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NOTE: The FSU, together with the Mass Socierty of Professors at UMass Amherst, form a single bargaining unit that is operated by a governing body called the Joint Coordinating Committee. To see the JCC bylaws, click here. To see a list of FSU policies that are not included in the FSU bylaws see here.
Faculty Staff Union, Inc. Bylaws (Revised April 2020) University of Massachusetts Boston
The Faculty Staff Union, Inc. (FSU) of the University of Massachusetts at Boston is formed for the benefit of the teaching faculty and librarians at the institution. It is committed to maintaining an atmosphere in which teaching, research and service to the public can be carried forward at high levels of excellence. The members of the FSU believe that these goals can be promoted and protected by contractual agreements reached through the collective bargaining process. Reaching those agreements and monitoring their operation is one of the chief duties of the Union leadership on the campus.
The contractual process likewise provides a forum for the resolution of differences concerning salary, working conditions, professional standards, the relationship between faculty/librarians and University administration, and such other matters as fall within its purview. The Faculty Staff Union, Inc. is also dedicated to safeguarding the integrity of academic freedom as expressed in the 1940 Statement of Principles of the American Association of University Professors. The Faculty Staff Union, Inc. believes that a university ought actively to seek a diversity of views and opinions and promote professional equity. To this end it supports the principle of Affirmative Action. The Faculty Staff Union, Inc. is created for these purposes and to engage in any other related activities that are consistent with the law.
Section 1: The Faculty Staff Union, Inc. shall consist of all bargaining unit members within a bargaining unit affiliated with the Faculty Staff Union.
Section 2: Membership in the Faculty Staff Union, Inc. is open to any member of any bargaining unit (as defined in the applicable collective bargaining agreement) represented by the FSU at the University of Massachusetts at Boston. To be a member in good standing, all dues and assessments must be paid in full. Only such members may vote in elections conducted by a chapter of the Union for the purposes of developing policy and/or electing officers.
Section 3: A member of the Faculty Staff Union, Inc. must also be a member of the Massachusetts Teachers Association and the National Education Association. All members are entitled to all the benefits and services provided by these organizations.
Section 4: The Faculty Staff Union, Inc. is affiliated with the Massachusetts Society of Professors in a unit-wide local called MSP/FSU in accordance with the current bylaws of the Joint Coordinating Committee with representation from the Amherst and Boston campuses of the University.
Section 1: There will be officers for the chapter, each of whom shall be a member in good standing of the chapter. Candidates for President and Vice President of the chapter shall be self-nominated from among members of the chapter.
Section 2: The President and Vice President of the chapter shall be elected at large by the membership of the Faculty Staff Union, Inc. The election shall be by secret ballot during the spring semester. To be elected to either of these offices, a candidate must receive a simple majority of the votes cast. In the event that no candidate receives such a majority, there shall be a run-off election between the two candidates for whom the largest number of votes were cast. The new officers will take office at the end of the spring semester.
Section 3: The President and Vice President of the chapters shall serve for a period of two years. In order to provide for continuity in leadership, the terms of the two principal officers will be staggered.
Section 4: The duties of the President shall include:
a. Presiding at meetings of the chapter's Executive Committee and preparing the agenda for these meetings.
b. Presiding at the General Assembly and preparing the agenda.
c. Serving as the Union's liaison to the campus administration and governance structure through the Faculty Council, whose meetings he or she attends.
d. In alternate years or semesters, serving as President, Vice-President, or any other leadership positions of the Joint Coordinating Committee, which coordinates Union activities between the Amherst and Boston campuses..
e. Chairing the Annual Meeting of the General Assembly and any other meetings of the General Assembly.
f. Supervising the operations of the FSU office and its staff.
g. Establishing and filling, with the consent of the Executive Committee, special committees that are responsible for a specific activity.
h. Liaisoning with representatives of the Massachusetts Teachers Association, including attending meetings of said organization.
i. Responding to the needs of the membership and to act accordingly.
j. Communicating with the membership..
Section 5: Through a provision in the collective bargaining agreement, the President of the Boston Campus Chapter is entitled to a teaching load reduction of one course per semester. Should the President be a librarian, he or she is entitled, by the same contractual provision, to receive a workload reduction equal to one and one-half days per week. The President of the Boston Campus Chapter is also entitled to receive a stipend from Union funds during his or her term of office.
Section 6: The President of the chapter is empowered to act on behalf of the membership in all matters pertaining to the collective bargaining agreement. He or she will consult frequently with members of the chapter's Executive Committee and should discuss anticipated policy decisions at regular meetings of the committee.
Section 7:
In the instance where the President is unable to serve, the following shall apply:
a. Employment Separation and Resignations
i. The Vice President serves until a special election is held for the office of President.
ii. The Executive Committee shall call for an election to fill the President's remaining
term and for the election to be completed within 45 days.
b. Semester Leaves
i. The Vice President assumes the job responsibilities.
ii. If during the leave the Vice President is unable to continue assuming the responsibilities then the Executive Committee appoints an interim president from amongst its ranks. If this is not possible then a past President may be appointed.
iii. New Vice President is appointed by the Executive Committee, the Vice President, and the outgoing President. The member appointed shall come from the Executive Committee. If an Executive Committee member is not willing to serve as Vice President, then the Executive Committee, the Vice President, and outgoing President shall appoint a Vice President from the ranks of the membership.
c. Academic Year Leaves
i. The Vice President serves until a special election is held for the office of President.
ii. The Executive Committee shall call for an election to fill the President's remaining term and for the election to be completed within 45 days.
Section 8: The Clerk of the chapter will be elected by the Executive Committee from among its members. The term of office is one year.
a) The Clerk shall keep the official records of the organization, including minutes of the Executive Committee and General Assembly meetings, and shall be responsible for timely notification to the membership of all regular and special meetings.
Section 9: The Treasurer of the chapter will be elected by the Executive Committee from among its members. Should no member be willing to serve, the Executive Committee shall elect someone from among members of the chapter, who will be a non-voting member of the Executive Committee. The term of office is one year.
a) The Treasurer shall work with the accountant to ensure the accuracy of the financial reports, keep the executive committee informed of the chapter's financial status, and present the proposed budget to the Executive Committee and to the annual meeting.
Section 1: The Executive Committee of the chapter shall be responsible for directing the operation of the chapter and for implementing its policies.
Section 2: The Executive Committee of the Boston Campus Chapter shall consist of 13 members. The President and Vice President of the chapter are ex-officio members of the Committee. The remaining 11 members shall be elected by and from their respective constituencies. The constituencies to be represented according to their proportionate numbers within the bargaining unit are: tenured faculty, non-tenured tenure track faculty, non-tenure track faculty, and librarians. A member of the Executive Committee, preferably who teaches or has taught in CAPS, will be selected to represent CAPS. Each constituency in the bargaining unit shall have at least one representative. The Executive Committee shall periodically review the allocation of representatives for each constituency and make recommendations to the General Assembly. The President and the Vice President shall be counted in this proportional breakdown.
Section 3: Candidates for officers and membership on the Executive Committee of the chapter shall be self-nominated in accordance with FSU election procedures. Elections shall be conducted by secret ballot, and seats on the Executive Committee shall be filled by those candidates receiving the highest number of votes.
Section 4: The term of office for members of the Executive Committee of the chapters shall be two years. Elections to fill vacant seats on the Committee shall be held annually during the course of the spring semester. New members take office at the end of the spring semester.
Section 5: Should a seat on the Executive Committee become vacant through resignation, the Committee shall, at its sole discretion, either (1) choose a replacement from among those who were candidates in the previous election, (2) allow the seat to remain empty until the next general election, or (3) allow the membership to elect a candidate to serve the remainder of the term. Such an election will be a special election called by the Executive Committee, or will occur at the next regularly scheduled annual election.
Section 6: Meetings of the Executive Committee shall be open to all members of the chapter, and any member may address the Committee upon written petition (at least five business days prior to the meeting including what will be asked of the Executive Committee) to the President of the chapter. In order to assure confidentiality, all discussions of matters pertaining to collective bargaining or grievances shall be conducted in executive session.
Section 7: A quorum for the purpose of conducting business shall consist of a simple majority of the Executive Committee of the chapter. A member of the Executive Committee who misses three meetings in the course of a semester may be removed by majority vote of the Executive Committee.
Section 8: The Executive Committee shall have the power to employ a staff for the efficient management of the chapter, and shall pay for this staff from its own budget. It shall establish personnel policies for this staff.
Section 1: An elected officer or any member of the Executive Committee of the chapter may be recalled for malfeasance before his or her term of office expires. A petition for a special election must be signed by at least ten (10) members of that chapter. Upon receipt of the petition, the Executive Committee of the chapter shall, within ten days, schedule a special election. A mail-in or electronic ballot will be distributed to the membership of the chapter along with an explanation, which must be provided by the petitioners, of why the individual should be removed from office. The person who is the object of the recall petition will be given equal space to reply to the petitioners' statement. A simple majority of those voting is required for removal.
Section 2: In the event that the recall petition succeeds, the Executive Committee shall, at its sole discretion, either (1) choose a replacement from among those who were candidates in the previous election, or (2) allow the seat to remain empty until the next general election.
Section 1: The General Assembly consists of all members of the chapter who are in good standing and vote on all matters that come before the body. The General Assembly has the responsibility to approve the chapter's annual budget, levy dues, and establish policy.
Section 2: The annual meeting of the General Assembly will take place between April 1st and the end of the semester. Additional meetings of the General Assembly of the chapter shall be called by the chapter's Executive Committee when there are matters which must be brought before the entire membership.
a) Special session meetings may be called by the President or by those members of the Executive Committee having the powers of the directors, or shall be called by the Clerk, or in case of death, absence, incapacity or refusal of the Clerk, by any other officer and including the signature of ten (10) unit members. The ten members must include at least 1 member of each constituency (pre-tenure tenure track, tenured, non-tenure track, librarian).
b) The meeting request must be written and state the specific agenda item which the membership must act upon forthwith. The request must be received by the FSU no less than five working days prior to the proposed meeting date. Upon receipt, a date and meeting location will be set and a call to the meeting including the agenda item shall be distributed to all members.
Section 3: A quorum for the purposes of conducting business shall consist of 20 FSU members in good standing present (inclusive of virtual) and voting on announced agenda items.
Section 1: There will be a Grievance Committee which will be a standing committee of the chapter and will include grievance officers.
Section 2: Members of the Grievance Committee shall be elected by the Executive Committee upon recommendation of the President. Term of membership on the Grievance Committee shall be two years with option for reappointment. Should a Grievance Committee member be unable to serve temporarily (such as being on sabbatical), this member can be temporarily replaced by a vote of the Executive Committee upon the recommendation of the President.
Section 3: Grievance Committee meetings must be held at least once a semester and more often as necessary. The President should be kept informed of the filing of complaints and the progress of all grievances. The Grievance Committee shall also report to the Executive Committee, within the limits of confidentiality, the activities of the Grievance Committee.
Section 4: The Grievance Committee is empowered to file grievances on its own authority, on major policy matters. The Grievance Committee shall report to the Executive Committee (and in summary fashion to the chapter membership) on the filing and disposition of grievances.
Section 5: The Grievance Committee may file policy grievances on behalf of the bargaining unit as a whole after receiving authorization to do so from the Executive Committee.
Section 6: The Grievance Committee may also, with the approval of the Executive Committee, recommend to the Joint Coordinating Committee (MSP/FSU) that individual grievances be pursued at higher levels external to the campus structures.
Section 7: There will be an Elections Committee which will be a permanent committee of the chapter. It shall consist of members of the chapter solicited from the membership and appointed by the Executive Committee. Term of membership on the Elections Committee shall be two years with an option for reappointment.
Section 8: The Elections Committee shall be responsible for soliciting nominations for all elective offices. The Committee shall then present the slate of candidates for a vote by members of the chapter. This vote shall be conducted by secret ballot according to principles established by the Elections Committee.
Section 9: A core bargaining team shall be established as the need arises. The President shall recommend, for approval of the Executive Committee, members to serve on the core bargaining team to negotiate a successor Agreement or to negotiate agreements on any other subject of bargaining as agreed to by the FSU and the Administration. The core bargaining team for the successor agreement shall usually consist of four to ten members, but can be comprised of more, if needed, and its membership shall be open to all members of the chapter. Bargaining teams empowered to negotiate any other agreements shall be populated according to need. Membership on these teams shall be open to all members of the chapter. Term of office shall cease upon execution of a new Agreement.
Section 10: The President, in consultation with the Executive Committee, may establish temporary committees for the purpose of a specific activity or task. Such committees shall be subject to guidelines, inclusive of committee charge, composition of committee membership, term of membership, etc., established by the President, in consultation with the Executive Committee.
Section 1: The 1999-2000 Executive Committee shall submit these bylaws for ratification to the entire membership of the Faculty Staff Union, Inc. A simple majority of those voting in the affirmative suffices for passage of these bylaws and all its provisions.
Section 2: Amendments to these bylaws may be presented to the General Assembly at a properly called meeting upon recommendation of the Executive Committee or upon presentation of a petition signed by ten (10) percent of the membership. Ratification of amendments to the bylaws shall require the approval of two-thirds of those members present and voting at the General Assembly. If a majority of the executive committee so chooses, ratification will take place by mail or electronic ballot to the entire membership and approval will then require a simple majority of those voting. This is the only procedure for amending these by-laws.
Section 3: Notice of proposed amendments shall be distributed to all members at least 10 calendar days before the meeting of the General Assembly. Unless otherwise provided for, all amendments shall become effective immediately upon ratification.
Section 1: Meetings of the General Assembly and all committees of the Faculty Staff Union, Inc. will be governed by the latest edition of Roberts Rules of Order.
Section 2: The fiscal year of the Faculty Staff Union, Inc. will extend from July 1 to June 30.
Section 3: The Faculty Staff Union, Inc will transmit to the Massachusetts Teachers Association from membership dues that portion of the dues specified for the current year according to the timetable established by the MTA.
Section 4: The Faculty Staff Union, Inc. subscribe to the NEA Standards for Local Affiliates (bylaw 8-7).
Section 5: All authorized delegates and alternates to the MTA Annual Meeting and to the NEA Representative Assembly shall be nominated and elected in accordance with the bylaws of those organizations.
Section 6: The principle of Affirmative Action shall be honored in all aspects of the Faculty Staff Union, Inc. organization and practice.
December, 1987; amended May, 2000, May, 2005, and May 2008, and April 2010, April 2017, October 2017; May 2019; April 2020


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Senator Durbin's Bill to Close Tobacco Tax Loopholes Will Save Lives By Stopping Tax Avoidance
Statement of Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, American Heart Association, American Lung Association and American Public Health Association
January 31, 2013
WASHINGTON, DC – Our organizations strongly support the legislation introduced today by U.S. Sen. Richard Durbin (D-IL) to close loopholes in federal tobacco tax rates that have harmed public health by encouraging use of lower-taxed tobacco products and cost governments more than a billion dollars in revenue since 2009. This bill to equalize tax rates on all tobacco products, including pipe tobacco, cigars and smokeless tobacco, is a necessary and welcome measure that will reduce tobacco use, especially among youth, and stop rampant tax avoidance. We applaud Senator Durbin for taking action to help the government recover lost tax revenue while improving health and saving lives. Sens. Frank Lautenberg (D-NJ) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) joined him in introducing the legislation.
The Children's Health Insurance Reauthorization Act of 2009 increased the federal tax on cigarettes and set the tax rate for small cigars and roll-your-own cigarettes at the same level as cigarettes. However, larger cigars, smokeless tobacco and pipe tobacco remain taxed at lower rates than cigarettes, making them more affordable to youth and spawning widespread tax avoidance. In particular, roll-your-own tobacco has falsely been labeled as pipe tobacco, and small cigar manufacturers have shifted to lower-taxed products. While cigarette sales declined significantly after the 2009 tobacco tax increase, the availability of lower-taxed products has encouraged use of these products.
According to a Government Accountability Office study issued in April 2012, the disparity in tax rates 'created opportunities for tax avoidance and led to significant market shifts by manufacturers and price sensitive consumers toward lower taxed products.' The GAO found that monthly sales of lower-taxed pipe tobacco jumped from 240,000 pounds in January 2009 to more than 3 million pounds in September 2011, while roll-your-own tobacco sales dropped from 2 million pounds to 315,000 pounds. During the same period, large cigar sales increased from 411 million to more than 1 billion, while small cigars dropped from about 430 million to 60 million.
Federal revenue losses due to these market shifts range from $615 million to $1.1 billion from April 2009 through fiscal year 2011, the GAO estimated. A separate study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that the relabeling of roll-your-own tobacco as pipe tobacco cost federal and state governments $1.3 billion in revenue from April 2009 to August 2011.
The GAO recommended that Congress consider equalizing tax rates on roll-your-own and pipe tobacco and consider options for reducing tax avoidance due to the rate differential between small and large cigars. Senator Durbin's bill would fix these disparities by increasing taxes on under-taxed tobacco products so they are equal to the cigarette tax rate. Among other steps, it would increase the pipe tobacco tax to the same rate as roll-your-own tobacco. It would also ensure that all large cigars are taxed at least as much as a cigarette and would increase the current maximum tax for a large cigar to about $1. The bill would also increase the tax rate for snuff and chewing tobacco so that it approximates the tax on a pack of cigarettes.
By closing these revenue-losing loopholes, the Durbin bill will reduce tobacco consumption and save lives. The evidence is clear that raising tobacco prices through higher taxes is one of the most effective ways to reduce tobacco use, especially among children. Closing these loopholes will help more Americans quit using tobacco and help prevent young people from getting hooked in the first place.
Tobacco use remains the leading cause of preventable deaths in the United States, killing more than 400,000 Americans each year and costing $96 billion in health care expenditures annually. Senator Durbin today has taken important action to reduce tobacco's terrible toll on our nation.

subset: commoncrawl


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When Airbnb's New Chinese Name Gets Saucy
On 22nd of March, popular home-sharing service website Airbnb unveiled its new Chinese name 'Aibiying' (爱彼迎) in China. Looking at the characters individually, 'Ai' (爱, meaning love), 'bi' (彼, meaning each other), and 'ying' (迎, welcome), could not be any more perfect, especially considering the nature of the service, as it proudly proclaimed, 'welcome each other with love'. While the sentiment is correct, the new name doesn't seem to strike the right chord with the Chinese-speaking netizen. The new name, while summing up the credo of Airbnb to be open-minded and welcoming to travellers all around the world, is making the Chinese unsure if they should embrace or wince at it.
Here are some reactions from Chinese social website Weibo:
Huangxiake: "With the logo, colour, and a name like this, are you sure this is not a matchmaking website?"
Neigegaochifang: "You have been mulling over this for a year? I suggest you mull for another year."
Youhuangju: "This name sounds brothel-ish, and the pronunciation is not pleasant. May as well stick to the English one."
mmmmmRui-Chu: "Clutched my chest for three minutes…"
Second generation aunt: "OMG, you must have done a survey before making the decision, right? Do tell who the survey company is? Will NEVER work with them."
Along with the above comments, there are even more complaining about the name's lack of catchiness as a well-known brand, difficulty in its pronunciation, and more importantly, the sexual connotation that makes it sound distasteful. One thing for sure is that Airbnb has made a great effort in coining the new name judging by the combination of these positive words, but still the Chinese are quite clearly not too pleased with it.
What really went wrong with the name?
We understand that the Chinese language is notoriously difficult to deal with when it comes to merging sound and the meaning of characters during translation, particularly when people try to come up with a Chinese name that sounds similar to the original name in its native language. But what went wrong when arriving at the new name was that the creator only considered the effect of individual characters and overlooked the combined effect of the meaning, the sound and even the visual presentation of the logo design. That's how a name might go wrong even if you have a combination of positive characters.
SEE ALSO: 5 Tips for Launching a Successful Cross-Cultural Marketing Campaign
What is particularly thorny about naming in Chinese is that the connotation of each word and the overall character of the name are interrelated — the overall presentation of the name can influence how the audience interpret a single character, and a single word can impact on the general impression or the personality of the name.
But how did all those sexual connotations arise?
We have to start with the logo design. The pink/purple-ish logo colour design gives a lively, even romantic feel. It already gives a possible hint of love or even sex, at least in Chinese culture. With the first character 'Ai' meaning love, the basic amorous aura for the name has been determined; 'love' and 'amor' will thus be the central concept around which the connotations of all other elements will revolve. This will influence how the audience perceives all of the other well-intended words — 'ying' (迎, welcome), due to its similarity in pronunciation to 'yin' (淫, lust or lewdness), will reinforce the sexual implication. What's riskier is the second character 'bi' (彼, meaning each other), will be suggestive of a particular female body part with just a slight tonal change. So there it is, the presentation and connotation of the name influencing each other and the name in the end becomes saucy.
Feeling the urgency to do something about the name, Airbnb's followers started to brainstorm alternatives. Amongst many suggestions, some proposed a similar sounding name by tweaking the last character, 'Ai bi ling' (爱彼邻, meaning 'love each other's neighbour'); others suggested 'Ai bing' (爱宾, meaning 'love for guest').
How hard is to localize your brand name for China?
It has always been a challenge for foreign brands trying to localise a Chinese brand name when venturing into the Chinese market.
One of the worst examples is the scary association of 'tadpole' and 'biting wax' with Coca Cola's former brand name. Other unsuccessful examples include Google's Chinese name, known as 'Gu Ge', which captures the English pronunciation, but is unable to convey any particular characteristic or the spirit of Google. Microsoft search engine 'Bing', which is introduced as 'Bi Ying' in China, suggests a guaranteed satisfying search result. Its almost identical Chinese pronunciation to 'disease' could be the major factor in it failing to win favour with Chinese speakers.
Giving a foreign brand a successful name in Chinese is never easy as the overall revelation of the name is closely-knitted with how it is presented and perceived as a whole by Chinese speakers.
SEE ALSO: 4 Key Elements to Achieve Global Brand Success
Cultural consultancy is necessary as any trivial difference could lead to a significant effect on the form, sound, and meaning of a translated Chinese brand name. Text aside, there is also the dynamics between the brand logo design and the name that will have to be carefully assessed once the logo is integrated. It is a task of intricacy and an instinctive judgment call. Unfortunately, only people familiar with the culture will be able to scrutinise the name from the most trivial perspective and avoid any possible risk it may have in its overall perception and prevent any possible negative association from sprawling like wildfire.
A piece of advice for foreign brands out there — kindly seek feedback from a in-market audience, or even better, from marketing consultancies who work with local talents that have been highly-vetted and can make sure you steer clear of possible mistakes in your brand name or marketing campaigns. The more people you ask, the better!
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Nov 28, 2012–Redmond, USA (Techreleased) – On Dec. 2, Nintendo is offering a Blue/Black Nintendo 3DS XL with Mario Kart 7 pre-installed on the system for a suggested retail price of $199.99. If purchased separately, the system and the game would be offered at suggested retail prices of $199.99 and $39.99 respectively, making this another great Nintendo value for holiday shoppers.
The portable Nintendo 3DS XL system offers two screens that are 90 percent larger than the original Nintendo 3DS and let owners see even more amazing 3D details. Owners can watch their karts zoom across the track in 3D without the need for special glasses. The system also includes the Nintendo eShop, a one-stop shop for downloadable new games, Virtual Console games, free game demos and full downloadable versions of retail games. Users can also enjoy augmented-reality features and Nintendo Video, a channel filled with free one-of-a-kind 3D videos.
Mario Kart 7 lets karts race through the air and under the sea for the first time. On big jumps, karts deploy a wing to help them glide over the track. When karts dive underwater, a propeller pops out to help the kart cruise across the sea floor. Players can customize their vehicles further to enhance their driving style or play to certain types of terrain and even race as their own Mii characters. Multiple courses challenge players to race for the checkered flag.


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Bergen County Wellness News
Helpful tips for family caregivers
May/June 2020
They say "food is medicine," but some foods and medicines backfire when taken together. Are any of your loved one's favorites on this list of combinations to avoid? In our second article we offer insights about decision making and how you can boost your confidence and avoid regret with the many choices you have to make as a family caregiver. Last, we look at the surprisingly common condition of osteoporosis—even for men—and talk about the signs that indicate your loved one should get tested.
When broccoli is bad for you
"Kale smoothie, anyone?" Maybe not…. Good nutrition has always been a mainstay of good health. Indeed, there is growing awareness of the power of food to support healing for a wide variety of conditions. What is less well known is the fact that even very healthy foods can cause health problems when combined with specific medications.
As you care for your family member, be alert to these common food–drug interactions.
Broccoli, kale, spinach, cabbage, collards. These nutrient-rich veggies are high in Vitamin K. This vitamin supports blood clotting. It's essential to stopping the flow of blood when we get cut. Some blood-thinning drugs, particularly warfarin, block vitamin K's clotting action. Anyone taking warfarin must balance the amount of vitamin K in the diet. Not too much. Not too little. Talk to the doctor or pharmacist for guidance.
Coffee. Nothing like a good cup of joe to boost one's energy! But the caffeine in coffee can also super-charge the breakdown of some drugs. This includes antibiotics and drugs for asthma, depression, and irregular heart rhythms. The result can be toxic. Separately, the stimulating effects of coffee can interfere with anti-anxiety medicines and sleep medications.
Grapefruit. Either fresh or juiced, grapefruit is potent, interacting with at least 45 drugs. People who take statins can develop side effects, such as muscle and joint pain. Medications for blood pressure, erectile dysfunction, and some antihistamines are among other drugs negatively affected by grapefruit.
Milk. A glass of milk may be recommended before taking some medications. It coats the stomach and prevents nausea. With many antibiotics, however, the calcium and proteins in milk bind with the drug's active ingredients, reducing its effectiveness.
New food–drug interactions are being discovered all the time. To be safe, when a new medication is prescribed or a shift in diet occurs, ask the doctor or pharmacist about specific foods to avoid.
Return to topAvoiding regret
Family caregivers are often thrust into the role of making decisions for a loved one. Some decisions are relatively small: Purchase a walker with wheels or one without? Others are large and may have life-changing ramifications. Approve that surgery? Initiate a move to assisted living or set up care at home?
Rarely is there a single "right" answer. Your intention is to make the best decision you can with the available information. Sometimes the outcome is as envisioned. Other times, not so much.
Tips to help you avoid regret
- Gather all the information you can. Ideally from a variety of sources. Learn the facts, and perhaps seek out others' experiences. Being well informed supports your confidence in your process.
- Evaluate the sources for credibility. Is any information coming from someone who might personally benefit (a salesperson)? As for stories from others, consider how closely their situation matches your loved one's. Similar temperament, lifestyle, and values? They may have very different priorities.
- Ask yourself, "Is this a 'hot' decision?" When we are anxious or in pain, we tend to be reactive and rush. We want things settled—FAST! We may downplay an option's risks. Or overestimate the benefits or likelihood of success. It's precisely when we're most upset that we need to hit "pause" before choosing.
- Acknowledge the pull to do nothing. If there is no urgency, it's natural to put off a decision. Sometimes waiting, doing nothing, or "letting nature take its course" is the best decision. Just be sure you have made the choice consciously.
Regret is a natural response to a decision that yields an unexpected outcome. Using these strategies, you are more likely to avoid the sting of blame and self-recrimination. Or at least arrive sooner at the more constructive state of accepting with disappointment that things didn't turn out as it seemed they would.
Return to topSigns of osteoporosis
Does the person you care for seem to have shrunk a bit?
Pants are too long? Can't reach items on their regular shelf? You can see the top of their head?
It could be that their bones have become more porous with age. This is called "osteoporosis."
With osteoporosis, bones are less dense and easily develop cracks and fractures that may or may not be painful. When cracks occur in the spinal column, the spine compresses, resulting in shortened height. In some people, the compression produces a hump or curve at the neck and shoulders. In other parts of the body, such as the hips, poor bone density is not obvious until a bone is broken.
Osteoporosis is serious, but underdiagnosed. Every year, about 2 million people over age 50 break a bone because of osteoporosis. For those who break a hip, the consequences are
- 50% will need to use a walker or cane, at least temporarily
- 25% will require some form of care assistance long term
- 25% will not recover (the broken bone leads to a cascade of problems that ultimately results in death within a year).
Those most at risk are
- women older than age 50. One out of two is likely to break a bone because of osteoporosis. (One in four men over 50 will break a bone. More for those over 70.)
- people of slight build
- people of Caucasian and/or Asian descent
- those with a family history of osteoporosis
There are lifestyle risks as well, including smoking, drinking alcohol, and not exercising.
Getting tested
If your loved one complains about back pain, seems shorter, or has any of the known risk factors, ask the doctor about doing a bone density test. This specialized x-ray test (often called a "DEXA scan") measures the thickness of the hip and sometimes other bones. Some cases might require an MRI. Medicare will usually pay for these tests if a doctor orders them.


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ISO 15712-1:2005 describes calculation models designed to estimate the airborne sound insulation between rooms in buildings, primarily using measured data which characterize direct or indirect flanking transmission by the participating building elements and theoretically derived methods of sound propagation in structural elements.
A detailed model is described for calculation in frequency bands; the single number rating can be determined from the calculation results. A simplified model with a restricted field of application is deduced from this, calculating directly the single number rating, using the single number ratings of the elements.
ISO 15712-1:2005 describes the principles of the calculation scheme, lists the relevant quantities and defines its applications and restrictions. It is intended for acoustical experts and provides the framework for the development of application documents and tools for other users in the field of building construction, taking into account local circumstances.
The calculation models described use the most general approach for engineering purposes, with a clear link to measurable quantities that specify the performance of building elements. The known limitations of these calculation models are described in this document. Users should, however, be aware that other calculation models also exist, each with their own applicability and restrictions.
The models are based on experience with predictions for dwellings; they could also be used for other types of buildings provided the construction systems and dimensions of elements are not too different from those in dwellings.
General information
Status: WithdrawnPublication date: 2005-01Stage: Withdrawal of International Standard [95.99]
Edition: 1Number of pages: 59
Technical Committee :ISO/TC 43/SC 2ICS :91.120.20
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'Under the Rug:' Sexual Misconduct Shakes FBI's Senior Ranks |
Written by Jim Mustian, Associated Press |
Sunday, 13 December 2020 09:37 |
Mustian writes: "An Associated Press investigation has identified at least six sexual misconduct allegations involving senior FBI officials over the past five years, including two new claims brought this week by women who say they were sexually assaulted by ranking agents." 'Under the Rug:' Sexual Misconduct Shakes FBI's Senior Ranks13 December 20 n assistant FBI director retired after he was accused of drunkenly groping a female subordinate in a stairwell. Another senior FBI official left after he was found to have sexually harassed eight employees. Yet another high-ranking FBI agent retired after he was accused of blackmailing a young employee into sexual encounters. An Associated Press investigation has identified at least six sexual misconduct allegations involving senior FBI officials over the past five years, including two new claims brought this week by women who say they were sexually assaulted by ranking agents. Each of the accused FBI officials appears to have avoided discipline, the AP found, and several were quietly transferred or retired, keeping their full pensions and benefits even when probes substantiated the sexual misconduct claims against them. Beyond that, federal law enforcement officials are afforded anonymity even after the disciplinary process runs its course, allowing them to land on their feet in the private sector or even remain in law enforcement. "They're sweeping it under the rug," said a former FBI analyst who alleges in a new federal lawsuit that a supervisory special agent licked her face and groped her at a colleague's farewell party in 2017. She ended up leaving the FBI and has been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder. "As the premier law enforcement organization that the FBI holds itself out to be, it's very disheartening when they allow people they know are criminals to retire and pursue careers in law enforcement-related fields," said the woman, who asked to be identified in this story only by her first name, Becky. The AP's count does not include the growing number of high-level FBI supervisors who have failed to report romantic relationships with subordinates in recent years — a pattern that has alarmed investigators with the Office of Inspector General and raised questions about bureau policy. The recurring sexual misconduct has drawn the attention of Congress and advocacy groups, which have called for whistleblower protections for rank-and-file FBI employees and for an outside entity to review the bureau's disciplinary cases. "They need a #MeToo moment," said U.S. Rep. Jackie Speier, a California Democrat who has been critical of the treatment of women in the male-dominated FBI. "It's repugnant, and it underscores the fact that the FBI and many of our institutions are still good ol'-boy networks," Speier said. "It doesn't surprise me that, in terms of sexual assault and sexual harassment, they are still in the Dark Ages." In a statement, the FBI said it "maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward sexual harassment" and that claims against supervisors have resulted in them being removed from their positions while cases are investigated and adjudicated. It added that severe cases can result in criminal charges and that the FBI's internal disciplinary process assesses, among other factors, "the credibility of the allegations, the severity of the conduct, and the rank and position of the individuals involved." The AP review of court records, Office of Inspector General reports and interviews with federal law enforcement officials identified at least six allegations against senior officials, including an assistant director and special agents in charge of entire field offices, that ranged from unwanted touching and sexual advances to coercion. None appears to have been disciplined, but another sexual misconduct allegation identified in the AP review of a rank-and-file agent resulted in him losing his security clearance. The FBI, with more than 35,000 employees, keeps a notoriously tight lid on such allegations. The last time the Office of Inspector General did an extensive probe of sexual misconduct within the FBI, it tallied 343 "offenses" from fiscal years 2009 to 2012, including three instances of "videotaping undressed women without consent." The latest claims come months after a 17th woman joined a federal lawsuit alleging systemic sexual harassment at the FBI's training academy in Quantico, Virginia. That class-action case claims male FBI instructors made "sexually charged" comments about women needing to "take their birth control to control their moods," inviting women trainees over to their homes and openly disparaging them. In one of the new lawsuits filed Wednesday, a former FBI employee identified only as "Jane Doe" alleged a special agent in charge in 2016 retired without discipline and opened a law firm even after he "imprisoned, tortured, harassed, blackmailed, stalked and manipulated" her into having several "non-consensual sexual encounters," including one in which he forced himself on her in a car. The AP is withholding the name and location of the accused special agent to protect the woman's identity. "It is the policy and practice of the FBI and its OIG to allow senior executives accused of sexual assault to quietly retire with full benefits without prosecution," the woman's attorney, David J. Shaffer, alleges in the lawsuit. One such case involved Roger C. Stanton, who before his abrupt retirement served as assistant director of the Insider Threat Office, a division at Washington headquarters tasked with rooting out leakers and safeguarding national security information. According to an Inspector General's report concluded this year and obtained by AP through a public records request, Stanton was accused of drunkenly driving a female subordinate home following an after-work happy hour. The woman told investigators that once inside a stairwell of her apartment building, Stanton wrapped his arm around her waist and "moved his hand down onto her bottom" before she was able to get away and hustle up the stairs. After Stanton left, he called the woman 15 times on her FBI phone and sent her what investigators described as "garbled text" complaining that he could not find his vehicle. The heavily redacted report does not say when the incident happened. Stanton disputed the woman's account and told investigators he "did not intend to do anything" and only placed his arm around her because of the "narrowness" of the stairs. But Stanton acknowledged he was "very embarrassed by this event" and "assistant directors should not be putting themselves in these situations." Stanton retired in late 2018 after the investigation determined he sexually harassed the woman and sought an improper relationship. He did not respond to requests for comment from AP. Earlier this year, the Inspector General found that the special agent in charge of the Albany, New York, office, James N. Hendricks, sexually harassed eight subordinates at the FBI. Hendricks also was not named in the OIG report despite its findings. He was first identified in September by the Albany Times Union. One current and one former colleague of Hendricks confirmed his role in the case to AP. Hendricks now writes a law enforcement blog in which he touts his FBI accolades but makes no mention of the misconduct allegations. He did not respond to requests for comment. Becky, the former analyst, told AP she once believed FBI's "organizational values and mission aligned with how I was raised." But she was disabused of that notion after reporting to management that Charles Dick, a supervisory special agent at the FBI Training Academy at the time, sexually assaulted her at a farewell party. Becky told AP her assailant had threatened her at least two times before. "Once while we were waiting for the director he said, 'I'm going to touch your ass. You know it's going to happen.'" "His boorish behavior was well known," she added. "He was getting away with everything." In a federal lawsuit filed Wednesday, Becky accused the former agent of wrapping his arm around her chest while posing for a photograph and "reaching under her and simulating" penetration of her "with his fingers through her jeans." Dick denied the charges and was acquitted in state court in Virginia by a judge who ruled it "wholly incredible" that Becky would "stand there and take it and not say anything," according to a transcript of the proceeding. Dick retired from the FBI months before the Inspector General followed up on Becky's internal complaint, Becky alleged in her lawsuit, adding she faced retaliation for coming forward. "It's much easier to suffer in isolation than it is to go public," she told AP. "But if I don't report it, I'm complicit in the cultural and institutionalized cover-up of this sort of behavior." |


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There is something compelling about black & white photography; its nostalgic link to photography's roots, the emphasis on composition, or perhaps a vision more focussed without the distraction of colour.
In many ways black & white photography is the anthesis of my photo impressionistic passions. Its like you are looking through a new lens. Perhaps that explains the dichotomy in my portfolio. I spend a lot of time exploring Impressionism and then when I need a break I reach for my infrared converted cameras and shoot black & white.
I finally had a chance yesterday to post a collection of 20 of my favourite black & white images. You can find the Gallery here.
Looking at the collection it seems to me that I am attracted to the rich textures infrared produces. The image below, taken from the south rim of the Grand Canon bings reminds me of the visual richness of early morning looking down into the valley. Above that the infrared of a frozen great lakes steamer nicely captures the cold of that winter moment.
While photo impressionism is still my main focus I am looking forward to shooting black & white at every opportunity.
Infrared Camera Conversions:
I recently had my old Fujifilm S5 Pro converted by Life Pixel. They did a great job.
Black & White Conversion Technique
My approach to to black & white conversion has been greatly influenced by Vincent Versace. His book is a bible on the subject. Vincent Versace's black & white conversions book
Related Posts:


text: Rumble, tumble, splish, splash! Make bath time a rollicking adventure. The water ball, with cheerfully rattling integrated marbles, zips around the spiral curve, plops into the seesaw bucket and tumbles out on the other side. Children can design the ball's course themselves, as the water track elements can be arranged endless different ways. Water can also be filled into the tracks with the ladle.Contents: Contents: 1 water ball, 1 ladle, 1 spiral curve ramp, 1 seesaw bucket, and 1 track/ramp, each piece includes suction cups to attach to the tub or tile (made of phthalate-free PP-plastic). Perfect for children ages 3 years and up. Dimensions: tracks l 8" x w 6" x h 5", water ball-Ø 2". Compatible with all bathtub ball track sets and accessories.


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Special Civil Rights Document Displays at the National Archives
Press Release · Thursday, December 21, 2006
Washington, DC
Press Information
December 21, 2006
Celebrates Black History Month and Lincoln's Birthday
Washington, DC…The National Archives marks Black History Month and Abraham Lincoln's birthday with two featured document displays - an original telegraph from President Abraham Lincoln to Lt. Gen. Ulysses S. Grant, and the Preliminary Emancipation Proclamation. The documents will be on display in the East Rotunda Gallery of the National Archives Building which is located on Constitution Avenue at 9th Street, NW, and is open from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily, except December 25.
The Lincoln telegram will be on display from Thursday, February 1, 2007, through Thursday, February 15. The Preliminary Emancipation Proclamation will be on display from Friday, February 16, 2007, through Monday, February 19, 2007.
February 1-15
Telegram from President Lincoln to Lieutenant General Grant, August 17, 1864
In August 1864 Grant protested a proposal that some of his troops be removed from Petersburg, arguing that it would weaken his hold on the city. The President agreed and sent this message to Grant offering words of encouragement, and urging Grant to "Hold on with a bull-dog grip, and chew & choke, as much as possible."
February 16-19
Preliminary Emancipation Proclamation
President Lincoln issued this milestone proclamation on September 22, 1862, in the midst of the Civil War, announcing that slaves in those states or parts of states still in rebellion as of January 1, 1863, "shall be then, thenceforward, and forever free." This document immediately captured the hearts and imagination of millions of African Americans, signaling the destruction of slavery in the United States. It was the first formal notification of President Lincoln's intentions regarding emancipation of the slaves. The final Emancipation Proclamation, which includes some of the text from the Preliminary Emancipation Proclamation, was issued on January 1, 1863.
# # #
For press information contact the National Archives Public Affairs staff at 202-357-5300.
This page was last reviewed on August 15, 2016.
Contact us with questions or comments.


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It's crazy to think that just two years ago the world could have lost GT before he made his big break, but it's true. A serious car accident left the Detroit rapper with a broken back, broken ribs, and a collapsed lung… it also left him with a second chance to fulfill his dreams. At the time of the accident GT was buzzing locally and throughout the Midwest and afterwards fans eagerly awaited the next project. A slew of music video releases throughout 2016 had fans thinking that an EP or album was coming soon, but they would have to wait just a little while longer. After teasing fans with artwork and a tracklist in September, the highly anticipated album "Relentless" is finally set to drop this month. Everybody's heard the horror stories coming out of Detroit which is why GT makes it a point to feed the streets more than just music. December 9th, GT has a free grocery giveaway followed by his official album release party on the 15th. If you are not up on GT's music, check out the single, and see why the whole D can't wait for the album to drop.
Connect w/ GT:
Twitter: @CallMeGT
Instagram: CallMeGT
SnapChat: Dirtygloveg.t


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Here's a little note to let it soak in even deeper...
Don't be afraid of the crushing, my dear. You'll soon see its gift.
Let it break you. Let it refine and consume you. Let the weight sow you into the ground. Your story will grow bright under pressure.
Buy Art → Give Art : Benefit
For every print sold, Fightsong Studio gifts an Open Edition print to a human trafficking survivor. At Checkout, you can add a personalized note to inspire hope and healing towards this brave woman. Learn more.
This is not available with the Open Edition or the Limited Edition versions. Sorry! An easy fix is to get a custom mat that will fit nicely into your frame. You can crop with mats too, just trim the print down as needed.
On certain prints and sizes, I would be happy to create black and white print for you. (They really look gorgeous that way. I don't post them on my site because most people opt for color.) If you are a "black and white" person, email me and I will see what I have in stock or what I can customize for you. As far as tweaking the full color images, that is not available. My prints stay as originally designed.
Though I trust you wouldn't dream of sharing or selling it, I don't offer digital downloads of my art for personal use. I do sell image licenses for commercial projects. If that is you, email me for details.
All international orders will ship USPS Priority International. Estimated shipping time is about 6-10 business days, but it's not guaranteed. The Priority International service will track your order throughout its whole route.
The Buyer is fully responsible for any and all additional fees or taxes their respective country may charge upon import.
Unfortunately, once I take a package to a mail carrier it is no longer under my control. If it has been two weeks, and you still haven't received your print it could be that it is being held up in customs. Sometimes, rarely but it does happen, international orders can take up to 4 weeks, even if it's being shipped to Canada or Mexico. If it's been more than 4 weeks since you've received the shipping notification, please email me.
Yes, I will do my best to make sure it arrives on time. Email me before you order so we can make the best plan. There are a couple of things to keep in mind: (1) Please confirm with your hotel that they can receive packages for their guests. (2) Please email me 3 weeks prior to your departure date so that we can coordinate. (3) Please include your arrival and departure dates, as well as the name and address of the hotel.
Unfortunately, that can happen even with the protected packaging. I will send you a replacement. But first, please email me right away with pictures of the damaged packaging and injured print so I can immediately contact the shipping carrier and file a claim. Without these, I cannot process the replacement.
Fantastic! These kinds of ideas are a lot of fun and because it is a unique experience no one will forget! Let's try to make this happen for you. Contact me and we can sort out details.
Interested in carrying some of my prints in your store? I am interested in being represented by brick and mortar stores that best share my target audience. Email me with details.
I also love to partner with interior designers and stylists, art consultants, and other specialists in the industry. You are welcome to join my Trade Program. Email me with details
First of all, great idea! Second of all, absolutely we can help you with this incredible gift! Bulk orders start in quantities as low as 10. Email me with helpful information about your event and image needs (quantity, timing, sizes, etc). Those factors will help us quickly come up with a final estimate and a plan.
B.A.G.A. – Buy Art, Give Art.
With each print you purchase, we will gift a print to a girl recovering from the abuse of human-trafficking. Physically, physiologically and spiritually she was violated in the worst ways. We want to give her this token of hope and restoration, something to set her eyes as she processes her pain and walks out her healing to fully becoming who she is made to be.
Our partner organizations work with caring for, counseling, and equipping these brave ones who have come out of their nightmare. We will pick the appropriate image for her healing journey.
Collections: All Prints, Best Sellers
Category: bloom, bravery, celebrate, connection, create, determination, discovery, faith, fearless, fierce, grace, grit, hope, imagination, thrive, wild, wonder
I'd love to make buying art online as easy and clear for you. Please let me know if you have any questions.
xo. Maari
October 13, 2021
February 22, 2021


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Welcome to AAMCO Transmissions & Total Car Care, your premier destination for transmission repair services in Easton, Pennsylvania.
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George Romney was an English portrait painter. He was the most fashionable artist of his day, painting many leading society figures – including his artistic muse, Emma Hamilton, mistress of Lord Nelson.
Romney was born in Beckside in Dalton-in-Furness, Lancashire (now part of Cumbria), the 3rd son (of 11 children) of John Romney, cabinet maker, and Anne Simpson. Raised in a cottage named High Cocken in modern-day Barrow-in-Furness, he was sent to school at nearby Dendron. He appears to have been an indifferent student and was withdrawn at the age of 11 and apprenticed to his father's business instead.
He proved to have a natural ability for drawing and making things from wood – including violins (which he played throughout his life). From the age of 15, he was taught art informally by a local watchmaker called John Williamson, but his studies began in earnest in 1755, when he went to Kendal, at the age of 21, for a 4-year apprenticeship with local artist Christopher Steele – a portraitist who had himself studied with distinguished French artist Carlo Vanloo. All costs were to be borne by George's father.
In October 1756, Romney married Mary Abbot (a decision he initially regretted), but the couple were immediately separated when he was called away to York on business by his employer. After a year, Steele eventually agreed to cancel the apprenticeship, at George's request, leaving the young artist – now a father of a son – free to pursue his own career as a painter.
In 1757, Romney rejoined his wife and young son in Kendal, working as a portraitist, landscape and historical painter. In this period he became friends with Adam Walker, the inventor and writer, and also pursued musical interests in his spare time. In March 1762, he parted from his wife, son and daughter (the latter dying in 1763), to seek his fortune in London, where he stayed (apart from a few return visits to Cumbria) until 1799. Throughout the separation, he maintained contact with his family and financially supported them, but they never lived with him in the capital.
In 1763, Romney entered his painting, The Death of General Wolfe, into a Royal Society of Arts competition. According to friends of Romney, he was awarded the second prize of 50 guineas, but this was later reduced to 25 guineas on questionable grounds. It is said that Sir Joshua Reynolds himself was the prime mover behind this decision, a fact which may have accounted for the lifelong aversion of the two men for each other.
Despite his later success, Romney was never invited to join the Royal Academy of Arts (formed 1768), though he was asked, urged even, to exhibit there – nor did he ever apply to join. This decision certainly cost him valuable royal patronage and support from others connected at court. While there has been much speculation about his actual relationship with the Academy, there is no doubt that he normally remained aloof, maintaining that a good artist should succeed without being a member. His own career supported this belief, and it was only towards the end of his life that he expressed the slightest regret for his views.
His early years in the capital were something of a financial struggle . In September 1764, he travelled to Paris (with a friend, lawyer Thomas Greene) for a few weeks to study the works of the old masters (travel abroad was seen as a requisite of a developing artist's training as the opportunity to view great art in London was very limited). In 1765 he again won the second prize of 50 guineas in the Royal Society of Arts competition. In 1768, he made the acquaintance of Richard Cumberland, the dramatist, whose portrait he painted, and who was helpful in introducing him to influential patrons. He also became friends with miniature painter Ozias Humphrey.
1769 was a breakthrough year – he exhibited a large portrait of Sir George Warren and family at the Free Society of Artists, which was greatly admired and helped to lay the foundations of his future popularity. In 1770 he started to exhibit his work at the Chartered Society of Artists rather the rival "Free Society of Artists".
By 1772 Romney was financially secure enough to make the journey (with Ozias Humphrey) to Italy to study the great artists of the past, as he had always intended. He set off in March, making his way through Europe (via Paris, Lyon, Marseilles, Nice, Genoa, Livorno, Florence and Pisa) and arriving in Rome in June. A letter of introduction allowed him to meet the Pope, Clement XIV, who allowed him to set up scaffolding in the Vatican to study the frescoes of Raphael. He spent 18 months in Rome making studies and sketches of the great art works on view there. He returned to London in July 1775 (via Florence, Bologna, Venice, Parma, and Turin) after an absence of over 2 years.
On his return, in 1775, Romney moved to Cavendish Square, in a house formerly owned by noted portraitist Francis Cotes. He was considerably in debt, not only on his own account but also due to being saddled with the debt of his artistic but dissolute brother Peter. However, he was offered commissions by the Duke of Richmond and his circle of friends, which helped turn the tide of fortune permanently in the artist's favour. In 1776–77, he made the acquaintance of William Hayley, striking up a lasting friendship with the writer, and painting portraits for him.
1782 was the beginning of an important new chapter in Romney's life, for in that year he was first introduced to Emma Hamilton (then called Emma Hart) who became his muse. He painted more than 60 portraits of her in various poses, sometimes playing the part of historical or mythological figures. He also painted many other contemporaries, including fellow artist Mary Moser and, in 1787, a little-known seventeen-year old young lady in one of his most charming works, Miss Constable in a Bergère Hat.
In 1797 Romney left his studio at 32 Cavendish Square, where he had worked for more than twenty years, to move to Holly Bush Hill in Hampstead. In Hampstead Romney embarked on a series of costly building projects, and sold the house two years later. Romney's House is now a Grade I listed building, and Romney is commemorated by a blue plaque placed on the property.
In the summer of 1799, his health was broken, and after an absence of almost forty years, Romney returned to his wife, Mary, in Kendal. She nursed him during the remaining 2 years of his life until he died in November 1802. He was buried in the churchyard of St. Mary's Parish Church, Dalton-in-Furness.
George Romney is a kinsman of American businessmen and politicians George W. Romney (1907–1995) and Mitt Romney (born 1947); their ancestor Miles Romney was George Romney's first cousin once removed.


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As the technology experts of Quercus IT, we know good technology when we see it. We specialize in spreading efficiency throughout our clients' businesses.
Dell is one of the world leaders in hardware and software manufacturing, and we have the honor of being an official Dell dealer. Our IT ingenuity, combined with Dell's quality technology, delivers proven technology solutions to our clients time and again.
As a business technology provider, we understand that we need to provide only the best solutions and products for our clients, which will in turn offer the best chance of success. With over two decades of experience delivering quality technology to its users, the employees at Dell are, without a doubt, technology experts in their own right. Dell manufactures a diverse array of products geared toward boosting your business' productivity, and Quercus IT is the top official Dell dealer in the Greater Edmonton community. With our top-tier consultants and Dell's powerful technology solutions, your business is sure to impress its clients and outpace your Greater Edmonton competitors.
Follow Your Dreams with Dell Technology
Make your dreams a reality with proven technology solutions from Quercus IT.
At Dell, they create technology to allow users to realize their deepest and most-anticipated desires. They believe that technology is the key to making this happen, and at Quercus IT, we agree. We are known among Greater Edmonton small and medium-sized businesses for providing affordable technology solutions designed exclusively for you. We provide a number of services, including:
- Hardware
- Printing
- Cloud Computing
- ...and more!
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We offer only the best of Dell's hardware solutions, including:
- Desktops and Workstations - Whether you are looking for world-renown security in an OptiPlex workstation, or the multitasking management power of Inspiron, Quercus IT can work with you to find the most cost-efficient solution for your technological needs.
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Satguru Sivaya Subramuniyaswami , 1999-02-21
Today Gurudeva talks about worry, how if you worry long and hard that something might happen to you, it will--you'll actually create it. On the other hand, you can turn your worries in a positive direction--he suggests the environment, and that will help you stop worrying about yourself. He also relates news on the cyberspace conference members of the ashram attended yesterday.
Unedited Transcript:
Today at Kauai Aadheenam. February 21st. Greetings, everyone in cyberspace! We are very happy to talk to you.
I am talking today to those of you who are worried about yourself. When you worry about yourself, you begin to create what you worry about. When you create what you worry about, then you'll worry about that and create something else in your life to worry about. If you really want to worry about something practical, worry about the environment. The environment is affecting the whole planet, the entire planet. Not enough trees, not enough water, not enough food. Concern yourself with the environment.
All of our cyberspace devotees, I know you have a computer because we are communicating through this instrument. Just type in 'environment'. See what you get. You can begin to extend your worry into something practical. The worry then becomes a concern. What you are concerned about, you act upon. Then, what happens? You forget your self, your personal self. Your individual worries and fears all fly away. Meditate on the environment. Find out as much as you can about the environment and do what little you can do to help. If you are lonely, join an environmental group and that environmental group will help you forget about you, and your loneliness will go away.
There are a lot of lonely people in all the big cities in the world today. A lonely person is to be helped. But no one can help a lonely person but the lonely person himself, or herself. Get involved.
I have attended several big conferences. One in Moscow, another in Rio De Janeiro, where scientists, religious leaders, and political leaders all gathered together to discuss the possibility that maybe, just maybe, very soon humankind will be on the endangered species list, right along with birds and fish and animals. Rather embarrassing, but we can do something about it. Each individual has to make it his or her concern. That is the message for today.
Yesterday, we attended a cyberspace conference and presented what we do on the World Wide Web to a group of experts in the Internet world and the world of high-end software. It was a wonderful experience. We took four or five mathavasis and gave a talk about how 'Today At Kauai Aadheenam' is produced and our entire website, which is I would say, the biggest in the state of Hawaii and brings in more people from more countries to the state of Hawaii, than any other web site that we know of at the current time. It was a very nice experience.
Today, here at Kauai Aadheenam, is Visitor's Day. Beautiful families of Indian origin sat with me, devotees of Satya Sai Baba. Devotees of various temples, they have come from Canada and other parts of the United States. We were so happy to see them, to welcome them. We welcome you tomorrow to tune into Cyberspace Ashram.
Aum Namah Sivaya.


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With Windows 7's release just around the corner, now's a great time to get your PC ready for the new operating system. First step: separate your data onto a dedicated partition.
The Newbie's Primer: What's a Partition?
A partition is what looks like a separate disk in your computer, with its very own letter—like a D: or E: drive alongside your C: drive. In reality a partition can either be a subset of an existing hard drive (virtual) or an actual separate physical drive.
A virtual partition is a slice of an existing drive. That means if you've got one physical hard drive, you can partition it into a C: drive and a D: drive. In Windows Explorer, those will look and act just like separate disks, even though it's actually one hard drive.
A physical partition is a whole other hard drive that gets its own letter when you add it to your computer.
The Benefits of a Standalone Data Partition
By default, Windows stores your data in a user-specific directory—C:\Documents and Settings\gina\My Documents
in XP, C:\Users\gina\Documents
in Vista, etc. However, for the power user, there are benefits to dedicating a single drive letter to your precious data.
Fresh operating system installations are easier. Whether you're doing a fresh installation of Windows 7 or formating your hard drive to reinstall Windows XP from scratch, a separate data partition comes in handy. With your data stored on partition other than C:, nuking your Windows drive is much easier because you don't have to delete and copy back your files. You never have to touch your data partition—it's there and ready to use when Windows is.
Accessing data from multi-booting operating systems is easier. If you're both curious but apprehensive about upgrading to Windows 7, you can have your operating system cake and eat it too by dual (or triple) booting your system. If you do decide to dual boot Windows 7 alongside your existing Vista or XP system, a standalone data drive will serve you well: both OSes can access your files in their dedicated location, without one having to navigate through the other's default folder hierarchy.
Separate hard drives reduce the risk of total failure. If your data partition is a separate physical drive, you've got redundancy that reduces the risk of total PC failure. If your C: drive fails, you can pull your data drive out, stick it in an drive enclosure or install it in another PC, and go. If your data partition fails, you've still got a working PC: you can just restore a data backup without having to reinstall Windows. With a separate partition for your data, it's just easier to image, back up, or transfer your important files, photos, videos, and tunes.
You might get better performance. While I haven't tested this or seen official confirmation from Microsoft on it, at least a couple of savvy Lifehacker readers say that a separate physical partition can boost your PC's performance, because Windows has another place to store virtual memory and paging information.
The Pitfalls and Gotchas of a Standalone Data Partition
While neat freaks will love the clean separation of their data and operating system with a standalone partition, there are a few things to keep in mind.
You've got to switch where all your applications save their documents. It's not difficult to tell Windows you've relocated your "My Documents" folder, but with a separate data partition you do have to do just that. (In all versions of Windows, it's a matter of right-clicking on your My Documents icon and setting the path in the Properties dialog). Even if you do that, some older software might not get the memo. Reader pdok said:
I'll confess a little separation anxiety here. I used to do this partition scheme, but finally gave in to the standard "My Documents" hierarchy because there are so many stupid programs that don't check where the user file store is. I was constantly redirecting default file saves to my separate partition, and eventually I just gave it up since it ended up not saving me time. Yes, I know you can define different locations for My Docs, but I found even Microsoft programs that were too unsophisticated to handle a non C-Drive default location.
For example, here's how to tell Dropbox to use a different syncing folder.
You've got to manually export some types of user data that programs keep within their Application Data folder, like browser bookmarks, Outlook's PST file, Firefox's profiles, and address book contacts. There are two types of user data on your system: the files you explicitly create and save, and the data you implicitly create and save, like software profiles and contact lists. Your separate data partition won't have the implicit stuff unless you manually export 'em or do things like back up your Firefox profile.
Size matters. (And so do good backups.) When you create your data partition, make sure you give both your operating system and your documents folder as much room as they need. While you can resize partitions after you've created them, it's not as easy on older versions of Windows and can nuke your whole drive if something goes wrong. So size does matter: make the right decision up front. Along those same lines, a separate partition for your data doesn't mean you still don't need to do thorough, regular, and preferably automated data backups.
You can't store application installations on your data partition. Because installing a Windows application makes registry changes and plants various DLL's around your system, I don't recommend installing apps anywhere other than your C: drive with Windows. The best way to back up and separate your software is to keep the original installation disks. A separate data partition doesn't include program installation files. In fact, reader Brian Sexton reminds us:
Software activation for applications such as Flash, Fireworks, and Dreamweaver and media authorization for such things as iTunes purchases are tied up with the system and its registry or at least hidden files, not just the obvious applications and data, so even if most of your data is safely stored on a separate drive or at least completely backed up to another drive or removable media, you still might have to deal with reactivation and reauthorization hassles even if you are using the same exact system after the crash, just with a new hard drive.
How to Set Up Your Data Partition
Still game? Here's the quick rundown on how to get your dedicated data drive going.
Add another physical hard drive to your PC. For true separation of operating system and your data, you want to crack open your PC's case and install a new hard drive. Once your new drive's got its own letter and is formatted and ready for use, it's a matter of moving your data over to it.
Partition the free space on your existing drive. If you want to split your existing hard drive into separate partitions for your OS(es) and data, you need a repartitioning tool. Windows Vista comes with one installed by default; here's a step by step on how to repartition your drive in Vista. If you're using Windows XP, you want to try a free tool like GParted. Adam walks you through how in step 1 of his article on how to dual boot Windows 7 with XP or Vista.
Once your data partition has a letter and data on it, tell Windows you relocated your My Documents folder and you're good to go. (For the extra anal, here's how you can further organize your data partition).
You a believer in a separate data partition? Any tips for living the multi-disk computer life? Post 'em up in the comments.
Gina Trapani, Lifehacker's founding editor, has been separating her data and operating system for years now. Her weekly feature, Smarterware, appears every Wednesday on Lifehacker. Subscribe to the Smarterware tag feed to get new installments in your newsreader.


text:
Estimated Delivery date: 27 - 29
Contemporary Islamic design with gleaming colors of green and golden.
Ayatul Kursi - أية الكرسي
Verse of the Throne
Printed on Artist-Grade Poly-Cotton Canvas. (Ensures Vibrant Prints & Lasts longer)
Wide-format printers, State of the art print labs. (Produced to last over 100 years)
Gallery Wrapped Canvas. (Ready to Hang)
We have partnered with the best print labs to provide quick and efficient deliveries worldwide. Production Time 5-7 Business days.
Shipping details: 5-11 days required for shipping. (Tracking number provided once the product has shipped)
Returns & Cancellations
-Request a cancellation within: 3 hours of purchase. Please email email@example.com with your order details.
If the Artwork arrives damaged or is lost during transit, or a wrong size or different item is shipped, please get in touch with us at email@example.com. We will replace the Artwork at the earliest.
-If you wish to return an item:-
Contact me within: 15 days of delivery
Ship items back within: 30 days of delivery
Conditions of return:-
Buyers are responsible for return shipping costs. If the item is not returned in its original condition, the buyer is responsible for any loss in value.
The following items can't be returned or exchanged
Because of the nature of these items, unless they arrive damaged or defective, I can't accept returns for:
-Custom or personalized orders.
-Items purchased at a discounted price during a sale, or with the use of a coupon.
Artworks are PRINTED
Sizes are mentioned in INCHES. One Inch = 2.54 CM
The Canvas has a low grain texture. As it is printed there is no paint texture.
Wipe clean with a damp cloth. Do not use any chemicals or detergents.


text:
You are all invited to the Tiny-TV Jam, a Pico-8 gamejam in which you'll have to make a tiny game for a tiny TV!
Here is the base cart:
I fixed the fix because it was stealing 7% of CPU from you when the TV was on, sorry about that. Also, no more weird screen display thanks to qbicfeet!
Here are the instructions to use the cart:
I know the instructions are intimidating but it's actually easier than it looks. If you're hesitating, please give it a go and see how it turns out. If you have any question, feel free to ask here.
Here is a video alternative version of the instructions: (sorry for the not-very-good audio :X)
To clarify:
You are more than welcome to customize both your TV and the tiles that are displayed in the background. However, you are not allowed to modify the voxel data and/or the background tiles at runtime.
And here are two reskins if you are into that! You need to click on the [128x64], hit ctrl+c then go to pico-8, sprite-sheet tab 2, first cell there and hit ctrl-v! Don't forget to change the tv_transparency_col and tv_screen_height!
Entries need to be upload here on the BBS, in the Jam section. The created BBS thread needs to be tagged "tinyTVjam"!
If anyone is encountering any problem with the base cart, please report it here as soon as possible!
This is all there is to know.
Good luck and have fun every one!
About the jam:
What: Over a week ago I did a Pico-8 doodle starring a voxel TV on which you could play a tiny Pong on the 10x11 screen. It was then suggested to me to make a jam out of this. This is the invite to this jam.
When: The jam will take place from the January 14th on 00:00 GMT to the January 22th at 24:00 GMT! That would leave you 2 weekends and 5 week days. Spend as much or little time as you need on your carts. You do not have to make something super impressive or anything, it really only has to be something.
Where: Here on the BBS, in the Jam section.
Who: ALL OF YOU!!! You don't have to know Pico-8 super well to participate in this jam. Pico-8 beginners are super welcome! Don't be shy to submit either, you have nothing to lose in it!!
How: A framework cart will be provided at the very start of the jam, with a how-to-use-it guide, stating what you can and can't change along with a few guidelines. The TV will be customizable but the screen resolution will have to stay at 10x11. Expect to be a bit limited in terms of allowed ram. By the way, the invite cart does not use the final framework at all. Teams and collaborations are allowed. There will not be any theme, just make a game for the tiny screen.
Submitting: You will be able to submit your cart before the deadline by creating a Jam thread with "tinyTVjam" in its tags. You can update your cart as many times as you like until the deadline.
Voting: The voting widget used for the p8jam will appear on all threads tagged #tinyTVjam. Voting will be anonymous and it will last the one week just after the jam finished. The results will be announced at the end of the voting period.
What do you win if you win: The high respect and appreciation from the community. And maybe a little surprise. But above all, the aim here is to have fun and make something cool!
During and after the jam, you will be able to browse through the entries from here.
edit ~ Here are some more details that were given further in this thread:
- you can have as much love and instructions as you want in the description of your games.
- you will also be able to have some static text outside the tv but nothing dynamic.
- you can have all the normal controls of Pico-8. The TV will be turned on either with the Player-2-buttons if you don't use them, either with a pause menu option.
- the maximum width for the tv screen is 10 and the maximum height is 11 but you can use less than that if you want to.
ahaha this is an amazing jam idea! i will definitely try to participate. that tv is so cute, and the pong hits are surprisingly very visceral feeling!
This sounds like a lot of fun! I've been trying to learn Pico8 so I joined the forum to take part in this. ^^
Awesome - sounds like a challenge, but also could be a lot of fun! :D
Cool idea! Will participate if I have time. :)
I'm looking forward to this, this'll be fun.
To give you an idea of scale, it can fit 2 characters on 2 lines, so 4 characters total.
I don't think any games will have a story.
I'm still going to try this!
I probably should have mentioned this but you are allowed to have as much lore and instructions as you care to have in the description (you could even do a whole manual and link it as a pdf in the description). But please keep it simple enough that it's actually playable!
I would participate if I didn't suck
I hope we can remove this reflection on tv screen, and tv pixel in corners of screen, as it's robbing us from precious space we have for displaying a game...
How many buttons do we have? Can we have all pico8 buttons (directions + O/X) or can we only have (up,down and X)? I really hope for all buttons...
( If you are against giving players all inputs, because you need to have button to turn on/off tv, consider holding x and o buttons for a second as a restart command.) - Can we put some text above/below tv screen? If so can it be only static (like lore) or something dynamic like player score/health etc.
why not 10x10 though? (I'm a symmetry freak)
...or 12x9 like in good old times :)
Yes, you will be able to remove the reflection on the tv screen, same for the round corners and you will also be able to add any other obstruction if you want to do so!
You'll have the directions + O/X, the TV will be started and shut down with the player 2 buttons.
Static text will be allowed outside the tv screen, but no dynamic stuff.
TV will be reskinnable, just keep the 10x11 screen!
You can use less than 10x11 if you want! :P
TRASEVOL_DOG said:
> the TV will be started and shut down with the player 2 buttons.
please consider a pause menu option for doing that or something...? there's no way to push player 2 buttons when using a (single) controller (which I often do, with the nearest keyboard literally across the room ('cause wireless controller + TV screen))
Good point. There'll be a pause menu option as well then and also you'll be able to disable the player-2-buttons way, in case you want to make a multiplayer game. :)
Thank you everyone for showing your enthusiasm! :D
The Jam starts in just 18 hours now!
As said before, the framework cart will be given at the very start of the jam and the TV will be reskinable! Here is a Strawberry™ TV I made earlier!
That TV will also be downloadable as an alternative skin! :)
See you in 18 hours!! ;D
Question: I noticed the screen is actually 40x44 at the native resolution of 128x128 (screen is 160x176 @ 512x512). So for 10x11 resolution for the games, I assume you mean each pixel has to be 4x4 at native resolution? In other words, we must use a 110 pixel grid? Obviously if we do like a rectfill(0,0,0,0,7), we could fit 40 across and 40 down. I'm pretty sure it means minimum pixel size is 4, but just wanted to clarify.
Another question (admittedly I haven't glanced at the cart code yet): how do we deal with x,y coordinates when the tv/screen moves? Are these normalized somehow (such as the top left of the tv screen always being 0,0), or do we need to somehow compensate for tv/screen position/rotation when calculating coordinates for display objects?
This is all taken care of by the base cart! You just draw things as would normally do but on a 10x11 screen in the _game_draw() function and the base cart will then display it on the TV screen, magnified to 4x4 pixels, as you point it out and at the right position and rotation!
@TRASEVOL_DOG Wow man, sounds like you executed it very smoothly! Thanks for clarifying!
Uh what do you mean Ilkke??
edit: I think I understand your question now! I'm using the BBS gfx sharing feature here! You can click on the [128*64] and then hit ctrl+c, go on the spritesheet in Pico-8, on tab 2 and hit ctrl+v! :)
I added a new available skin, the Space Arcade Cabinet!
I just uploaded a fixed version of the base cart. The only two changes are the following:
- you can now access screen data (through pget) and draw on the screen from the _update_game() function.
- you can now actually delete the optional _set_screen_text() function and the cart will still work.
You don't have to change base cart if you already downloaded the previous one. Both versions of the base cart will be accepted for submission to the jam.
Very sorry for the inconvenience.
(by the way some of you are already making amazing stuff and it makes me really happy)
Thanks for the fix. I had to do pget for collisions because I don't think there's a way to make 1px map tiles, otherwise I'd do mset/fset/mget/fget instead of fillrect for the walls. So I have to do pixel checking for the collisions I think (at least, I'm not sure of a better way.) Thanks for fixing it!
Alright, I found another oddity that isn't a huge deal, but kinda weird. The 5th pixel going completely vertically over the entire height of the screen is about half as wide as the others. So when I move my pixel Pacman across the middle of the screen, he shrinks! Not a huge deal just thought it was a bit weird and wasn't sure if you were aware of it. I'm also not sure if it might somehow be my code, or if that's just how the display is coded to make it fit certain dimensions. I didn't notice it in your Pong game, so maybe it's my code.
Also wanted to bring it up so I don't get disqualified. I'm not intentionally making any pixels smaller than they should be to get around the resolution restrictions.
here's a demonstration (you can see the vertical path above the player is also half as wide, so it affects the whole screen in that column, not just the player):
I was aware of it but I didn't think it would be that easy to fix before looking into it. Not gonna upload a new cart but here's a one-line fix you can copy paste in your _update_game() function:
if tv_angle==0 then tv_angle=0.0001 end |
this is a bit dump but it works.
Ah you're right it doesn't work on the reskins it seems... Hopefully it won't bother anyone too much. Sorry again! ><
@Scathe a game that I'm making looks very similar to yours, oh well :)
@TRASEVOL_DOG Can we use the part of the spritesheet between the bg image and the top of the TV?
OK just found this in the source:
--please note that modifying
--tv_voxmap at runtime is
--against the rules of the jam
An odd place to hide a restriction. Are there any other hidden ones? :)
@TRASEVOL_DOG Call me crazy, but are able/allowed to reskin the TV to REDUCE the resolution?
I may have a need to have pixels in absolute centre for my game, so would need odd number of pixels (even if that means reducing to 9 pixels wide!) :o/
@ilkke yes you can use that part if you need it. :)
And no this is actually the only one hidden in the code I think! I added it just below the instructions on this thread yesterday too because I had people ask me about it. Sorry I didn't make it more clear!
Note also that modifying tv_text is also against the rules of the jam, since the rule is that all text outside the screen should be static. :)
@Liquidream Yes you can reduce the resolution! In fact, SeanS. LeBlanc already did it! :D
I'm pretty sure someone asked how to share a TV skin but then deleted their post... :/
But here's how you do it anyway!
that's a ctrl+C I'm doing at the end after I selected the half of the sprite-sheet and then you ctrl+V in a BBS post. :)
edit: looks like you figured it out! :3 Great skin, I love it!
I discovered that you can fix the awkward column of pixels in the center by changing the line in the off-limits section of code with "local lx=64+tv_xoffset" to "local lx=64.5+tv_xoffset" (note the .5).
Would I be allowed to use fix in my cart?
I fixed the fix! Yesterday's fix was using 7% of CPU for basically nothing when the TV was on so... um... yeah sorry.
Also I added qbicfeet's fix for the screen! Thank you qbicfeet!
hotfix .2 changelog:
- Fixed unfair 7% CPU usage added when TV is on.
- Fixed screen display, no more pixels not having the same size.
Again, very sorry for the inconvenience.
If you want you can apply the changes to the cart yourself:
Remove the "cls()" in the _update, after the "if tv_gameon then",originally at line 177.
In tv_draw_voxels() replace the first "64" after "for l=0,tv_height do", originally at line 269, with "64.5".
@qbicfeet: I invite you to download the new version of the cart or apply both of the changes. Thank you so much for your fix!
btw, is it against the rules to sset() in the voxel data ?
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text:
Last week I worked with VCS Learning Solutions in Manchester to train a group of people who are, or will shortly be, running social media surgeries in different areas of north west England.
A slide I showed describes seven principles for digital mentors, originally created by Stuart Parker. The principles aren't online now, so I've reposted them here with Stuart's permission.
These principles closely match the skills and qualities required of a social media surgery manager, in my view, and I hope you find them useful.
Attentive: Listen up and listen well. Understand needs, fears and desires.
Impartial: While you may be a fervent believer in a service or platform, it doesn't necessarily mean it will be right for others.
Social: Bow down to the network. Your fellow mentors are the key to achieving digital mentor nirvana.
Friendly: Confidence won't improve with negative vibes.
Passionate: Believe in the positive changes technology can bring to everyone's lives.
Lifelong: Understand that this is lifelong learning for everyone, Digital Mentors included.
Innovative: Recognise new and developing technologies and how they can be of benefit to everyone.
Photo: Low Hill Social Media Surgery courtesy of Wolverhampton Homes.


text:
This nutrient information has been updated based on an extensive analysis conducted in conjunction with Health Canada and reflects the new turkey nutrient data available on Health Canada's Canadian Nutrient File website.
How Does Ground Turkey Stack Up? See our comparison chart.
Nutritional Information
Per 100 g
*NE (niacin equivalent) is the unit used to express niacin content of food. It represents preformed niacin plus tryptophan equivalents.
Source: Health Canada. 2010.
Canadian Nutrient File [on line]: