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"While Israeli drones were roaring overhead and the fighter jets were targeting homes, I receive a SOS call to find food for celiac patients who were dying."Al-Asqalani complains from the nine-year old Israeli blockade which undermines turning his project to be commercial in order to continuously produce amounts enough for all patients.
It was an ethical test for the Chemist Mohamed al-Asqalani, who was chosen by his close friend to find proper food for his dying wife as she was suffering from celiac and her special food had run out.
During the 2008/2009 Israeli offensive on the Gaza Strip, when the Israeli occupation and Egypt completely restricted the movement of people and goods in and out of the coastal enclave, Chemist Mohamed al-Asqalani planted the seed of a pioneering project that is able to solve fatigue nutrition problem for thousands of patients in Gaza, who faced definite death.
"At night, while the Israeli drones were roaring overhead and the fighter jets were striking homes, schools and universities, I received an unexpected urgent rescue call from one of my colleagues," Al-Asqalani said. "My colleague told me that the special flour needed for his wife, who was suffer from celiac had run out and asked me to help him finding a solution."
Patients, who suffer from celiac, can only eat food made of gluten-free flour; otherwise, they die. Al-Asqalani said that two celiac patients died during that 22-day Israeli offensive in 2008/2009.
Describing how difficult for him was the situation, Al-Asqalani said: "I had no previous knowledge of this kind of illness or the patients who suffer from it. I did not know what kind of flour was needed. All what I did know is that it is flour free of protein." Gluten is the protein found in wheat, rye and barley.
Corn flour
"With much defiance," Al-Asqalani said, "I launched my research and started working at my house, using kitchen appliances instead of lab equipment."
The talented Palestinian chemist started at first to look for the easiest way to find an urgent solution for an urgent problem. Therefore, he developed an already existed flour which is made of corn. "This is good and it filled the gap, but I was not satisfied with it because it did not have all the specifications of the normal wheat flour," he said.
"The journey of my research consisted of two stages; the first was the development of the corn flour. I could prepare gluten-free flour during the offensive, but that was a fast solution for an urgent problem," he said. Only certain kinds of food are prepared of this flour.
"When the Israeli offensive ended," the chemist said, "I resumed my research and I could produce gluten-free corn flour with the same specifications of the normal wheat flour, but it was not good for all kinds of bakeries."
However, Al-Asqalani was not satisfied with his achievement because the corn flour could not be used to make most kinds of favourite Palestinian dishes made of wheat flour.
"Beside feeling secure," he said, "I felt that patients want to eat several kinds of food like other family members." He did not want them to feel isolated of their families when they sit on the same breakfast, lunch and dinner table everyday.
Major problem
After producing the gluten-free flour made of corn, Al-Asqalani become in continuous contacts with the celiac patients from Gaza, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Jordan.
Human Land Charity in Gaza, the only official body looking after celiac patients in Gaza, contacted me. "All of them complained of one major problem," Al-Asqalani said, "even when they have their special flour which meets international standards."
"The patients and the charities spoke to me about their problems," he said, "the Palestinian patients buy their special flour from Israel, while the others abroad buy it from Italy." According to Al-Asqalani, Israel and Italy produce the most efficient gluten-free flour.
He said he knew more patients using it, but they do not mainly depend on it such as autism and PKU patients. The patients complained for Al-Asqalani that they are deprived of most of the meals made of wheat flour. "The Israeli and Italian gluten-free flour is made to meet the desire of the patients eating foods from Italian and Israeli cuisines, not the Arabic cuisine," he said.
"Therefore, in 2010, I started the second stage of my research," Al-Asqalani said. "I planned to produce gluten-free flour that is usable to for making all kinds of meals and bakeries made of the normal wheat flour in order to meet the desires of the patients who want to eat different kinds of meals like healthy people."
Started from zero
The major challenge that faced Al-Asqalani was working at his home and paying for his researches from his own bucket. "Despite the huge demand for this flour, but no individuals, organisations or government have funded the researches which are expensive," he said.
However, he started the second stage of his research to produce flour usable for all kinds of meals and bakeries. He refused to reveal much detail about the basic material, but he reiterated that they are licensed for human use.
"Using a number of gluten-free food material in addition to licensed E-Number Additives, I produced the new gluten-free flour, which is usable for all kinds of meals and bakeries made of the normal wheat flour with the same flavours," Al-Asqalani, who hold PhD in Chemistry.
"Researches led to the production of the final outcome of this flour took five years," Al-Asqalani said. "The new product was tested by the Saudi Food and Medicine Centre and the Egyptian National Centre for Food Researches," he said, "both centres approved the product."
Al-Asqalani is satisfied with the outcomes of his research because he offered a solution for thousands of patients in need for this product, not only in Gaza or the Arab countries, but also in the whole world.
Humanitarian view
After producing the successful product, getting production licenses from international organisations and getting acknowledgement from the patients themselves, Al-Asqalani hope to put the product into commercial lines.
"I received several offers to set up factories in different Arab countries such as Saudi Arabia, where there are more than 400,000 patients in need for this flour, the UAE, Egypt and Jordan," he said. "But because of the Israeli siege, I am unable to move to any of these countries."
In Gaza, where there are around 5,000 celiac, autism and PKU patients, Al-Asqalani said that he is able to go on a commercial production line for his product, but said: "I look at this product throughout a humanitarian aspect. However, it is not prevented here, but I cannot persuade myself to make profits from the people's suffering."
Under Israeli fire
Despite his ratified success and huge need and demand on his product, Al-Asqalani is still looking for people to adopt his project pay for setting up a reliable factory to produce amounts enough for all the patients in Gaza and, if possible, in other countries. Al-Israa University in Gaza afforded a simple lab for Al-Asqalani only at the beginning of this year, when it opened.
"Ingredients are easily to be afforded and production is very cheap," he said. "Gazans are still dependent on the Italian and the Israeli products, however, lab tests showed that my product is more reliable."
One Kg of Al-Asqalani gluten-free flour costs only NIS6 ($1.5) and one of the Israeli or Italian gluten-free flour costs NIS60 ($15).
During the time when he was developing his flour, Al-Asqalani could also produce gluten-free milk, which is essential for PKU patients, too. "I could achieve these imaginative products while living under Israeli siege and fire," he concluded.
Also in Human Interest: (VIDEO) In Palestinian Hip-Hop, Even Love Songs Become Political


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Also refer to the "Commissions: Paintings" page.
What is your "commission calendar?"
I can only accept a limited number of commission orders per month, but happily book work several months out. Feel free to reach out, and we can discuss what a timeline for your future piece might look like!
Why do commissioned pieces cost slightly more than the artwork for sale on your website?
This is due to the extra time I spend working with each individual, planning and creating a truly unique piece.
How do I know what size I want or need?
Well, I'm happy to guide you through that decision and suggest different ideas and tips for selecting the perfectly sized piece. It's helpful for me to see photos of the space you'd like to fill, too.
How long does it take to get my finished product?
That all depends on the the subject matter and the size. Smaller, less complicated pieces tend to take about 4 weeks, while larger works requires 6 - 7 weeks. But, I will give you a more exact estimate once we nail down all of the details for your special piece!
What if I think of something or want to ask you something before our mid-point check-in?
I want you to feel comfortable asking questions and expressing opinions about the project, so feel free to reach out. To note though, because of scheduling restraints, it's unlikely that I'll be able to send you more than one progress report to show you the artwork's progress.
What happens if I change my mind halfway through the project, and no longer want the artwork I've commissioned?
That's ok! I want everyone to LOVE what I've created for them. So, if we have our check-in and you decide that you no longer want to continue with the project, I will credit your account with the 50% non-refundable deposit, which you may use at any point on my site or Etsy Shop! If you change your mind after this check-in point, I cannot issue a credit for the non-refundable deposit.
Can you match the artwork with the decor and style of my home?
I always do my best to create a piece of art in my artistic style, that will look fantastic in its new home! We can chat about where you intend to hang (or lean) this art, what colors or emotions you'd like to see represented in the work, or anything else that you think would help me complete something you're thrilled with.
Can I email you photos of the room I would like to put the art in?
Absolutely! You can even send me photos or color swatches that inspire you, if you think it will help get your vision across.
Can you send me color swatch samples, so I can see what I like the most?
I will first urge you to browse through my website or my Etsy shop to get an idea for the color palettes I often work with. Also, this is where I urge you to be as specific as you can in the Questionnaire, so I can have the most accurate info possible to create your perfect, one-of-a-kind piece!
This area will be updated once I launch the "Commissions: Weddings and Events" section. I will be offering an array of design services for weddings and events.
If I still haven't answered your question, please don't hesitate to email me! email@example.com

subset: commoncrawl


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September 25th, 2016
Police are appealing for public assistance to help locate missing St Albans woman Angela Cima.
The 34-year-old was last seen in Dandenong on August 17th but had been in contact by phone with friends and family until September 20th.
Police and family are concerned for Angela as she suffers from a medical condition that requires regular medication.
Investigators have released an image of Angela in the hope that the public may be able to assist with locating her.
Anyone who sees Angela is urged to call the Keilor Downs Police Station on 9365 3333.


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It's official, our Japanese language school is changing classes to Thursday nights next year. Several of my classmates are in the same boat as me: Thursdays just don't work. We could check out the continuing ed Japanese classes at MRU or the University of Calgary, but the timing may not work for all of us as a group.
To that end, we have been talking about getting together on a regular basis next year to keep up with our studies. One thing we'll have to really practice is conversing in Japanese.
We also discussed the need to get supplemental Japanese study materials.
This is another area that is worth exploring - online independent courses. Here are some courses that I've found:
Japanese 199 - Independent Study at UC Berkley
JAPAN 041: First-Year Japanese, Part 1 at BYU


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Message delivered November 29th, 2015 during the morning services.
When Jesus was "transfigured" before three of His disciples, His glory was revealed to them in a way it never had been before. Through this experience, there are three lessons about Jesus we learn.
29050 SW 177th (Krome) Ave
Just north of Homestead city limits at the intersection of
Krome Ave. and 288th (Biscayne) St.
(305) 247-1662
Fax: (305) 247-0117
Prayer: (305) 24/7-7729 (PRAY)


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For a business to have continued success in today's market, it must have correct strategies and action plans. Providing clear explanation of roles, duties, and expectations, these plans help offer a distinct view of the end goal. R Moon Consulting can provide your employees with correct and professional business services in Nacogdoches, TX, as well as offering leadership and management establishmentfor ultimate team growth and productivity.
Call our professionals at (888) 342-6167 now for expert data analysis and plan creation for your business.
Business Consulting in Nacogdoches, TX
When you are looking for professional business consulting in Nacogdoches, TX, call our professionals to deliver. Our professionals work with you to establish company goals and provide advice and guidance where you need it most. Our professionals evaluate your business' data to identify strengths in your company that can be implemented, while locating weakness that should be eliminated. We work to develop a new strategy that creates a more productive company culture without compromising your company's original goals in your current strategy. When you need specialized business consulting in Nacogdoches, TX, call our professionals to get you on track for a more successful business.
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Freelance Designer
September 2015 – Present
Location: Seoul, South Korea (relocating to Los Angeles end of August 2018)
Lead designer who uses a strategic and thoughtful approach to express her client's voice across print and digital from concept to completion.
SKILLS: logos and identities, brand building, publications, marketing collateral, front-end web and digital design, photography and retouching, basic video editing in Premiere, Microsoft Office, knowledge of HTML & CSS, print + digital design, social media assets, trade shows, infographics, illustration, blogging, presentations, empathetic team player
Created the brand and website for salon, Stylists at North. Increased click-throughs and traffic to its site by over 60% through email and social campaigns. Developing packaging for its retail line.
Assisted Hourglass Cosmetics with the creation of digital assets and social media videos, marketing emails, retouching and color-matching photography.
Designs online lookbook catalogs, blog and social media graphics, brochures, and online/print ads for The Vision Council and its fashion brand, Eyecessorize.
Developed the logo, digital assets, promos, merch, and environmental graphics for DC VegFest, an event attended by over 20,000.
SAMPLE CLIENT LIST: Hourglass Cosmetics, AFAR Media, Vessence, Compassion Over Killing, Humane Society of the United States, The Vision Council, Stylists at North, PDK International, Markitecture, Vikriya Lab, Mind the Mat, Trident Crossfit, Pretty People Boutique
Art Director at Vessence (formerly Belmont Inc.)
December 2009 – September 2015
Location: Alexandria, Virginia
Worked as lead designer on corporate identity and campaign projects for clients that include the U.S. Capital Visitor Center, United Way, United Negro College Fund, Gates Millennium Scholarship, Navistar Defense, The British Council, President's Lincoln Cottage, and FedBid. Acted as a project coordinator with clients, freelancers, and vendors.
Supervised over 200 design projects for the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center (CVC) during a two-year contract, including the development of retail products, visitor collateral, and internal communications. Recruited a designer to work onsite.
Managed and art directed the National Association of Professional Employer Organizations' monthly magazine, PEO Insider. Collaborated with editor to brainstorm cover and feature concepts, plus output a 48-56 page issue within a two-week turnaround.
Created Vessence's new identity and website. Helped develop its new name during the re-branding process. Produced an inspirational gift line of postcards, graphic tees, journals, and e-books for Vessence's Etsy store. Responsible for setting up and maintaining the e-commerce shop.
Designed the brand and website for Vessence's #WeLiveBig (WLB) movement. Promoted Vessence and WLB brands on social media, increasing FB reach by over 400% and Twitter by 50%. Coverage of projects featured on the Today Show, Forbes, The Washington Post, Aljazeera, and ABC News.
Produced advertising campaigns, international large-scale exhibits, and social media graphics for Navistar Defense. Helped the company update its brand standards, maintain sales collateral, lay out marketing emails, and increase social media presence.
Senior Graphic Designer at Bremmer & Goris
September 1999 – December 2009
Location: Alexandria, Virginia
Created identities, print, and web collateral across various platforms for clients that included The Vision Council, ASCO, World's President Organization, and ICBA.
Managed the design of National Association of Professional Employer Organizations' monthly industry magazine, PEO Insider for nearly 10 years. Produced layouts for other publications that included Ms. Magazine, Herend Porcelian's White Gold catalog, and Billing World.
Conceptualized and executed the identity, promos, social media, and video production for Washington Gas' "Energy of the City" campaign.
Established the look of NISH's "AbilityOne" awareness campaign. Art directed series of photo shoots for print and web advertisements.
Freelance Designer for Compassion Over Killing
Location: Washington, DC
Designs a wide range of event and organizational collateral that includes restaurant guides, event invitations, campaign graphics, billboards, mailers, and web/social media graphics.
Developed the identity and produces collateral, ads, social media graphics,and exhibit material for VegWeek and the annual DC VegFest. DC VegFest has grown from 3,000 to over 20,000 attendees since its inception with the help of my design support.
Re-designed and produces COK's 16-page semi-annual magazine, Compassionate Action.
Managed and updated COK's seasonal Vegetarian Guides to Washington DC, Baltimore, Los Angeles, Austin, and San Diego.
Created and conceptualized nation-wide print ad campaign for "Hard Boiled Truth.
Visual Information Branch Assistant at the Bureau of ATF
Summers of 1996 – 1999
Location: Washington, DC
Contributed to the the development and production of print collateral.
Illustrated characters and created design for ATF Kids website
Operated photo lab, developing and printing film for the agency.
Helped set-up and photograph portraits, events, and product shoots.
Assisted in video camera work and production.
Design Intern at Girls Life Magazine
October 1998 – May 1999
Location: Baltimore, Maryland
Produced editorial layouts and advertisements for the nationally distributed publication.
Maintained and updated web page content.
Assisted art director in selection of published material.
Other Passions:
Founder of the independent travel website enroutetraveler.com. Produces articles, photography, videos, and collaborates with PR firms and brands, like Kimpton Hotels and Eagle Creek, to create engaging content.
Local Expert to Seoul, contributing writer, and freelance photographer for AFAR Media.
Intrepid adventurer who has visited over 35 countries.
Fluent in French and speaks un poco de español.
Former Ambassador to FIG Clothing, a women's travel wear label.
Certified Zumba instructor who's been teaching on the side since 2010. Known to strike a pose in the office.
Avid practitioner of yoga and barre. Ambassador to the nOMad yoga community.
Vegetarian involved with animal advocacy since 1995.
Served on Board of Directors to Motion Mania Dance Company and BalletNova Center for Dance.
Secretary for the SAMA Spouses' Club (Seoul Association of Military Attachés) from 2017-2018. Promoted club events and took an active role in organizing a fundraising auction that raised nearly $10,000 for an area homeless center.
President of the Photography Club to U.S. Embassy in Seoul from 2016-2017.
Volunteered to perform student portfolio reviews at The Art Institute of Washington from 2012-2014.
Graduated magna cum laude in 1999 from the Notre Dame of Maryland University with a BA in art and design.
Recipient of the private university's Presidential Scholarship, an academic merit scholarship that covered full tuition for four years.


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Renin-Angiotensin System Inhibition and Lower 30-Day All-Cause Readmission in Medicare Beneficiaries with Heart Failure
Heart failure is the leading cause for 30-day all-cause readmission, the reduction of which is a goal of the Affordable Care Act. There is a growing interest in understanding the impact of evidence-based heart failure therapy on 30-day all-cause readmission. In the current study, we examined the impact of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers (ACEI-ARBs) on 30-day all-cause readmission in heart failure.
Of the 1384 hospitalized Medicare beneficiaries with heart failure and left ventricular ejection fraction <45% discharged alive from 106 Alabama hospitals (1998-2001) without prior ACEI-ARB use and without known contraindications to ACEI-ARB use; 734 received new predischarge prescriptions for these drugs. Using propensity scores for ACEI-ARB initiation, we assembled a matched cohort of 477 pairs of patients balanced on 32 baseline characteristics (mean age 75 years, 46% women, 26% African American).
Thirty-day all-cause readmissions occurred in 18% and 24% of matched patients receiving and not receiving ACEI-ARBs, respectively (hazard ratio [HR] 0.74; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.56-0.97; P = .030). ACEI-ARB use was also associated with lower risk of 30-day all-cause mortality (HR 0.56; 95% CI, 0.33-0.98; P = .041) and of the combined endpoint of 30-day all-cause readmission or 30-day all-cause mortality (HR 0.73; 95% CI, 0.56-0.94; P = .017). All associations remained significant at 1 year post discharge.
Among hospitalized patients with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction, the use of ACEI-ARBs was associated with a significantly lower risk of 30-day all-cause readmission and 30-day all-cause mortality; both beneficial associations persisted during long-term follow-up.
To read this article in its entirety please visit our website.
-Kumar Sanam, MD1, Vikas Bhatia, MD1, Navkaranbir S. Bajaj, MD1, Saurabh Gaba, MD, Charity J. Morgan, PhD, Gregg C. Fonarow, MD, Javed Butler, MD, Prakash Deedwania, MD, Sumanth D. Prabhu, MD, Wen-Chih Wu, MD, Michel White, MD, Thomas E. Love, PhD, Wilbert S. Aronow, MD, Ross D. Fletcher, MD, Richard M. Allman, MD, Ali Ahmed, MD, MPH
This article originally appeared in the October 2016 issue of The American Journal of Medicine.


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Nayanna Holley
Nayanna Holley is a Los Angeles based Singer/Songwriter. She most recently served as a background singer for American Idol Season Season 13 on FOX. Major tours include Sheryl Crow, Robin Thicke, Queen Latifah, Selena Gomez, and Robbie Williams. She has provided supporting vocals for the likes of Carrie Underwood, John Legend, Cee-Lo, Martina McBride, The Roots, Justin Timberlake, Jessie J, Shakira, Ne-Yo, The Rickey Minor Band, and Sergio Mendes. Her performances include "You and I" and "Emorio" on Bom Tempo, Latin-Grammy Award winner for 'Best Contemporary Brazilian Pop Album'.


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The philosophy of the Ritz-Carlton Spa is "E MALMA KOU KINO . . . CARE FOR YOUR BODY." Massage, body, and facial services are performed in spacious suites with personal amenities and garden showers. A host will guide you through ladies and gentlemen's relaxation lounges featuring rain showers, Hawaiian grotto areas with heated whirlpools, eucalyptus infused steam rooms, and dry cedar saunas. Individual guests and couples can also indulge in the open-air relaxation lounge and whirlpool, located in a Hawaiian taro garden. You may choose to continue your spa experience in their full service salon.
I had the luxurious experience of enjoying two treatments—a facial and a massage. The aesthetician and masseuse were both very knowledgeable and customized my treatments to address areas that were in need of TLC, rejuvenation and relaxation. Any treatment includes the full use of the spa for the day. I chose to allow the cocoa butter used during the massage to nourish my aged skin for several hours before stepping into the shower with vitamin C infused water. All amenities are provided in the women's lounge—lotion, sunscreen, deodorant, hair spray, sterilized combs and brushes. And the bathrobes are delicious!
There is a fitness center available at no charge if you booked your room with VETS, which offers a full range of cardio equipment as well as free weights.
Activities that are complimentary for hotel guests include: "Bottom Line" (toning the lower body and mid-section); "The Five Tibetan Rites" (simple stretches to stimulate the glands, muscles and nerves); "Kapalua Fitness Hike" (2.5 miles around the community, with ocean views); "Maui Aqua-Fit" (fitness in the pool that tones and strengthens all major muscle groups taught by master water instructors); "Stretch and Relax" (static stretching for all major muscle groups and easy relaxation techniques for all fitness levels); and "Sunrise Yoga" (on the Terrace Lawn, focusing on basic alignment principles as well as breath work and a short meditation).
There are a number of other optional (with a fee) fitness and relaxation offerings from which to choose. Information is available online at (www.ritzcarlton.com/kapallua).
Attendees who booked their room through VETS online registration receive a 15% discount at the spa.
E komo mai (come in, welcome),
Bev Klingborg


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Italian Silk Scarf
A collectible accessory, this pretty scarf in our custom print is crafted from Italian silk and features tiny dots (we engineered the size to reflect the daintiness of the scarf).
Size + Fit
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Climbing roses don't climb the way honeysuckle, ivy or clematis does--roses have no way to attach themselves to a wall or trellis. The long canes, up to 20 feet in length, must be secured by fastening to a sturdy support. The biggest rose bush in the world, according to Legends of America, is a climbing white Lady Banks--it covers 8,000 square feet. Your yard might not have quite that much room, but there are a lot of ways to incorporate climbing roses into your landscape.
Entry Tunnel
Set a series of arches over a walkway to the front entry to your home. Grow a climbing rose on each. Alternate the sides the roses are planted on. As the roses mature, train them to not only grow over the arch but from arch to arch to form a tunnel. Use all one color or vary the color. Shade-loving flowers and plants like impatiens, begonias and hostas may be grown under the arch along the walkway. Roses that bloom all season provide color all summer long.
Over a Gazebo
There are few things more stunning than a white lattice gazebo covered in blooming climbing roses. Plant roses in pinks and red to contrast with the white lattice. One idea is to divide the gazebo in quarters and plant red roses opposite each other in two corners and pink roses in the other two.
It may be old-fashioned, but it works. Plant the rose in front of a trellis secured to a wall or building. Hide the long leggy canes at the bottom with annual flowers. A country garden look may be achieved by planting a clematis in a contrasting color to grow up the rose. Clematis is a light-weight vine and will twine around the rose without damaging it. An early blooming clematis paired with a later blooming rose means color all summer.
Another idea is to form the trellis into the shape of a heart and keep the rose trimmed to the trellis shape.
While climbing roses want to grow up, they can be forced to grow along a fence. Bend the longest canes to be parallel with the fencing. New shoots will form along the bent canes and will grow upward. These shoots become flower buds. Soon the entire fence will be covered with roses.
Frame a stunning view by installing a trellis on either side of the view and across the top without obstructing it. Plant climbing roses on each side of the trellis, and in front and back as well. When the roses get to the top of the trellis, bend the long canes across the top and fasten securely. The frame covered with roses highlights the view seen through the opening in the trellis.
More Articles
- Support Climbing Roses
- Variegated Rose Bushes
- Rose Vine Types
- Design a Rose Garden
- The Best Indiana Climbing Roses
- Use a Rose Trellis
- Scientific Names for Rose Flowers
- Different Types of Flowers Used in Flower Arrangements
- The Best Flowers to Go With Antique Hydrangea
- What Flowers to Plant With Roses
- Peg a Rose Bush
- What Flowers to Plant in Memory of Someone


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book review: "Evolution, Monism, Atheism and the Naturalist World-View" by Greg Graffin
Greg Graffin (that's right, the guy from punk band Bad Religion) has written an excellent book on the beliefs of the world's top evolutionary scientists. To clear things up, one must point out that he is very much in his element here; in fact his academic/scientific career was cut short to deal with the unexpected success of his equally excellent endeavors in music through Bad Religion, but he has returned to pursue his academics as well in recent years, & this is the result. Basically he sent out a questionnaire to recognised, preeminent scientists in the most "directly" evolutionary fields (such as biology, etc) about their views on evolution & how evolution has influenced their worldview in general. The book contains the questionnaire, the results, an analysis of what the results mean, & several in-depth interviews with individuals (incl. such heavyweights as Dick Lewontin, Richard Dawkins, Ernst Mayr, & more).
To start off I'll just put the questionnaire itself here, with my answers to it. Now I'm not a top evolutionary scientist, to be clear, but I have learned quite a bit about evolution & religion. When questions arise about "teaching of evolution" or similar scenarios, I will answer them in the sense of "if I was a science professor" or "when I tell others about evolution", etc. The questionnaire is in normal text, my answers in bold italics. My criticisms of some of the choices & wording in the questionnaire is under the comments section (number 18).
SECTION ONE: Statement of Belief
1) Do you consider yourself a religious person?
2) [If "yes" to Q1,] Which best describes your religion?
* Christian
* Islamic
* Judaism
* Buddhism
* Other
3) [If "no" to Q1,]Which best describes your belief system?
* Atheist
* Agnostic
* Naturalist
* Other
4) Do you believe in God, or an entity that exists beyond the scope of our observations that is responsible for designing and maintaining life on earth?
* I believe in God as described in this question.
* I believe in God, but my God merely started the processes of the universe, and of life on earth, and does not intervene on a day-to-day basis.
* I don't believe in God in any traditional sense of the word.
* I don't believe in God, but I do believe that there are entities in the universe that are beyond the scope of science and are forever going to remain so.
5) What role does evidence play for you in determining your belief in God?
* I believe that there is a God no matter how insubstantial the evidence.
* I believe that there is not enough evidence to justify a belief in God.
* I don't apply scientific methodology or principles to my beliefs.
6) I believe that there is something, not known to science, in human beings that lives on after the body dies.
* Agree with this statement
* Disagree with this statement
7) Please choose only one of the following:
* All biological organisms are locally determined by heredity and environment but humans still possess free will.
* All biological organisms are locally determined by heredity and environment and humans have no free will.
SECTION TWO: What Evolution Studies, What It Ignores
8) Organisms, including humans, consist of the following:
* Material properties [Properties are here defined as determining factors.]
* Spiritual/Non-material properties
* BOTH material and spiritual/non-material properties
9) I believe that the findings of evolutionary biology can influence and alter morality.
* Agree with this statement
* Disagree with this statement
10) Do you believe that evolution teaches us something about the objective reality of life on earth or is such a topic better left for philosophers to debate?
* I am committed to teaching about the objective reality of life on earth.
* I am content to let philosophers debate about objective reality, without addressing it in my teaching.
* I don't believe that there is such a thing as objective reality, we all create our own reality.
11) What is your view of purpose and progress in evolution?
* Neither purpose nor progress plays any ultimate role in evolution. ["Ultimate" refers to any of the following concepts: intelligent design, teleology, or determining factors that science does not study.]
* Evolution exhibits no ultimate purpose, but progress does occur in evolution.
* Ultimate purpose plays a role in evolution and progress is a part of that purpose.
* Ultimate purpose plays a role in evolution, but it doesn't entail progress.
12) What is your opinion on the relationship between evolution and religion?
* They are non-overlapping magisteria [teaching bodies] whose tenets are not in conflict.
* Religion is a social phenomenon that has developed with the biological evolution of Homo sapiens. Therefore religion should be considered as a part of our biological heritage and its tenets should be seen as a labile social adaptation, subject to change and reinterpretation.
* They are mutually exclusive magisteria whose tenets indicate mutually exclusive conclusions.
* They are totally harmonious. Evolution is one of many ways to elucidate the evidences of God's designs.
SECTION THREE: Religious Belief and Practice of Evolution
13) I keep my beliefs about morality and ethics separate from my practice and teaching of evolution.
* Agree with this statement
* Disagree with this statement
14) Look at the following diagram. Choose the letter that corresponds to your philosophical preference. For instance, if you are a naturalist* choose "A" if you are a Deist*, choose "I" and so on. If your philosophical position is intermediate between the end points, there are lettered fields you can choose. For instance "C" corresponds to a philosophy that is predominantly naturalist but includes some leanings toward deism. "H" is a deistic philosophy with some leanings toward theism*. "J", "K", and "L" are neutral positions along their respective axes. "M" is a totally neutral position, a philosophy without any leanings toward naturalism, deism, or theism.
- Naturalism, the philosophical position that matter, energy, and natural laws make up the total composition of the universe, and that no God created or designed it, truth is found through the empirical procedure of exploration and verification.
- Deism, the philosophical position that God exists and created the universe and its forces and matter but does not intervene in daily events; he is an uncaring God who started the evolutionary process but plays no role in its outcome; truth is revealed by design.
- Theism, the philosophical position that God exists and cares for humans, and intervenes in daily events and processes to affect outcomes for the good of mankind, and that truth is revealed by such goodness.
Choose on the letter of your choice:
15) Do you think that your body of work in evolutionary biology reflects your position on the diagram of Q14?
* Yes
* No
16) Do you consider yourself a naturalist in the metaphysical sense? [One who subscribes to metaphysical naturalism, the notion that the only reliable method of discovering truth comes from empirical investigation.]
17) What kind of belief system would you advocate, if pressed, as being the most consonant with a lifelong practice of evolution?
* One of the traditional religions (i.e. Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Buddhism etc.)
* A naturalistic one that is based on materialism, and incorporates advances in scientific knowledge
* One that incorporates some aspects of traditional religion and some aspects of modern science
* Other
SECTION FOUR: Comments (optional)
18) If you would like to qualify any of your answers, or comment on any of the questions, please use this page to do so.
Q4: There should also be a choice for "I don't believe in God at all", whether in a "traditional sense of the word" or not.
Q7: I agree with parts of both these choices. I chose the second one to highlight that humans are no more specially gifted with "free will" than any other organisms. We are able to see freedom & choices more easily, & act on them more consciously, because of our better mental abilities. However there is freedom & necessity for everything. There are always constraints of some kind on every overall freedom. Many organisms rely more on instinct than conscious analysis in making choices, but if you define "free will" as the ability to make choices using consciousness (even regardless of consequences), then humans are also not unique in that. Also humans do have some instincts & automatic processes. The main thing is what is "free will", obviously if it means absolute freedom then there are no organisms that have that, e.g. humans can't fly no matter how much one "wills" it. I feel that the main thrust of the question is whether humans are special & "above" other organisms -- other than the various things which make us a separate species after all -- & that "free will" is too vague. Therefore it should be two separate questions: one, multiple choice on what is your definition of free will; & two, do humans have this exclusively, does every organism have it, or does nothing have it.
Q12: I wanted to choose both B & C for this question. Religion is mutually exclusive to science, but one can & should use scientific methods to study religion. One of the conclusions of such study being that religion is a social phenomenon which developed as part of our evolutionary process -- but this doesn't mean that we are "hardwired", born, or stuck with religion permanently. Rather, in my opinion, humans are born with ability & tendency to create a world outlook, to answer "big questions", & so on: tens of thousands of years ago guesswork & chance combined to make our answer religion, but with the development of science we now are able to have more accurate answers.
Q16: "Philosophical" would be a much better choice of word than "metaphysical". "Metaphysical" means "beyond the physical" or "non-material" & this usage suggests that ideas have no root in reality. This term "naturalism" that you are promoting is actually in opposition to metaphysics, which is idealism & belief in existence of supernatural forces & so on.
GENERAL COMMENTS: Please don't make up new words because you're scared to talk about the old ones. (I mean you're a punk rocker, for crying out loud! But mainly it's not an identity thing, but the principle of the matter.) "Atheism" & "materialism" are perfectly good words. If you don't believe in God or gods then you are an atheist; there are different kinds of atheists with different overall worldviews, different styles ("militant" or not etc), but atheism is atheism & not something else. Similarly if you think that there is only one objective reality & that there is no such thing as "supernatural" forces or beings, then you are a materialist. Just as "intelligent design" is nothing but creationism, your "naturalism" is just atheism & your "monism" is just materialism. (Though I will concede that "monism" is a good term when contrasting it to "dualism". Also intelligent design is a specific kind of creationism & naturalism is a specific kind of atheism -- but the problem is when you offer atheism & naturalism as two separate choices & you can't choose both.)
SECTION FIVE: Biographical Information (optional)
19) Your Name:
Institution of highest academic degree: some university
Area of research concentration and classes taught: languages
Age: 25
Country of citizenship: U.S.
Country of primary education: Malaysia
Were you formally introduced to any religion in a ceremony or rite of passage?
* Yes
* No
If yes, which? Christianity, & then Islam
Are you practicing in that religion now?
* Yes
* No (neither one)
For those who answered NO: Did the study and teaching of Evolution have an ideological impact on your decision to discontinue practicing that religion?
* Yes
* No
Are you practicing in any religion now?
* Yes
* No
Explain: I had already become an atheist for other reasons before I learned anything deep about evolution. However, knowledge of evolution has solidified & reaffirmed my being an atheist.
One last note of the top of my head, I wanted to respond to some discussion (especially in the interviews) on "first cause" & notions of some kind of amorphous supernatural force which one may call "God" though not in the traditional sense. That is, the deist rather than theist position. (Or in popular terms, being "spiritual" rather than "religious".) And I don't have expertise/knowledge to say whether the Big Bang Theory in particular is correct or not. But look this whole "first cause" thing, or the idea that something "must" be behind it all, at least kick-starting everything, one "creation" act & then it all takes place according to evolutionary laws etc -- it's just bullshit. If you can't believe that the universe "just happened", then how the hell could you believe that a god/creator "just happened"? I mean where did God come from then? Or is there some other "first cause" for that too, did "God2" create "God" who then created the universe? Come on it's all too stupid. At some point, something just happened! I doubt we'll ever find out the answer to the how & why of that (I mean even if you figure out how "something" comes out of "nothing", well where does the "nothing" with such potential come from?, etc) So obviously there will always be wonder, awe, & mystery -- but it's no reason to make up new "God"s, "Easter Bunny"s, & the rest under the cover of bogus "scientific" & "scholarly" jargon.
Now that I've put all these criticisms up, let me make clear that the main thing of this book is extremely positive, & I strongly recommend it. Especially, it not only puts the lie to the story that evolution is up for debate, but shows that evolutionists are overwhelming not religious at all. Even those who are "religious" are mainly deists, i.e. they believe in spiritual/supernatural things in a general sense, but don't believe in traditional organised religion & certainly don't mix such things with their science.
GO TO CORNELLEVOLUTIONPROJECT.ORG to read the results of the survey, view a video, & get info for ordering a copy for yourself.
Finally, as long as we're on the subject of evolution books, I'd like to promote the upcoming book The Science of Evolution and The Myth of Creationism: Knowing What's Real and Why It Matters by Ardea Skybreak. CHECK IT OUT HERE! (Click on the "download the series" link to read it online for free; but please support & buy a copy, hardcover available now & paperback in mid-August.) Richard Leakey, the fucking legendary anthropologist, recommends it by saying it is " of tremendous benefit to many, especially those in the teaching profession where there are frequent opportunities to defend science against the ridiculous assertions by religious zealots and fundamentalists."


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Game of Thrones Season 7, Episode 4: Moments that will melt hearts and faces off
A word of warning: This is our spoiler-filled recap and review of Episode 4, "The Spoils of War".
SPOILER WARNING: Seriously, this is your last chance to turn back.
I don't think I'm imagining things here, but Melisandre's plan to bring ice and fire together – Jon Snow and Daenerys Targaryen, respectively – is resulting in steam. Understandable, of course. He's a King. She's a Queen. They're both a couple of dragonstone-cold foxes, and this episode gives them a private moment in close proximity underground. The thermodynamic reaction between them is perfectly understandable in scientific terms, but you've got to worry about how far this is going to get before somebody digs up an old family tree.
At the moment, the only thing being excavated is dragonglass and ancient knowledge. Jon's mission to convince Dany of the Night King gets a little bit easier, thanks to some cave paintings. Yes, some Banksy-esque Children of the Forest tagger has chronicled an alliance between themselves and the First Men fighting their common, White Walker enemy. Seeing this, the Queen takes one large step towards belief, however, she balks when Jon suggests it's time for the modern players of Westeros to buddy up. Yeah, nah, Snow bro. Still gonna need that knee bend. Classic Targaryen.
Back up North, Arya Stark has momentarily put aside all the Cersei-slaying in order to return to her old haunts. Literally, too: practically everybody she knew in Winterfell has become worm-food. Dropping their names only draws blank looks from the city guards, but, Arya being Arya, she gains entry and slinks into the Stark crypt anyway. Chalk that up to fast-talking and faster reflexes. She's basically a ninja at this point.
Sansa, currently Lady of Winterfell, puts two and two together and heads sub-level to join her little sister. Interestingly, Sansa's title is the first thing Arya draws attention to; a small challenge to see if old sibling rivalries still apply. They don't (at least not today) and the two have a heartwarming reunion, plus a catch up that shifts focus away from their more horrific memories and onto happier things that came to pass. Because who can't bond and celebrate together over the murder of Joffrey? What a prick that kid was.
Just as the two sisters are starting to fall back into old familial routines, Sansa suddenly remembers to tell her about Bran. Arya is overjoyed with the news... until she reads the warning on her older sister's face. The now wheelchair-bound seer is not who he once was. In a scene of nowhere-near-fond farewells, we watch Bran offhandedly dismiss his saviour and stand-in-Hodor, Meera Reed. Even though this is Winterfell, she's taken aback by how cold he is, especially when her reminder of Jojen's sacrifice doesn't bring Bran back into line. The Three-eyed Raven is beyond manners and other such trivialities now. By his own admission he tells her he's not really Bran anymore; he's a kaleidoscope of memories of what has, could and never did happened. For all he can see, it makes me wonder if he still truly has sight of what's important: humanity.
And this is how Arya finds him later in the family Godswood. Having been tutored by faceless men and many Gods, the young assassin is worldly enough to accept his transformation, though, like Sansa, she's unnerved by how much he knows of her travels. Without much ado Bran re-gifts a Valyrian dagger to Arya – a blade originally intended to kill him, and recently handed over by the conniving Little Finger. Bran equipping one of the most lethal characters in Westeros with a knife that makes White Walkers explode? Solid plan.
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Speaking of, we're reminded of Arya's prowess in one of the best scenes in ages. Brienne is instructing Pod in the way of the sword (read: soundly kicking his arse) when Arya rocks up to offer herself as a better training partner. Brienne is surprised when she realises the diminutive young Stark means to sub in to take Pod's place, not hers. Much water-dancing and Needlework follows which impresses the hell out of all onlookers, Sansa and the bested Brienne especially. Less ecstatic with this display is Little Finger. He's noticed the dagger Arya could have killed with just now. The smouldering look he gets from the young wolf suggests he'll be getting it back soon. Very quickly, and not handle first.
The fan-service level of the aforementioned duel is high, but it's easily eclipsed by the wrap-up battle in Spoils of War. The victorious Lannister/Tarly forces are slowly making their way back to King's Landing, while Bronn is dividing his time between bitching to Jamie about his lack of a good castle and laughing in Dickon's face when he hears of his peculiar... handle. The sparkling repartee and merrymaking doesn't last long – because an ambushing horde of Dothraki cavalry with dragon air support tends to kill conversation. Everything else, too. The Lannister forces lock together in an impressive shield wall and the lions are promptly roasted like racks of lamb.
All looks lost until Bronn – arguably the biggest bad arse in all of Westeros – runs the gauntlet of fire and death to unveil this medieval world's answer to a SAM site. Dany and Drogon narrowly avoid being hit by a crossbow bolt the size of God's own toothpick, but as the dragon has been heretofore impervious to arrows, they don't take the threat seriously. Big mistake, 'cause the next stake don't miss. 10 feet of sharp stuff smashes into Drogon's right shoulder and it's enough to ground the beast (after he destroys the giant crossbow and nearly melts Bronn for good measure).
As Dany leaps from her saddle to tear the bolt out, a still-mounted Jamie spots a rare opportunity to strike one Queen off the chessboard. Scooping up a lance, he charges in to skewer himself a Targaryen, only to be met with the angry face of Drogon and a fireball well on the wind up. In the very last instant the wannabe Queenslayer is tackled off his horse by Bronn. (See? Badass.) The two plunge into a nearby lake and the heavily armoured Jamie slips down into the dark abyss. I'm thinking that solid gold hand probably won't help his survival chances either...


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A man who had his testicle removed after discovering a lump says his cancer treatment affected his libido and self esteem – and stopped him having sex on his wedding night.
42-year-old Ben Twemlow, from Kent, proposed to his girlfriend of two years, 50-year-old Andrea, on the day of his testicular cancer diagnosis, when facing his own mortality made him realise the importance of marrying the woman he loved.
Thankfully, Ben was given the all-clear after a successful orchiectomy procedure, removing his right testicle in August 2017 – but while physically better, his emotional scars ran deep.
He explained: 'After the surgery, my sex drive just completely vanished because of the sudden loss of testosterone and I fell into a pit of feeling very low and depressed a lot of the time.
'Before the cancer, I had sex a good three to five times a week with Andrea, but afterwards it was very far from my mind and we'd be lucky if we made love once in a fortnight.'
His loss of libido did not dampen his desire to marry the woman he loved and, on December 27, 2017, four months after his operation, the couple tied the knot at the Lucky Little Chapel in Las Vegas, USA.
When they jumped into bed at the New York, New York hotel that night, however, instead of consummating their marriage, they fell asleep.
The next night, after a repeat performance – or lack of one – Andrea urged her new husband to stop worrying about sex and simply to enjoy their holiday.
On the third night, thanks to Andrea's compassion and caring nature, Ben said his self esteem was restored, his libido returned and he finally made love to the woman he adores.
Speaking out to support Movember, a movement dedicated to raising awareness of men's health and particularly male cancers, Ben said: 'Andrea and I are a very physically affectionate couple.
'We'd obviously had had lots of sex before, but your wedding night is the night that should be special, a night to remember.
'But it wasn't and that was disappointing for both of us, because I love this woman more than anything else in the world.
'Luckily, though, thanks to her love and support, on the third night of our honeymoon everything changed and we made love as if nothing had ever been wrong.'
Ben's troubles began when, one morning in June 2017, he woke up to find that his right testicle had swollen to three times its normal size.
Told by his GP that it was most likely just an infection, the construction company bid writer was given a course of antibiotics, but they had little effect on his enlarged testicle.
Suffering from a near constant ache in his groin, especially when driving and having to operate the pedals, Ben was getting no better.
Then, that August, he went for an ultrasound and was astonished to be told that, instead of an infection, he had cancer.
'I couldn't believe it,' Ben recalled. 'It had never crossed my mind that it could be something so serious.
'As a man, you're told to look out for little lumps on the surface of your balls, so having a swollen ball didn't seem consistent with cancer to me.'
Returning home from the hospital that evening, the couple tried to put on a brave face and pretend that everything was normal, ordering a takeaway and watching Pointless.
'It was an odd atmosphere and there was so much going through my head,' said Ben.
'But suddenly I just looked at Andrea and realised that this was the woman I wanted to be with for the rest of my life – so I popped the question then and there.
'I knew that 95% of testicular cancer sufferers survive, but the thought of that 5% who don't really brings home to you your mortality, and makes you appreciate all the things that you do have in life.'
Things moved quickly after his diagnosis and he was booked in for an operation to remove his right testicle just three days later.
The surgery was a success, but despite his best efforts to mentally prepare himself for the sight of his new privates, Ben was still shocked at his 'half empty bag of skin'.
With scars and bruising inside and outside his scrotum, he experienced pain for several months after surgery, especially during the colder winter months, when his testicles tightened.
But his real problems came after the wounds had healed when, partly because of the physical stress of his treatment and partly because of the emotional toll it took on his self esteem, his libido became non-existent.
Ben credits Andrea's love and support for helping to return things to normal. He's now keen to share his experience to encourage men to seek help in order to get an early diagnosis and to talk to their partners about all their fears.
'Over the course of my recovery Andrea was incredibly patient with me, getting me to come out of myself and express what I was going through,' he said.
'Giving me time and understanding was what was most important in getting back to where we had been before.'
Ben believes it is not uncommon for men to delay seeing a doctor, because they are uncomfortable about discussing problems regarding their sexual organs.
He said: 'Men can be embarrassed about visiting the doctors for this sort of thing, but when you think that your life could be at risk, it's madness to put it off.
'Having a testicle removed can make you feel as though you're no longer a man any more, especially when, on top of that, you feel like you can't have sex.
'But you are still just as much of a man as you were before and, more importantly, you are alive.
'I'm just so grateful that I'm still here, because surviving cancer has meant me being with the love of my life for, hopefully, many more years to come.'
Ben now plans to celebrate his love for Andrea, with a return trip to Las Vegas on their first anniversary next month.
On this visit to the high octane city, he hopes to hit the jackpot inside and outside the bedroom.
'I feel great now and our love making is right back where it used to be,' he said.
'I want to make the woman I love happy and our anniversary in Vegas will, hopefully, make us both very happy indeed.'
MORE: Apparently babies really like trendy foods like avocado, sweet potato and quinoa
MORE: Morrisons launches giant English Breakfast sandwich that comes with 10 fillings


text: Red Oak police investigating gas station robbery Share:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)Click to share on Google+ (Opens in new window)Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)Posted in Headline, Red Oak on May 20, 2016 by Staff Report Photo courtesy Red Oak Police Department. Red Oak police are asking for help in identifying this suspect for the agravated robbery of Exxon Tiger Mart located at 100 Harris Ave in Red Oak.RED OAK — On May 18th at 11:53 p.m. an aggravated robbery occurred at the Exxon Tiger Mart located at 100 Harris Ave in Red Oak.According to the store employee a black male described as approximately 18 to 24 years of age and weighing 150-175 pounds, standing between 5 foot 8 inches and 5 foot 11 inches tall, wearing black pants, a black zip-up jacket, a white under shirt and white athletic shoes, a short cut hair style with no facial hair entered the business.The described suspect walks to the back of the store near the restrooms out of camera view for approximately one minute. The suspect then approaches the front counter from the rear of the store and confronts the store employee by brandishing a silver in color handgun and then pointing the weapon at the clerk.The suspect was observed demanding cash and cigarettes from the store employee. The suspect then exited the store and fled on foot back to the southeast of the business. The suspect fled with several packages of cigarettes and currency from the cash register.The Red Oak Police Department Criminal Investigation Division is asking anyone with information about this crime to contact Investigator Greg Dansby at firstname.lastname@example.com or (469) 218-7703.The Exxon Tiger Mart has also put forth a $1000 Reward for information that leads to the arrest and indictment of the unidentified suspect. You may also be interested in readingSuspects sought in multiple aggravated robberiesSuspect arrested after attempted aggravated robbery of gas stationProsperity Bank robbed; Police asking for infoSuspect arrested in Red Oak Mart armed robberyRed Oak PD arrests two in string of vehicle burglariesRed Oak police arrest five suspects after manhuntRed Oak PD seeking suspect in bank robberyPolice searching for fugitive with ties to MaypearlVehicle burglary victim shoots suspect in Red OakProsperity Bank robber suspect arrested ← Constable releases statement of innocence after arrestRed Oak woman killed by hit and run driver → You must log in to post a comment.


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Underwater Construction
- During the construction of bridges, dams or any other structure where the foundation part of the structure is most likely to lie underwater, we have to opt for underwater construction.
- Construction in water poses many difficulties especially in the places where there the depth is considerable.
Activities Include
- Power Generation
- Bridges
- Water Utilities
- Ship Husbandry
- Industrial
- Power and gas transmission
Underwater construction techniques
- Almost any construction technique that can be used above water can also be used underwater.
- There are a number of products and materials that have been formulated or developed specifically for underwater work.
- Wet Construction & Dry Construction
- Permanent structure
- Large hollow structure that sunk down through the earth.
- Used in construction of bridge piers, building columns, dams, repair of ships.
- Keeps working environment dry.
Advantages of Caisson
- Economic
- Slight less noise and reduced vibration.
- Easily adaptable to varying site conditions.
- High axial and lateral loading capacity.
- Temporary structure
- Allows enclosed space to be pumped out, creating dry environment.
- A cofferdam involves the interaction of the structure, soil and water. Loads imposed include the hydrostatic forces of the water as well as the dynamic forces due to currents and waves.
Advantages of cofferdam
- Provides safe environment to work.
- Contractors have design responsibility.
- Steel sheets piles are easily installed and removed.


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What has happened?
In civil enforcement proceedings (Marshall Rural v Basscave [2017] NSWLEC 84), in which the Applicant (Marshall Rural Pty Ltd) claimed that certain development was carried out by the Defendant (Basscave Pty Ltd) without consent (or was prohibited) under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, the NSW Land and Environment Court has refused to accede to the Applicant's request for an expedited hearing.
In a judgment handed down on 17 July 2017, the Court has set out its reasons for refusing the application and provided a useful reminder of the approach that will be adopted, and the factors that will be considered, in determining an application for expedition.
Findings by the Court
Put simply, the Court (at [20]) held that the factors to be considered are those set out by Justice Young in Greetings Oxford Koala Hotel Pty Ltd v Oxford Square Investments Pty Ltd which include:
"(2) Is there a special factor involved which warrants expedition. Usually these factors will be:
(a) the loss of witnesses if the case is not fixed at an early date;
(b) matters of public importance;
(c) that the subject matter of the litigation will be lost if it is not heard quickly;
(d) that the litigation to date has been delayed through no fault of the applicant;
(e) that the applicant is suffering hardship not caused through his own fault;
(f) that there is self-induced hardship (including those cases where corporate bodies fix a meeting date in the near future and then expect the Court to displace all other matters to hear their dispute before that date);
(g) the nature of the case (for example, ejectment, child custody); and
(h) that there are large sums of money involved.
(3) Have the parties proceeded up to the date of the hearing of the motion for expedition with due speed?
(4) Are the parties willing if expedition is granted to do all in their power to abridge the hearing time …"
In this case, the Court methodically considered whether each of the above factors applied in the present case and concluded that none of them did. On that basis, the Court refused the application for expedition.
This case provides a useful reminder of the factors that will be considered by a Court in an application for expedition.
Seeking an expedited hearing can, in the right circumstances, help mitigate the costs of delay that might otherwise be suffered by a party because of litigation.
It should not be assumed, however, that the Court will 'automatically' grant expedition. Rather, the making of such an application will always requires careful consideration having regard to each of the factors outlined above.
Further information
For further information on this judgment and its potential implications for your development please contact Marcus Steele, Director, on (02) 8005-1411 or firstname.lastname@example.com.


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Get real: asset managers ditch swaps for loans
Margin liquidity risks behind demand for physical, long-dated assets
Interest rate swaps are losing their appeal. Faced with new clearing and bilateral margining rules – and the prospect of huge cash calls during times of stress – asset managers with long-dated liabilities to hedge are increasingly turning to real assets instead.
Or, to put it another way, pension funds and insurers are replacing banks as lenders, particularly in long-term, index-linked loans to infrastructure projects, social housing partnerships and the like, where the associated regulatory


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The Black Eye Beans are a legume with a soft cream colour and a characteristic 'black eye' or spot. They are an integral part of the American, African and Asian cuisines. In the Southern United States, eating Black Eye Beans on New Year's Day is considered lucky. Black Eye Beans are also known as Lobhiya (/Lobia) / Rongi / Karamani or cowpeas.
- Black Eye Beans are used in soups, salads, Mediterranean dishes and also with meat.
- When boiled and fried with Indian spices they can be used as a main dish and served with roti, rice, naan.
Health Benefits
- They are low in calories.
- Black eye beans contain a lot of minerals and vitamins like zinc, potassium, iron and vitamin C and A.
- They are very good source of dietary fibre.
- They are rich in calcium and protein.
1. Wash and soak black eye beans in water overnight or for 5-6 hours. Pressure cook till soft.
2. In a pan heat some oil, add black cardamom, a small piece of cinnamon stick, one bay leaf and chopped onions. Fry.
3. Once the onions are golden brown add crushed ginger-garlic and sauté for a minute.
4. Add tomatoes to this mix.
5. Add salt to taste and other spices like turmeric, chilli powder and cook for another minute.
6. Now add Black eyed beans to this mix and sauté for another 5 minutes. Add water, cover the pan with a lid and let it boil.
7. Garnish with chopped coriander and serve it with roti, Naan, or rice.
Read more about Black Eye Beans here.


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20-year-old Russian claims he lived on Mars before he was reborn on Earth
thanks : Zee news
New Delhi: Confounding experts with his knowledge on outer space for nearly 20 years, a Russian has now baffled scientists by claiming that he lived on Mars before he was reborn on Earth.
According to his parents, Boriska Kipriyanovich was able to speak months after he was born and would often discuss subjects they had never taught him, such as alien civilisations.
By the age of two, he was able to read, write and draw.
As per a report in the Daily Mail, his mother, who herself is a doctor, said the first indication that he was special came a couple of weeks after birth, as he was able to hold his own head up unassisted.
Claiming that he lived on 'war-ravaged' Mars, Boriska says Martians – measuring about seven-feet tall – are immortal and still live undergound on the Red Planet and breathe in carbon dioxide.
They stop ageing after the age of 35 years, he said.
As a schoolboy, Boriska explained how the Martians had a strong connection to the ancient Egyptians on Earth and how he had once visited the planet as a pilot.
He said that life on Earth will change dramatically when the Great Sphinx monument in Giza is 'unlocked', adding that the opening mechanism is hidden behind an ear, the report said.
dedicated by:
Kavignar Thanigai.


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The Long Tail
Choice, lots of choice, becomes a benefit of an internet society, says Chris Anderson at Wired Magazine. Hat Tip: BizWizDumb. That's only true if the government doesn't get in the way.
Occasional links to, and comments on, ideas that I think will make this a better world, and remarks about things that need fixing, too.


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My Favorite Movie Robots
By Dennis D McDonald
The List
I've been a fan of movie robots since I was a kid. Which do I think are the best? My personal list comes quickly to mind:
- The artificial Maria from Metropolis
- Robbie the Robot from Forbidden Planet
- TARS from Interstellar
- The Mecha from AI: Artificial Intelligence
- Gort from the original The Day the Earth Stood Still
Maria from Metropolis
I never cease to be amazed by Maria's robot transformation scene in Metropolis. The robot design is itself beautiful but the transformation and its mix of animation, practical effects, and time lapse photography are beautiful to behold. And to think this was all done in the 1920's! Amazing!
Robby the Robot from Forbidden Planet
Robbie provided an entire generation with a view of what a sci-fi robot was supposed to look like and how it was supposed to behave. A seemingly all-powerful machine, Robby is also imbued with sophisticated manufacturing capabilities and he's programmed to protect life, a feature that later in the movie provides the basis for a significant plot point. An added attraction is that Robbie appears in a movie that is just plain gorgeous to view.
TARS from Interstellar
Possibly the most physically unique robot to ever appear in a motion picture, TARS is also programmed with a sense of humor. Most wondrous to behold his TARS'method of speedy locomotion on the water planet that takes advantage of his interlocking and segmented construction. Amazingly, TARS also operates efficiently in zero gravity.
The Mecha from AI: Artificial Intelligence
This is possibly the best movie ever made about what happens when robots think and act like humans. The "mecha" operate in a no man's land outside human society where they are discarded or attempt to escape physical and sexual servitude. The main focus of the movie is a child robot who insists he wants to be a "real boy" thereby creating an unresolvable conflict in the human world. Some of the scenes in this film are intentionally disturbing.
Gort from The Day the Earth Stood Still
Gort is the quintessential 20th-century view of the robot-to-be feared. Silent, slow moving, doing the bidding of his otherworldly master, and equipped with a terrifying destructive ray gun that fires from his head, he's the stuff of baby boomer nightmares. Gort stands out as a prime example of the "Hollywood Robot."
There are any many more, of course, but these are my favorites. What's on your list?
click below for slide show
Text copyright (c) 2018 by Dennis D. McDonald


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When you listen to a track or attend a show, the thought that 'how lucky and talented the person performing onstage is' must have passed your mind. But what looks like a one-man job on the surface, involves the relentless hard work and passion of a number of people working behind the scenes and most importantly of the person managing the artist. Artist managers build the artist's brand in the industry from the scratch and strive everyday to keep the artist at the forefront of the field. These people who work behind the scene are truly the unsung heroes we should all be well aware of.
We caught up with few artist managers in India to learn their perspective on the music scene in India, how it's grown and what the future holds for the scene. Take a look:
Artist Manager for: Nucleya, Anish Sood, Sand Dunes and more
G: What does a typical day in the life of an artist manager looks like?
T: Phone starts ringing at about 8:30 am, this could either be a gig inquiry, feedback from an artist from a show the previous night or someone from OML staff updating me on any current issues going on. Check emails next till about 10:00 am, then quick breakfast and leave for office. Once in office do a round table with my sub managers, prioritize tasks for the day and then start knocking them out basis how pressing the issue is. Lunch probably meet up with a client/artist/partner and spend some valuable face time. Afternoons are usually artist meetings catching up with them or meeting prospective partners or clients, listen to their pitches. Evening drinks with colleagues and then head out to whatever gig is happening on that given night. And there's usually at least one thing every night – at least in Bombay.
If you are touring – land, food, soundcheck, sleep/emails at hotel, smash show, afterparty, next flight.
G: What aspects of your artist's career do you look after?
T: OML operates as a 360 management model. We don't just operate as booking agents. This covers all aspects of the artists career from shows and logistics to profile raising to planning releases to merchandise. We try to have a big picture vision for each artist while also handling the day to day administrative requirements. This is all based off the artists vision and what they hope to accomplish in a given window of time.
G: What are your predictions for Indian music industry in 2016?
T: There's going to be an influx of new artists. There has already been quite an accelerated growth over the last couple of years. A lot of aspiring homegrown producers now have sort of role models or proven success stories they can point out and say "that could be me", so they know it can be achieved. Also, we will see an even greater number of international artists coming down and touring. This is already growing at an exponential rate with international artists finally viewing India as a legitimate touring market. There are also going to be an increase in boutique events – be these club nights or festivals. Events that cater to a specific genre, style or experience. Examples of this are the Deep in Dance nights Groovearth has been doing and also Future Theory Festival that we saw debut this year.
G: What are the nightmares/challenges of managing an artist in India?
T: It's just about managing expectations. Under promising and over delivering will always leave you with a positive relationship with your artist. Payments and logistics are pretty sorted now and venues are being far more professional. Perhaps the biggest challenge is making sure that nothing happens last minute and that all required permissions are in place. Even if you do the most due diligence possible before an event something can always happen last minute that is unavoidable and outside of your control. This is especially pertinent with larger scale shows. When something like that does go down, it's about not getting aggressive/emotional and working with your partners (promoter/venue) to reach the most practical/amicable outcome possible.
G: If you had to give one piece of advice to up-and-coming musicians heading for the studio to record some material, what would that be?
T: Just be original. Do not try and ape what you see producers/dj's in the west doing. It might just be a fad or a passing trend. This is kind of what we are seeing with EDM right now. Try your very best to cultivate a sound that is uniquely yours and instantly recognisable. It's okay to be influenced by stuff but try your best to absorb it and then make it your own. Also, just put out a lot of music. Don't wait around to do big releases. It's okay to just drop a single or a remix on it's own to keep your audience engaged.
Artist Manager for: Nikhil Chinappa, Pearl, DJ Mash and more
G: What does a typical day in the life of an artist manager looks like?
H: Loads of emails, few hours of sleep, week filled with gigs and lots to think about 🙂
G: What aspects of your artist's career do you look after?
H: Well frankly i don't much look after Artist we have experienced Srikant and Jay for that, i look at the other side of the business and try and see how i can use artist for brand associations / Content and tie-ups.
G: What are your predictions for Indian music industry in 2016?
H: The future looks really bright in terms of music as there is so much talent out there. New venues are opening up and loads of new artists to be programmed.
G: What are the nightmares/challenges of managing an artist in India?
H: The biggest challenge is to get the artists the perfect show's that suits their style and to keep doing that on a week to week basis. Also when it comes to producing to ensure that the artist is satisfied with what he is making and getting them released in the market. I often get venues saying "he will play what i want him to play" and I'm like Hello?? your getting an artist for their expertise and their popularity based on the sound they play.
G: If you had to give one piece of advice to up-and-coming musicians heading for the studio to record some material, what would that be?
H: Produce what you love and not for the masses. Find your unique sound and stick to that, it will take you time but will sure take you places 🙂
Artist Manager for: Lost Stories, Chetas, Arman Malik
G: What does a typical day in the life of an artist manager looks like?
A: We have no kind of fixed timings EVER no matter how hard we try. Typically my day begins around 8:30-9:00 am and I sleep no where before 4 am. Through the day there are meetings with record labels, promoters, venues, brands, studio recordings, marketing and PR meetings, accounts and at least a 100 phone calls daily. It's difficult to bifurcate the calls between work calls and fan calls. Since my number is on the fan pages of my artists I get a LOT of random phone calls and messages at extremely odd hours with the most bizarre things being said to me. On a gig day we spend a lot of time simply in travel and with the production bit and sound check. There's so much travel involved with the job, you literally start living out of a suitcase. In March alone we did about 35 gigs and I was in a different city almost every day.
G: What aspects of your artist's career do you look after?
A: I tend to let the artist decide what services they'd like me to offer but the common ones amongst all of them are:
– Bookings
– Creative and Content
– Music Concepts and Ideas
– Label Relations
– Logistics
– Marketing
– Merchandising
– Brands and Endorsements
– Production
– Accounts
Its all in all anything and everything they need. My artists become like family to me, and you don't say no to anything that family wants.
G: What are your predictions for Indian music industry in 2016?
A: The Indian Music Industry is HUGE! In the dance music space I think trap will pick up and pop will be more widely accepted once again since thats whats getting best response to most of my artists sets. Bollywood will see a comeback on retro with a revived electronic version which we're currently working on and it sounds nothing short of amazing!
G: You are managing three big artists from different genres, what are the main challenges you face?
A: This is what I LOVE the most about my roster, I manage the best talents from each of their genres and they are currently leading and driving the industry. I'm not the stringent listener who only likes to listen to a single style and genre of music. I strongly believe that content is either good content or bad content, you don't need to subdivide it further which is why music beyond genres is something we always preach. The only challenge I face is more on the promoter front regarding requirements since we're very stringent with every minute thing for every single gig.
G: If you had to give one piece of advice to up-and-coming musicians heading for the studio to record some material, what would that be?
A: If you're heading to the studio keep two things in mind.
1. If a unique sound doesn't come out of this session, it's going to be a big waste of time. All styles have been tried and tested, you need to put out something which is unique to you and also has a big mass appeal.
2. Quality is key! All the International A&R's I've spoken to love Indian Productions but aren't a fan of the quality at all. Get your tracks mixed and mastered from the right places. Don't hesitate to get additional production done either. Your track is a product you have to sell anyhow, make sure there's no compromise on quality.
Artist manager for: Sunburn festival
G: What does a typical day in the life of an artist manager looks like?
V: I work at sunburn , so its different, we don't have talent agency but we scout new talent to showcase across all our IP's. A typical day in my life is listening to all the new music sent by talented individuals across India. Curating the perfect line up for Sunburn Campus shows/ Reload Shows & Club events and of course the main festivals. It also involves a lot of back and forth phone calls to make sure everything is smooth flowing at the shows or upcoming shows.
G: What aspects of your artist's career do you look after?
V: I look after scouting new talent and make their success within India and making sure the artist gets the platform he/she needs to get bigger.
G: What are your predictions for Indian music industry in 2016?
V: The music scene in India is growing at a rapid speed, you can see many more upcoming producers now and even more individuals getting into music school. Its great , hope we have more established artists out there, soon making their names in the international market.
G: What are the nightmares/challenges of managing an artist in India?
V: Main job is to make sure from start to end for an artist, his life is being perfected by us at shows. that involves right from booking air tickets to hotels to ground movement to what they want to eat and drink ,and what kind of equipment they need to perform. Everything needs to be as smooth as possible so that the least stress is on the artist. One of the main challenges i faced was when Swedish House Mafia were to come to India in 2013, They jet which was set to fly from Indonesia to India was unfit to fly and they would not be able to make it in time to their show. Somehow last minute through connections we figured a private jet of a friends which was arranged and got them to India just in time for their show.
G: If you had to give one piece of advice to up-and-coming musicians heading for the studio to record some material, what would that be?
V: If you feel the music in you, just get into it , lock yourself in a room and just PRODUCE.
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$ 25.00
We didn't forget about our fellow Ladies in Cyclo-Cross. These girls aren't afraid to get dirty.
Collections: Cyclocross Collection, Men's T-Shirt, Men's T-Shirts, T-Shirt, Thread+Spoke
Category: Bike, Biking, black, cf-color-black, cf-color-charcoal-grey, cf-color-heather-grey, cf-color-military-green, cf-color-navy, cf-color-royal-blue, cf-color-white, cf-size-l, cf-size-m, cf-size-s, cf-size-xl, cf-size-xxl, charcoal-grey, cross, cross bike, cx, cx bike, cx featured, cx race, cx racing, Cyclo-Cross, Cyclocross, Cyclocross Mud, Gender_Womens, heather-grey, mens-unisex, military-green, mud, navy, royal-blue, sku, snow, T+S Ladies Love CX, Thread and Spoke, thread-spoke, white, womens
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A hand forged, blacksmith made simple fire poker with traditional blacksmith 'eye' handle and a diamond point. Perfect for an open fireplace or log bu..
A decorative, organic styled fire poker with a long flowing leaf handle. Perfect for an open fire or log burner, this unique poker is forged from one ..
A unique and contemporary fire poker incorporating a long, flowing ribbon handle made from a single piece of forged iron or steel. The poker also feat..
An elegant fire poker with a wrapped eye handle and a round diamond point. Ideal for an open fireplace or log burner. A long, forged taper is formed i..


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Stop in the 3rd Tuesday of the month when we tap the monthly Moonlight Kettle Series from Muskoka Brewery. This months brew HIT ME WITH YOUR BEST POT: Oolong tea-infused with Belgian witbier. Tapped at 11:30am until the keg runs dry.
Back to All Events
Earlier Event: April 14Loose Joints with DJ Sweetcheeks
Later Event: April 19You choose which Collingwood brew we list event


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Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, Arizona, Summer/ Shellie Bailey-Shah
Scottsdale, Arizona
Head to the desert even in the dead of summer? Yes, you should!
When summer cranks up the heat, resist the temptation to rule out warmer climate vacation destinations, because it's actually the perfect time to take advantage of five-star resorts offering two-star rates. The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess truly knows how to cater activities to keep you cool, whether it's poolside bars and cabanas or patio dining with misters. You'll certainly feel the glow as you drink in the amazing views of the desert, mountains, and of course, the vibrant, colorful sunsets.
KidTripster Tip: The Princess also is a fantastic family destination for Spring Break. Baseball fans can take in the very best spring training options with the local Cactus League hosting 15 major league teams. The resort is just 15 minutes from Salt River Fields at Talking Stick.
The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess in the heart of Arizona's Sonoran Desert is the best of the best, truly an oasis with the finest amenities and the most options for one-stop-shop relaxation and entertainment. Trust me, you'll never want to leave the property!
The staff's warmth and attentiveness will leave you feeling like royalty. You quickly come to notice the many special touches at this five-diamond resort that scream high-class but family-friendly, like the resident canine ambassadors, a Golden Retriever named Gibbs and Yellow Lab named Bixby, waiting to welcome you in the lobby. There's a special kids' check-in desk, where my little ones were thrilled to choose from a basket of goodies, like princess tiaras and beanie babies.
KidTripster Tip: If you happen to be traveling with small pets, the Princess offers a Posh Paws program, where you'll get a "Pet in Residence" door hanger, plush bed, food and water bowls, toys, and treats. Cost: $25. Ask the staff for help with dog walking, too.
The Summer Sip, Savor & Sand package starts at $179/night with a $50 daily credit. Upgrade to a casita or villa on the property for a more secluded getaway. You also can inquire about kitchen accommodations. The rooms are modern and comfortable with large closets and dual-vanity bathrooms. Every room has a view, and if you're not familiar with our Arizona desert sunsets, may I just say, "postcard!"
KidTripster Tip: One detail that I just love in the new suites by Sunset Beach is the soundscapes machine, perfect for parents who want to create a little more of a sound barrier for sleeping babes than just a closed door.
First, stop at the Trailblazer Family Adventure Center. You can rent pool floats and fishing gear and get the rundown on the family-friendly events and activities. A half-day session at the Trailblazer's Kids' Club (ages 5 to 12) is included in your stay. The cabin-style clubhouse has a pet tarantula and iguana, and staffers do a great job keeping the kids entertained with crafts, fishing lessons, and swim time.
KidTripster Tip: On weekend mornings, there's an all-ages fishing derby with Ranger Rick, who also introduces kids to the Fairmont's feathered friends, resident hawks and falcons, with lessons from the Sonoran Desert Falconry.
While the kids enjoy the kids' club, indulge in the Well & Being Spa. I highly suggest a relaxation massage and dip in the therapeutic waterfall grotto followed by lunch at the adult-only rooftop pool. If you're on an extended trip, you should check out the unique spa classes, like aerial yoga & rip surfer, where you hop on a surfboard hooked up to a virtual reality wave ride for a wicked core workout!
If you're looking for a beach vacation in the desert, no problem! Sink your toes into 830 tons of white sand, shipped in from Florida, at Sunset Beach, the property's sixth and largest pool. You'll also find a toddler splash pad or you can pay for passes to the adjacent water park with inflatable slides and water balloon wars. There are weekend dive-in family movies and free storytimes with pirate and mermaid photo ops. I signed my 8-year-old daughter up for the 90-minute Mermaid University. Your child gets a pair of goggles and mermaid tail for just a little more than the cost of what you'd spend on the tail alone. She was in heaven! My 6-year-old son just loved meeting the real pirates (actors who impressively never came out of character) and proudly took home his sword, sash, hat, eye patch, and diploma from his hour-long Swashbuckler Academy. It's pretty magical. Cost: $45.
On the other end of the property, the Fairmont Fun Team runs silly contests for prizes at the Sonoran Splash pool. The shallow zero-entry deck with spray fountains is fantastic for toddlers and parents, who want to just relax while staying cool in the water. If you've got small children who need occasional breaks, there's also a shaded playground and huge shaded sandbox with ceiling fans, plus all the toys, trucks, and diggers that you could imagine. But without question, the main attraction at this pool is the twin, 200-foot twisting water slides.
And for those hot summer nights, the Princess brings out a DJ, fog machines, lasers, and even professional glow-in-the-dark hula hoopers (that's a job!) and throws a Techno Glo Party at the pool. Every Saturday night during the summer, there also are fireworks by the lagoon.
Voted Arizona's best dining resort, you will love the on-property options. Ironwood American Kitchen has an impressive breakfast buffet that's extremely kid-friendly with every sweet and savory option that you can could want. Servers offer tablets, in addition to the usual crayons, to entertain the kids while you wait.
La Hacienda has fantastic Mexican food. I suggest the guacamole sampler that includes bacon, lobster, and pomegranate. The restaurant's tequila goddess can walk you through the 240 varieties of tequila that are available. And you must cap off dessert with a flaming coffee with cinnamon; the tableside presentation is quite the spectacle to see and smell!
And kids eat free at Bourbon Steak. This restaurant is my favorite. The food is so flavorful, and the ambiance so swanky that my husband and I have come here for anniversary and birthday dinners. If you're dining with the kids, I'd request patio seating with the misters or better yet, order carry-out and bring it back to the room. You can't go wrong with anything on the menu here, but I literally dream about the truffle macaroni and cheese and duck-fat fries with dipping sauces. Wow!
KidTripster Tip: If you mention to your server that you're planning to go by the lagoon after your meal to see the ducks, they've been known to give little bags of bread for duck food. The kids love this!
The Princess is located in Scottsdale, just a 30-minute drive north of Phoenix's Sky Harbor Airport. The resort also is close to shopping and popular trailheads for morning hikes.
Nicole Crites is a television news anchor in Phoenix, wife, and mom to two kids. She insists one of the most important secrets to a successful marriage and happy family is being intentional about taking time to make memories; vacations are often the best medicine.
This writer received a complimentary stay for the purpose of this review. However, all opinions expressed are solely her own.


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DevouGrass has big goals to waste less...
Using zero waste principles, DevouGrass sent 75% less waste to the landfill in 2017 over 2016.
Introducing the Zero Waste Way
The Zero Waste Way is a Renaissance Covington-led initiative funded by the Greater Cincinnati Foundation. It is a pilot project to inform how we manage and minimize our waste produced at special events and festivals in Covington, KY. The ZWW is a collaboration between Renaissance Covington, the Devou Good Project, and Keep Covington Beautiful, and Go Zero. The goal is to develop best practices with available local resources to minimize or completely stop any festival trash or waste from going to landfills. DevouGrass 2017 was proud to be the first test festival for this project and we look forward to furthering our goals in 2018.
How Does It Work?
We work with our vendors to make sure we understand the types of waste their products make and offer compostable alternatives wherever we can. On the day of the event, volunteers will be on hand to make sure you have help in knowing in which receptacle your waste goes. After DevouGrass, Go Zero is engaged to pickup compostables and Rumpke will pickup recycling.