking an unconventional approach to planet-finding. Instead of counting how many exoplanets we've found, they sought to determine how many planets we're unable to see.
Exoplanets are detected as a result of rhythmic dimming in a star's brightness, which indicates that there's a planet orbiting it and passing between the star and our vantage point. Because of this method, large planets that orbit closely to their stars have been the easiest to find—they block more light, more often—and thus disproportionately dominate the list of known exoplanets.
To estimate the number of exoplanets this technique misses, the Berkeley team wrote a software program that analyzed data from the Kepler mission, an exoplanet-hunting NASA telescope launched into orbit in 2009. Initially, to confirm the program's accuracy, they fed it the same data from 42,557 Sun-like stars that had already been scrutinized by other astronomers, and it indeed detected 603 candidate planets, all of which had already been found.
When it parsed the data further to find Earth-like planets—using the length of time between dimmings to indicate how far out the planet orbits the star, and the degree of dimming to indicate us how much of the star is blocked by the planet, and thus the exoplanet's size—it found 10 potential exoplanets that are between one and two times the size of Earth and orbit in what is likely the star's habitable zone. This, too, aligned with previous findings, showing the program could accurately detect planets.
But what the researchers really wanted to do was determine the overall prevalence of Earth-like exoplanets. To calculate this number, they first had to determine just how many weren't detected in the survey. "One way of thinking of it is that we're doing a census of habitable exoplanets, but not everyone's answering the door," Petigura explained.
There are a few reasons that a planet might not be detected. If its orbit doesn't take it into a location that would block the path of light between its star and our telescopes, we'd have no way of seeing it. Alternately, it could successfully block starlight, but the event could be lost amid natural variation in the brightness of the star as we perceive it on Earth.
Both of these possibilities, it turns out, make it disproportionately hard to find Earth-like exoplanets. "Planets are easier to detect if they're bigger, and closer to their host stars," Howard said. "Thus it's no accident that hot Jupiters were the first planets to be discovered." Simply by virtue of physics, smaller, Earth-sized planets that may orbit a bit farther out are less likely to pass directly in front of their stars, from our perspective.
To finding out how many Earth-like planets we likely miss as a result, the scientists altered the Kepler data by artificially introducing 40,000 more exoplanets similar to Earth—roughly one per star—then feeding the resulting data back into the planet detection software. This time, it only found about one percent of the Earth-like planets introduced, because the vast majority didn't cause a detectable dimming of their star.
This means that, with current detection methods, 99 out of 100 Earth-like aren't coming to the door when to answer our interstellar census. Accounting for this level of imperfection, the researchers calculated that far more Sun-like stars are home to a potentially habitable, Earth-sized exoplanet than we previously thought.
It's important to note that this is a theoretical calculation: The scientists didn't actually discover these sorts of planets orbiting 22% of the stars. But if the underlying assumptions are accurate, it does give hope to the possibility that we'll find more potentially habitable planets in the future. In fact, the researchers calculated that if the prevalence of these sorts of planets is uniform across the galaxy, odds are that one can be found tantalizingly nearby—about 12 light years away from Earth.
It's still unknown whether these planets might have the other ingredients that we believe are likely necessary for life: a protective atmosphere, the presence of water and a rocky surface. But the researchers say another recent finding makes them hopeful that some of them have potential. Earlier this week, scientists found a rocky, Earth-sized exoplanet roughly 700 light-years away. Although that planet is certainly too hot to harbor life, it has density similar to that of Earth—suggesting that at least some of the Earth-sized planets we've failed to detect so far have a geologic composition similar to our own planet's.


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Saturday 21 November to Friday 11 December 2015 our yearly ecosocialist school took place again. A total of 15 activists from Sri Lanka, US, Denmark, Spanish State, Belgium, Haiti, Cameroon, Mali, Colombia, Mexico, India, Turkey and Indonesia took part in the course. This was our third Ecosocialist School.
This year the program of the school was completely renewed to focus more on the strategic challenges facing activists. Feedback from the participants was positive and people returned home motivated to carry on the struggle for social justice. At the center of the lectures and the discussion were the climate crisis and the European crisis. Participants discussed different ways to unify the struggle for social justice with that for ecological sustainability and analyzed different experiences of the Left, such as in Greece.
Wewould like to thank the lecturers, participants, and interpreters, who traveled from many kilometers away to contribute to this international and internationalist experience. Like our other activities, the school was made possible by the donations of our supporters. We thank them for the support.


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OJEC stands for the Official Journal of the European Community (OJEC is now recognised as OJEU - the Official Journal of the European Union). This is the publication in which all tenders from the public sector which are valued above a certain financial threshold according to EU legislation, must be published.
The legislation covers organisations and projects that receive public money. Organisations such as Local Authorities, NHS Trusts, MOD, Central Government Departments and Educational Establishments are all covered by the legislation.
This website provides a gateway for Suppliers who wish to search for new business opportunities sent directly from the OJEU and also lower value opportunities from a wide range of other sources throughout the UK and Ireland.
Tenders Direct is a personalised, sophisticated profiling service that guarantees you regular, timely and relevant business opportunities - many of which your competitors may not know about. To access the latest OJEU and lower value tenders, please visit the Tenders Direct website.


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Quiet diplomacy wins freedom for convert facing possible death penalty.
ISTANBUL February 24 (Compass Direct News) — After intense diplomatic pressure last week, authorities released Afghani Christian Said Musa, who had been in prison for nearly nine months on charges of apostasy (leaving Islam), punishable by death under Islamic law. Another convert, however, remains in prison.
A source in Afghanistan told Compass that the 46-year-old Musa (alternately spelled Sayyed Mussa) was released last week and had left the country on Monday (Feb. 21), but the date of his release was not clear.
Musa had written a series of letters from his prison cell, the last one dated Feb. 13, according to Compass sources. In that letter Musa, an amputee and a father of six, said that representatives of embassies in Kabul visited him and offered him asylum.
After the representatives left, according to the letter, Musa was taken to another room where three Afghani officials tried to convince him to recant his faith. They promised to release him from prison within 24 hours if he would do so. He refused and was sent back to his cell.
"I told them I cannot [follow] Islam," he wrote in his letter. "I am Jesus Christ's servant. They pushed me much and much. I refused their demands."
Details of Musa's release remained confidential in order to protect him and his family, who still remain in danger, sources said.
A source in Afghanistan close to Musa praised the efforts of the international community.
"We feel that the release reveals that when many, many people come together trying to enforce justice, in some case like for our friend Said Musa, good things happen, even though it looks impossible," said the source on the condition of anonymity. "The voices of the people outside Afghanistan who put pressure on the Afghan government and on the international diplomats have been heard."
When local churches and international bodies advocate for the persecuted in faith, he added, "they have the power to change things."
The source expressed frustration, however, over the slow process for releasing Musa, who had been in prison since May 31, 2010, and over lack of human rights and religious freedoms in Afghanistan overall.
"All this battle during nine months against the government reveals a worse situation than ever about freedom of religion," said the source. "It is very sad and discouraging, after almost 10 years of help from the international community."
Authorities arrested Musa and other Christians after the country's most popular broadcaster, Noorin TV, in May broadcast images of Afghani Christians worshiping.
The broadcast appeared on an Afghani TV show called "Sarzanin-e-man," or "My Homeland," hosted by Nasto Nadiri, 27, an outspoken opponent of the government and a parliamentary hopeful. Noorin TV station is opposed to the government and does what it can to "embarrass" it, a source said.
The broadcast put in motion the events that got Musa arrested, according to sources. The hour-long TV show sparked protests throughout the country against Christians and a heated debate in parliament. In early June, the deputy secretary of the Afghan Parliament, Abdul Sattar Khawasi, called for the execution of converts from Islam.
During that time many converts to Christianity left the country, according to sources, and many were arrested, though the exact number is unknown.
Musa was concerned about the public outcry against Christians and went to his employer, the International Committee of the Red Cross/Red Crescent, where he fitted patients for prosthetic limbs, to request personal leave the morning of May 31. Authorities arrested him after he left the building, and his family could not locate him for nearly two months.
Before being transferred to Kabul Detention Center in the Governor's Compound in November 2010, Musa had suffered sexual abuse, beatings, mockery and sleep deprivation because of his faith in Jesus in the first months of his detention.
According to the U.S. Department of State, estimates of the size of the Christian community in Afghanistan range from 500 to 8,000.
Still in Prison
Still in prison is Shoib Assadullah, an Afghani Christian who has been in a holding jail in a district of Mazar-e-Sharif, in northern Afghanistan, since October. A recent letter from him suggests that his life is in danger.
Assadullah was arrested on Oct. 21 for giving a New Testament to a man who reportedly turned him in to authorities.
"Not only has my freedom been taken from me, but I [am] undergoing severe psychological pressure," Assadullah wrote in a letter dated Feb. 17. "Several times I have been attacked physically and threatened to death by fellow prisoners, especially Taliban and anti-government prisoners who are in jail."Assadullah became a Christian about five years ago. During his imprisonment, last month his mother died due to the stress of her son being in prison, according to the Christian.
Assadullah, who has no legal representation, has also been pushed to recant his faith. Authorities have tried to build a case that he is insane in order to explain his change of faith and possibly to justify a more lenient sentence for him, sources have said.
"My case is supposed to be sent to the court shortly, because the prosecutor has the right to hold a case only for 30 days," Assadullah wrote. "The court's decision is most definitely going to be the death penalty for me, because the prosecutor has accused me under the Clause 139 of the criminal code which says, 'If the crime is not cited in the criminal code, then the case has to be referred to the Islamic sharia law.'"
Sources said that there are diplomatic efforts underway for the secure release of Assadullah.
In his letter, Assadullah wrote that freedom is a gift from God.
"This means that we have to respect human freedom and dignity," he wrote. "Clause 24 of Afghan Constitution says, 'Human freedom and dignity is an unalterable right. The government is committed to respect and protect human freedom and dignity.'"


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Breaks are an important part of the day, and if you're too busy powering through work you'll eventually cause a bunch of unneeded stress. Blogger Simon Jackson was so bad at taking breaks he had to come up with an extreme solution. In this case, lock himself out of his computer, and change the keyboard layout.
You'll find plenty of less sadistic break reminders out there, like Awareness, Eyeleo or Coffee Break, but those are all incredibly easy to disable if you want to continue working. Jackson's method is a lot tougher:
Once activated, the script will launch the screensaver and simultaneously lock the computer.
Next, the script launches a little command line utility changeInput that swaps out your current keyboard layout to the
At this point, if you try to simply type in your password normally it will fail.
Once the predetermined break time is up, changeInput will return your keyboard to its original layout
With Jackson's method, you can log back in if you really have to, but you need to know the Dvorak layout of a keyboard. Obviously, this is meant for only the most extreme who refuse to take breaks throughout the day, but if that sounds like you, it's worth a shot to form a better habit. After all, taking breaks is integral for staying motivated, sleeping better, and productivity. Find out how to implement this for yourself over on Jackson's site. His tutorial for setting this up only applies to Macs, but it should be possible to reproduce on Windows as well.
How I Force Myself to Take Breaks | miniArray via Hacker News


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The image from the projector is too big for a 16:9 screen. What should I do?
You must send a 16:9 signal from the source. To fit the image properly to the screen, make the appropriate adjustments on the source.
Published: Dec 20, 2017
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"Hypoallergenic" Cosmetics
Hypoallergenic cosmetics are products that manufacturers claim produce fewer allergic reactions than other cosmetic products. Consumers with hypersensitive skin, and even those with "normal" skin, may be led to believe that these products will be gentler to their skin than non-hypoallergenic cosmetics.
On this page:
Hypoallergenic Cosmetics
There are no Federal standards or definitions that govern the use of the term "hypoallergenic." The term means whatever a particular company wants it to mean. Manufacturers of cosmetics labeled as hypoallergenic are not required to submit substantiation of their hypoallergenicity claims to FDA.
The term "hypoallergenic" may have considerable market value in promoting cosmetic products to consumers on a retail basis, but dermatologists say it has very little meaning.
October 18, 2000 The information above is current and is updated only as needed.
Historical Background
Below is a 1978 FDA Consumer magazine article that provides additional information on the term "hypoallergenic."
U.S. Food and Drug Administration
FDA Consumer
April 1978
"Hypoallergenic" Cosmetics
(A Federal court has struck down an FDA regulation requiring cosmetic manufacturers to conduct tests to back up any claim that a product is "hypoallergenic." The decision means the term has no real meaning in the marketplace, but the list of ingredients now required on cosmetics can help consumers determine if there is any significant difference between "hypoallergenic" products and competing brands that don't make this claim.)
by Margaret Morrison
Ever since the days when "She's lovely, she's engaged, she uses Ponds" became one of the best known advertising slogans in America, cosmetics manufacturers have pursued consumers with promises of everything from new beauty to a new lifestyle. Indeed, with cosmetics--perhaps more than with any other type of product--promotion is the key to sales success. Recognizing this, manufacturers have used a wide variety of appeals to break into or increase their share in this lucrative market.
For many years, companies have been producing products which they claim are "hypoallergenic" or "safe for sensitive skin" or "allergy tested." These statements imply that the products making the claims are less likely to cause allergic reactions than competing products. But there has been no assurance to consumers that this actually was the case.
For the past four years, the Food and Drug Administration has been working to clear up this confusion of claims by establishing testing requirements that would determine which products really are "hypoallergenic." But late last year, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia ruled that FDA's regulation defining "hypoallergenic" was invalid. This means there is now no regulation specifically defining or governing the use of the term "hypoallergenic" or similar claims. And because of the lengthy procedural steps required to establish a new regulation, that is likely to be the situation for some time to come.
Where does that leave consumers?
Consumers concerned about allergic reactions from cosmetics should understand one basic fact: there is no such thing as a "nonallergenic" cosmetic--that is, a cosmetic that can be guaranteed never to produce an allergic reaction.
But are some cosmetics less likely to produce adverse reactions than competing products?
By and large, the basic ingredients in so-called "hypoallergenic" cosmetics are the same as those used in other cosmetics sold for the same purposes. Years ago, some cosmetics contained harsh ingredients that had a high potential for causing adverse reactions. But these ingredients are no longer used. FDA knows of no scientific studies which show that "hypoallergenic" cosmetics or products making similar claims actually cause fewer adverse reactions than competing conventional products.
FDA's ill-fated regulation on "hypoallergenic" cosmetics was first issued as a proposal in February 1974. It said that a cosmetic would be permitted to be labeled "hypoallergenic" or make similar claims only if scientific studies on human subjects showed that it caused a significantly lower rate of adverse skin reactions than similar products not making such claims. The manufacturers of cosmetics claiming to be "hypoallergenic" were to be responsible for carrying out the required tests.
Numerous comments on the proposal were received from consumers, consumer groups and cosmetic manufacturers. Some people urged a ban on the use of the term "hypoallergenic" on grounds that most consumers don't have allergies. Others suggested that the term be banned because allergic individuals cannot use "hypoallergenic" products with any assurance of safety. A number of cosmetic manufacturers complained about the requirement for product comparison tests to validate claims of hypoallergenicity. Among other things, they said the tests would pose an undue economic burden on them.
In responding to the comments, FDA pointed out that the proposed regulation was not intended to solve all problems concerning cosmetic safety. The primary purpose of the regulation, the Agency said, was to clear up confusion about the term "hypoallergenic" and to establish a definition that could be used uniformly by manufacturers and understood by consumers.
FDA issued its final regulation on "hypoallergenic" cosmetics on June 6, 1975. Although the final regulation did require comparative tests, procedures for carrying out the tests were changed to reduce the costs to the manufacturers.
The new regulation was quickly challenged in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia by Almay and Clinique, makers of "hypoallergenic" cosmetics. The two firms charged that FDA had no authority to issue the regulation, but the court upheld FDA.
The firms then appealed to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia, which ruled that the regulation was invalid. The appeals court held that FDA's definition of the term "hypoallergenic" was unreasonable because the Agency had not demonstrated that consumers perceive the term "hypoallergenic" in the way described in the regulation.
As a result of the decision, manufacturers may continue to label and advertise their cosmetics as "hypoallergenic" or make similar claims without any supporting evidence. Consumers will have no assurance that such claims are valid.
However, cosmetics users who know they are allergic to certain ingredients can take steps to protect themselves. FDA regulations now require the ingredients used in cosmetics to be listed on the product label, so consumers can avoid substances that have caused them problems.


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Sacram Liturgiam
Sacram Liturgiam Apostolic Letter Of His Holiness Pope Paul VI Issued Motu Proprio January 25, 1964 The many documents on liturgical questions that have been published and are well known to all demonstrate how it was the ceaseless concern of our predecessors in the supreme pontificate, of ourselves, and of the holy shepherds to preserve diligently, to cultivate and to renew the sacred liturgy according to need. Another proof of this solicitude is given by the Liturgical Constitution which the Second Vatican Ecumenical Council has approved by general consent and which we in the solemn public session of December 4, 1963, ordered to be promulgated. This lively interest stems from the fact that in the earthly liturgy we take part in a foretaste of that heavenly liturgy which is celebrated in the holy city of Jerusalem toward which we journey as pilgrims, where Christ is sitting at the right hand of God, a minister of the holies and of the true tabernacle. We sing a hymn to the Lord's glory with all the warriors of the heavenly army. Venerating the memory of the saints, we hope for some part and fellowship with them. We eagerly await the Savior, our Lord Jesus Christ, until He, our life, shall appear and we too will appear with Him in glory (Article 8, Constitution on the Liturgy). For this reason the souls of the faithful worship God, the principle and model of all holiness, in such a way as to be, in this earthly pilgrimage, imitators of the heavenly Zion (from hymn of Lauds of the Feast of the Dedication of a Church). For these reasons it is apparent to all that it is our uppermost concern that all Christians, and especially all priests, should consecrate themselves first of all to the study of the already-mentioned Constitution and from now on, resolve to implement its individual prescriptions in good faith as soon as they enter into force. And since it is necessary by the very nature of things that the prescriptions concerning the knowledge and spread of the liturgical laws should take place immediately, we earnestly exhort shepherds of dioceses that with the help of sacred ministers, dispensers of God's mysteries (Constitution, Article 19), they should hasten to act in order that the faithful entrusted to their care may understand, to the degree permitted by age, by the conditions of their own life and by their mental formation, the strength and inner value of the liturgy and at the same time participate very devoutly, internally and externally, in the rites of the Church (Constitution, Article 19). Meanwhile, it seems evident that many prescriptions of the Constitution cannot be applied in a short period of time, especially since some rites must first be revised and new liturgical books prepared. In order that this work may be carried out with the necessary wisdom and prudence, we are establishing a special commission whose principal task will be to implement in the best possible way the prescriptions of the Constitution on Sacred Liturgy itself. However, since among the norms of the Constitution there are some which can be made effective now, we desire that they may enter immediately into force, so that the souls of the faithful may not be further deprived of the fruits of the grace which are hoped for from them. Therefore, with our apostolic authority and on our own initiative, we order and decree that from the coming first Sunday of Lent, that is from February 16, 1964, the end of the interim period established by Law, the following norms enter into force: We desire that the norms contained in Article 15, 16, and 17 concerning teaching of the liturgy in seminaries, in school of religious communities and in theological faculties immediately should be worked into the programs in such a way that beginning in the next school year students may devote themselves to such study in an orderly and diligent way. We also decree that, according to the norms of Articles 45 and 46, there be established as soon as possible in the various diocese a commission whose task is, under direction of the bishop, to foster knowledge of the liturgy and advance the liturgical apostolate. It will also be opportune that in certain cases, several dioceses should have a single commission. Furthermore, in all diocese let two other commissions be established: one for sacred music and the other for sacred art. These three diocesan commissions may also be merged into one if necessary. From the date established above, we desire that the norms of Article 52 should enter into force, prescribing the homily during holy Mass on Sundays and holydays. In the same way, we also put into immediate effect the norms contained in Article 71, which permits administration of the sacrament of Confirmation during holy Mass when convenient. Concerning Article 78, we admonish all concerned that the sacrament of Matrimony must normally be celebrated during holy Mass, after the reading of the Gospel and the sermon. If Matrimony is administered outside the Mass, we order that the following rules be observed until a new ritual is established: At the beginning of this sacred rite (Constitution, Article 35, paragraph 3), after a brief exhortation, the Gospel and Epistle of the Nuptial Mass must be read; and then let the spouses receive the blessing which is contained in the Roman Ritual in Section 8, Chapter III. Although the Divine Office has not yet been revised and renewed according to the norms of Article 89, we nevertheless grant immediately the following permission to all who are obliged to recite the Divine Office. From February 16, in recitation of the office outside of choir, they may omit the hour of Prime and choose from among the three other little hours one that best suits the time of day, always without prejudice to the dispositions of Articles 95 and 96 of the Constitution. We make this concession with strong confidence that this will not detract in any way from the piety of the clergy, but rather that in diligently carrying out the duties of their priestly office for the love of God, they may feel more closely united to God throughout the day. Still regarding the Divine Office, we ordain that bishops may for just and well-considered reasons dispense their own subjects wholly or in part from the obligation of reciting it, or substitute another pious practice for it (Constitution, Article 97). Still regarding the Divine Office, we desire that those members of institutes of perfection who, according to their constitutions, recite some part of the Divine Office, or some little office, provided this is drawn up on the pattern of the Divine Office and regularly approved, are to be considered as taking part in the public prayer of the Church (Constitution, Article 98). Since according to Article 101 of the Constitution those who are obliged to recite the Divine Office may in various ways be permitted to use the vernacular instead of Latin, we deem it proper to specify that the various versions proposed by the competent territorial bishop's conference must always be reviewed and approved by the Holy See. We order that this practice always be observed whenever a liturgical Latin text is translated into the vernacular on behalf of the territorial authority. Since in accord with Article 22, paragraph 2, the direction of the liturgy within geographical limits comes within the competence of the legitimately constituted territorial episcopal conferences of various kinds, we establish that the term territorial be understood as meaning national. In addition to the residential bishops, all who are mentioned in Canon 292 of the Code of Canon Law may participate in these national conferences, with the right to vote. In addition, coadjutor and auxiliary bishops may also be called to these conferences. In these conferences, legitimate approval of decrees requires two-thirds majority, with the voting secret. Finally, we wish to emphasize that—beyond what we in this apostolic letter on liturgical matters have either changed or have ordered carried out at the established time—regulation of the liturgy comes solely within the authority of the Church: that is, of this Apostolic See and, in accordance with the law, of the bishop. Consequently, absolutely no one else, not even a priest, can on his own initiative add or subtract or change anything in liturgical matters (Constitution, Article 22, paragraphs 1 and 3). We ordain that all we have established with this motu proprio should remain valid, and in force, everything to the contrary notwithstanding. Given in Rome, at St. Peter's, January 25, 1964, the feast of the Conversion of St. Paul the Apostle, in the first year of our Pontificate


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La Vie Style House
Retiro no disponible actualmente en Dallas Store
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- hecho en los EE.UU.
- promociones de ventas no aplicables a socios externos
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New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern says she was one of many who saw horrifying footage of the March 15 terrorist attacks in Christchurch when the video of it started autoplaying in her social media feed. In the wake of the violence in which 51 people were killed, New Zealand immediately imposed new gun control measures and introduced legislation that would ban most semi-automatic firearms.
Now Ardern is turning her efforts toward another factor in the violence that day: the social media platforms on which the gunman livestreamed his attack.
She's in Paris on Wednesday at a meeting of digital leaders of the Group of Seven nations, working with French President Emmanuel Macron to push an initiative deemed the "Christchurch Call." The agreement asks governments and Internet companies to do more to prevent the live broadcast of terrorist attacks and make sure such content is removed quickly when it does appear.
On Tuesday night, Facebook announced that it would be taking steps to try to prevent such videos from reaching its platform, and working to find effective ways to take them down if they are posted. The company said that users who break certain rules – for instance, "someone who shares a link to a statement from a terrorist group with no context" — will be blocked for a set period of time from broadcasting to Facebook Live.
It plans to extend other restrictions in the coming weeks, including preventing the same people from creating ads on Facebook.
The company says it will spend $7.5 million to partner with three universities to develop tools preventing modified versions of terrorist videos from being reposted. In the first 24 hours after the Christchurch attack, Facebook removed the shooter's video 1.5 million times as people continuously uploaded it.
In a New York Times opinion column Saturday, Ardern wrote of the balance that must be struck: "Social media connects people. And so we must ensure that in our attempts to prevent harm that we do not compromise the integral pillar of society that is freedom of expression. But that right does not include the freedom to broadcast mass murder."
Officials from the U.S., Canada and Britain are expected to be at the summit, as well as Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey and staff from Facebook, Amazon and Google, The Washington Post reports.
A number of nations are expected to sign the Christchurch Call, the Times reports, but the U.S. is not among them, with concerns about free speech.
"The pledge does not contain enforcement or regulatory measures. It will be up to each country and company to decide how to carry out the commitments, according to two senior New Zealand officials involved in the drafting, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because the exact wording of the pledge was still being finalized," according to the Times. "Social media companies will be left with the thorny task of deciding what constitutes violent extremist content, since it is not defined in the accord."
In an email to Reuters, Ardern called Facebook's new limits on livestreaming "a good first step to restrict the application being used as a tool for terrorists."
"This call to action is not just about regulation, but instead about bringing companies to the table and saying, 'You have a role, too, and we have expectations of you,'" Ardern told CNN.
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