text:
Futility of partial computerization
Whenever we start with a mission or with an objective, we are bound to face hurdles. Every journey is an adventure and we need courage to go through and win at the end. We undertake similar journeys when taking up systems for computerization. When doing so, we look at various steps in the process and try to automate them and also look at modifying the process or to eliminate certain steps that, in our opinion, are redundant. You may call it process reengineering or process improvement; but the fact is that processes do need to undergo changes when automated.
This is where the real test of the CIO comes to the fore. Resistance to change is normal and many reasons are usually put forth by the users to justify it. There are two ways in which the CIO can deal with this situation. He can either take an aggressive stance, take risks and push for full automation of the processes; or succumb to pressure and compromise on the solution and automate partly leaving some of the steps in the process to be done manually.
I have seen such situations often, either being directly involved as a CIO or having observed as a reviewer or consultant. It is very often that these difficult situations are evaded and an easy non-controversial path is followed that tries to accommodate the objections of persons who do not want things changed. The result is a compromise. When that happens, parts of the process are fast and efficient yet interspersed with manual and ineffective steps. The full process chain is therefore affected and the benefits of automation are not realized. I consider these partial automation cases as bad examples and not really worth emulating.
Let me cite a few examples of partial automation. As a CIO I initiated the work of automating the process of expense reimbursement to employees through vouchers. The manual process involved the employee preparing the voucher, getting it okayed by the head of the department and then forwarding to the accounts department for verification. Whenever the voucher was ready, he would go to the cashier to collect the money. Automation of this process involved the employee preparing the voucher on the system and forwarding it to his superior for approval which then would automatically flow to the accounts for verification. But it still required the employee to physically go the cashier to collect his money depending on the timing of the payment window. I then had to put my foot down and convince the accounts department to transfer the payment amount directly to the employee's account with the bank.
Similar was a case in another company where the process of approval of special discounts required approval of the vice president – marketing. Since the VP himself was not comfortable using the system, he insisted on this part to be a manual process as he did not think approval through the system was secure enough. It needed considerable convincing to bring him on board.
I was recently reviewing a few processes in the Government bodies as a consultant. As it happens in most places, some departments were very good and some others tried to compromise. For example, there was a department that went for complete automation, in which papers needed to be sent from one section of the government to several others, but the responses could be received directly through the system. In order to ensure security, they introduced digital signatures and officials were reminded about their responsibility to keep their accounts secure. In contrast, another wing of the Government preferred to automate all processes within their department; but when approvals and responses were to be got from other departments, they were asked to take a print from the system, sign and then deliver.
Systems, when automated fully, run smoothly and provide the much needed efficiency; and the environment is devoid of papers floating around. Partial automation cases however are inefficient and carry along many of the problems associated with manual systems.
Inappropriate use of technology
There is no doubt that technology helps bring efficiencies in our operations, decreases turn-around time of transactions, brings transparency, helps exercise control, etc. The right use of technology, of course, gets us all the intended benefits and makes our life easier. However, a wrong choice of technology or an inappropriate use defeats the purpose, and besides delaying the project, it causes loss of morale and financial loss which could be hard to justify. I have seen these situations occur in the following circumstances:
1. When the CIO gets enamored with a new technology and decides to gamble without adequate study and/ or invests in it a little too early—before the technology matures.
2. Inappropriate choice of technology; getting carried away by vendor's sales talks.
3. Under pressure from users who cite examples from other places and thrust a decision down the CIO's throat.
Let me cite a few real business cases that I have observed as examples of failures:
(1) Implementing Bar Code: In an automotive company, we had users who had just returned from a visit to the collaborator's plant abroad. Keen to prove their smart ways and of having learnt something new, they proposed implementing bar codes for monitoring material movement in the paint shop. When they approached us for PCs, we raised a few questions on the process suggested. Unable to answer, they went back and procured the PCs separately from their project budget. Since the whole process was misconceived, it died its natural death and the PCs had to be diverted to some other users in the plant.
(2) Thrusting RFID solutions: When RFID came into the scene a few years ago, it was touted as the next big thing and many organizations were tempted to adopt it. I too experienced this pressure from our manufacturing wing who wanted to track movement of materials and vehicles in the plant. When confronted with the fact that any material entering the manufacturing process completed its cycle in 36 hours, the users beat a retreat. But I am aware of many organizations who tried various pilot projects only to shelve them after a while. I am laying emphasis on the fact that a detailed study should precede the final decision on the project.
(3) VOIP phones: On joining an organization, I was surprised to see a VOIP phone placed on my table which did not work. On enquiry, I was told that my predecessor had got installed a dozen phones to bring down STD costs. Well, the connection never worked well, and the users too did not find it convenient to use. Later, as the telecom charges dropped, the project was quietly shelved, though not formally closed.
(4) Mobility solutions: Under pressure from the management to bring innovation in the markets, the sales department decided to implement sales force automation system. The objectives were, however, not very clear and the whole purpose was shrouded in generalities. They went full hog and collected a lot of data from the field; but the use of data for reporting and analysis left much to be desired. They were at a loss, explaining to the management the justification of the investments made and the benefits that they could demonstrate. The money and resources spent did not yield appropriate results.
(5) GPS: I came across an instance of a transport company wanting to install GPS based monitoring system in all its vehicles which numbered a few thousands. When asked about the specific objectives and advantage that they thought would accrue, answers were vague and packed with several long winded explanations. As some of the earlier technology projects went off well, the CIO wanted to do more and impress, but I thought that was a pure gamble.
Any technology project therefore needs to be taken up with due care. Clear definition of objectives, detailed study of the processes, consultation with all stakeholders, and a clear assessment of the intended benefits versus cost are absolutely essential before starting on any such adventure. Well implemented systems succeed in creating an impact and go further building on the gains, but inappropriate use puts the organization in big trouble and should be avoided.
The problems of unprepared IT departments
Of late, I have been visiting IT deployments in many small and medium organizations — in the private sector as well as the Government sector. During the process, I had the opportunity to study initiatives taken by the business, as well as the IT support necessary to make business succeed.
In many such cases, the IT group helped in making the organization more efficient; enabling them to respond well to their customers and successfully roll out e-Governance initiatives. Some of them appeared very successful ventures, and showed a lot of promise. In the case of a few others, I did not find the IT response to be adequate. Though everyone seemed happy with the situation, a closer look gave a feeling that the gains were not sustainable given the inadequacy of the IT infrastructure that supported these initiatives.
Let me explain the issue further. A meaningful IT support to business begins with a plan, a strategy and a definition of a roadmap for the long run. Sometimes this is ignored in the interest of immediate gains, and at other times this aspect is not properly understood. I will list out a few situations to drive home the point.
Piecemeal solutions over time: This is a usual phenomenon noticed in many situations. Each requirement expressed is converted into a system, and programs written to roll out for implementation. Several systems then get developed, often by different programmers, and on a variety of platforms. Whenever the need for an interface arises, some element of data passing or a loose integration through Web services makes everyone happy. Little do they realize that it is these ad-hoc solutions that lead to an avoidable mess as the needs expand, and several solutions get developed.
Total reliance on in-house staff: In several cases, people take pride in announcing that all systems have been developed in-house, and that there is no external input. The impression given is that they have saved costs for the organization, and that the internal staff is good enough to handle all organizational needs. The trouble in such cases is that the group's knowledge does not grow, and they keep doing what they know. This aspect is reflected in the way the solutions are developed, in the way hardware platforms are chosen, and the manner in which systems are written. The methods at times are outdated, and lack a contemporary approach.
Lack of participation at the management level: Unless the IT head is senior enough and participates in business discussions, the solutions will always be ad-hoc, and lack a long term vision. I have met a few managers who were fully involved in the business initiatives, and were well aware of the business directions and goals in focus. Others were happy to play a background role — the solutions they developed were suspect, as they could have not have held when the business expanded or when the situations got complex. Such an approach remains to be one of a programmer, who only looks for an opportunity to write a program.
Make do with small IT teams: I was surprised to hear from a few Government departments about their achievements in spite of being a small team. They spoke of economizing on budgets and about outsourcing. I thought many of them did not understand the importance of IT, and thought that by outsourcing system development they had done the right thing. There was still no IT direction and their moves were dictated by the appointed vendors.
From all these situations, I learnt that managements which drive such initiatives should ensure that IT solution infrastructure is aligned to organizational growth; that built IT platforms will last for the next few years. It is also important to ensure that the technology is suitably updated, so that IT gives them an edge, and that the organization benefits from technology usage.
Overcome the challenges of going paperless
We have been speaking about going paperless for many years now. People initially were very skeptical and said that this can never be achieved. However, as technology progressed, a paperless scenario looked more real. The advent of e-mail facilitated putting many a memo, word files, and excel sheets in e-forms, thus, avoiding a print on paper. However, the drawback was that it left a lot of organizational information scattered, and worse, lying on individual PCs.
I have experimented with technologies like document and content management, work flow, microfilming, etc. which have brought in a lot of relief and the attendant advantages. The implementation journey and the transition were however not easy and we had to face several hurdles. But even today it remains quite a challenge and it certainly is not a cakewalk in most places. Let us look at some of the factors that hinder progress on this front.
Removing the roadblocks
1. Breaking the habit: People who have been used to keeping papers in files cannot easily give up the habit of storing records physically. They still print the documents with the plea that they are uncomfortable reading large documents on screen.
2. Inertia in classifying and organizing documents: We usually ask users to group and classify their documents subject-wise so that they can be organized and stored in a central repository. Many do not cooperate saying that their classification changes often as they handle new subjects often. Some are so used to creating ad-hoc directories in their PCs that they are not amenable to taking a holistic view and creating a new order. This one stage I have seen taking inordinately long.
3. Plea of flexibility: Keeping records with themselves seems so easy that they argue against centralization. Organized filing centrally will obviously entail following of rules and an end to ad-hoc modification and deleting of files. Therefore they claim a loss of flexibility.
4. Perceived loss of control: If we have the records with us, we experience a sense of power. People who want information would ask us and that gives us a feeling of importance. If I am keeping the records, my boss will have to call me for information and would be dependent on me. Agreeing to move the records to a central location would amount to giving up my rights.
5. Resisting destruction of physical records: This was another challenge that I had to contend with. Even when we had scanned documents and lodged them into the document management system, users were reluctant to destroy their old physical records. It required a lot of persuasion. Similarly, when we had converted old records into microfilms with an additional copy as a back-up, users resisted destruction of physical records. I then had to temporarily halt further conversion and wrote to the management seeking directions. Then came the diktat for destruction of records and that enabled the company give up the hired document storage-warehouses thus bringing down expenses.
Though a move towards a paperless environment is a reality, it still faces roadblocks and these need to be handled well and with certain measure of firmness. In most cases it is about instilling a discipline and bringing about an order. Once users experience the benefits of electronic handling of documents, they push for more and never look back.
Microfilming records: A three-step guide
If we are convinced about the usefulness of microfilming the old records, the next step will be to work out a justification and make up a case for introducing this in the organization. So let us discuss the steps that we need to go through.
Have a valid financial justification
The first step is to identify documents which can be candidates for microfilming. For example, old accounting records that are, say, more than three years old (i.e. post statutory audit or those not required for MIS purposes), can be taken up. This would include all ledgers, vouchers, and other supporting documents. Other examples would be records related to Sales Tax, Excise, or old shareholder transactions. We need to emphasize on the advantages to the users like freeing up of storage space and ease of access. In the organization that I put this system in, we could give up a storage space hired for keeping these records and we could access old records which was an uphill task earlier.
Our old documents, even if archived, reside on magnetic tapes, cartridges, low cost disks, etc.; but these are expensive and less reliable as these media deteriorate over long periods of time. Microfilms on the other hand are less expensive and have much longer life. Financial justification can therefore be easily worked out.
Organizations usually start with converting old documents in physical form as it helps in converting the bulk of documents into a single film tape / cartridge. The process is to be done carefully and it is best to outsource this activity to external agencies who are experts in this process. You have first to classify documents, number them, and then convert them in the right sequence. You can classify them on the basis of document type, year, etc. When converted, all tapes will have to be properly indexed and labeled. It is necessary to exercise control to ensure that documents are not missed out and also that they are not duplicated.
To ensure authenticity, the recording starts with a document signed by the authorized person and similarly a document at the end signals the end of recording. Such a microfilmed record therefore cannot be tampered with. These records are accepted as evidences by various statutory authorities.
In order to access and read these tapes we would have to buy a film reader which converts the tiny films into a readable form through display on a screen attached to the reader. These machines are relatively inexpensive and therefore affordable.
Say goodbye to the old habits
After having converted our old physical records on films, the next step will be to avoid creation of new documents in physical form and so that we do not go through the entire grind once again. For example many organizations have stopped printing general / sub ledgers but may take one copy at the year end. It is here that we need to bring about a change – why not transfer the ledger directly from magnetic media to microfilm tapes. The technology available today makes this possible and so it is best to use this interface. The same principle can be applied to various documents that need to be held over long periods of time.
So here is a simple technology which can be gainfully used to solve a part of our storage problems. The process may seem difficult in the beginning but after the initial conversion, the ongoing process falls into a routine and can be easily managed.
Microfilming of records
Microfilming of old records is an area which has largely been ignored by CIOs. Apart from a few companies in the banking and financial sector and some government departments, most have not made use of this technology. The decision to microfilm old documents has largely been taken by functional departments; but the CIO, in my opinion, can take a lead here and explore application of this solution in his organization.
What is Microfilming?
Microfilms are films containing micro-reproductions of documents for transmission, storage, reading, and printing. These are essentially photographs of documents and are images commonly reduced to about one twenty-fifth of the original document size.
Microfilming, also called microphotography, consists in the reduction of images to such a small size that they cannot be read without optical assistance. Such a photographic compression often results in a ninety-nine percent saving of space. With the advancement in the field of documentary reproduction, the function of this facility is not only restricted to storage but also classification, and retrieval. The usefulness of this medium is significant as many documents deteriorate over time because of the poor quality of paper and print.
Common use of microfilms
Microfilming is a widely used practice in the government as also in banks and financial institutions. The huge volume of public records in government and customer records in banks, for example, make up a good case for microfilming.
In companies, this has been used for storing several documents that are statutorily required to be kept for several years. For example, accounting records are required to be preserved for eight years by the Companies Act and the Income Tax Act. Similarly other Acts such as Central Excise Act, Sales Tax Act etc. have their own stipulations. Some companies have also used for this medium for preserving old legal files, employee personnel records, customer records etc.
Safety and security
Besides saving space, the most important feature of this medium is document integrity and information security. Preservation of rare and deteriorating documents is considered one of the most important purposes in micro-recording. Valuable rare documents are now being microfilmed to preserve them from loss and destruction. Moreover it must be protected against loss, which would be irrecoverable in the case of valuable documents, records or rare books. Several duplicates of microfilmed documents can be made available, while the original documentation may be kept in archival storage or may, in fact, be destroyed. For additional security, negatives and positives can be stored in different places; being of small bulk, it can be specially protected. The film, if properly processed it will last much longer than the originals.
Advocating its use
In my opinion, it's time CIOs examined this solution and evaluated its use in their organizations. The advantages are substantial as by freeing up space used by these documents they can save huge rentals, the method enables quick access and retrieval and it ensures their safe keeping much better than what is possible with traditional methods with physical documents.
In my next dispatch, I will explain my experiences with the use of microfilming and the benefits we got from the usage.
Acknowledging the role of the users and the management
We always like to complain about the lack of support from the management or non-cooperation of the end users. We say we would have gone miles, had they been kind enough to us and had helped us for the cause. The lament is justified to some extent and I agree that we, as sincere professionals, need that kind of patronage.
All projects, however, do not go wrong and neither are all situations so bad. The very reason for our great going is that we all have several successful projects to our credit and we are confident of achieving many more goals. We talk of our success stories in various forums and willingly oblige magazines when they want to publish our case studies. It is easy to corner all the credit to ourselves and claim that we succeeded in spite of several roadblocks, but will we be honest in saying that no one helped us in the entire show? In case we have not adequately recognized and acknowledged the contributions made by various wings of the organization, it can be regarded as our weakness The management does its bit to approve and sanction funds for our projects; and unless the end users make use of the systems we develop, how can we ever hope to meet the objectives? We, therefore, are never alone and we have to recognize the contribution of others in our endeavors.
It will only be fair on our part to acknowledge the support that we receive from various quarters. This way, on one hand, we can complete the loop and, on the other, encourage them to lend their support for all our future projects. It is normal for people to resist change in the initial stages but we have learnt to get over this part through our experiences. If users willingly accept the technological changes on their own, it will be proper on our part to give them the credit for doing so.
There are various ways in which we can acknowledge their support, let me write down a few:
– Once we get approval for our budget or project, we can write a note to the Board/ CEO/ others, thanking them for the approval and assuring them of our full efforts to make the project(s) successful.
– It is a good practice to send periodic reports to the management giving them an update on important projects so that they feel reassured on the projects/ budgets sanctioned by them.
– On successful completion of projects, send a 'thank you' note to the concerned business/ functional heads.
– Let them light a lamp or cut the ribbon whenever we kick-off or launch a project, and ask them to deliver a short address.
– If they have done a good job, cite them as examples/ reference to the rest of the organization.
End users
– Formally thank them for their role once the project has been successfully completed.
– Take them out for a dinner or an event as recognition of their contribution and support.
– Involve them during the design of the processes, drawing a road map etc. to give them a feeling of participation.
These are some of the measures that came to my mind and I am sure you would have many more brilliant ideas. The point of emphasis is that we need the support of various stakeholders for the success of our ventures and we should get them on our side through a genuine sense of understanding and appreciation of their views and feelings.
Document and content management benefits revealed
A paperless office was a dream of many an organization in the 1980s and '90s. The simple word processor was followed by spreadsheets and other office automation software. It was soon realized that documents so created needed to be managed. So the 'Document Management System' (DMS) came into being and later as the World Wide Web came along, it dawned on people that the artifacts placed on the Web also needed to be managed; so the 'Content Management System' (CMS) followed. Now let us look at these terms and understand them.
Document management
A document management system (DMS) is a computer system (or set of computer programs) used to track and store electronic documents, and / or images of paper documents. It is usually also capable of keeping track of the different versions created by different users (history tracking). Now, the term has some overlap with the concepts of content management systems. DMS is often viewed as a component of Enterprise Content Management (ECM) systems and related to digital asset management, document imaging, workflow systems and records management systems.
In early 2001 when I put in DMS in our organization, it took us some effort to change the organization's work culture; I had to persuade people to try out the electronic form of managing documents. When it succeeded, I was very happy and satisfied but soon realized that I had to expand my horizon of thought to consider other demands that had suddenly sprung up. Our marketing department wanted all their publicity material, advertisements in print, radio and TV, artwork and other creative material to be stored, catalogued and made shareable. That was a tall order and I had to struggle to find a solution. Later, as our website got loaded with content and our intranet started exploding with matter, it became apparent that these too needed our attention. I then got exposed to the developing area of content management.
Content management
An enterprise content management system (ECM) involves management of content, documents, details and records related to the organizational processes of an enterprise. The purpose and result is to manage the organization's unstructured information (content), with all its diversity of format and location. The main objectives of enterprise content management are to streamline access, eliminate bottlenecks, optimize security and maintain integrity.
A CMS/ ECM provides a collection of procedures for managing work flow in a collaborative environment. The procedures are designed to do the following:
- Allow for a large number of people to contribute to and share stored data.
- Control access to the data, based on user roles (defining which information users or user groups can view, edit, publish, etc.)
- Aid in easy storage and retrieval of data.
- Reduce repetitive duplicate input.
- Improve the ease of report writing.
- Improve communication between users.
In my last organization, I had put in ECM/ CMS and included all forms of records, including normal office documents. We provided access to all content through the enterprise portal, and ensured security by centrally defining access rights accorded by the respective managers through a work flow process. Placing all important office records centrally had quite a few advantages; data could be shared in the group, security features could be enabled and data management in terms of safety, back-up etc. became much easier. People could access records at any time and from any location since it was not confined to a desktop or laptop.
It is however important that the purpose of putting in content management system in any organization should be clear and subsequent steps should proceed in the stated direction. Success of the system can be gauged by fulfillment of the objectives, such as information sharing, safety/ security of data, user convenience, etc.
A season of greetings and network bottlenecks
These festive months are times to enjoy and rejoice. We do have fun; but there is something else to these festivities that give us the jitters. It is the greetings messages that run unhindered through our communication pipes and create those famed bottlenecks.
As a CIO, I have faced these situations often and I may have interesting stories to tell. It was in 1998 when I had just connected all offices of my organization on e-mail. In the initial period, reluctant users would send occasional mails to others only when forced to. We had then connected all offices using VSAT network with a meager bandwidth as it was expensive. But as Diwali approached, the network went numb and it took us a while to discover that it was that sudden burst of traffic (with greetings messages) that choked our network. Then came the New Year and the network started to blink again. People had by then learnt to create new cards using paint brush and other utilities; and those attachments were really heavy. Over the next two years, we took several measures to address this problem. For instance, I sent a mail to all requesting them to be choosy when sending greetings and to be measured by sending to those whom they knew rather than marking it to all. When that didn't work, we had to block access to central groups for all except a few seniors. In order to bring a smile to those sad faces, we introduced a greeting cards application, asking people to choose cards from them instead of creating their own. We invited all the creative artists to draw out new cards with their signatures and add to the library.
The matter changed over the years as bandwidth got cheaper. With larger pipes the problem has perhaps become manageable or perhaps not quite so, as this traffic still poses a problem often. We know of the choke created on our mobile networks when people's SMS messages flow with gusto. The mobile companies had to resort to higher tariff for such periods as a measure for controlling traffic.
The greetings conundrum does cause its own sweet trouble. Being a social activity, it makes difficult being harsh with people, and managements generally sympathize with their brethren. This is tricky; CIOs have to find a new way to address this problem. There are few tips that I can offer, though there could be other good methods adopted by some of us.
1. Advisory to users: Users sometimes need to be educated, made aware or simply told to exercise judgment. It may help sending a message to all asking them to send greetings to only those whom they know rather than marking them to all in the organization. I also used to mention of users' complaints of unsolicited greetings messages from people not known to them.
2. Set an example with our conduct: I decided that I will not send mass messages, and will also not reply to such messages even if they come from close friends. I then persuaded employees in my department and many senior functionaries to observe such celibacy; and it worked.
3. Create a greetings library for internal usage: This reduces traffic and helps standardizing this ritual besides reducing the data traffic. Those who do not follow this practice can be talked to.
4. Greetings coming in or going out of the organization: Such incoming and outgoing messages also create a bottleneck. Though not much can be done in respect to our dealings with official contacts, we can request users to make use of birthday greetings sites, or their personal mail (yahoo/gmail etc.) for greeting their friends and other contacts.
Festivals are social events and we have to let people enjoy and greet each other. While such freedom is desirable, it makes sense to keep a watch on the computing and network infrastructure and ensure that it is available to the organization and people at large. That is the responsibility that a CIO is bestowed with, and he has to find a way to ensure that the systems function at all times.
Conferences can be more effective
I attended another conference last week, one of the many that dot our cities every week. Friday evenings are usually preferred for events by the vendors, media companies, and other event management organizations as that ensures better attendance. Nothing wrong with that; in fact, this keeps all the constituents happy. But let me discuss this specific conference that I attended the last.
This was a a full day conference in one of the 5-star hotels in the NCR area and it focused on 'Data Center Strategies'. The event was to have several sessions during the day with a few of them running on parallel tracks. The topics covered included the setting up of datacenters, cabling solutions, air conditioning options, infrastructure optimization, server virtualization, cloud computing, etc. The audience consisted of CIOs from various companies in the NCR area though a few came from outside the region as well. I was invited to be a speaker in one of the sessions and so were a few other CIOs. The organizers had with them quite a few sponsors and some of them put up stalls to display their products or expertise. There was also an entertainment program set up for the evening followed by cocktails and dinner. In short, the event was planned to be a big affair and with right partners as sponsors, and they thought they had everything well worked out.
The event started off in the morning at the appointed time though the count of people was a much lower than what was planned. As the morning progressed a few others walked in but the number was still a bit on the sorry side. Some members preferred to step outside the room during the sessions to network with other fellow CIOs. The scene in the post lunch period however turned a bit healthy and the evening tea break saw the number building up to a decent scale. The exhibitors may have had a tough time as very few made their way to their stalls and the stalls exhibited a deserted look. As the sessions ended, a lot many arrived from nowhere and the people were in full flow to be a part of the entertainment show in the evening and the networking cocktails and dinner thereafter.
I am not sure if the organizers, sponsors, exhibitors, the speakers or the audience were really happy with the way the event went; however, I do not think the purpose of the conference was really served. As I set out to think about the conference and reasons for it falling short of a success, a few points emerged:
1. Did not clearly identify the target audience: The subject of datacenter strategies did not go down well with the CIOs. It was clear that most CIOs are increasingly moving towards outsourcing of their computing facilities. A lot many of them have hosted their servers externally and a few of them have already moved their applications to run as a PaaS or a SaaS service. Cloud computing model is also being seriously looked at by CIOs and so the direction is clear. In short, CIOs are moving away from fortifying their datacenters. The audience targeted therefore was not very appropriate and the seminar would have been better served if they had targeted service providers and staff of large datacenters.
2. The conference was stretched: A full day seminar was perhaps a stretch and CIOs obviously did not find it easy to take off a full day to attend. That perhaps explains why audience really swelled in the second half. I usually find the attention span of the audience wane after half a day of closed room presentation and discussions.
3. Need to understand the mood of CIOs: In all events it is important to understand the need of the audience and programs should be designed accordingly. Organizers, however, under pressure from sponsors, usually subject CIOs to long sessions including vendor presentations. Seminars nowadays happen by the dozen and CIOs attend only those where they find value; in other cases they come to network with their fellow professionals. Friday evenings are usually relaxed and a short seminar followed by entertainment and dinner is well accepted.
These were a few of my observations and I feel that such seminars would succeed if they identify the right target audience and design their programs to address their needs. Seminars these days are one too many and every seminar has to bring in something different to be able to attract audience.


text:
Top 5 Date Things Guys Shouldn't Do At All!
Here are the Top 5 date things guys shouldn't do at all if you actually intend on going on another one again. Because as much as you think dressing your best and smelling good is a must…it's the other little things that you might be doing that won't get you a call back.
5. COMPLAIN ABOUT PRICES. Yes, food prices are getting high and yes, we are in a recession: but one thing you don't wanna come off as is the cheapest guy in the world. If you act as if you don't know how to splurge a little, it could imply that you are stingy about other things…which won't help you in the end. Solution: check out the prices of the menu/activities before hand, and budget accordingly.
Kimberly Mc Rose Featured Model
My Name is Kimberly I'm polish and I live in Europe Austria (Vienna) my passion is country Music and I love to model. I´m 177cm tall and love to enjoy my life. My biggest dream is moving to the United States and modeling there!
Kayleigh Bowser Featured Model
Hi, I'm kayleigh, I'm 20, I am a Lingerie/swimwear model from the UK. I have been modelling for over 2 years now I enjoy every aspect of it! I am also trained in palliative care, and hoping to train to be a midwife someday.
Claire Muzik Feature Model
lots of plans… I believe. Priority is to expand in US with completely new marketing and my new stunning website www.ClaireMuzik.com (coming soon) along with lots of great and funny stuff for my fans. Also to get in touch with many new fans over the whole world. I´m currently also in MAXIM´s Hometown Hotties in US as well as in the Czech Republic so I would like to win those contests
Airica Michelle Feature Model
Hello! My name is Airica Michelle. I want to create such amazing images that every person who sees them wants to hang one in their place. I've been published in Petite Alternative, Glam Rock, Teen Spirit Magazine (cover), and Front. Soon to be published in Prick and Rabid Girls.
Missy Cool Feature Model
Hello my name is Missy Cool. My full-time gig is being a nurse… taking care of our Nations Vet's!! In my spare time you will find me modeling, which I adore!! I have been a painted lady at several mansion parties, and have been in several publications. You never know where you will see me next 😉
Saven Mi Feature Model
I'd love to achieve as much as I can in my modeling career such as traveling the world for photo shoots, modeling for various companies and one day landing magazine covers.
I've been featured on:
Lion Den's U Morning Mistress 2012
Foyeh Production's Miss Leo 2012
Soletron Honey April 2012
Top Asian Models March 2012
Modified Scene March 2012
Mr. Dreamz Magazine March 2012
FKN' Famous FKN' Hottie
MXyMAG.com February 2012
Angel's Playpen Febuary 2012
Virile Men's Magazine December 2011
Complex Rides Girl December 2011
Plunder Guide 2011
The Snoring Tiger 2011
Nutekspeed Automotive Magazine October 2011
AutoMotoFoto.com Featured Model September 2011
ModelBee.com Featured Model August 2011
Best Damn Model August 2011
Nitroblitz Hot Chick of the Day August 2011
Intuned Online Featured Model August 2011
Poging Pogi Lang Babe of the Month July 2011
Mergeby Weekly Model July 2011
Bandini Pinup Girl #156 July 2011
So Fine Magazine June/July 2011
Body-Rockin Model 2011
Iap-TV.com Featured Model 2011
Toronto SUNshine Girl February 2011
Fixe Magazine 2010
Susan Coffey Feature Model
My name is Susan Coffey. I have been freelance modeling for three years. I am still only a part time model and my goal is to turn it into my life.
I was am blessed with an upcoming cover and spread for Maxim en Espanol and hope that opportunities like this are just beginning.
USC vs UCLA: The Cheerleader Battle of LA
Los Angeles, the city of angels. Home to two of the country's most prestigious universities USC and UCLA, these cheerleaders are both brain and beauty. Always competing in sports and life, the football rivalry, The Battle for the Victory Bell is one of the marquee rivalries in LA. While USC has an upper hand in the rivalry with a record of 46-28-7 against UCLA, the real competition comes from the sidelines where the storied UCLA Song Girls and the UCLA Bruin Cheerleaders are among some of the nation's hottest cheerleaders. But which are hotter? Take a look at the gallery and see for yourself.
Crystal Lynne Feature Model
Since I was in 7th grade I've wanted to be a Playboy Playmate. It's been my dream to be recognized as a model who is comfortable in nothing but her own skin. I've always wanted to be in Maxim, FHM, Sports Illustrated, Strobe and tons of other magazines that promote girls who feel sexy and comfortable in something as little as a bikini. Someday I want to make it big and shoot for campaigns such as PETAs I'd rather go naked then wear fur campaign and the NOH8 Campaign. I want to be looked up to.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Zengo Denver
Zengo is an artful blend of Latin-Asian styles and flavors. Chef-owner Richard Sandoval, whose accolades include Bon Appétit Restaurateur of the Year and Mexico's Toque d'Oro, spins regional ingredients into beautifully balanced dishes designed for sharing.
The beverage menu features innovative, hand-muddled cocktails as well as Latin wines, Japanese sakes and over 100 Tequilas. The vibrant décor fuses traditional and contemporary tastes, the perfect setting to savor Zengo's acclaimed cuisine.
Hours of Operation
Sunday - Thursday: 5:00pm - 10:00pm
Friday - Saturday: 5:00pm - 11:00pm
Happy Hour
At the Bar, Lounge and Patio
Daily: 5:00pm - 7:00pm
$5 Latin-Asian Cocktails
$5 Small Plates
Bottomless Brunch
Saturday - Sunday: 10:00am - 2:30pm
$39 includes unlimited small plates
& free flowing brunch cocktails,
including a Build-Your-Own-Bloody-Mary-Bar


text:
Connecting Families to Senior Living
Talk to a local advisor for FREE
We value your privacy. By clicking you agree to the terms and conditions of our privacy policy. You also consent that we can reach out to you using a phone system that can auto-dial numbers (we miss rotary telephones, too!). Your consent is not required to use our service.
Choose from over 26 Assisted Living communities in Ennis, TX and
118 reviews.
We've helped 180 families in Ennis, TX where Assisted Living ranges from $1500.00 to $5921.00.
With so many options for senior assisted living in Ennis in , TX, how do you know which community is right for you? We've helped families in the Ennis TX area find assisted living facilities to match their unique needs and budget. Request info to get free community reports and work with your local Senior Living Advisor.
Brookdale Ennis is an assisted living community located on the eastern side of Ennis Texas just one mile east of Lake Clark. As part of the Dallas-Forth Worth metroplex we are proud to offer assisted living services to seniors in Ellis County Texas and the surrounding areas. Our caring staff is...
1.6 miles from Ennis, TX
Provides: Assisted Living in Ennis, TX
Brookdale Waxahachie is an exceptional assisted living and memory care community in Waxahachie, Texas. Our prime location in a quiet residential neighborhood near all the amenities of Waxahachie offers the perfect combination of tranquility and convenience. Located just south of the southern Dallas...
13 miles from Ennis, TX
Provides: Assisted Living in Waxahachie, TX
Step up to a new level of life at Buffalo Creek, an Assisted Living and Memory Care community in Waxahachie, Texas, that offers country-style living with the conveniences of a big city. Our goal is to enrich the lives of our residents by providing an environment that is physically, mentally,...
Find your place at Covenant Place Waxahachie, where desired amenities and convenient services allow residents to live a vibrant lifestyle that encourages independence through innovative recreational, educational, health and wellness programs. Our Assisted Living community in Waxahachie, Texas,...
15 miles from Ennis, TX
Brookdale Corsicana is an assisted living community located in the historic and thriving city of Corsicana, Texas which is a few miles south of Dallas. With its own vibrant downtown area, Corsicana has an active performing arts community, fine dining and shopping. Corsicana is the perfect...
19 miles from Ennis, TX
Provides: Assisted Living in Corsicana, TX
Brookdale Lancaster provides assisted living services to seniors in Dallas County, Texas and surrounding areas of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. We are located in northwest Lancaster, Texas just a few minutes east of Crescent Medical Center Lancaster. Our community is built on a single level with...
22 miles from Ennis, TX
Provides: Assisted Living in Lancaster, TX
Angels of Hands is an Assisted Living and Adult Day Care geared to serving male residents only. Mission: To provide a wide range of professional, high quality health care service while ensuring compassionate care designed to optimize every patient's dignity, autonomy and comfort. • 1 story facility...
23 miles from Ennis, TX
Brookdale DeSoto offers assisted living in a home-like country setting in DeSoto, Texas. We are ideally located at the southern end of Dallas County Texas, where we are close enough to enjoy recreational and cultural activities in Dallas but are in the country and can enjoy quieter surroundings. Our...
24 miles from Ennis, TX
Provides: Assisted Living in Desoto, TX
Brookdale Cedar Hill offers assisted living services to seniors in the Ellis and Dallas County areas. We are located in Cedar Hill, Texas just five miles east of Joe Pool Lake and Cedar Hill State Park. We pride ourselves on caring for the whole person by taking the time to learn who you are, who...
25 miles from Ennis, TX
Provides: Assisted Living in Cedar Hill, TX
Bakers Home 1 is a residential care home in Dallas, Texas, Collin County. We provide short-term, long-term, respite and hospice care to those who no longer wish to live alone or care for a home. Our South Dallas neighborhood is exceptionally well-groomed, quiet and inviting and provides walkability...
26 miles from Ennis, TX
Provides: Assisted Living in Dallas, TX
Discover the warmth and exceptional services at Crescent Place, offering Assisted Living and Memory Care services in Cedar Hill, Texas. Residents will experience the customary Texas welcome and generosity in all aspects of their new home, from the spacious and generous amenities of the apartments to...
27 miles from Ennis, TX
29 miles from Ennis, TX
Provides: Assisted Living in Duncanville, TX
30 miles from Ennis, TX
Provides: Assisted Living in Mesquite, TX
Provides: Assisted Living in Midlothian, TX
Provides: Assisted Living in Forney, TX
Get the latest tips, news, and advice on aging and caregiving.
View our privacy policy.
A Place for Mom is the largest assisted living referral service. We are paid by our participating communities, therefore our service is offered at no charge to families.
Copyright ©2016 A Place for Mom, Inc. All rights reserved.


text:
Thin Sandwich Buns
Total Time
Prep 1 hr 30 mins
Cook 12 mins
I've tried to make a low calorie homemade bread for years. When they came out with thin buns, it inspired this recipe. One sandwich bun is 1 Weight Watcher point. TIPS: You'll need a 4" biscuit or cookie cutter for these to be consistent. The vital wheat gluten improves the texture and rise, but you don't have to use it. Just add 2 more tablespoons of flour if you omit it. And white flour will work just fine if you don't want whole wheat. Just add more flour in place of the extra bran called for in the recipe. Of course, the nutritional info will be different. Enjoy! Kathie
Ingredients Nutrition
- 1 1⁄3 cups warm water
- 1⁄4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon yeast
- 1 egg
- 2 teaspoons canola oil
- 3 cups whole wheat flour
- 1⁄2 cup wheat bran
- 2 tablespoons vital wheat gluten
- 1 teaspoon salt
- In a bowl sprinkle the sugar over the warm water, then do the same with the yeast. Add the egg and oil and combine. In a separate container, use a fork or a whisk to stir together the flour, bran, wheat gluten, and salt. Add 1/2 of this mixture to the wet ingredients and blend. This is the sponge.
- Let rise 30 - 45 minutes.
- Add rest of flour mixture and knead for about 5 minutes. I use my stand mixer with the dough attachment. This dough will be sticky.
- Spray 2 cookie sheets with cooking spray. Divide dough into 16 equal portions. This is a wet dough so instead of adding any additional flour, I weigh the dough on a food scale and divide it by 16. Then I weigh out each portion and put 8 on each cookie sheet. Don't worry about how it looks now.
- Take a 4" biscuit cutter and place it over one of the dough portions. If you wet the inside of the cutter as well as your fingers you can spread the dough into a perfect circle by using your fingers to flatten it to the inside edge of the biscuit cutter. (These will be very thin but they will rise). Remove the cutter, re-wet the inside and use it to do the same thing to the remaining 15 buns.
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Let the buns rise until double in bulk, about 30-45 minutes.
- Bake in a preheated 350 degree oven 12-15 minutes until golden brown. Don't overbake. Cool the buns and then cut them in half for sandwich buns.
- Edit Note: Since I first started making these I've made 2 changes. One is that I make them in muffin top pans sprayed with Pam. No cutting involved.
- The other thing is that I use oat fiber instead of the wheat bran. I ordered oat fiber online. It is NOT the same as oat bran and is in many things these days, so I decided to try it instead of wheat bran. It is very high fiber, few calories, and pleasant tasting. Just use in moderation. In this recipe I use only 1/4 cup. It is 5 calories and 26 grams of fiber for the 1/4 cup. Also, it is more mild tasting than the wheat bran.
- Each bun has 108 Calories; 1g Fat; 5g Protein; 20g Carbohydrate; 4g Dietary Fiber; 13mg Cholesterol; 124mg Sodium.
Most Helpful
So simple to make and they turned out absolutely perfect! I will never buy Sandwich Thins at the store again- this is easy and cheap! Thanks for the great recipe!
We have been enjoying the new sandwich thins in the grocery stores, but I enjoy making home made bread and this was the first recipe that I found that was easy and tastes great! Thanks for sharing!
These are easy to make and taste fantastic! I only had baker's bran but already ordered oat fiber to try again. I used the first 15 minutes of my bread machine's dough cycle to get the first ingredients mixed, then removed for 35 minutes, added back into bread machine pan, added the rest of the flour, mixed 8 minutes, then removed to rise as instructed. Perfect dough to work with, lovely little different buns, great for egg breakfast sandwiches, I think! EDIT: I ordered oat fiber and made these again immediately. We all PREFER the original recipe, including my 6 and 4 year olds. who are not at all picky but very selective. I will probably be the only one to eat the oat ones so that they are not wasted. My daughter requests these for her lunch box sandwich everyday now! We will keep this recipe (the original post) and repeat many times.....thanks again!


text:
The New Jersey Star Ledger and the Cleveland Plain Dealer have reported that free agent quarterback David Carr has agreed to terms with the San Francisco 49ers.
And...surprise! It appears Carr's headed West to compete for a starting job.
Star Ledger New York Giants beat writer Mike Garafalo reported that Carr's deal with the 49ers was "made official" on Sunday evening. The former No. 1 overall pick of the Houston Texans spent the two seasons behind Eli Manning. The New Jersey newspaper report stated that Carr leaves his back-up job in New York to "compete with another former No. 1 overall draft pick—Alex Smith—for the 49ers starting job."
The Cleveland newspaper report came after the Browns courted Carr with the promise he would be given a chance to start. The Plain Dealer , however, reported that Carr would be going to the 49ers as a back-up to Smith.
The San Francisco Chronicle reported Sunday afternoon that "a few sites are reporting that quarterback David Carr has agreed to a contract with the 49ers."
O-Lineman Paschos to Browns
Offensive lineman Tony Paschos, a 49ers free agent, signed a contract with the Cleveland Browns on Sunday.


text:
William Wilson
by Edgar Allan Poe
Tools of Characterization
Character Analysis
The narrator remarks that the name "William Wilson" is fake; he chooses it for the purposes of this story, but it isn't actually his real name. This deception is interesting in and of itself – and you can read more about it in "Character Analysis." For the moment, let's think about why he chose this particular name.
First, you've got the doubling going on inside the name itself; "William Wilson" is a tad redundant, in that "WILLiam sounds a lot like "WILson." Then you can go nuts with name etymology, if that's your thing. "William" originally combined two words, "will" (as in desire") and "protection." When you put them together, you get "will protection." Or the narrator has willed himself some protection. If you like the theory that the second William Wilson is the first's conscience, then you could think of him as protection for the narrator; a conscience protects us from doing things that are wrong. Now, if the narrator has willed his own protection, it hints that the narrator has deliberately willed the existence of his double, and that this double in some way protects him – from himself, or at least from his most ungovernable passions. That's what a conscience is for, in any case. Lastly, the origin of "Wilson" is "the son of William." You could look this up on an etymology site, or you could just think about the word: "Will-son," or "son of Will."
Physical Appearances
Of course, the second William Wilson's physical likeness to the narrator William Wilson is one of the other big indications that they may be two halves of the same person. It is this likeness of feature, not the identical name, that so terrifies the narrator in the early half of the story, and that is the primary reason he is unable to look his double in the face for the rest of the tale.


text:
Hi there,
I just discovered your plugin and it looks really great. One thing that could make it even more better, in my opinion, is by adding an option to display a slider of the uploaded images.
Before, I used this plugin: http://wordpress.org/extend/plugins/header-image-slider/, but that seemed to stop working since 3.5 and hasn't been updated a for a while now.
I will try to see if I can somehow merge the functionality of that plugin with yours and see how it works. If it works, I will post it here, sou you can include it in a future version if you want. If I can't get it working, maybe you are interested to look at it yourself.


text:
Windows Communication Foundation (WCF) Jobs in Halifax, West Yorkshire
Jobs 1 to 2 of 2
Senior Software Developer C# .NET, Visual Studio
Key Skills: Experience of C# .NET Development. Visual Studio. SQL Server and/or T-SQL. Winforms and/or Windows Communication Foundation (WCF) Any experience of web services and web technologies would be beneficial (e.g... Software Engineer, Software Developer, Analyst Programmer, Application Developer, SDLC, Agile, Waterfall, C#, .NET, SQL, WCF,...
Halifax, West Yorkshire -
4it Recruitment Ltd
Salary: From £40,000 to £60,000 per annum plus bonus and excellent benefitsPosted: 17 hours ago
Senior .Net Developer C#, .Net, Agile, WCF
Adopt secure coding principles - Be prepared to be flexible - Produce clearly documented code with unit tests built in Skills that are essential: - C# - NET framework - WCF - Winforms (they still have some legacy systems) - Data experience - Agile, Scrum, Sprints - SQL Server & T-SQL The advantageous skills are as follows: - Web services/...
Halifax, West Yorkshire -
Integrity IT Solutions
Salary: Unspecified Excellent + Bonus + BenefitsPosted: 5 days ago


text:
Recomend Graco strollers & car seats?
I registered for Graco FastAction Fold travel system stroller... Purely based on reviews of it, i thought it would work well.
But, I have no other advice or previous experience... sorry. :)
With my son, I got a Graco travel system. It worked fine, but was really bulky in our trunk. I bought a Graco snap n' go to use with the bucket seat for this time around. When baby is about six months or so, I switch to an UppaBaby GLite umbrella stroller... AMAZING stroller. Any stroller I can open while holding my purse, a baby and my coffee deserves an A+ in my book! :)
I can tell you which one I wouldn't recommend. We got the Graco Quattro Tour Deluxe and that thing is super bulky. The carseat weighs a ton. We plan on using it for this baby only so we don't have to buy another one.
We've had a Graco SnugRide 32 with both our other kids and will be using it for this baby as well since we still have 2 years before expiration. We love it, no complaints here! I think it's one of the lighter ones out of all the Graco's. I'd suggest going to a nearby stores that carry Graco and pack each one around for a few minutes, that's what we did, then you will know if you love/hate the size, weight and shape :o).
HH Roo, 8-25-09, CHD Miss K: PJRT (SVT), 8-8-11, HH Little D, 2-3-13, Baby Due 5-29-15 www.thestoryofababywithsvt.blogspot.com
we got the snugride 35 infant car seat. i got two bases so we just had one in each car and used the same seat. i didn't get a traditional travel system but did get the snap and go stroller which i liked for stores and it fit nicely in the trunk of my tiny car. i also have the jeep all terrian stroller which i love for outdoors. it also can hold the snugride car seat and this was great when LO was little. I used her car seat in the jeep stroller until about 3 to 4 months. after that she was big enough to sit on her own.
one thing i will mention, if you are planning to have more kids you may want to look into the option of a stroller that can add an extra seat later. I am now looking at the city select but there are a few different brands that do the same thing. i wish i would have gone this route the first time but i had no idea my kids would only be 16 months apart. now i have will have extra snap and go and jeep stroller. both i love but can't use with two kids
I was looking at the Graco snugride click and connect 40 has anybody purchased one or had some hands on experience with it?
Learn more
Look how far your child has come.
Review your child's growth milestones.
Read about 3 years 5 months : Week 2.
Your growing child
Your 3 1/4-year-old: Storytelling
Your 3 1/2-year-old: Facing fears
Your 3 1/2-year-old: Magical thinking
Your 3 1/2-year-old: Mastering motor skills
Your 3 1/2-year-old: Writing skills
Learn more
What's next for your growing child?
Get a glimpse of what's to come.
Read about 3 years 7 months.


text:
Get an overview of this hotel5-star Bali resort on Nusa Dua beach
Nusa Dua beach, Bali
This luxury Bali resort on the Nusa Dua beach is steps from Bali Golf and Country Club. The Bali Collection shopping complex is 5 minutes away by complimentary hotel shuttle.
Lagoons and gardens
The Laguna, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa features crystal-clear lagoons, tropical gardens, and beach access. The full-service Lagoon Spa and Villa offers treatments from Bali and Java.
Balinese-style rooms
Balinese-influenced guestrooms feature balconies, 42-inch plasma televisions, deluxe beds made for the resort, and 24-hour butler service. Bathrooms offer oversized corner tubs with separate showers.Would you like to give us feedback? Share it! Opens in a new window
The Laguna, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Nusa Dua, BaliKawasan Pariwisata Lot N2 Nusa Dua Bali 80363
Hotel Amenities
Hotel Amenities
The Laguna, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa features 5,000 square meters of crystal-clear, swimmable lagoons winding through the grounds, and boasts panoramic views of Indian Ocean. Themed celebrations are held in the landscaped tropical gardens, which are also available for guest functions.
The full-service Lagoon Spa and Villa offers treatments from Bali and Java. Unique water features treatments and state of the art equipment offer a total spa indulgence. Overlooking the lagoon, the fitness center features personal trainers. Tennis lessons are available at the resort's outdoor tennis courts, and the gym is open 24 hours. The Laguna offers a wide range of dining cuisine options from around the world. The beachfront Arwana restaurant features views of white sand beaches and lush resort grounds. The Banyubiru features pan-Asian and International cuisine.
The resort is adjacent to a conference center and provides 6 meeting rooms and a business center. Staff includes a convention services team and a wedding planner. Concierge, tour, and airline desks are on site. Wireless Internet access is available throughout the property.
- 24-hour fitness facilities
- 24-hour front desk
- Airport transportation (surcharge)
- Free area shuttle
- ATM/banking
- Babysitting or childcare (surcharge)
- Beach bar
- Pool umbrellas
- Breakfast available (surcharge)
- Business center
- Children's pool
- Coffee shop or café
- Free newspapers in lobby
- Concierge services
- Conference space
- Dry cleaning/laundry service
- Elevator/lift
- Express check-in
- Free self parking
- Free valet parking
- Free WiFi
- Free wired high-speed Internet
- Full-service spa
- Garden
- Gift shops or newsstand
- Hair salon
- Laundry facilities
- Limo or Town Car service available
- Luggage storage
- Meeting rooms 6
- Multilingual staff
- Number of bars/lounges - 2
- Number of floors - 4
- Number of outdoor pools - 3
- Number of restaurants - 2
- Outdoor tennis court
- Poolside bar
- Porter/bellhop
- Rooftop terrace
- Safe-deposit box at front desk
- Free shopping center shuttle
- Shopping on site
- Spa services on site
- Spa treatment room(s)
- Spa tub
- Steam room
- Swim-up bar
- Tennis on site
- Total number of rooms - 287
- Tours/ticket assistance
- Wedding services
Family Friendly Amenities
- Area shuttle (complimentary)
- Babysitting or childcare (surcharge)
- Children's pool
- Cribs/infant beds (complimentary)
- Free Wi-Fi
- Laundry facilities
- Outdoor pools
- Outdoor tennis court
- Refrigerator
Available in all rooms: Free WiFi , Free wired high-speed Internet
Available in some public areas: Free WiFi , Free wired high-speed Internet
Free self parking, Free valet parking
Room Amenities
- Air conditioning
- Balcony
- Bathrobes
- Bathtub or shower
- In-room climate control (air conditioning)
- Coffee/tea maker
- Free bottled water
- Free newspaper
- Free toiletries
- Connecting/adjoining rooms available
- Free cribs/infant beds
- Daily housekeeping
- Deep soaking bathtub
- Desk
- Free WiFi
- Free wired high-speed Internet
- Hair dryer
- Hypo-allergenic bedding available
- In-room massage available
- In-room safe
- Iron/ironing board
- Minibar
- Premium bedding
- Premium TV channels
- Private bathroom
- Refrigerator
- Room service (24 hours)
- Satellite TV service
- Turndown service
Where to Eat
Banyubiru - Western and pan-Asian fare prepared in a glass show kitchen and served à la carte and buffet-style. Indoor and outdoor seating. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner .
Arwana - Creative continental and Asian cuisine served beachfront. Open-air kitchen, live seafood aquarium, wine cellar.
Room service - Available 24 hours.
Nearby Things to Do
The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.
- Golfing nearby
- Snorkeling nearby
- Personal motorized watercraft on site
- Parasailing nearby
- Bicycle rentals on site
Spa Services
Laguna Spa and Villa is the full-service spa at The Laguna, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa. Spa services include facials, massage, and body treatments. Treatments from Bali and Java feature locally derived natural products. Packages are available for couples in the private setting of the Spa Villa.
- Manicures and pedicures
- Body scrubs
- Aromatherapy treatments
- Ayurvedic treatments
- Sauna in spa
- Spa tub in spa
- Massages
- Body treatments
- Facial treatments
To make requests for specific accessibility needs, complete the "Special or Accessibility Requests" section of "Trip Preferences" when you book your hotel.
- Accessible bathroom
- In-room accessibility
Hotel Policies
Check-in time ends at midnight
Check-in time starts at 3 PM
Special check-in instructions:
Check-out time is noon
Payment types
- Pets not allowed
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on hotel policy.
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card or cash deposit are required at check-in for incidental charges.
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges. Special requests cannot be guaranteed.
- New Year's Eve (31 December) Gala Dinner per adult: IDR 4225000.00
- New Year's Eve (31 December) Gala Dinner per child: IDR 950000.00 (from 4 to 12 years old)
Optional extras
- Fee for buffet breakfast: IDR 250000 per person (approximately)
- Airport shuttle fee: IDR 700000 per vehicle (roundtrip)
- Rollaway bed fee: IDR 887800.00 per night
Hotel Name
- Laguna Luxury Collection Bali
- Laguna Luxury Collection Resort Bali
- Laguna Luxury Collection Resort Nusa Dua Bali
We should mention
This property offers transfers from the airport (surcharges may apply). Guests must contact the property with arrival details before travel, using the contact information on the booking confirmation. Reservations are required for massage services and spa treatments. Reservations can be made by contacting the hotel prior to arrival, using the contact information on the booking confirmation. Only registered guests are allowed in the guestrooms. The property has connecting/adjoining rooms, which are subject to availability and can be requested by contacting the property using the number on the booking confirmation.


text:
Most small businesses find their accountant to be the most important member of their team. But whilst every business engages an accountant, very few get it right. Like all professions there are good and bad accountants. There are also accountants that suit your business and you. Getting it wrong can be the most costly mistake you could ever make. This book helps you make an informed choice on what to look for, by clearly presenting information about the role of accountants, which ones are doing it right, which ones aren't, and specific traits and qualifications to look for when making this important choice.
How to Choose an Accountant also contains useful information on how tax works and how to reduce it', the key to running a successful business and even a practical business tax return checklist.
Audience: General
Format: Paperback
Language: English
Number Of Pages: 48
Published: 1st September 2009
Country of Publication: AU
Dimensions (cm): 14.0 x 14.0


text:
Thiago Henrique Santoscommented on a video on YouTube.
PS: Curiosamente, este novo modo é incompatível com o Google Talk, então se vc usa muito o recurso (o que não é meu caso) fique com o modo de desktop convencional. Also, no Java.
- Apoio EducacionalProfessor de Ciências e Biologia, 2013 - present
- Clóvis de LuccaProfessor de Ciências e Biologia, 2012 - present
- Anésia Loureiro GamaProfessor de Ciências, 2012 - 2013
- Horizon Chase - World Tour
- Ultimate Briefcase
- Alto's Adventure
- Clash Royale
- Game Studio Tycoon 2
- Star Wars: Commander
- Universidade de LisboaFilosofia e História das Ciências, 2009 - 2011
- Núcleo José Reis ECA/USPDivulgação Científica, 2007 - 2008
- Universidade do Grande ABCCiências Biológicas, 2003 - 2007
Skyforce Unite! – Apps para Android no Google Play
Get yourself a plane and fly through the wild blue yonder!Take on missions for the Hunters Association, explore the world and battle monster
Pocket Casts
We love podcasts, so we made a podcast manager that is full featured, beautiful and simple to use. But don't take our word for it:Google Pla
Waze Social GPS Maps & Traffic
Waze is a fun, community based mapping, traffic & navigation app, 50 million strong. Join forces with other drivers nearby to outsmart traff
Como a Web 2.0 está mudando a ciência. Para melhor.
Como a Web 2.0 está mudando a ciência. Para melhor. from Luiz Bento Ontem estive presente no Campus do Centro Universitário de Volta Redonda
Feedly. Google Reader News RSS
Feedly is a new way to browse the content of your favorite sites, rss feeds, tumblr blogs and youtube channels. Instead of having to hunt do
The Humble Indie Bundle #4 (pay what you want and help charity)
Pay what you want for a collection of awesome games, and help support two charities. All of the games are DRM-free and support Mac, Windows,
Real-life sharing rethought for the web, wherever you are. Google+ for mobile makes sharing the right things with the right people a lot sim
SwiftKey X Keyboard
Next-generation AI keyboard, now with unrivaled prediction and personalization! SwiftKey X Keyboard is the smartest tablet keyboard on Andro
Any.DO helps you remember everything you have to do.
Opera Mobile web browser
The premium web experience for rich, interactive content on mobile devices. A web browser ideal for fast network connections such as Wi-Fi o
Kindle books on your phone including thousands of free books. No Kindle required Read books on your phone, including thousands of free Kindl
Angry Birds
Use the unique powers of the Angry Birds to destroy the greedy pigs' fortresses! The survival of the Angry Birds is at stake. Dish out reven
Any.DO: To Do List | Task List
Any.DO Is a Crazy Intuitive, Gesture-Based To-Do App for Android (lifehacker) Any.DO is a free to-do list that helps you get things done wit
Foursquare helps you explore the world around you. Foursquare helps you explore the world around you. Keep up with friends, get insider tips
Google +1 Button - Chrome Web Store
+1 a web page, anywhere you go on the web.
Google Maps
Download the latest release of Google Maps, and never carry a paper map again. Get Google Maps with Navigation (Beta), Places, and Latitude
Google Reader Gets a Redesign, Adds Google+ Integration
Google has begun rolling out a new version of Google Reader, one that sports a brand-new design and deep integration with Google+.
Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim - Hands-On Video Game Preview!
Three hours of hands-on with the biggest RPG of the year, Skyrim!
Why the world of scientific research needs to be disrupted
Award-winning quantum physicist Michael Nielsen says that the closed and disconnected nature of most research is holding back scientific pro


text:
Rescue Dog
Over a year ago
I can not convince my parents and sister that getting a rescue is better. They think that since we are getting a fluffy puppy rescue, which is high in demand, it doesn't matter if we just go to a breeder. I also can't convince them that breeding is bad. What do I say?
Please log in to reply.
Over a year ago
Get them to watch this video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dTb5nY-3DfoYou must be logged in to reply to this topic.
Over a year ago
Have them check out http://www.petfinder.com/. They're sure to fall in love with a rescue pup if they start browsing through pictures. 🙂You must be logged in to reply to this topic.
Over a year ago
Hey @Rainstar,
Thanks for wanting to help animals! Millions of animals are euthanized in shelters every year because there aren't enough good homes for them to go to. It makes absolutely no sense to continue bringing new animals into the world when there are millions of healthy, friendly animals in shelters that are desperate for good homes and being put down. Animals adopted from shelters are, in general, healthier from lack of inbreeding, and in my opinion sweeter. It's like they know you gave them a second chance! Most shelters have a puppy wing, too, if you're interested in rescuing a puppy. 🙂
Breeders and puppy mills have some of the worst conditions for animals. Please click here to learn more on why it's crucial we stop supporting them: http://www.peta2.com/issue/puppy-mills-dogs-abused-for-the-pet-trade/
I hope you can share this info with your family to let them know why adopting versus buying is so important. If they care about animals they will have to agree.Thanks!
~Sara from peta2You must be logged in to reply to this topic.


text:
Sticky posts do not bubble to the top of the loop like they should as mentioned in the codex if combined with category__in.
Example of the issue dating back two years:
My current query which doesn't return sticky posts to the top:
query_posts( array(
'post_type' => array('post', 'careers-post'),
'paged' => $paged,
'posts_per_page' => 6,
'category__in' => $page_categories,
'ignore_sticky_posts' => 0
) );
I need to maintain pagination and posts per page consistent which is why I havnt opted for the double query/loop approach. Any ideas on how I can resolve this?
Any help is greatly appreciated
Thank you.


text:
Contact Us Home Groups Privacy Policy Site Map © 2012 Downtown Kalamazoo Inc.
Eat, Shop, Play, Connect. Only Downtown Kalamazoo this summer. Eat outside at your favorite restaruant, shop for a new summer dress, stroll through Bronson Park, or get a new summer-do at a downtown salon!
More Information
Concerts in the Park is one of Kalamazoo's long standing traditions and is offered each Sunday through June, July and August. Local musicians from Kalamazoo and the surrounding region perform in Bronson Park, providing the nostalgia of an outdoor music event. Each concert is free, and is friendly for the entire family.
There are so many good reasons to come downtown, but our events are especially enticing! Check out the full calendar of events for summer 2016 and make your plans to come down!
The City of Kalamazoo's Parks and Recreation Department offers Lunchtime Live every Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. as a way to liven up the lunch hour at the end of the week. For some friendly competition, the Second Annual Bag Tournament will start in July. Be sure to check out the next event this Friday and every Friday until September 23rd.


text: I've been dancing for a few days trying to verify my site at inventiveopportunity.com using the Pixel 1.9.8 theme). Yes I am a newbie, when it comes to using wordpress. I have tried the meta tag instruction into the tools. When I open tools I have to hit on press this to get a page and a paste the google message, save draft and publish. Back to google with no success. Any help will be appreciated.


text:
Definition of nonvoting in English:
Not having or using a vote: a nonvoting delegate nonvoting stock
More example sentences
- Its constitution permitted others to join and made provision for voting and non-voting members.
- They have a non-voting delegate in the House, but making deals for votes is often how the House does business.
- There was a non-voting member of the House of Representatives from 1992.
nonvoter noun
- Example sentences
- It was above all the large number of non-voters who made the SVP the strongest party.
- Nevertheless, quite a few non-voters have so far registered their reasons for avoiding the ballot box.
- Yes, the non-voters may very well make up a significant fraction of the 100,000 protestors.
For editors and proofreaders
Syllabification: non·vot·ing
Definition of nonvoting in:
What do you find interesting about this word or phrase?
Comments that don't adhere to our Community Guidelines may be moderated or removed.
= trending


text:
The purpose is to make the male / female connectors waterproof when they are connected together.This is a clamshell 100-Pack of Waterproof O-Rings from Platinum Tools. Each o-ring attaches to the female part of an F connector.
- Attaches to Female Part of F Connector
- Makes Male / Female Connector Waterproof
Found a lower price? Complete this simple form:
See any errors on this page? Let us know.


text:
The Saltire Scholar Programme provides life-changing opportunities. This summer you could be joining more than 150 Scholars working with some of the world's most successful firms; from entrepreneurial start-ups to global corporates, from Glasgow to San Francisco and Singapore. Thanks to the incredible support from our network of supporters and donors, this exciting opportunity is fully-funded for all Scholars. Read Kira's experience.
We are looking for ambitious students like you with a passion for Scotland and the skills to make an impact at your host company. We have a diverse range of placement opportunities and host companies so whether you're studying Anthropology, Physics, Marketing or Computer Programming we can find a placement to suit you. Applications for the 2016 Saltire Scholars Programme are now closed.
As a potential Scholar the only criteria you must meet is being a penultimate year undergraduate student at a Scottish university. We recognise that academic merit is not the only way to identify talent. Our straight-forward application process takes a holistic view of every potential Scholar: what are you passionate about?, where do your interests lie?,
what do you want to do in your future? Our application process video explains how to apply and you can also contact your university's careers advisory service for support.
The Saltire Foundation exists to help Scotland prosper on the international stage: connecting you to opportunities to learn from the best around the world allows us to do this. Read Jordan's experience.
Your Saltire internship is just the beginning. As a Scholar you will be gifted a year's free membership of the Entrepreneurial Scotland Future Leaders network, broadening your own network and connecting you with the most entrepreneurial minds in Scotland.
Why not browse this year's fantastic Scholars' blogs to hear first hand about their experiences or
contact the Saltire team to find out more.


text:
Former Saints and Rams head coach and noted defensive guru Jim Haslett was at Redskins Park on Monday interviewing for the defensive coordinator role, according to Comcast SportsNet. The Washington Post has confirmed the report and beat man Jason Reid says that Haslett appears to be the front-runner to land the job now that Mike Zimmer's staying with the Bengals.
HaslettHaslett's defenses haven't always been the best in the league, but he has a solid reputation when it comes to teaching that side of the ball. It's rumored that new coach Mike Shanahan would prefer to transition into a 3-4 scheme -- and that's something that Haslett wouldn't have a problem installing.
Of course, that would put certain players in jeopardy. I don't think London Fletcher has the body type to hold up as an inside linebacker in a 3-4. When Bill Parcells made the transition to the 3-4 in Dallas, smaller linebackers such as Dexter Coakley were soon forced out the door. And even if Dat Nguyen hadn't suffered a neck injury, I'm not sure he would've excelled in the 3-4.
Brian Orakpo would obviously play outside linebacker in a 3-4, but I don't think Andre Carter has the ability to make that move at this point in his career. This will certainly be an intriguing offseason for the Skins.


text:
Worms In Pool
Posted 24 April 2010 - 02:55 PM
Posted 24 April 2010 - 05:01 PM
Some shock will usually take the stains off from dead worms that have been laying on the bottom. Its good to pre-dissolve the shock in a bucket and then add it to the pool.
Posted 25 April 2010 - 12:48 PM
Posted 25 April 2010 - 08:55 PM
Posted 25 April 2010 - 09:30 PM
Posted 26 April 2010 - 07:57 PM
Posted 27 April 2010 - 11:21 AM
Posted 27 April 2010 - 11:11 PM
Sounds like a plan... but I wonder what happens to that DE when you hose down the deck? In my yard it would go to the street drain (connects directly to river inlet) -- against regulations in this area. (Northern California)
sprinkling some DE around the perimeter of your pool deck will keep worms from getting to the pool. they don't like the DE. it scratches and kills them. poor worms.
Test Your Water, Then Treat
Posted 29 April 2010 - 12:35 PM
sprinkling some DE around the perimeter of your pool deck will keep worms from getting to the pool. they don't like the DE. it scratches and kills them. poor worms.
I've always heard it kill grubs. Guess it could cut up worms too or any bug that crosses over some D.E.
Posted 29 April 2010 - 02:22 PM
Posted 02 May 2010 - 07:36 AM
Posted 19 October 2013 - 04:51 AM
Posted 24 May 2015 - 09:45 AM
If you are impatient, I found that putting shock granules in a paint strainer bag, tying a string around the bag and letting it sit on top of the stain wand dissolve with the pump off (so it doesn't disburse) will help expedite the removal of the stain.
As another poster said, the stains will diminish over time, but letting shock dissolve directly on the stain helps
WARNING: You have to be very careful with shock granules and don't dip it in and out of the water or get it on your skin. Nasty stuff.
Posted 16 June 2015 - 01:51 AM
I also suggest change the water more frequently
Posted 03 September 2015 - 01:56 AM
Changing the water would be the best solution to remove worm from pool water. You should be extra sure about filter cartridge (If you are using in your swimming) check it is working properly or not. Use some pool equipment like catfish, pool robot to remove remains dirt from the pool.
Experience of over 7 years in to maintenance, cleanliness, and supervising swimming pools and spas.
Website: http://www.poolfilters.biz/
0 user(s) are reading this topic
0 members, 0 guests, 0 anonymous users


text:
Tottenham Hotspur Message Board
you are viewing a single comment's thread.view the rest of the posts
Villa - predictions
3-2 SPURS -no need to say any moreSort: Newest | Oldest | Most Replied Expand all replies
I'd wouldn't be too upset with a draw in this game. We've never really had a great record away to Villa - so I'll go for a score draw.
2 -2 (Defoe getting both for us).
Although I'd be over the moon with a win.
- 1 Reply to Lee
A Yahoo! User Nov 27, 2009 22:20 Flag
We won at Villa last season.. so why not again!
I'll even go with the same scoreline.. 2-1 to the Lillywhites.
Lennon & Crouch the Spurs scorers!


text:
No products
Warning: Last items in stock!
Availability date:
Traxxas Shock Body GTR Jato (2) TRA5467Traxxas GTR shock bodies for the Nitro Jato Stadium Truck.
Recipient :
* Required fields
or Cancel
Traxxas GTR shock bodies are constructed of nylon. Gray in color and molded composite.
INCLUDES: Two molded composite GTR shock bodies
Assembly onto Vehicle
|Main Category
|R/C Parts
|Car & Truck Parts
|Shock Components
|Part Type
|Stock Parts
|Free Shipping
|Free Shipping
No customer reviews for the moment.
No customer questions for the moment.
|Ask a question
Recently Viewed products


text:
Hello! I would like to use Crayons inside TablePress table cells. I'm doing this by using the
<pre> tag in the cells. However, it doesn't seem like Crayon Syntax Highlighter is recognizing or capturing these
<pre> tags (when I inspect the output table, the
<pre> tags are indeed there). CSH is working as normal for other
<pre> tags in the same page (not post), so I don't think it's a loading issue (I've also tried unchecking the option to try not to load CSH when not needed).
I've also tried using inline tags and
code, to no avail.
If I use Chrome's Inspector to move the entire compiled Crayon block (the one that's working outside of the TablePress table, but on the same page) into the TablePress table cell, the syntax-highlight content does show up correctly.
Any advice? Thanks!!!


text:
Development talk point + Malnutrition
Food insecurity and global hunger are dominating development debates this year. We want to know whether you think solutions are still out of reach
Post your questions for those involved in supporting relief efforts for the food crisis. They will be answering your questions at 2pm (GMT) Tuesday
Post your questions now for Wednesday's online chat with aidworkers in the parts of east Africa most affected by the drought


text:
Book your room at Best Western Paradise Inn
Get an overview of this hotelHotel in Corpus Christi with free breakfast and outdoor pool
Collect 200 points
Simply enter your Nectar card number when prompted. Your points will be credited 30 days after you return from your trip.*Offers may apply
Situated in Corpus Christi, this hotel is within 1 mi (2 km) of Sunrise Mall and La Palmera Mall. Hans A. Suter Wildlife Area is 1.7 mi (2.8 km) away.
Hotel Features
This hotel features an outdoor pool, a seasonal outdoor pool, and laundry facilities. Free continental breakfast, free WiFi in public areas, and free self parking are also provided. Other amenities include a 24-hour front desk, free newspapers, and a front-desk safe.
Room Amenities
All 44 rooms offer free WiFi and free wired Internet, plus coffee makers and LCD TVs with cable channels. Hair dryers, showers, and phones are among the other amenities that guests will find.Would you like to give us feedback? Share it! Opens in a new window
Best Western Paradise Inn6301 S Padre Island Drive Corpus Christi TX 78412
Hotel Amenities
Hotel Amenities
Guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast. High-speed wireless Internet access is complimentary. This Corpus Christi hotel also offers an outdoor pool, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and laundry facilities. Onsite self parking is complimentary.
- 24-hour front desk
- Total number of rooms - 44
- Free newspapers in lobby
- Free breakfast
- Free WiFi
- Laundry facilities
- Safe-deposit box at front desk
- Free self parking
- Pool sun loungers
- Outdoor pool
- Outdoor seasonal pool
Family Friendly Amenities
- Outdoor pool
- Free Wi-Fi
- Laundry facilities
Available in all rooms: Free WiFi , Free wired high-speed Internet
Available in some public areas: Free WiFi
Free self parking
Room Amenities
- Premium TV channels
- Air conditioning
- Phone
- Coffee/tea maker
- Daily housekeeping
- Private bathroom
- Hair dryer
- Shower only
- Iron/ironing board
- Cable TV service
- Free WiFi
- Free wired high-speed Internet
Where to Eat
Guests are offered a complimentary continental breakfast.
To make requests for specific accessibility needs, complete the "Special or Accessibility Requests" section of "Trip Preferences" when you book your hotel.
- Accessible bathroom
- In-room accessibility
Hotel Policies
Check-in time starts at 3 PM
Check-out time is noon
Payment types
- Pets not allowed (service dogs only)
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on hotel policy.
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card or cash deposit are required at check-in for incidental charges.
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges. Special requests cannot be guaranteed.
Only service animals are allowed
No rollaway/extra beds available
No cribs (infant beds) available
Hotel Name
- Best Western Paradise Hotel Corpus Christi
- Best Western Paradise Corpus Christi
- Best Western Paradise Inn
- Best Western Paradise Inn Corpus Christi
- Paradise Best Western
- Best Western Corpus Christi
We should mention
Children 12 years old and younger stay free when occupying the parent or guardian's room, using existing bedding.