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Posts Tagged 'certifications'
No GMO at TTB
Here we are, checking in a year later, after this post on GMO labeling. TTB still does not allow GMO labeling of the sort depicted above. This sort of labeling seems to be sweeping across the grocery store, but not in the alcohol beverage aisle. We have at least two bases for saying this. First of all, there is this recent Needs Correction (NC) notice. It says the GMO talk is misleading, therapeutic and not acceptable.
Second, we checked through LabelVision and see essentially no GMO-related labels. It is pretty amazing that few if any seem to have slipped through, even though this list tends to say quite a few alcohol beverage products meet the Non-GMO Profect standards.
This NC notice is good because it also happens to cover a few other issues. It reminds us that grape varietal terms should not be used on flavored wine products. It also reminds us that if you have something like a margarita-flavored wine product, it may be necessary to clearly mention that it's a "wine cocktail."
certifications, policy, rejections, therapeutic
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Non-GMO Beer
I would like to know if the above beer qualifies as Non GMO. I would also like to know, without a big hassle. I am sitting here with blazing fast internet and a big screen, and yet I remain in the dark as to whether this beer can be considered Non GMO. It would only be more confusing at the point of purchase, with less time and a smaller screen.
On the one hand, a recent press release claims Peak beers are the first to qualify to use the logo depicted at upper right on the image above. On the other hand, I can't find any approved labels with the same seal (and the above is of course not the actual label). The actual label, as approved, is here. As of 2011, TTB said:
TTB has received several Certificates of Label Approval (COLA) applications proposing to display bioengineered-related information on alcohol beverage labels. Terms frequently mentioned in discussions about labeling alcohol beverages with respect to bioengineering include "GMO free" and "GM free." "GMO" is an acronym for "genetically modified organism" and "GM" means "genetically modified." The terms "genetically modified organism" and "genetically modified" are not synonymous with the term "bioengineered foods." Plants can be genetically modified using any number of techniques, new or traditional.
TTB believes it is not necessary to mandate any bioengineered food labeling requirements at this time. We also find that it is misleading to refer voluntarily to those bioengineered food labeling terms or any similar references on alcohol beverage labels. This is consistent with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's position.
And yet FDA does seem to allow the Non GMO seal. Here is but one example (Silk almond milk). A Kashi cereal example is here. The seal and certifications are sponsored by the Non-GMO Project, "a non-profit organization committed to preserving and building sources of non-GMO products, educating consumers, and providing verified non-GMO choices."
As of a few weeks ago, this suggests TTB was looking into it further.
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Vegan Beer
Maybe John has been asleep at the switch, but this is one of the first vegan beers we have seen come down the pike. Rebecca's Divine Wit is Vegan Beer Brewed with Oranges and Coriander.
Wikipedia (not Wikileaks) says veganism is:
a philosophy and lifestyle whose adherents seek to exclude the use of animals for food, clothing, or any other purpose. Vegans endeavor to never consume or use any animal products of any type. The most common reasons for becoming, or remaining, vegan are moral conviction concerning animal rights or welfare, health, environmental concerns, and spiritual or religious concerns.
I suppose some beers have a bit of animal matter, in the form of isinglass or gelatin. This site explains and provides a helpful guidepost. So far as we know, TTB treats this term more like "biodynamic" or "premium" and less like "organic" or "Meritage." Perhaps, when there are more vegan labels for alcohol beverages, the policy will get more clear. For a wine example, here is Flint Hills Red Wine ("for vegan enjoyment").
certifications, organic/vegan/green, policy
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Biodynamic Wines
Biodynamic wines (such as above) are fairly popular. Fork & Bottle lists 521 Biodynamic wine producers around the world. Demeter owns the "registered certification marks" associated with this term and describes it as follows:
Critical to the BIODYNAMIC® method of farming is Goethean observation of nature and the application of such view to a farming system. Observation in this manner embraces nature as an interconnected whole, a totality, an organism endowed with archetypal rhythm.
It involves manure, skulls and deer bladders. Wineanorak describes these steps:
Cow manure fermented in a cow horn, which is then buried and over-winters in the soil. … Flower heads of yarrow fermented in a stag's bladder. … Oak bark fermented in the skull of a domestic animal. … Flower heads of dandelion fermented in cow mesentery.
The Zinquisition is skeptical about the benefits, and Vinography describes it as: "a maddening, paradoxical mixture of scientifically sound farming practices and utterly ridiculous new-age mysticism."
A long, detailed article in the San Francisco News sums it up this way, quoting Peter Cargasacchi of Cargasacchi Vineyards:
"A lot of these guys have MBAs and science degrees, and they're out there using Biodynamics as their marketing program. Well, shame on them." Ted Hall of organic Long Meadow Ranch in Rutherford adds, "It's important that people understand that organic farming is a sophisticated, science-based approach not based on a belief system. … [Biodynamics] is a fad, because it is not based on substance. It will not persist over a long period." … And yet many of the world's most influential wine writers, including Robert Parker and Jancis Robinson, have become enthusiastic supporters of Biodynamics. Its self-proclaimed position as the "Rolls-Royce of organics" has allowed winesellers to win over overtly environmental shoppers, while Biodynamicists' claim to craft the world's most distinctive wines has ensnared connoisseurs.
So far as we can tell, TTB has its hands full with organic, meritage and allergens, and has not set forth a policy on Biodynamics to date.
certifications, organic/vegan/green, policy
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text: Usually houseplants are thriving in summer and spring, but the real challenge is to help them survive the winter. However, there is nothing more beautiful than you can enjoy a green corner while outside snow settles on the ground. During the warm season, plants adjust to the environment, especially if they were kept outside, to [&hellip

subset: commoncrawl


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10/06/2014 Cameras - Camera Accessories
They should be worn when the weather is not suitable for your feet. nike solarsoft moccasin uk. For instance, during monsoons, mud can ruin a crisp look. In such a situation, this option is good. It would be a good idea to not wear them on formal occasions. However, if the weather is not suitable, you can consider them.Their availability is not a problem, as men footwear online stores are stocked with latest designs and are a complete delight to the eye. Most of the women prefer wearing pumps for that classy and elegant look. However, this look can be attained with boots for ladies too.
If you are wondering how this is possible, you can always purchase high heeled ones and create a fabulous style statement. Another point is that you should ensure that there is some distance between the hem of your dress and the boot. The successful entrepreneurial idea and operation of the NIKE company is the important example for the development and renewing of that of the industry for sports.nike solarsoft moccasin mens , originally known as Blue Ribbon Sports, was founded by University of Oregon track athlete Philip Knight and his coach Bill Bowerman in January 1964.
Now Nike has contracted with more than 700 shops around the world and has offices located in 45 countries outside the United States. Women have options that are a great mix of comfort and style. This is true for men as well. They can always wear loafers. You can team them with denims too. For a formal look, make sure that you pair them with trousers and a nice solarsoft moccasin.
This option is a delight for travellers as they are quite handy and are a good option for an individual who lives out of a suitcase. Men footwear online stores offer them at pocket friendly prices, and the diverse styles will certainly widen smiles. With different schemes and discounts, nike solarsoft moccasin womens. the experience will be an unforgettable one. Fitted pairs should be your choice, but make sure that they are comfortable. If boots for ladies stick to your leg, it will look awkward and you will not be able to walk around with ease. It is important that there should be at least half an inch of space between your leg and the shoe.
This will ensure that you do not look like a fashion road kill. Boots for ladies are a great option and your shoe closet is incomplete if you do not own a pair. With these on, you can lay emphasis on your glam quotient and strut your way into someone's heart.


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Early voters exceed 11,000
Oct. 31, 2012 at 5:31 a.m.
With two days left to vote early in the Nov. 6 election, more than 11,000 Victoria County residents have cast their votes.
So far, 11,118 people have voted, including the 1,081 who voted in person on Wednesday, according to a news release from the election administrator's office.
Also, 2,289 mailed ballots of the 2,613 requests, have been returned.
And 74 of the 144 ballots mailed to military and overseas residents have been returned.
So far, 26.7 percent of the county's 51,492 registered voters have voted.
Early voting ends Friday.
Voting continues from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the main early voting location, 111 N. Glass St; the Dr. Pattie Dodson Public Health Department, 2805 N. Navarro St.; the Victoria Mall - Inspiring Scents, 7800 N. Navarro St., and Bloomington Fire Station in Bloomington.
All ballots mailed to voters must be returned no later than 7 p.m. Tuesday by mail, by common or by contract carrier.


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When you play with fire or get around anything that's hot, eventually you will be in need of home remedies for minor burns, hopefully minor though. Burns vary based on how severe is the damage they cause on the skin. There are first degree burns which damage only on the first layer of skin. Then there are second degree burns, which are deeper wounds that go beyond the first layer. Such second degree burns are more difficult to handle and definitely require professional medical care. The last type of burns is the third degree ones that seriously damage all the skin layers.
Now of course we will put the emphasis in this article on actual home remedies for minor burns but it's also important to outline some of the things that you should not do when getting burned. Putting ice or butter on a burn are absolute no-no's even they are two common myths and misconception. In fact, if you put ice on a burned spot on your skin, it will extend the damage even further. This serious contrast between the extreme cold and extreme hot are what will break even more the skin tissue. Nevertheless, if you run some cold water right after getting burned will lower the temperature of your skin and prevent any further damage, but that's only for a while.
One of the most effective home remedies for minor burns is to use vitamin E which is known to improve the process of healing and reduce inflammation. So get vitamin E oil and apply it on the burn, or alternatively open up a Vitamin E capsule and do the same thing.
Aloe Vera is another quite useful compound and what you can do here is just snap off a section and squeeze juice of the plan over the burn. Or instead of going through all these difficulties, you can buy Aloe Vera gel. Aloe Vera works very well because it's able to penetrate the skin quickly and eases the pain and it contains special enzymes that have a soothing effect. Plus, aloe features some antifungal and antibacterial properties and increases the amount of blood flow.
But without the slightest of doubts, the absolute winner in our chart of top home remedies for minor burns is honey. You probably even have it in your home as you read this article so go get it, apply it directly on the spot. It will calm down the skin, allow it to cool down and act as a boundary between the bacteria and the burned area. Honey also helps the process of healing and decreases the overall scarring. So, honey is indeed a big home remedy for minor burns.
A lot of herb experts suggest the use of some essential oils like chamomile, camphor, rosemary, sage, eucalyptus. But remember that these oils can be toxic when taken internally; therefore it should only be applied on the skin. Gotu kola if taken in combination with vitamin C stimulates the production of collagen which is a protein acting as the building block for skin and helps the repair processes.
Home Remedies for Wound, Natural Treatment
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Match-Up #8: Yoga Booty vs. a Boring Gym Routine
I get more and more behind on these all the time. And really, as I've been a bit grounded from traditional exercise for the last week (minor injury resulted in me not being able to work out in the traditional sense), I should have already caught up. But I did not, so today, I'll get one post closer. (And I need to post sooner, because by the time I get around to posting it, sometimes it's been a week or more (much more, in this case), and I've forgotten a bit about the videos. Whoops.)
This match-up is between Yoga Booty Ballet (Tina's suggestion) and the Abs Diet Workout 2.
I'll be honest – Yoga Booty Ballet was a LOT more fun than I was expecting it to be. It involves dancing, yoga, and some light toning type moves.
However, it didn't burn NEARLY as many calories as I would have guessed it would. I like the yoga aspect, because I am SO stiff, I need to stretch more, but I wanted more dancing to get more of a sweat going. Didn't happen, although I did burn enough calories that I'd be willing to do this workout again.
The second video in the match up was the Abs Diet Workout 2. (I can't find Abs Diet Workout 1.)
This video was boring. It consisted of some guy coaching two women lifting weights on a boring set.
For a long time.
There was a cardio session, too, but this is not a video that I would ever select to do for fun.
So who was the winner?
Abs Diet Workout 2. Of course. The boring video.
I can't say I hated this video, because it wasn't dangerous, it wasn't too easy, it wasn't too hard, and it wasn't overly complicated. It was just boring. The closet analogy I can think of is imagine going to the gym to lift weights and run on the treadmill for an hour, but you forgot your iPod at home and the gym's music speakers are boring, so all you have to listen to is gym noise. You still get a good workout, but dang. It was boring.
When this video shows up in the next round, I may put a little music on in the background to help me get through this video, because the calorie burn was decent and I do feel like I got a good workout.
How do you get through a boring workout?
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Match-Up #6 – Broadway Dancing vs. Fighting?
I am slowly catching up on my brackets! I'm also VERY close to getting to post a new pound lost, but today was not the day, so instead, I shall tell of the matchup between Richard Simmons' Broadway Sweat and Fat Burning Kickboxing Workout for Dummies.
I've shared my fondness of Richard Simmons before, but somehow, this was a workout video that I had in my collection that I had never done. It came out in the early 2000s, well after the Sweatin' phase, and I suppose that is why I ended up never having done it.
This video honestly had one of the most fun "sets" I've ever seen on an exercise video. Usually, exercise videos are set in some very oddly decorated room, like a cross between a waiting room, an abandoned warehouse, and a vase storage facility. (Seriously – pay attention to how many vases you see sitting in the background of exercise videos. You'll be amazed.)
This one was on a stage, complete with curtains and lights, and for every Broadway song, they changed the set decorations. The songs ranged from "Ease on Down the Road" from The Wiz and Tomorrow from "Annie." There were some songs that I didn't know, but they were all plenty of fun.
The other video was Fat Burning Kickboxing Workout for Dummies, once again starring the blonde British kickboxer Keli Roberts.
This one was not as strenuous as her 10 Minute Solutions workout. It was a tough workout, but again, I miss the participants. I like Keli, but I still want to see other people working out in the background. It consisted of several rounds of increasingly complex kickboxing patterns.
So who is the winner?
I'll admit to being surprised. Broadway Sweat! I'm going to say it's probably due to the length of the video (Broadway Sweat was about 20 minutes longer), but there you go. Another of Richard's videos is moving into the next round of the bracket!
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367 Weigh-In: Friday the 13th
I am now at 367! Actually, I'm a bit below that. Yesterday, my weight was 367.03, but it hadn't quite reached 367, so I waited, expecting today would be the day. It was, and then some. 366.73. Woo hoo! Let's see how quickly I can get down to 366.
One pound gone forever! Hallelujah!
Oh, and it's Friday the 13th! For horror buffs like myself, today is a national holiday.
I'm just going to give a quick hodgepodge of points today.
As you may know, my wife is pregnant with our first child. Our official public announcement of our pregnancy was via a fake horror movie trailer. Well, it's fitting that today, on Friday the 13th, we found out the sex of our baby. I'll post a more detailed post in a few days about it. If you are friends with me on facebook, you'll find out sooner, if you are so interested. And if you aren't friends with me on facebook, why not? Friend me!
I am dealing with some major stiffness. Some time ago, I was diagnosed with a slipped disk in my lower back. I went to the chiropractor for several months and my resulting leg pain was pretty much eliminated. Well, stiffness is creeping into my OTHER leg, and I expect my weight and related back issues have something to do with it. I'm going to start going back to the chiropractor to see if I can get adjusted. Best yet, I found a chiropractor here in town who addresses more than just physical ailments. She also deals with nutrition, emotional therapy (of sorts), and holistic healing. Yeah, it's a little granola hippie crunchy, but really… so am I. I'm looking forward to starting that soon, hoping that the combination of losing weight and a few good back crackings might get me back on the right path.
Despite my back pain, I am still making my way through my bracket. As a result of my stiffness, I do have to modify some of the movements, but fortunately, I know enough that I can easily do that without giving up my workout. Yay sweat! I am quite behind in my posting (I think, as of right now, I have three match-ups to post), and in the coming days, I'll try to catch up.
That's all for now. Talk to you soon!
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Match-Up #5 – Wolf-Shirt Creeper vs. Russian Tennis Players
Wow. I thought that Cardio Burlesque was the worst workout ever. No. Not even close.
I try to not make fun of people. I really do.
But when I started this first video, Budokon: Beginning Practice, all such pretenses went flying out the window.
I can truthfully say I have never hated a video as much as I hated this one.
I hated the host. Hate is a strong word, but super-hate just looks weird, so we'll stick with just hate. He talked in a weird, breezy, "I'm white but I want to be Asian" voice.
Did you know that I took taekwondo for four years and that I'm actually a senior 1st degree black belt? Seriously. I'll post a photo of my belts someday. I'll admit I don't train now (as evidenced by my greatly decreased flexibility and lack of sparring skills at the moment), but I trained, very regularly, for a while. In taekwondo, and I feel stupid for even saying this, you don't HISS when you throw a punch.
What's that? You've never heard of such a stupid thing?
Well, that's because most martial artists don't hiss. This guy hisses. He did this weird "sss" sound with every punch. And it was loud. And obnoxious.
Why don't martial artists hiss? Because if you hiss every time you through a punch, you telegraph said punches, and you will get your butt handed to you.
Between the McDojo hissing and weird creeper voice, the only thing this video was missing was the three-headed wolf shirt.
Oh, and it wasn't even a good workout. This is my lowest calorie burner so far. I would rather be condemned to only doing the Marky Mark Workout and Cardio Burlesque for the rest of my life than having to do this video again.
So, the other workout in this match-up was Biggest Loser Calorie Knockout. This video was produced sometime during season 12, as it stars Russian tennis sensation Anna Kournikova.
Heck, I burned more calories putting this DVD in than I did during the Creepy Wal-Mart Taekwondo Workout.
This video consisted of kickboxing (Anna), cardio (Bob), and strength training (Dolvett). It also…
Geeze, you know it won. By a landslide. Is there any point in going on?
Yeah, Budokon lost. I think my DVD player caught herpes just by having this DVD in it. Worst workout ever.
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The Video Substitution
There has been a video substitution. One player has been forcefully ejected from the game; another player is taking his place.
I didn't want to do this, but I knew early on that it might be a possibility. Several of my videos (some of which are still weeks away in the bracket) are available only on Netflix Watch Instantly. I know that their library changes regularly, so a workout that I have planned for game 27, for instance, may not be available by the time that roles around.
However, today's change is occurring for a different reason.
I am ejecting a video workout for being dangerous.
Billy's Ultimate Bootcamp, hosted by Billy Blanks of Tae Bo fame, is kicked out. If he had any other videos in the bracket (he does not), they would probably be ejected as well.
The video will be replaced, at Tina's suggestion, by Yoga Booty Ballet.
So, why the change?
In the late 90s, along with every other fat person on the planet, I tried Tae Bo. This was before I had gotten into martial arts, before I knew much about exercise, and even really before I knew much about anatomy and physiology. I tried one of his workouts and I injured myself on the very first day. I injured myself so badly I had to go into physical therapy for a few weeks. Seriously.
My complaints with Billy Blanks' videos?
They do not feature an appropriate warm-up. This in and of itself is not necessarily bad. Research shows that static stretching before a workout can actually be harmful. (Dynamic stretching is a different beast altogether and IS recommended pre-workout.)
The exception to the no-warm-up rule? Explosive moves. Explosive moves, when used in a workout, should be prefaced with dynamic (moving) stretches. A little marching or jogging in place. Some gentle punches. Slower movement versions of the explosive moves about to come.
So, what does Billy Blank's workout (both the old Tae Bo and this BootCamp video) consist of? A few minutes of STATIC stretching, followed immediately by explosive moves.
That is an injury waiting to happen.
Fortunately, I know better. I had a trainer that taught me better. In pursuit of my ACE personal trainer certification (coming later this summer), I've educated myself. I've taken anatomy and physiology classes. And perhaps most importantly, I know my body.
If I were a teenager and not overweight, I probably wouldn't worry about it as much. But I'm not. I'm a morbidly obese 33 year old. My body can do some amazing things, and there are even days where I consider myself an athlete. But at the same time – I know what I can and should do, and I know what I cannot and should not do.
For what it's worth – this video falls into the should not video. I have the physical ability to do the explosive moves he was doing. I'm just not going to sacrifice my health for a workout. Ever.
So, Billy Blanks is removed from the bracket. His workout videos are no longer allowed here. I want to get healthy and fit and become an athlete, not show how tough I am.
Have you ever stopped doing a workout because you knew/suspect it would lead to injury?


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posted on 09 March 2016
How Often Do Americans Try To Unplug?
by Felix Richter, Statista.com
-- this post authored by Niall McCarthy
These days, people seem to be surgically attached to their mobile devices, whether they are travelling to work on the subway in the morning or drinking a cold beer in the pub in the evening.
Research from the Harris Poll shows that 45 percent of Americans do attempt to disconnect themselves from technology at least once a week or more. 16 percent attempt to distance themselves from their cellphone, email or television every day. Harris also found that 6 out of 10 people wish their family members would unplug from technology more often.
This chart shows the percentage of Americans who attempt to unplug from technology in 2016.
You will find more statistics at Statista.
>>>>> Scroll down to view and make comments <<<<<<
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This Web Page by Steven Hansen ---- Copyright 2010 - 2018 Econintersect LLC - all rights reserved


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In July 2005 the New York Mets signed 16 year old Fernando Martinez. F-Mart was given a signing bonus of $1.4 million and from that point on was labeled as the future of the New York Mets. Omar Minaya said of F-Mart when he signed that:
"What we saw in [Martinez] was a 16-year-old kid with power, great ability and great character, above everything else."
F-Mart was considered to be a "five tool player" meaning that he could hit for average, power, excellent at running the bases, excellent speed, excellent fielding and an amazing throwing arm. For the last 4 years other clubs in the majors have wanted the young outfielder in trades but the Mets put F-Mart on untouchable status. There was no player nor any situation that would warrant a trade for the young outfielder.
At the age of 19 he was assigned to the Mets Double A team. There were some concerns however. Martinez has proven to be injury prone. In 2007 he missed part of the minor league season with an injured wrist which resulted in having surgery to remove his hamate bone. 2008 Fernando suffered another injury, this time he injured his hamstring twice that year. Early this year playing winter ball F-Mart injured his elbow, though no surgery was required, just some rest. Now in 2009 he is on the disabled list with a bad knee.
F-Mart started the year in AAA, playing for the Bisons. Before being called on May 26 he was batting .291 with 8 home-runs, and at the time he was leading the international league with 25 extra base hits in just 42 games. He knew that the eyes of the baseball world were on him when the Mets, having no choice due to the injuries that they have suffered over the first half of the season, called him up.
2009 so far has not been a great year for F-Mart as of yet. He has played so far 29 games. He has had 91 at bats and is currently hitting .176 with 14 strike outs, an on-base percentage of .242.
I think it would be fair to say that F-Mart has been unimpressive in his early career with the Mets. He has looked over-matched at the plate for most of his appearances. Recently, he struck out in twice in the same game by swinging at strike 3 that was thrown at his eyes. I think his work in the field still needs work as he does not always get a good read on the ball though he does recover quickly to make the out. Plus, I don't know if the maturity is there yet either, to be a big leaguer. I hate to keep bringing it up, but let's not forget the pop up that he did not run out that the opposing catcher dropped. Had F-Mart been running to first he would have been on base.
Personally I do think it's too early to judge him. I've been saying for a couple of years now that the Mets have for some reason rushed him through the system. It seems that they wanted to justify as soon as possible that he was worthy of turning down trades for some big names that have been offered to the Mets. This season with all the injuries the team has suffered and the lack of depth in AAA, all eyes were on him more than they would have been for him to perform well. He has lost time developing due to the injuries he has suffered over his short career so far, which is something to also keep in mind. If you remember, this year the Mets originally did not plan to bring him up this early. They were talking after the All-Star game at the earliest, not the end of May.
The Mets have a habit of rushing their top prospects through the system, I think that is what's happening to F-Mart. He should have been down at AAA playing for the Bisons this season. I know seeing him strikeout is frustrating considering how long he has been touted as the future of this team, but we have to remember that he's just 20 years old, has not had a lot of minor league experience, and is still developing. I know some are calling him a bust, but it's too early to make that judgment right right now. I do think F-Mart can be a good player at the major league level, but it will take time and patience.


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I've served on the PTA Board at Girlfriend's school for the past few years. Contrary to TV and film generalizations of PTA Boards, this Board is quite convivial–seriously, it's the nicest, most fun group of people you could ever hang out with. A couple of years ago, Colleen, then our PTA president, had the idea of starting a parent coffee hour on Friday mornings after drop-off to bring parents together for a little social time. It was an immediate success and has been a wonderful parent-networking/socializing time.
Additionally, my daughter goes to school with the kids of the folks who own Seattle Coffee Works. When they heard of the Friday Coffee Hour, they immediately started donating freshly roasted coffee beans to the Coffee Hour each week. So generous! Check them out–you can order online! And their coffee is wonderful. They even have an Obama Blend, which makes me happy!
For my part, I offered to make the coffee cake each Friday, because I love to bake. And, being me, my coffee cakes are gluten-free. And they have been a hit. It is so satisfying to have people stop me in the halls all week long and ask me what the coffee cake will be for Friday. Further, I am thrilled that people tell me that they want to start baking gluten-free because my cakes are so much better than "normal" (i.e., wheat-flour) cakes. Yes!
So, I thought I'd try my hand posting Friday Coffee Cakes each week on this blog. I can't promise that it will be every single week, but I will try–and it will give me incentive to keep adding to my coffee cake repertoire.
So, now for the first coffee cake: Blueberry-Lime.
I love this coffee cake–it is like a pound cake, moist and dense and delicious. The added lime zest adds an unexpected tart taste sensation that is wonderful with the blueberries. I adapted this recipe from one that I found in Fine Cooking magazine. It's by Nicole Rees, author of a couple of baking books including, Baking Unplugged.
Gluten-Free Blueberry-Lime Coffee Cake
-adapted from one by Nicole Rees, from Fine Cooking magazine
Note: This recipe uses my gluten-free flour mix
Jeanne's Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour Mix (mix together and store in fridge):
1 1/4 C. brown rice flour
1 1/4 C. white rice flour
1 C. tapioca flour
1 C. sweet rice flour (also known as Mochiko)
2 scant tsp. xanthan gum
Special equipment needed:
-A stand mixer is helpful, but a hand mixer will do
-bundt pan
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter softened
2 1/3 cup Jeanne's All-Purpose Flour Mix
2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
2 tsp. finely chopped lime zest
6 oz cream cheese, softened
4 extra large eggs at room temperature
2 cups blueberries, room temperature
-melted butter and extra tapioca flour for pan
-Preheat oven to 350 degrees
-Butter and flour a 12 C bundt pan (use tapioca flour)
-Mix together flour, baking powder and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside
-put sugar and lime in the bowl of a food processor and pulse for 20 seconds.
-in the bowl of mixer, cream butter, then add cream cheese–whip til fluffy
-add lime-sugar and continue to mix for a few more minutes
-add eggs and beat til fluffy
-in a smaller bowl, mix berries with a 2 TBL of the dry ingredients.
-add dry ingredients to the butter mixture and beat just until mixed
-carefully fold blueberries into the batter
-scrape batter into bundt pan
-bake at 350 for about 55 minutes (until tester comes out clean)
-set pan on wire rack to cool for 10 mins and the invert cake onto rack


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The Shadows (The Books of Elsewhere #1) by Jacqueline West
My rating: 4 of 5 stars!
I love Olive Dunwoody!
Eleven-year-old Olive has recently moved into a new house with her loving, but slightly clueless, mathematician parents. While they're off being grown-ups, Olive is busy discovering there's more to their new home than meets the eye. Measuring up in equal parts of cleverness, bravery and innocence, Olive slowly learns their new home has some dangerous old secrets.
With the help of a pair of unique spectacles, Olive soon discovers she's able to travel into the many unusual paintings hanging around the house. And she makes some very interesting new friends along they way. In order to save her family and herself from the evil resulting from the series of events she has unwittingly initiates herself, Olive is forced to face some of her own worst fears and then to try and overcome them.
The Shadows features an engaging plotline with characters and descriptions that being the story to life. I'm definitely looking forward to seeing where else the Elsewhere books will take us. And Olive, of course!


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Railroad shipping: CP, Teck reach 10-year deal for coal exports
Class I railroad carrier Canadian Pacific Limited and Teck Resources Limited said they have inked a 10-year deal in which CP will transport Teck's steelmaking coal from five Teck-owned mines in southeast British Columbia to Vancouver-area ports. This arrangement is expected to begin on April 1, 2011.
in the News2018 MHI Innovation Award finalists announced The Overlooked Competitive Advantage: Connected Teams Reusable Packaging Association announces 2018 board and committee chairs Face security threats head-on. Protect data beyond perimeter. Maersk's "Transformation" Under Scrutiny More News
Class I railroad carrier Canadian Pacific Limited and Teck Resources Limited said they have inked a 10-year deal in which CP will transport Teck's steelmaking coal from five Teck-owned mines in southeast British Columbia to Vancouver-area ports.
This arrangement is expected to begin on April 1, 2011.
CP officials said this deal reflects the companies' commitment to work together to achieve growth in the volume of coal shipped through a range of economic and marketplace dynamics and provides for flexibility over the long term, as well as provide for CP investments that enhance coal handling capacity to provide for Teck's volume growth.
In April, CP and Teck reached a one-year agreement for CP to transport metallurgical coal from Teck's CP-served mines in southeast British Columbia to Kamploops- and Vancouver-area ports for export. When this deal was struck, CP said that during the term of this contract, CP and Teck plan to discuss a longer-term arrangement.
"CP is delighted to have participated in the creation of a unique and collaborative agreement that sets the foundation for the next decade," said CP President and CEO, Fred Green in a statement "Our ongoing dialogue has provided new and deeper insight into Teck's growth objectives. Importantly, the agreement provides the stability and confidence to grow our business and enhance this world class supply chain for our mutual benefit."
In 2009, CP carried roughly 305,000 carloads of coal, and in 2008, CP carried approx 318,000 carloads of coal. The majority of these carloads are Teck coal, CP told LM.
"Teck Coal Limited mines in southeastern British Columbia produce high quality metallurgical coal," said Mike LoVecchio, CP Senior Manager-Media Relations, in a previous interview. "The coal is largely exported to processors in Asia via coal terminals at the Port of Vancouver. Canadian Pacific tracks directly connect Teck's coal mines and the terminals, providing an integrated export supply chain. CP runs unit coal trains in a dedicated loop between the mines and the Coast."
JP Morgan analyst Tom Wadewitz commented in a research note that there is likely incentive for both parties to work together to grow volumes and increase capacity between the mines and the Vancouver ports., adding that he suspects CP will pursue expensive infrastructure investment along its main line in the Canadian Rockies.
About the AuthorJeff Berman, Group News Editor Jeff Berman is Group News Editor for Logistics Management, Modern Materials Handling, and Supply Chain Management Review. Jeff works and lives in Cape Elizabeth, Maine, where he covers all aspects of the supply chain, logistics, freight transportation, and materials handling sectors on a daily basis. Contact Jeff Berman
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Article TopicsTeck ·
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How to Set a Beautiful Rehearsal Dinner Table
"Fall is when I feel most like hosting parties, and we throw two kinds here," says Susan Branch, who 20 years ago moved to Martha's Vineyard, where she writes and illustrates cookbooks, "those with just us, meaning my six girlfriends, or else everybody we know."
For the informal gatherings with friends, Susan serves Potatoes Anna, a layering of leaf-shaped potatoes cut with a cookie cutter.
Everything in fall appeals to Susan Branch, especially the way the season unfolds in Martha's Vineyard, Mass., where the noted cookbook author and illustrator has lived for decades.
Setting the Mood for a Summer Cookout


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Eugene V. Debs, U.S. labor leader and socialist, dies in Elmhurst, Ill. Among his radical ideas: an eight-hour workday, pensions, workman's compensation, sick leave and social security. He ran for president from a jail cell in 1920 and got a million votes – 1926
Hollywood came under scrutiny as the House Un-American Activities Committee (HUAC) opened hearings into alleged Communist influence within the motion picture industry. Dozens of union members were among those blacklisted following as a result of HUAC's activities – 1947
Presidential candidate Ronald Reagan writes to PATCO President Robert Poli with this promise: if the union endorses Reagan "I will take whatever steps are necessary to provide our air traffic controllers with the most modern equipment available and to adjust staff levels and work days so that they are commensurate with achieving a maximum degree of public safety." He got the endorsement. Nine months after the election, he fires the air traffic controllers for engaging in an illegal walkout over staffing levels and working conditions – 1980
Death of Merle Travis, songwriter and performer who wrote "Sixteen Tons" & "Dark as a Dungeon" – 1983


text: >> I don't know what to do given that Outlook shreds email so >> completely. >> Maybe this stuff can only be tested on Unix-y machines. Maybe the >> image analysis code won't even work because there's no such thing >> as an >> attachment with MIME content-type image/*... in Outlook. > > I can manage all of that. What I need to know is in what format > your Ham > and Spam directories are. They're RFC2822. So for mail in a .pst, presumably the job (of export_messages.py) would be to get the attachments and insert them into the messages (encoded in base64 or whatever) with the appropriate headers. I planned to write code to do this at some point last year, but don't recall getting around to it (and then I switched to Mail as my main email client). > hrm - so maybe they *are* just the complete dump of the message > including > the encoded image data and mime boundaries etc Yup. Is that accessible in Outlook? I had the feeling it wasn't. If you can get the attachments then it's easy enough to use the email package to build up the message with those and the plain text. =Tony.Meyer


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For those looking to go to Belize with a great leader, last night's (Sept. 14) FWAS meeting speaker David Sarkozi is putting together a trip to Belize in February 2018. If we get an all FWAS group, he will give us a discount over the normal rate. I've birded with David before and can highly recommend any trip with him as leader. We have until December 1, 2017, to get the full payment in for the trip, so we don't have all that much time to act. The following is a direct link to the Website page that has all the details for this trip to Belize:
Warmest regards,
Michael Francis


text: When you stay at Jacques Brel Youth Hostel, you'll be within a 15-minute walk of Belgian Comic Strip Center and Cathedral of St. Michael. Guests looking for a bite to eat can check out the restaurant, and the bar/lounge is the perfect spot to grab a drink at the end of the day. Also, European Union Parliament Building and Museum of Musical Instruments are within a short drive.


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The College of Idaho Outdoor Program (CIOP) seeks to provide the College community with access to outdoor recreation and educational opportunities. Programs will emphasize skill acquisition, leadership development, team building, environmental awareness, safety, and fun. Furthermore, programs will be inclusive to all levels and abilities and will contribute to the holistic well-being and academic experience of The College of Idaho.
About the Outdoor Program
The Outdoor Program, supported by the ASCI (student government), is an outdoor recreation and educational program offering classes, workshops, trips, and outdoor equipment rentals for student recreational use.
Our student-led trips are designed for everyone who has an interest in the outdoors, not just the weathered wilderness explorer. Previous experience is not required! On each trip there are one or more student leaders present who have received training and are experienced in the activity, risk management, and first aid. Some of our activities are more challenging than others and will have pre-trip meetings and instruction, but anyone who is willing to try is encouraged to participate! Each trip is planned and organized to help ensure that everyone enjoys each trip as much as possible.
The Outdoor Program also offers workshops and classes which may consist of instruction in fly fishing, rock climbing, and kayaking. Check out all the scheduled events on the trip calendar page for times and dates. We welcome suggestions to further develop our calendar and offerings.
We also have equipment for rent through the OP rental shop in the basement of McCain across from the mail center so that everyone at C of I may enjoy the outdoors on their own.
2016-2017 Student directors
- Page Warren
- Isabel Palmer
- Nick Brunker
- Brandon Dobson
- Brandon Hegleson
- Sami Godlove


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Published: Aug 03, 2010 - 09:22 pm
Story Found By: ZackHanebrink 2759 Days ago
Category: SEO
2 Comments
Sometimes we get SEO-ADD and we move along to new things without supporting our previous efforts. Great reminder about keeping up the promotion once a page has reached a page one ranking.
evaluating the dollar amount associated with the keywords should be done too


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T. Rivington Dollings
Seeking information on T. Rivington Dollings and his wife Mary Ann F. Garrett (was her maiden name Frawner or Garrett? Was she married to a Garrett before she married Rivington?).I believe they are the parents of my g-grandmother Mary Ann Dollings (b.1857)who married Benjamin Satterwhite 13 Oct 1879.Thanks for any help.
More Replies:
Re: T. Rivington Dollings
Shirley Edillon 1/10/04


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WS45-75 Series Stationary Screw Air Compressor
The WS4500/5500/7500 series of air compressors are the new compressor products developed by Sullair Asia Industrial Co., Ltd. based on the previous LS 16 series. The products use the brand new industrial design and integrated structure, with optimized overall design using the U.S. OEM compressor air end, high efficiency NEMA motor, optimized pneumatic inlet and discharge systems, thereby offering stability and reliability in overall performance worth anticipation. The machine unit also offers converter apparatus for the convenience of users.
Product Documents:


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The Litter Battle!
I decided to switch to clumping litter about six months ago. I am getting too tired to be dragging the boxes out every day to clean them (I have six of them) and finally gave in, even though I prefer regular clay litter. It's been quite an adventure!
I wrote an earlier post that The Worlds Best Cat Litter was indeed the best and I still feel it is, but it's too expensive for me. I have tried Precious Cat and it was very good, but again, pricey.
I then moved on to Arm & Hammers brand and I liked the fact that I could get unscented, but it didn't clump well at all. I was very disappointed because the price is good.
Walmart has Special Kitty. It is a great price, but again, I found it didn't clump all that well and I didn't like the scent.
Next I went to Tidy Cats. Fair price, pretty good at clumping, but too strong a scent. Why can't they make more unscented varieties?
Also tried the new lightweight Tidy Cats. It is fabulous as far as the lack of weight…such a relief, but it is extremely dusty and, once again, too strong a scent. I'm hoping other companies will come out with their versions of lightweight and one of them will be unscented. Also, cheaper.
At this point I'm definitely going to go for an unscented litter. I don't like breathing in that scent and can't believe it's good for my babies to breathe either. I obviously want something that clumps well and is a good price. I'm not sure that getting this is possible!
My next try is Boxiecat. It is a little pricey, but is unscented and suppose to clump very well. I'm hoping if it works as well as they say it does, it will be worth the price because it will last longer. I can also order it to be delivered to my home and the more I order the more I save per bag. So with all those boxes I can get the maximum savings. I will let you know how this one worked out!
I have had all of these delivered to me as I just can't lift 40 pound bags of litter and I have to get the larger sizes to save. Unfortunately litter is something that you just can't do without and it can't be replaced with anything else! I wish all my babies were toilet trained, but I never tried that system and it's too late now.
Does anyone have another suggestion for me? Something you use that I haven't discovered yet? Please let me know in the comment section if you do…I'm desperate to find a good litter!
UPDATE: I have tried the Boxiecat litter and wanted to give an update on that brand. It clumps very well, has no scent, and I generally love it…although it tracks badly, but then they all seem to! The only problem I have with it is the cost. If you have one or two cats, it would be worth it, but having as many as I do, it just won't last long enough to justify the cost. Otherwise it would be on the top of my list.


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Since I have nothing of current interest to share, I thought I would share something of less than current interest. This is a hat and scarf I designed earlier in the year. I submitted it to a well-known knitting magazine and it was [reluctantly — or so they say] rejected. I still love the design and wearing the tam:
The above sample was knitted in Debbie Bliss Alpaca and Silk DK, which I absolutely love. It is SO-O-O-O-O soft!!!!!
Sally was one of my test knitters and made the following out of hand-dyed merino (she will need to add info on the yarn). Note from Sally: I used Kersti, which is the DK weight yarn made by the Koigu ladies who bring you all of that lovely KPPM yarn. This yarn has a bit of a "cable twist" to it.
And the flip side:
If people are interested, I can sell the pattern, but it will take a bit for me to set up a sales process. It is a fun little project and gift.
As for me, I am going to make Hamantaschen to take to Grandpa's tomorrow. It is a good excuse to eat more of those scrumptious goodies.Â
Here is wishing you and yours a wonderful Thanksgiving. I am so thankful for the support I have received from all of you with my knitting endeavors and dilemmas over the past few months. THANK YOU!!! 🙂


text: South Africa's economy needs stability to promote growth, President Jacob Zuma told the SA Chamber of Commerce and Industry on Thursday evening."We have gone through a difficult period in our country in the past few weeks with wildcat strikes, one of which tragically claimed the lives of 46 people in Marikana," Zuma said in a speech prepared for delivery in Johannesburg."Let me use this opportunity to remind business and labour of the need to ensure shop-floor peace and stability in the country, in order for us to continue the collective responsibility of promoting economic growth and development."South Africans were renowned for constructive social dialogue, and needed to create an atmosphere conducive to development."We should not seek to portray ourselves as a nation that is perpetually fighting."The average incomes of black South Africans increased by 51 percent between 1993 and 2008, compared to 35 percent for whites, he said."Unfortunately, ladies and gentlemen, despite these achievements, the gap between rich and poor still remains. In that case, income inequality is still extremely high in South Africa."It has therefore proven difficult and is taking longer to re-engineer the economy to provide opportunities for those who were pushed into impoverished and remote rural areas under apartheid."The United States, European Union, Middle East and North Africa were experiencing economic difficulties, while Japan was recovering from natural disasters and China was battling with rising food and oil prices."These affected countries comprise more than two thirds of South Africa's export market," Zuma said.The New Growth Path, which sought to create employment and promote growth, was implemented in an attempt to address economic and social challenges facing the country."We are confident that our infrastructure build and also our programmes of industrialisation, preferential procurement and localisation will bring new opportunities and partnerships for business."Given the economic climate, things will not be smooth or easy."But this is a country that is looking forward, and we are all equal to the challenge, business, government, labour, community and all sectors of our society," he said.


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Joe Miller's win over Lisa Murkowski for the U.S. Senate GOP nomination may say more about Alaskans than just a frustration with incumbents.
The win may also be saying that Alaskans are ready -- finally -- to begin weaning themselves off a 50-year bender of federal largesse.
On his campaign website and in interviews with the media, Miller says the days of Alaska relying on federal dollars are going to end soon, brought about by government's looming financial crisis.
"We have to be prepared for that," he told The Associated Press earlier this week. "And the way to do it, of course, is to progressionally transfer holdings of the federal government to us."
Realistically, we all knew that the federal spigot couldn't remain on full flow forever. We've spent decades reaping billions of federal dollars through the military, public works projects and special programs, all while cruising under the radar in relative obscurity. Is there an Alaskan anywhere who can claim never to have benefitted from a federal dollar?
That all began to change once the rest of the nation got an earful of the Bridge to Nowhere. A project that was of great value to Ketchikan folks became a prime example -- arguably undeserved -- of government spending gone amok.
The writing on the wall said to Alaskans -- Get ready, the gravy train's about to end.
You could argue that the process of getting ready actually began two years ago when Mark Begich took the Senate seat from Ted Stevens. Of course there was Stevens' federal corruption conviction on voters' minds. And the billions of federal dollars Stevens brought to the state over 40 years didn't seem to make much difference.
Didn't seem to make much difference this time around, either. Murkowski's high-road re-election campaign of service and money for Alaskans only helped to strengthen Miller's mantra of bloated federal excess made possible by incumbents.
And in the midst of the campaign, Stevens dies in a plane crash. It was almost as if his death capped the end of an era -- an era of Alaska as federal protectorate.
Miller is calling for a more self-sufficient Alaska, and Alaska that can say thanks, but no thanks to a constant heavy stream of federal spending. If his election victory is any indication, we must collectively feel that we're ready.
Are we ready?
In short: Miller's GOP victory over Murkowski suggests Alaskans are ready to cut the federal apron strings.
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Taj Air has been providing exclusive charter services in India since 2002; bringing to the industry, the world-renowned service and Indian hospitality of the Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces. Today, Taj Air is globally recognized as the finest executive charter airline service in the country. We've earned our reputation by redefining luxury, by consistently placing a premium on privacy, flexibility, safety, and reliability.
Taj Air is equipped with a young fleet of aircraft; the youngest available in India for charter flights. Our private jets fly to more than 150 airports in 56 countries. Within India we can fly to over 130 destinations while commercial airlines cover 71 destinations. Our fleet of private jets can fly anywhere in the world within a flying radius of 8 hours and fly even further with refuelling halts.
We go to great lengths to ensure your safe passage and are proud to have a no accident history. For all 'major checks', the Taj Air fleet periodically flies to the manufacturer's facility at Dassault Falcon Service, Paris or Piaggio Aero's facility in Genoa, Italy. At our hangars, the fleet undergoes frequent checks to meet stringent global maintenance and safety specifications. To meet international safety standards, our fleet is quality controlled not just by Indian regulations, but also by CAMP (Computerised Aircraft Maintenance Program), France.
A highly trained crew with over 25,000 hours of flying experience, supported by the most competent ground staff in the business, ensures a bespoke flying experience, perfected by impeccable service, for its discerning and exclusive guests.
Time and again, our patrons insist on Taj Air for many reasons. Be it our ability to put together solutions quickly, to meeting all their travel needs and preferences – guests find it easy to handover control to a quietly efficient, yet cheerful team that makes sure you can get anywhere on time.
Charter flights with Taj Air are like staying in your favorite suite at the Taj, and whilst you take care of business or spend time with your loved ones, Taj takes care of everything else.
Welcome to your exclusive suite in the sky.
Charter flights with Taj Air are like staying in your favorite suite at the Taj, and whilst you take care of business or spend time with your loved ones, Taj takes care of everything else.
Welcome to your exclusive suite in the sky.


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Morné Mellett
Vodacom Bulls prop Morné Mellett has retired from rugby with immediate effect due to medical advice.
The prop suffered vertebral artery dissection in July and was ruled out of rugby for the remainder of the year. Recent medical advice suggested that the 26-year old player calls it a day.
"It is sad to end my career like this, but I have no regrets," Mellett said on Thursday. "I had a good career with an unbelievable group of guys and was part of the best union in the world since I left school. We have achieved so much together and although I would have wanted to go on and play test rugby in the future, my health and family remains most important. I would like to take this opportunity to specifically thank my wife, Claudine, for her unconditional love and support throughout my career and especially now, as well as my brother Leon." he said.
Mellett represented the Valke at Craven Week in 2006 and 2007 and started playing for the Vodacom Blue Bulls Under 19's in 2007 already.
He represented the Vodacom Bulls in 37 matches in the Vodacom Super Rugby competition and 10 times in the ABSA Currie Cup. He also played for UP-Tuks in the Varsity Cup and represented the Junior Springboks at the 2009 Junior World Championship.
Forwards Morné Mellett, RG Snyman and Deon Stegmann will all report for training on Tuesday, but fullback Jurgen Visser will miss the team's match against Canon in Japan at the end of the month.
Visser injured a hamstring in training and has been ruled out till 3 August, team doctor Org Strauss confirmed on Monday.
"Jaco Visagie (toe fracture), Morné Mellett (concussion), RG Snyman (calf), Louis Fouché (hamstring) and Deon Stegmann (hip) will all train tomorrow," Strauss said.
A number of long term injuries are on the mend.
Pierre Schoeman (knee, 15 August), Clyde Davis (medial ligament, 27 July) and Ruan Steenkamp (knee, 15 August) will be back in the next 3 weeks.
Vodacom Bulls coach Frans Ludeke made 4 changes to his starting team that will face the Toyota Cheetahs in a Vodacom Super Rugby clash at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday.
The coach's hand was forced through injury and the SARU rest agreement, which ruled all of Jan Serfontein, Handré Pollard, Deon Stegmann, Dean Greyling, Victor Matfield and Lappies Labuschagne out of contention for the final match of the tournament.
Matfield will be replaced by Grant Hattingh and Labuschagne by Arno Botha at flank, while Greyling's place will be taken by Morné Mellett. Adriaan Strauss, who was rested last weekend against the Rebels, is back at hooker, with Callie Visagie moving to the bench.
Ludeke also called Nicolaas Janse van Rensburg and Roelof Smit into the squad again to cover for Deon Stegmann and Hattingh.
The backline remain unchanged from last week.
Vodacom Bulls coach Frans Ludeke made 2 changes to his starting pack for Saturday's Vodacom Super Rugby match against the Emirates Lions in Johannesburg and also had to replace pivot Handré Pollard, who did not recover in time from a knee contusion.
Jacques-Louis Potgieter will start at No 10 and is the only change to the backline that ran on against the Crusaders last week. Potgieter is returning to action following a hamstring strain that kept him out for 3 weeks.
Grant Hattingh (for Victor Matfield) and Dean Greyling (for Morné Mellett) will start in the pack.
Both played off the bench last weekend.
Hattingh's spot on the bench will be taken by Roelof Smit and Greyling swops places with Mellett, who will play of the bench. Matfield is rested (as is Jan Serfontein).
Callie Visagie makes his return to the squad following a back injury.
Vodacom Bulls coach Frans Ludeke restored props Morné Mellett and Trevor Nyakane to the starting line-up for their Vodacom Super Rugby match against the Crusaders at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday.
Both props played off the bench in last weekend's win against the Force and swop places with Dean Greyling and Marcel van der Merwe in 2 of the 4 changes to the pack. In the other changes to the pack and team, Victor Matfield returns to the No 5 lock position, swopping places with Grant Hattingh, who returns to his regular role as impact player.
Lappies Labuschagne also did not recover from a chest injury sustained against the Force and will sit out. He will be replaced by Arno Botha, who moves up from the bench. Hanro Liebenberg takes over from Botha on the bench.
Regular captain and No 8 Pierre Spies is back at the helm of the Vodacom Bulls when they take on the Hurricanes at Loftus Versfeld on Friday in Round 2 of the Vodacom Super Rugby competition.
Spies takes over the captaincy from Victor Matfield and the No 8 jumper from Arno Botha, who picked up an injury in the Vodacom Bulls tournament opener last weekend against the DHL Stormers.
The regular Bulls leader was eased back into action off the bench, but is now fit to start in a team that shows 4 changes to the starting line-up and 6 all-together from the one that started their campaign with a disappointing loss against the Cape side.
Spies comes in for Botha, with his place on the bench taken by rookie loose forward Hanro Liebenberg, who could earn a first start should he take to the field.
The injury to Werner Kruger also resulted in a front row shuffle. Trevor Nyakane will move from the left side of the front row to the right and Morné Mellett off the bench into the No 1 jersey.
A fit-again Dean Greyling will take Mellett's place on the bench.
The other unforced change is at fullback where Jesse Kriel will start, with Jurgen Visser moving down to the bench in a straight swop with the Junior Springbok player.
Prop Morne Mellett has been cleared of a rib contusion and will be considered for the Vodacom Bulls team to play a season-opening friendly against the Toyota Cheetahs in Polokwane on Saturday.
The match starts at 17:00.
Mellett's return will be good news to coach Frans Ludeke, as the Bulls have a number of front rankers out of action.
In the first week of discussion of Super Rugby squad contenders for 2015 (17 to 21 December), we will discuss 2 positions in 10 seperate Articles (Props & Hookers) – seperating the Articles of the 5 SA Super Rugby participating franchises.
That means 10 Super Rugby Articles every week from now on.
The basic idea is to discuss the players IN the Super Rugby Group, and not all the options beyond that.
In this Article we look at the contenders for PROPS in the Vodacom Bulls 2015 Super Rugby group, and whether they could force their way into Bok contention.
Suggestions as to what to add to these Articles are welcome, but please hurry as the next Article will follow this one shortly!
Vodacom Blue Bulls captain and flank, Deon Stegmann, and hooker Bongi Mbonambi will face SARU disciplinary hearings on Tuesday after being cited following the team's Currie Cup Premier Division clash against the EP Kings in Port Elizabeth on Friday.
Stegmann, received a Red Card for striking a player with his elbow at a ruck in the 69th minute, which was in breach of Law 10.4 (a), while Mbonambi received a Yellow Card in the 12th minute for charging into a ruck dangerously, which contravened Law 10.4 (h).
Vodacom Bulls coach Frans Ludeke handed flanker Roelof Smit a first time starting berth in announcing his team to play the Melbourne Rebels at Loftus Versfeld on Friday. Smit debuted for the Vodacom Bulls from the bench against the DHL Stormers last weekend and now start in the number six jersey in one of seven changes to the starting line-up.
Jurgen Visser is back at fullback, having recovered from an abductor strain that kept him out of the Newlands clash and replace Ulrich Beyers. Francois Hougaard will play on the wing, replacing the injured Akona Ndungane, with Piet van Zyl starting at scrumhalf. With Grant Hattingh injured, Jacques Engelbrecht will move back to No 8, Jono Ross moves to 7 and Smit slots in at 6.
Dean Greyling will make his first start for the Vodacom Bulls this season, when the Pretoria-based side take on the Waratahs in a Vodacom Super Rugby clash at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday.
In the first week of discussion of Super Rugby squad contenders (17 to 23 December), we will discuss 2 positions in seperate Articles (Props & Hookers) and also seperate the Articles of the 5 SA Super Rugby participating franchises.
That means 10 Super Rugby Articles every week from now on.
The basic idea is to discuss the players IN the Super Rugby Group, and not all the options beyond that.
In this Article we look at the contenders for PROPS in the Vodacom Bulls 2013 Super Rugby group, and whether they could force their way into Bok contention.


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World Vision Japan and Solar Frontier Donate Solar Systems to Schools in Kesennuma, Japan [Solar Frontier K.K.]
View Solar Frontier's website below for their media release on this announcement:http://www.solar-frontier.com/eng/news/2012/C002981.html


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Interview: Frank Beddor
by Katherine Bittner
Review by Kat Bittner
SFRevu.com Interview ISBN/ITEM#: INTFBEDDOR
Date: 06 September 2007
Links: Looking Glass Wars / Seeing Red Review /
Frank Beddor: The Looking Glass Wars is volume 1 of the trilogy of novels telling the true story of Alyss of Wonderland. 'Alice' was not a little girl in Victorian England who tumbled down a rabbit hole and discovered a confusing place called Wonderland, in fact, Alyss was a child born in Wonderland and destined to be Queen. But on her 7th birthday Alyss' Aunt Redd staged a bloody coup on the palace in an attempt to take what she considered her rightful place as Queen. In the coup, Alyss' mother Queen Genevieve and her father King Nolan were both killed. Queen Genevieve's last order to Royal Bodyguard Hatter Madigan was to take Alyss and flee Wonderland to escape Redd's slaughter until she was old enough to return and fight for her rightful place on the throne. But as Alyss and Hatter Madigan traveled through the Pool of Tears (the portal that connects our world to Wonderland) they were separated and Alyss Heart, the Princess and future Queen of Wonderland, was lost. Alyss exited through a portal and found herself alone on the streets of 1859 London while Hatter Madigan exited a different portal to arrive in Paris. Alyss was eventually adopted by the Liddell family and met the young mathematics don, amateur photographer and future author, Lewis Carroll. She told him her harrowing tale hoping he would write a book so that those searching for her could find her and bring her home. Well Lewis Carroll did write a book but he got it all wrong! He even spelled her name wrong! The Looking Glass Wars is actually the book Alyss had wanted Lewis Carroll to write.
SFRevu: What's the most interesting reaction to Looking Glass Wars that you've come across?
Frank: There have been so many unexpected and surprising reactions. You can never really predict how a reader will interpret what you have written and what will be triggered in their own imagination. My favorite so far is the middle-aged woman at the San Diego Comic Con this year who became very intense when I asked her why she thought so many people had responded in such a personal way to LGW. She said, "It's because Alyss is a survivor. She lost everything, even her memory. And when she finally found her way home everything had changed and she had to fight to get it back. And yet, she survived." So that's one reaction.
SFRevu: There is the Lewis Carroll version and Disney version of Alice in Wonderland. How does your version of Alyss distinguish itself from these two?
Frank: Well the Disney version loosely followed the false stance that Lewis Carroll had taken while LGW kicks both to the curb and says "Hey. Wait a minute. Neither of you even got her name right. Let's get into what really happened."
SFRevu: Having just gotten kittens of our own I was struck by how well you portrayed feline characteristics in the Cat. Were there any particular feline inspiration?
Frank: While I love dogs I consider myself a Cat Man. Much of my inspiration and insight into the workings of the feline mind and their capacity for mischief came from my own two cats, brother and sister, Truman and Phia. Taking this insight I added herculean doses of Black Imagination and came up with the übercruelty, vanity and appalling anti-social quality of The Cat.
SFRevu: In Seeing Redd we are introduced to lots of new characters. Which one do you find the most interesting?
Frank: In Seeing Redd readers will get to know King Arch who was mentioned as the ruler of Boarderland in LGW but not fully introduced. Boarderland is the nation next door to Wonderland and while Wonderland is a Queendom ruled by the power of Imagination, Boarderland has a King who is an adamant chauvinist made nauseous by the thought of a woman ruling anything. He loathes imagination and focuses entirely on Machiavellian gamesmanship as his super power. Boarderland is a nation of gamblers and incessant gamers with King Arch the ultimate player as he constantly plots and manipulates his every move in the game to dominate Alyss and Wonderland. For fans of anagrams, closely inspect the map included in Seeing Redd and see if you can decode the names of each of the 21 nomadic tribes Boarderland. Hint: Each name is an anagram of a card or board game. Good luck!
SFRevu: Despite the latest title we also see the rise of another villain, King Arch. How does he compare to Redd?
Frank: Both are grandiose and egotistical. Both share a love of power and domination. They differ in that Redd is ruled by Black Imagination and King Arch relies solely on his calculating, mechanistic mind. So ultimately Redd has style and flair while Arch has a practical grasp of reality.
SFRevu: Any great historical or dynastic family feuds (War of the Roses) that Looking Glass Wars is like?
Frank: The War of the Roses is a good model while the Wonderland setting and the matriarchal line of the rulers give LGW a significant twist. SFRevu: In the first book leadership was obtained by overthrowing one faction against another, White vs. Black imagination. In the second book equality is shown as an increasingly important aspect of leadership. Tell us more about this.
Frank: As an increasingly enlightened ruler Alyss cannot help but come to see the uselessness of war. Her personal experiences coupled with the unceasing opposition must eventually guide her to more evolved solutions if Wonderland is to survive.
SFRevu: Tell us more about Hatter M and his family?
Frank: When Royal Bodyguard Hatter Madigan escapes Wonderland with Alyss he has no idea that he even has a family. But when he returns he reunites with the alchemist Weaver and their by now 13-year-old daughter, Homburg Molly. The small family faces many hurdles, conflicts and heartbreaks as the machinations of King Arch plunge them into the center of the struggle for Wonderland's Imagination. With Molly appointed by Alyss as her personal bodyguard, Hatter must also come to terms with the new generation of Wonderland that may view him as somewhat obsolete. Of course, Hatter Madigan, his Hat, his myriad of blades and his boundless loyalty could never become obsolete.
SFRevu: The weapons (e.g. Hatter M's hat) are integral to the action scenes. Where do you come up with different ideas weapons?
Frank: I depend on research uncovered and verified by the Hatter M Institute for Paranormal Travel. The institute is a highly motivated band of deep travel enthusiasts who have come together to assist me in filling in the maps and adventures of Hatter's 13 year search for the lost princess in our world.
SFRevu: When will the next issue of Hatter M come out? Will we get to see the evil monkey again?
Frank: Plans for the next comic mini-series of Hatter M adventures are in place with a release date sometime in early 2008. Curious George's evil twin Furious is still at large and may be turning up to try and exact payback from Hatter M for that bone cracking, full body slam he took in Issue #2.
SFRevu: One of the characters from Hatter M Baroness Dvonna appears in seeing Redd. Will we see any more of her in the future?
Frank: By the end of Seeing Redd readers will discover that Baroness Dvonna has not had her fill of Black Imagination or her desire for mayhem. Book 3 may afford her further opportunities to assist Redd in draining the imagination of children for their own vile use. But Baroness Dvonna isn't the only villain from the Hatter M series to appear in Seeing Redd, the black magician Sacrénoir also joins forces with Her Imperial Viciousness.
SFRevu: Will there be any stand alone stories of Alyss during her exile in London or of Redd during her years in Mount Isolation?
Frank: The lost journals, artwork and letters of the exiled Princess have been collected into a beautiful volume titled Princess Alyss of Wonderland by the British Historian Agnes MacKenzie and will be released by Penguin in November 2007. Her discovery of the journals (compiled during Alyss' 13 year exile in London) led to our collaboration in verifying and annotating the text and artwork. Redd's 13 year rule from Mount Isolation is a fascinating period in Wonderland history and Redd's psychology. Given enough time, energy and documentation I would consider doing a graphic novel depicting this cataclysmic era in both Wonderland and our own history when Black Imagination ruled the spheres.
SFRevu: The Looking Glass Wars books have a cinematic quality with action oriented pacing. How has your background as a movie producer (There's Something About Mary) and stuntman influenced your writing? Any plans for a screen adaptation?
Frank: From my work in film I think I have gained a good visual sense and an ability to translate images from my mind's eye onto the page. As for screen adaptations, I have completed the screenplay for LGW and the parallel adventure of Hatter Madigan's search on earth based in part on the comic book series. These two screenplays are companion pieces and while either can work as a standalone film the goal is to produce them both to create an enhanced and expanded experience for filmgoers. I am currently working on the screenplay for Seeing Redd and finishing Book 3 of the trilogy, these two films would also ideally work as companion pieces. Also, because of my background in film I thought it would be fun to produce 'trailers' for my books much like trailers are done for films. If anyone would like to view the trailer for Seeing Redd please go to my website lookingglasswars.com and check it out.
SFRevu: Thanks for talking with us.
From: Ashley
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A Call to Arms: Noble Armada Examined
July 21, 2011 by beerogre
Andy and Darrell kick off another episode of In the Spotlight. If your a member of backstage then you'll have see us working on the space board that features in this video. The guys discuss A Call to Arms: Noble Armada and give you the lowdown on what's good whats great… and just how they think they can break the game.


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It's hard to believe that the end of October is here! Fall has definitely come to Ontario, and the warm days have been replaced by cool weather and plenty of beautiful changing leaves. I have officially swapped my shorts for jeans and my flip flops for boots, candy has been consumed, and my dog may have tried on a few different Halloween costumes. As much as I tend to despise what's coming (ahem… winter), I'm trying to focus on all the things I have to look forward to in hopes that the cold weather will be more bearable!
This month, I have been…
Working on: It's almost Halloween, so what better project to undertake than a thriller? I have apparently had darkness on the brain lately. I'm currently playing around with a couple different ideas, so we'll see which one sticks! I'm planning to fully commit to something in November, but I have a feeling some outlining will be required, because the twisty nature of thrillers doesn't always mesh so well with my pantsing style.
Reading: I was lucky enough to start the month with Fear the Drowning Deep by fellow Sweet Sixteener Sarah Glenn Marsh. I have known Sarah since our days in the query trenches, so getting to read her gorgeous debut was a really amazing feeling! Sarah's writing is absolutely luminous, and this story– about monsters lurking in the deep off the Isle of Man and the girl determined to stop them from harming her village– is unique and unforgettable.
I'm currently reading City on Fire by Garth Risk Hallberg, which is incredibly captivating– it's told from multiple perspectives and culminates around a blackout that happens in New York City in the summer of 1977. The writing is masterful and the characters feel so realistic. It's the kind of book I want to take my time with, and it has been the perfect companion for chilly fall evenings.
Watching: My sister and I have an annual tradition of watching all of the Halloween episodes of Sabrina, the Teenage Witch (we watched the show religiously when it was on TV), along with the classics– Hocus Pocus and Teen Wolf. It's not Halloween otherwise!
I have some exciting plans coming up for November, so I have a feeling it will be a great month– and if the snow can hold off, that would be even better. (I'm of the mindset that the only good kind of snow is Jon Snow…)


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Letter: Hydrofracking imperils precious drinking water
Published 1:45 pm, Friday, September 6, 2013
Hydraulic fracturing — fracking — is a dangerous, wrongheaded and unacceptable practice. It perpetuates our dependence on finite fossil fuels, threatens our environment and provides a temporary illusion of financial gain.
Our citizens would be victims of inhuman, exploitative and uncaring corporations devoted to maximizing profit by any means. Shareholders and executives will accept future fines, victim compensation settlements, and the costs of inadequate environmental "remediation" as long as these are less than their profits.
Extraction firms like BP and Exxon are akin to hydrofracking outfits in that they greedily place human lives and natural resources at risk for their own gain. We in upstate New York often do not appreciate our truly rare blessing in this world of relatively clean and accessible drinking water, which fracking places at serious risk for permanent degradation for generations to come.
Gov. Andrew Cuomo, President Barack Obama, and other leaders must prevent any fracking from taking place in our great state and nation and must protect our precious and valuable water resources from exploitation and ruination. We cannot sacrifice our availability of water, upon which all life depends, and the health of future generations, for the sake of our addiction to fossil fuels and in a vain attempt to assuage the insatiable corporate thirst for revenue.
Surely there are better energy solutions for New Yorkers that will not place our lives and liberty in such dire peril.


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What do you need to tell your social media company before you start working with them?
Before we set sail with our new clients, here's the information we ask for.
Feel free to borrow elements and let us know what's missing.
Are you in the market for a social media partner?
Let's get to know each other. Drop in your info and we'll contact you to schedule a complimentary 30 minute consultation.


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We live in a time where many seem to be overwhelmed with the stresses of life. Dealing with family issues, relationship issues, work related issues, or everyday living, takes a great deal of energy. With that being said, many are unable to deal with these issues in a calm way, and the stress of it all can take a toll on you. Psalm 55:22 "Give your burdens to the LORD, and he will take care of you. He will not let the godly to slip and fall." So you must find a way to free yourself of the overpowering pressure or stress of the issues of life. The bottom line about being able to "free yourself" is taking control of any and all situations that may occur in your life. It's also a loud and clear message that you are not willing to give up without a fight.
I know saying "free yourself" may be easier said than done, but it is definitely possible. This is the only way to regain control of your life. It's important to take control of the issue, and the way to do that is by attacking the root of the problem. If you can find the reasoning behind the problems in your life, then you can deal with it directly. First, by finding the cause of the disruption, and then by coming up with a solution to the problem. Psalm 46:1 "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble."
Some problems may or may not be by any fault of yours, but at this point that's not important. Hebrews 4:16 "Let us come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may get mercy, and find grace to help in time of need." Nonetheless, you must be willing to face the problem head on. You must also be willing to take responsibility for any self-induced part of the problem. As you take ownership, you are taking control of the situation. This puts you on the road to recovery because of your ability to assess the situation with rational thought.
This process helps you to "free yourself" of the pressure of the situation because it releases your mind from playing the blame game. The blame game is a game that many play over and over in their head, and it keeps you stuck in the place of no way out. Your only way out is to face the issue and move on. By doing this, you can focus on ways of rectifying the situation. It also allows you to have a clear view of how you got to this point and to never return here again. When you are honest with yourself about life issues, it's more likely than not that you can sum this mishap up as a learning experience. Are you feeling the pressure from the issues of life? I would like to hear your take on the subject of "Free Yourself," so leave comments below.


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Real Madrid GM Jorge Valdano has revealed they've made an offer for Werder Bremen star Mesut Ozil. Valdano told ZDF at half-time of their friendly win over Bayern Munich last night that Real had tabled a bid for the midfielder.
"Yes, we have made an offer for him," he said.
However, Werder Bremen's sporting director Klaus Allofs quickly dismissed talk of an imminent move to the Santiago Bernabeu, hinting that the offer was too low.
"It's not worth a negotiation," he said.
Manchester United and Barcelona are also keen on the Germany star.
Need your Real Madrid news fix? Click here for all Real news, transfer rumours and gossip.


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Oregon ManifestPosted by: Brooke in Tech, Uncategorized
I'm attending Oregon Manifest tomorrow as the CX Mag reporter. Unlike my trip to NAHBS, I'll actually have a professional photographer (Bob Libby) along with me so; 1) there will be good photographs to go with the article and blog entries, and 2) I won't have to try to do two jobs I'm unqualified for.
Anyway, I'll be looking for the coolest stuff in handbuilt cross action. While I have a tentative list of builders to talk to, there is one person I simply must interview — Ira Ryan. Ira didn't have a cross bike on media day at NAHBS but he was nice enough to sit down with me for a while and talk about cross. Since I am such an amateur at interviewing, I screwed up with my recorder and didn't get any of our conversation. And I didn't have the wherewithal to contact him afterward for a do-over. Sorry Ira but you are at the top of my list tomorrow.
I hope that anyone that can get to the show will take some time to stop by and oogle the goods.


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Scrutiny trails kooky Michele Bachmann
We've followed some of the twisted, kinky trail of Republican Michele Bachmann, from her rants declaring that lesbians and gays are in bondage, to her claim that she was personally instructed by God to run for Congress.
For more ongoing coverage of Michele Bachmann's eccentric extremism, let me suggest that you visit the Dump Bachmann blog, run by dedicated voters in Bachmann's district in Minnesota. I quote: "Michele Bachmann is Minnesota's Answer to Florida's Katherine Harris. She is obsessed with gays at the expense of representing her district."
Today's news: Michele Bachmann actually voted against legislation that would have required the IRS to inform taxpayers about attempts to exploit the system in order to gain access to private financial information.


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Team Culture Keys
w/ DrSteve @SportsShrink & Matthew Mitchell @WilsonPractice
Moving Towards a Company Culture like @Zappos…
Creating a distinct company culture is imperative in successful and sustainable business practice. In Delivering Happiness, @TonyHsieh, CEO of @Zappos, a wildly successful online retailer, discusses his methods and philosophies for creating a successful business based upon culture.
Delivering Happiness discusses how company culture is reflected in and out of the office and working toward happiness can lead to success in business.
Hsieh notes that advertising is a small portion of creating a successful business, culture is more important and should receive more attention than advertising. "You cannot buy your way into a great business." A great business starts with a great culture.
Creating a solid company culture begins with a hiring and training. Training should be extensive and ongoing. Creating a company culture does not end after a probationary period is completed. Employees should be challenged to continue to commit to the company's core values and become company ambassadors.
1Hiring professionals who fit within company culture.
Zappos has used a two-part interviewing process. First, a screening to review the applicant's relevant experience, technical abilities, and potential. Next, to determine if their core values match the company's culture.
2Training as a means to communicate expectations and company culture.
Hsieh discusses orientation trainings as well as ongoing employee training to ensure employees are learning company culture. Zappos has offered financial incentives to employees during the probationary periods. This is a method used to ensure employees are there for more than just money. Hsieh indicates approximately 1% of the employees opt for the financial incentive to quit.
3Continual Commitment to create constant culture.
Many companies communicate a culture during their introduction trainings. Core values, mission, and philosophies are overtaken by busyness and perceived productivity. As a means to create constant culture, Zappos has provided mandatory trainings, team building exercises, and informal business functions.
4Creating Company Ambassadors to represent your business and be the front line of marketing.
There is no better marketing tool than an enthusiastic and knowledgeable employee.
A potential client's interaction with an employee in public can make or break a reputation. Ensuring that employees have values that are similar to company values is imperative. Business owners and employees working together to meet each other's needs aid everyone in functioning at their highest potential.
Happy employees make great ambassadors for any business. Happy business owners are able to guide employees, ensure core values are being honored, and increase profits.


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How are we Creative?
Every once in a while, a customer jokingly asks me if we're actually "creative". It's a fair question considering that there can't be too much creativity involved in a standard service like garage doors, right?
Usually I answer that we come up with creative solutions to interesting problems.
Sometimes we have to deal with unusual door sizes, outdated garage doors, short ceilings, etc. Recently we even installed a door where the concrete had yet to be laid. We've also taken it upon ourselves to build and install custom doors.
Recently, we had a customer ask if we could install a door inside their kitchen instead of a standard window (see picture below)
Ultimately, what makes us live up to the name 'Creative Garage Doors' is that we're willing to attempt challenges that other companies might ignore and we will do our best to find solutions where others might give up.