text:
Iridian Spectral Technologies has developed filters and coatings for many satellites and low-earth orbit instrumentation for both terrestrial and stellar observation. This includes large format filters for astronomical observations (single band and multi-band pass filters), light absorbers/black coatings, dichroic mirrors and beam-splitters, and multi-element arrays.
Iridian Spectral Technologies' filters and coatings have been involved in the following satellite instrumentation projects:
They've also supplied custom filters for astronomical observations (some as large as 200mm x 170mm). For more information on how Iridian Spectral Technologies' filters and coating capabilities have been used in space, satellite, and astronomy applications, download the datasheet.


text:
Certified Pre-Owned 2014 Chevrolet Equinox FWD 1LT VIN 1GNALBEK8EZ105882 Stock Number SP1774B
Your Price $13,594
*GM Certified Warranty Included**, **Bluetooth**, **Rear View Camera!**, *FWD*. Priced below KBB Fair Purchase Price! 22/32 City/Highway MPG
White Diamond Tricoat 2014 Chevrolet Equinox LT 1LT 4D Sport Utility FWD 2.4L 4-Cylinder SIDI DOHC 6-Speed Automatic with Overdrive
Chevrolet Certified Pre-Owned Details:
* Vehicle History
* Transferable Warranty
* 24 months/24,000 miles (whichever comes first) CPO Scheduled Maintenance Plan and 3 days/150 miles (whichever comes first) Vehicle Exchange Program
* Warranty Deductible: $0
* 172 Point Inspection
* Roadside Assistance
* Limited Warranty: 12 Month/12,000 Mile (whichever comes first) from certified purchase date
* Powertrain Limited Warranty: 72 Month/100,000 Mile (whichever comes first) from original in-service date
For your peace of mind we have included over 12 photos, for you to judge the condition yourself. As you do your comparison shopping, you will see Ballweg Chevrolet-Buick offers some of the best values in the market. We will provide you a Carfax, Comprehensive Vehicle Inspection, and how we arrived at the price. We may not be the lowest, but if you want to know who is, we will show you that too. Call or Stop by Ballweg Chevrolet-Buick on 783 Phillips Blvd, Sauk City, WI 53583 to schedule a test drive today. Serving the Greater Madison Area. Out of town buyer's free pick-up at the airport. We can help arrange delivery right to your front door too!
* 2014 IIHS Top Safety Pick+ * 2014 IIHS Top Safety Pick+ with optional front crash prevention * 2014 KBB.com Brand Image Awards
* If want a comfortable family/gear hauler that's larger than other compact crossover SUVs but small enough to be at ease in parking lots, the Equinox is worth a look. For those who need to pull moderate loads, the 3,500-pound towing capacity in V6 models is shoulders above most competitors. Source: KBB.com
* Premium look inside and out; strong optional V6 engine; quiet interior; comfortable highway ride; spacious and adjustable backseat. Source: Edmunds
* The 2014 Equinox is Chevrolet's torchbearer in the sizzling compact crossover segment. The Equinox stretches the boundaries of the term compact as it is noticeably larger than its rivals. That size difference affords more room for passengers in the second row seat and a larger presence on the road. The 2014 Chevy Equinox has a comfortable and quiet ride and drives like a more expensive car. It has an edge in passenger comfort, especially in the rear, where the bench seat can move several inches fore and aft to create more legroom. Up front, driver and passenger benefit from generous-sized seats. The 2014 Equinox has a good blend of soft curves at its edges to balance the vehicle's rectangular shape. A long hood further helps even out the Chevy's proportions. It all works to give the Equinox an athletic appearance. Other standout aesthetics include the signature 2-bar grille, floating fog light bezels and creased fender flares. The 2014 Chevrolet Equinox comes standard with a fuel-efficient 4-cylinder engine that makes an adequate 182 horsepower. You may also choose the impressive V6 that puts out 301 horsepower. Both engines are connected to a 6-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive (FWD) is standard with all-wheel-drive as an option for both engines. The 4-cylinder model can tow a maximum of 1,500 pounds while the V6 can pull 3,500 pounds. If you want a small-but-not-too-small SUV with plenty of passenger space, a comfortable ride and good fuel economy, consider the 2014 Chevy Equinox. Source: The Manufacturer Summary

subset: commoncrawl


text:
US Navy officers are currently testing the world's first drone-killing laser capable of blasting targets with 30kW of power.
The $40 million (£30 million) super laser moves at the speed of light and is 'more precise than a bullet', according to naval officers.
Live-tests of the new super laser have now begun in the Persian Gulf, and officials have predicted that it will be used in combat by 2020.
The LaWS, which stands for Laser Weapons System, is currently being tested on board the USS Ponce amphibious transport ship.
'It is more precise than a bullet,' Chris Wells, captain of the USS Ponce, told CNN.
'It's not a niche weapon system like some other weapons that we have throughout the military where it's only good against air contacts, or it's only good against surface targets, or it's only good against, you know, ground-based targets – in this case this is a very versatile weapon, it can be used against a variety of targets.'
LaWS can move at the speed of light, which is 50,000 times the speed of an incoming intercontinental ballistic missile.
'It is throwing massive amounts of photons at an incoming object,' said Lieutenant Cale Hughes, laser weapons system officer.
Officers on board the USS Ponce are currently live-testing the weapon, using an aerial drone as a target.
These kinds of weaponized UAVs are increasingly being used by Iran, North Korea, China and Russia, the officers said.
During a test, a weapon can automatically zero in on a target.
'We don't have to lead a target,' Lt. Hughes said.
'We're doing that engagement at the speed of light so it really is a point and shoot – we see it, we focus on it, and we can negate that target.'
As soon as the laser makes contact with a drone, the vehicle heats to a temperature of more than 1,000°F (537°C) and explodes.
'It operates in an invisible part of the electromagnetic spectrum so you don't see the beam, it doesn't make any sound, it's completely silent and it's incredibly effective at what it does,' said Lt. Hughes.
The weapon is also extremely precise, which could minimise deaths in wartime, according to the Navy.
Captain Wells said: 'It reduces collateral damage. I no longer have to worry about rounds that may go beyond the target and potentially hurt or damage things that I don't want to hurt or damage.'
The $40 million weapon uses its own small generator to blast targets with 30kW of power and costs 'about a dollar a shot', according to the officers.
They added that the laser will be used to destroy aircraft and small boats, and could be deployed as soon as 2020.
'It's designed with the intent of being able to counter airborne and surface-based threats,' said Hughes.
'And it's been able to prove itself over the last three years as being incredibly effective at that.'


text:
Would you rather have
1) 2 Spys, No Paddy
2) 1 Spy, 1 Paddy
3) 2 Spys, 1 Paddy (excessive???)
3 I wouldnt say its excessive at all! Your collection should be as large as you want it to be. Option 2 would be cool too though, good mix.
no. 2 --> one of each is good.
I'd rather have #2, one of each. That way the rest of my money can go to other bags
#3 for sure!!!!!! never too excessive, never too many purses!!!
Well, if you're really crazy about the Spy like I am then, #3...otherwise, one of each #2. I have the Cognac and Black Spy and just ordered a Whiskey Paddy, it might be excessive, but I love them !
#2 one of each
Well, if we could have 2 and 1 why would we choose anything else?
There are lots of gals who have 2 of the same style/brand bag if they love the style/brand. It would only be weird if they were the same color/style/brand. :blink:
I'd vote for #2, a Spy and a Paddy.
Let me say that I absolutely love the Spy! If you really like it I'd get two! (Can you tell I'm not a paddington fan?) But, 1 of each would be the best of both worlds. All three would be the best, but if you're like me (broke) it may be hard to accomodate, especially since a each spy is going to be over $2K
I love the Spy, but not really the Paddy. Is it too much to have 2 of the same styles or it it better to have a variety of bags?
If you don't really love the paddy then don't get it. I think it's better that you have 2 bags that you love, even if they are the same style, then to have 1 bag you love and one bag you think is ok. Especially when they cost $2000 each.
2 Spys, no Paddy.
#2!! But if I had a choice of either or, I would rather have a Spy.


text:
presents serial archive listings for
The Silver Cross was the official organ of the International Order of the King's Daughters and Sons, an interdenominational Christian service organization.
The International Order of the King's Daughters was founded in 1886, and The Silver Cross began not long afterwards. While The Silver Cross does not appear to be regularly published now, the Order still exists today.
This is a record of a major serial archive. This page is maintained for The Online Books Page. (See our criteria for listing serial archives.) This page has no affiliation with the serial or its publisher.
Help with reading books -- Report a bad link -- Suggest a new listing
Home -- Search -- New Listings -- Authors -- Titles -- Subjects -- Serials
Books -- News -- Features -- Archives -- The Inside Story
Edited by John Mark Ockerbloom (email@example.com)
OBP copyright and licenses.


text:
Strada Series Folio leather Galaxy S7 edge case blends handcrafted style and premium protection.
What do 24+ tests and 238+ hours of testing mean to you? They mean your OtterBox case is ready to dive into your day without a second thought — just like you are. OtterBox Certified Drop+ Protection means drops, bumps and fumbles are just the beginning. It means your device is protected from the barrage of wear & tear you subject it to everyday. So go ahead — do what you do and leave the protection to us.


text:
Raiden has no bio in this game.
Lightning:Down, Forward, Low Punch.
Torpedo:Back, Back, Forward.
Teleport:Down, Up.
Combo 1:High Kick, Low Kick, High Kick.
Combo 2:High Punch, Down + Low Punch, Down + Low Punch, Down + Low Punch.
Fatality 1:(Sweep) Forward, Back, Back, Back, High Punch.
Babality:Up, Up, Down, High Kick.
Stage Fatalities:Down, Down, Forward, High Kick.
Brutality:High Punch, High Punch, High Punch, High Punch, Block, Block, High Kick, High Kick, High Kick, Block, Low Punch, High Punch, High Punch.
When Outworld and Earth merge, Raiden finds himself battling Shao Kahn without the assistance of the Elder Gods. The Thunder God must transform into a mortal in order to exist in the combined realms.
When he does this, he puts his own immortality at risk. But Raiden has always found ways of fouling Kahn's plots. He guides the chosen Earth warriors into battle against the Outworld Emperor's armies, then finally faces Kahn himself.
The powerful beings fight until the very core of the Earth is shaken, and Raiden emerges victorious.


text:
Bail Bond Surety Oversight Board
***Please contact the Insurance Department for more information about this board***
31A-35-201. Bail Bond Surety Oversight Board.
(1) There is created a Bail Bond Surety Oversight Board within the department, consisting of:
(a) the following seven voting members to be appointed by the commissioner:
(i) one representative each from four licensed bail bond surety companies;
(ii) two members of the general public who do not have any financial interest in or professional affiliation with any bail bond surety company; and
(iii) one attorney in good standing licensed to practice law in Utah; and
(b) a nonvoting member who is a staff member of the insurance department appointed by the commissioner.
(2) (a) The appointments are for terms of four years. A board member may not serve more than two consecutive terms.
(b) The insurance commissioner shall, at the time of appointment or reappointment of a board member described in Subsection (1)(a), adjust the length of terms to ensure that the terms of board members are staggered so approximately half of the board is appointed every two years.
(3) A board member serves until:
(a) removed by the insurance commissioner;
(b) the member's resignation; or
(c) for a member described in Subsection (1)(a), the expiration of the member's term and the appointment of a successor.
(4) When a vacancy occurs in the membership of a board member described in Subsection (1)(a) for any reason, the replacement shall be appointed for the remainder of the unexpired term.
(5) The board shall annually elect one of its members as chair.
(6) Four voting members constitute a quorum for the transaction of business.
(7) (a) A member described in Subsection (1)(a) does not receive compensation or benefits for the member's services, but may receive per diem and expenses incurred in the performance of official duties at the rates established by the Division of Finance under Sections 63A-3-106 and 63A-3-107.
(b) A member described in Subsection (1)(a) may decline to receive per diem and expenses for the member's services.
(8) (a) The commissioner, with a majority vote of the board, may remove any member of the board described in Subsection (1)(a) for misconduct, incompetency, or neglect of duty.
(b) The board shall conduct a hearing if requested by the board member described in Subsection (1)(a) that is to be removed.
(9) Members of the board are immune from suit with respect to all acts done and actions taken in good faith in carrying out the purposes of this chapter.
Amended by Chapter 307, 2007 General Session
There are no positions present in this board.


text:
The Group
We do Microsoft Enterprise Solutions the Right Way.
Industry Leading MVPs and Consultants
The Big Hat Group Inc. specializes in solving those problems that no one else can solve. We deliver high-level analyses and solutions for large organizations. We do that by working with MVPs and leading industry consultants. One of Big Hat Group's key founders is Kevin Kaminski, one of the most knowledgeable and dedicated Microsoft Application Virtualization specialists around.
We strongly believe in promoting continuous self-improvement in our consultants given the fast-paced nature of our industry. We do that by facilitating skill development among our consultants and ensuring that they have the time they need to upgrade their training and advance their career tracks. We are not in the game of breeding managers, we identify and work with quality consultants who are capable and passionate about what they do.
We focus on select technologies where we can build in-house knowledge, and design efficiencies into the daily workflow of IT Managers by teaching them our own best practices.
Advanced Training
At Big Hat Group we offer training to suit a variety of different situations whether it be on-site, remote or custom content. We do not offer commodity training that only delivers a basic knowledge on the operation of a product but dive deeper into the architecture and troubleshooting necessary to be successful. Our course portfolio is limited because of our deep focus on select products.
Microsoft Application Virtualization
Big Hat Group in conjunction with TMurgent Technologies has been maintaining and delivering Microsoft Application Virtualization master classes since 2007. Our five day course goes through the concepts, architecture, administration and sequencing of application with App-V.
Our courseware is designed to go over many real-world scenarios so the student can get a better understanding of what considerations need to be accounted for when packaging and delivering isolated applications using App-V 5.0.
This course is not intended to achieve a basic understanding of how to operate the technology, rather to provide an understanding of the product at a deeper level so the student can diagnose and troubleshoot the product.
We've found that similar courses offered by vendors fail to go over these aspects because they only cover the basic use-case scenarios, and, as a result, we find this to be incomplete for most users of the technology especially when it comes to sequencing applications with App-V.
Beginning at the conceptual level the course quickly dives into the architecture and the administration of App-V applications using no infrastructure, management servers to using Configuration Manager 2012. The majority of the course focuses on the sequencing (packaging) of applications so that they work within the framework of Microsoft Application Virtualization.
Our courseware is updated several times a year to keep pace with the updates that are released for App-V because of the very technical nature of the product where capabilities are added and bugs are fixed. Nothing is more frustrating than learning how to accomplish a task in the classroom only to find that the knowledge is out-dated or worse, invalid.
To learn more about our App-V training options go to our App-V training page here.
Enterprise Grade Solutions
At Big Hat Group we pick select technology partners that closely align to our primary skills and have a proven history in the enterprise. Our focus is not to push licenses but to align with vendors to provide the right technology for the situation. We often are called in to perform "bake offs" and other technology assessments for organizations as small as 1000 users to organizations with 130,000 users.
Kevin Kamniski
The Big Hat
Kevin Kaminski is a seasoned consultant with over 19 years' experience focusing mainly on Microsoft technologies that range from device management to the data center. Using his experiences from different organizations large and small he is able to draw upon practical knowledge that he incorporates into his speaking engagements, training materials, articles and consulting engagement.
As an 8 time Microsoft MVP Kevin delivers and maintains an App-V masters class with fellow MVP Tim Mangan.
He also spends time blogging and speaking at various engagements such as Briforum. To assist his local IT community he sits as a director on the Calgary IT Pro User Group and manages the Calgary Systems Management User Group special interest group.
Our consultants have a firm understanding of Microsoft solutions and this is the primary building block of our skill set for our consultants. Windows is the primary operating system in the majority of enterprise environments and we are here to help our customer manage large scale Windows deployments. We specialize in management and automation technologies to reduce the cost of supporting applications inside and outside the data center.
With the introduction of Azure infrastructure as a service we have decided to support the Microsoft stack as we believe it aligns to many customer's needs as cloud architectures become more widely accepted and commonplace. Azure is a rapidly developing set of offerings from Microsoft which we support at an infrastructure level. If you need cloud backup or moving parts of your data center to the cloud we have been there and we work closely with Microsoft to be on top of the latest developments.
Citrix has long been the gold standard for hosting end user Windows workspaces in the data center by not only being the industry incumbent, but also being first in this field to offer this technology.
Being that we have extensive experience with application virtualization it was only natural to align to a vendor that often drives the use of application virtualization inside the data center.
Citrix has evolved into many different things but we keep our skill set more closely aligned with the XenApp and XenDesktop offerings.
Unidesk is one of our newer alliances, we decided that it was about time to adopt application layering as a skill set to complement our relationship with Citrix.
We still love and support App-V, but inside the data center with specific consideration to stateless VDI we needed to evaluate technologies that may provide a better administrator and user experience than using application virtualization on its own.
Unidesk is a recognized leader in this space and this has made us choose this vendor as an enterprise grade solution in this field. We are committed to further pursuing this technology and developing a relationship with this vendor.


text:
Brand of the Month: Allen Edmonds
Allen Edmonds: The Heritage
Established in 1922, Allen Edmonds has created a rich heritage in the shoe industry. Their commitment to providing the customer with a high quality, comfortable shoe with timeless design has made them a beacon in the industry. Throughout their history, the company has weathered the varied financial climates of the nation, supported soldiers by providing footwear during World War II, and prospered with US made products while other companies have outsourced their production overseas to cut costs. By providing shoes to soldiers in the Army and Navy during World War II, Allen Edmonds created a fiercely loyal customer base once the war was over and the men had to return to the professional workforce. The loyalty of the customer base has passed from generation to generation. Many of Allen Edmonds shoes are recraftable, meaning you can repair the soles and heels and restore the uppers once they begin to show signs of wear.
|Allen Edmonds' Delray
The Delray is a dress oxford by Allen Edmonds. The tapered close seamed, split-toe and plug overlay give this five-eyelet blucher a distinguished look. Full leather linings and a regular welt give the Delray superior comfort without sacrificing style. It also offers a single oak leather sole with a custom stacked leather heel with a 360° Goodyear welt. The Delray is made of the finest quality materials in the USA. It comes in full and half sizes and varied widths.
|Allen Edmonds' Maxfield
The Maxfield is a classic styled handsewn moccasin that's versatility can be paired with casual dress on the weekend or dress slacks. It features woven leather detailing on the saddle and on the collar. Its handsewn leather tassles lend a classic look to this fully lined leather moccasin. The Maxfield has a single oak leather sole with a custom stacked heel on a 360° last. It is constructed using Allen Edmonds tubular moc construction which ensures a lightweight, flexible yet durable shoe. The Maxfield is USA constructed of the finest imported leathers.
|Allen Edmonds' Strand
A standard in the Allen Edmonds collection since 1983, the Strand embodies refined elegance. As a part of the Timeless Classics collection, this cap toe balmoral features perfing details and a medallion toe. The Strand is an excellent addition to any professional wardrobe. . It also offers a single oak leather sole with a custom stacked leather heel with a 360° Goodyear welt. The Strand is made of the finest quality materials in the USA. It comes in full and half sizes and varied widths.


text:
My name is Monica and I am a recovering Chicken Nugget Fiend. Yes, as a youngster, I happily bounced through the golden arches for the delicious morsels. Now that I've peered behind the scenes of that culinary process….EEEEEEKS!!! Let's make our own delicious and nutritious homemade chicken nuggets instead.
These are fantastically fun snacks for the kids and serving these with yummy dipping sauces really takes me back! Check out this homemade BBQ sauce – I think you'll love it.
Homemade chicken nuggets ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken breast*
- 2-3 eggs**
- 1 cup blanched almond flour – get almond flour here
- 2 tablespoons arrowroot – get arrowroot here
- 2 tablespoons Pecorino Romano
- 2 tablespoons chopped dehydrated onions – get dehydrated onion flakes here
- 1 ½ teaspoon unrefined sea salt – get sea salt here
- 1 teaspoon granulated garlic
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne
Homemade chicken nuggets method
- Chop chicken into 2 inch nuggets.
- Using a whisk or fork to mix blanched almond flour and all spices in one bowl.
- Beat eggs in another bowl.
- Submerge a each chicken nugget in egg wash and then dredge in almond flour spice mixture.
- Carefully lay each nugget on a parchment lined baking sheet. Do not crowd.
- Bake in oven preheated to 400° for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Chef's Notes:
*You may also use dark meat but I find breast meat gives you the classic chicken nuggets to perfection.
**If you have extra egg whites around, this is a great place to use them.
This post was generously contributed by Monica Ford of Real Food Devotee. If you're lucky enough to live in Los Angeles, Real Food Devotee can make your life easier by delivering nutrient dense goodies directly to your door.
photo credit: An Eye Full Studio


text:
County students receive literary awards
The Howard County Poetry and Literature Society presented 29 book awards to county students last week.
Fifteen were nominated by English teachers in recognition of student "promise and achievement." The others were winners in the HoCoPoLitSo's All-County Creative Writing competition.
First-place winners in the writing competition include Ryan McAllister of Oakland Mills High School for poetry; Kenny Lin of Atholton High School for short story; and Daniel Contreni of Wilde Lake High School for personal essay.


text:
Summery- Gray has NEVER had a single girlfriend in his 17 years of life. His mother gets him a Totodile and then weird things happen... The Totodile becomes a human! What's going on?! Will going on a Pokemon journey give Gray the answers to his questions? Why did the Totodile become a human? What does Gray's father have to do with any of this? Will Gray EVER get a girlfriend? (Unlikely) Read to find out For ages 13 and up Warning- May contain death, blood and Implications
January 16th, 2010, 1:35 am
Author's Comments:
Reply Advertisement, December 15th, 2018, 4:47 pm
User's Comments:
Reply Phoenix of Chaos, January 16th, 2010, 5:01 am
Were you using some of my descriptions when making a couple of these gijinkas? :P
Reply ookami_mangetsu, January 16th, 2010, 4:31 pm
Not particularly...though one must wonder about that sometimes...
Reply Phoenix of Chaos, January 17th, 2010, 4:43 pm
Hey, I wasn't complaining, I was just wondering.
Post A Comment


text:
My beautiful journey with my little princess...the joys, experiences, frustrations n rewards of being a mommy to my two lovely princesesses :-)
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Planning That Birthday Party....
It was my little one's birthday two days ago…..and man, was I rushed?!!!! To give you an idea of how busy and mad these last few days have been, I was planning to write and share this before the birthday, but ended up getting some time and writing it only now. She turned three this year, seems like a miracle – I still can't understand how and when time flew by and where did all those moments go from the time she was born till now? All parents say this all the time, they don't realize how soon time went by, that one day they look at their little one and instead, they see a grown-up, all independent and busy in her own life and friends.
Well now that she is turning three, she already has a huge network of friends. So one thing I really needed to keep in mind was to remember each and every friend of hers whom she really loves being with, as also those who had invited her for their own birthday parties. Also, last year we had done an elaborate celebration at a pre-planned venue, so this year we decided to throw a party at home, with lots of music and fun. But that means there is so much work to do. And with around 20 kids and a few adults being invited, it also means that we need to be extremely careful and organized while planning the whole thing.
These are a few tips that may help you while arranging for your little one's party, whether at home or a pre-planned venue:
For a pre-arranged venue, these are the key things you need to keep in mind:
Make a separate list of how many children and how many adults will be attending, including your own family.
Find out what is the children's menu and make it clear that you want things to be done less spicy (or zero spice, as is required). Many venues have special birthday menus that cater to popular and non-messy items for children. If the venue will not arrange for food, make sure you check with the caterers or any other option you have in mind. Sometimes, a venue may not deal in providing food but they do have tie-ups with caterers who handle the food arrangements. Check about the same.
Remember to order the cake at least two-to-three days before the birthday. Also, take into account the number of guests and accordingly place the order. Sometimes, kids like to have more than one slice of the birthday cake. It is alright to have a little extra cake than to run out of it and having to refuse the children. You can always share the extra cake.
Check about the music. Many venues will ask you to bring your own music. That is also a better idea as you would know best the kind of music that is enjoyed by your child and the guests who have been invited.
Return gifts are a major area which needs your attention. What to gift depends pretty much on the age group of the children. Keep the gifts interesting and age-appropriate. Sometimes, children open the return gifts at the birthday venue, thus making other kids also want the same gift (if you have different gifts). If possible, try and keep the return gifts as age-neutral as you can. Something as simple as a fancy drawing and colouring kit works quite well with children of different age groups.
If you are planning to host the birthday party at home, keeping these few things in mind could help a lot:
Creating space: having a birthday party at home means lots of young children and lots of energy and jumping and running about. Kids will need the space and you would want to safe-guard your precious or delicate items. If you have allocated a special room or area for the celebrations, try to remove the furniture or breakables to a different room. You may convert one room to a kind of storage for that particular day and keep it out-of-bounds while the guests are there.
Valued away: remember to keep all your valuables and important documents in a place where it is out-of-reach of those tiny but ever-curious hands.
Keeping it safe: since there will be so many children around, you do not want to take any chances of any one getting hurt. Remove all glass items and things that might cause injury. Removing any sharp-edged items is a good idea.
Decorations: get lots of balloons, streamers, ribbons and other decorations and do up the place. Bring party hats and hand it to all the kids. Make it fun.
Birthday dress: if you still need to shop for her birthday dress while the birthday is just a few days away, do it now. You may not find the dress you/she has in mind, the size may not fit or there may be any other problem. Keep some time in hand. If you have already got a perfect dress for your little princess's special day, remember she will need shoes to match too. It is her birthday and she will be the focus of all eyes. Co-ordinate her dress and take time out to get shoes and other accessories if you are planning to get them new.
Making the guest list: this is a tricky one as many times you will end up inviting more than you initially intended, and sometimes, you may even need to invite people not as much for friendship as out of courtesy. Some one might have invited your little one to their kid's birthday and now you have to return that courtesy. Other times it could just be that though you are not too pally with that particular family, they always extend a warm hello to you. Sometimes, these things matter a lot while creating a birthday invitation list.
Birthday invitation card: there are many options available at your local stationer's for a birthday invitation, but nothing is more special than creating a birthday invite at home. Simple as it may sound, it is a hugely time consuming job and requires immense patience and concentration. So if you are ready to invest some time for the same, remember to bring in the stationery well in advance. You would ideally need to invite everyone at least a week in advance, and creating cards would take up quite some time.
Food: check how many kids and how many adults are there in the list and select the menu accordingly.
Set a time: set a start and finish time for the party. Remember to clearly state in the invite the timings of the party, from when to when. If possible, mention the time when you are planning to cut the cake. During the celebrations, keep an eye on the clock and start giving feelers to guests at least half an hour before you want to wrap it all up.
Keeping it tidy: place bins at strategic locations. Show the bins to the children and tell them to dispose all garbage in the same. Keep extra spoons and packs of tissues on the table.
Keep the supplies extra: keep some extra paper plates, paper cups, disposable spoons, straws and loads of tissue.
Keep an eye on the little ones: if you are too busy, make sure there is someone around to keep an eye on your little one.
Seating: make sure there is enough space for people to sit or lounge around. If there is not enough space to sit, try and make some space where adults can stand together and chat.
Music: make a DVD of your child's favourite tracks and keep it ready. Play it in advance to avoid any problem once the party starts.
Enough light: it is a party and you may want to make the lights a little dim. Just ensure that the children are always under adult supervision, especially the really little ones.
Keep balconies out of bounds: if you have a balcony at home, make sure the door is safely locked. You may feel you can keep an eye on everything, but there is no telling when something might need your attention and the kids are left alone and unattended. An open balcony area is a huge safety hazard.
Keeping the gifts safe: if possible, entrust someone with the responsibility of keeping away all the gifts as soon as they arrive. There will be many children in the house and they too may want some of the gifts. Also, remember to keep the name tags attached as it will help you later to thank each one accordingly.
Medical kit: too many children in the house can mean injuries and cuts. Remember to keep a first-aid kit handy.
Return gifts: again, these should always be as age-appropriate as possible, but if you feel there is too much mixing of age-groups and if there is a chance of children crying over someone else's return gift, try and keep it a neutral (something that can be used in all age groups) and same.
Cameready: remember to check your camera beforehand. If it is a manual one you may want to get yourself an extra set of reels. If it is a digital camera, remember to keep the batteries charged.
ADULT SUPERVISION: THIS IS NEEDED AT ALL TIMES, WHETHER AT AN OUTSIDE VENUE OR AT HOME. Remeber, IF YOU ARE NOT SURE OF KEEPING AN EYE ON EACH AND EVERY KID WHO IS PRESENT IN THE HOUSE, DO NOT PLAN THE PARTY AT HOME OR WITHOUT THE PARENTS.
These are more or less the things you need to keep in mind while planning a birthday party for your little one. So get ready and begin planning now. After all, you don't want to get into a mad frenzy as the D-day arrives.
Posted by Debolina Raja at 11:38:00 PM
Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)


text:
This blog post is authored by Juan M. Lavista, Principal Data Scientist at Microsoft.
Imagine you own a restaurant in a city (any city but not Seattle*). From inside the restaurant there's no way to see the outside. You come up with a marketing plan that if it rains, your restaurant will provide free food. Given that there are no windows, you use the following model to determine if it is raining – if there's at least one customer that comes into the restaurant with a wet umbrella you conclude that it's raining. Initially, this model will be very accurate. After all, in what other circumstances would someone walk in with a wet umbrella? However, if you decide to disclose the umbrella rule to all your customers, do you believe that this model would continue to be accurate?
Information on how the model works and how features behave within a given model can be very useful if used wisely. However, if this information is used incorrectly, it can actually hurt the accuracy of the model.
Models require that the set of signals/features have information that are predictive. However, the relationship between these signals/features and the outcome do not necessarily need to be causal. This means that the feature might be indicative/correlated but not necessarily the cause of what we are trying to predict.
For example, let's say we need to predict [C], but we can only measure [B] as feature, and [B] does not affect [C]. The real cause that affects [C] is [A], but we cannot measure [A]. [A] on the other hand also affects [B], so we can use [B] as way to predict [C].
So let's say we estimate this model and it gives very good predictions of [C]. However, we later release the model to the public who take advantage of this information and start targeting changes in [B] directly. At this point, the information being provided by [B] to the model is no longer only associated to [A] so it loses prediction power for predicting [C]. By releasing the model to the public, we actually end up hurting the accuracy of the model.
A real world example is Pagerank[1]. Pagerank provides a way to rank the importance of a webpage based on which other websites have links to this particular website. The basis of the model is that if a document is important or relevant, other websites will reference it and include links to it, and when the links naturally happens the ranking works. However, once you make this model open to the general public, there are clear incentives to rank higher in a search result. What ends up happening is that users will try to game the system, for example, by buying backlinks to try to increase the ranking of their website. In reality, if we artificially increase the links to a website, this will not mean the website is more relevant, this is just gaming the system. By disclosing how the algorithm works we are actually hurting the accuracy of the model.
Credit Scores
The design objective of the FICO credit risk score is to predict the likelihood that a consumer will go 90 days past due (or worse) in the subsequent 24 months after the score has been calculated. Credit scores are another place where disclosing rules ends up hurting the model. For example myfico states: "Research shows that opening several credit accounts in a short period of time represents a greater risk – especially for people who don't have a long credit history." [2] This type of study shows correlation but not causation. These findings can help predict credit risk, however, by disclosing these rules, the credit agency incurs the risk that users will learn how to game the system and hurt their credit risk prediction.
Not All Information Hurts the Models
If the relationship between the feature and the outcome is causal, the outcome is different. For example, if I'm building a model for predicting blood pressure using the amount of exercise as feature, by providing this information to the public I will actually help the users. Given that the relationship between exercise and blood pressure is causal [3], it will not hurt the accuracy of the model.
Before publicly sharing information about how your model works, it is important to understand if the relationship between the features and the outcome are causal. The rule of thumb is the following:
If the relationship between the feature and the outcome is not causal, especially if the signal/feature is easy to change – for example, by buying links, or by walking in with an umbrella in the examples above – and there are reasons why people have incentives to affect the actual outcome, then we might be at risk of users gaming the system.
Even if we do not disclose how the model works, we still might be at risk because users may find out. It's important to understand and evaluate the risk and monitor your systems periodically.
Follow me on Twitter
*This model will not work in Seattle because Seattleites do not carry umbrellas 🙂
[1] The PageRank Citation Ranking: Bringing Order to the Web. Page, Lawrence and Brin, Sergey and Motwani, Rajeev and Winograd, Terry (1999) The PageRank Citation Ranking: Bringing Order to the Web. Technical Report. Stanford InfoLab.
[2] How my FICO Score is calculated
[3] Exercise: A drug-free approach to lowering high blood pressure by Mayo Clinic


text:
The Shaker Beadboard is a cabinet door featuring a recessed center panel with decorative vertical notches. This center panel is the beadboard, which is a milled piece with expertly crafted grooves. The Shaker Beadboard design suits traditionally-styled kitchens best; especially farmhouse themed layouts. Dark paint can give the Shaker Beadboard a rich and rustic look, while lighter colors can help create a more transitional feel where tradition meets elegance. As always, our MDF cabinet doors are custom-made to fit your kitchen, and are designed with ease of installment as one of our main objectives. The Shaker Beadboard door is perfect for homeowners looking for clean but decorative solutions that do not require time consuming and labor-intensive efforts to install. For an extra $8.00 per door, you can receive hidden hinges with your order that won't intervene with the flawless look of your Beadboard. One of the easiest and most visually rewarding remodeling projects a homeowner can take on is upgrading their kitchen cabinet doors, and with the help of our team, you can make your dream kitchen a reality.
Thickness: 5/8"
$23.45 - up to 18 15/16" wide by 30 15/16" high
$28.45 - over 19" wide by 31" high


text:
There are two kind of baldness solutions. One is temporary and second permanent. Many clinics and center offer hair replacement in Dubai. Temporary solution for baldness does not require operation theater or medical license. It is artificial fibers which technician can put on your scalp. However these are modified wigs and you need to replace their adhesives and tapes regularly. Every month you need to visit same center for trimming or cutting of your own existing hair regrowth. This is important step as your own hair grow then artificial wig adhesives or tapes became loose and you need adjustment. Every day you need special shampoo and washing to this wig. You need to spare at least 45 minutes for your head preparation. If you can calculate constant spending on this artificial wig every month, total cost will be much higher than permanent hair restoration.
What is permanent solution for baldness in Dubai?
Many clinics offer surgical hair replacement in Dubai. It is a permanent solution of baldness as hair grow with passage of time. Medical license or Board certification is required and special permission from Ministry of health as well. It is specialized field and surgical skills required. Though in this competitive world, permanent hair replacement in Dubai is offered at best prices. But when we compare to Pakistan, India or Turkey, prices are much higher in Dubai.
Incision free and scar free solution for baldness
Continuous advances and research in the field of hair transplant, follicular unit extraction getting more popularity due to incision free and without scar procedure. Fue procedure will cost you 15000 AED to 20,000 AED single procedure in Dubai while same procedure in Pakistan will cost you 5000 AED to 8000 AED even including return air ticket and hotel stay. Dr. Ahmad Chaudhry is an experienced hair restoration surgeon in Pakistan and people are coming all across the globe for best result due to his skill and expertise.


text:
The neocons are at it again. Bill Kristol doesn't like that Vietnam Veteran and potential Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel has a more reasoned view on the use of force than Kristol and other neocons.
So what's Kristol do? He tosses out the outrageous, false attack that Chuck Hagel is anti-Israel. By extension, of course, it's implied that he must be anti-Semitic.
I won't dignify Kristol's smears by repeating what he wrote in The Weekly Standard. But if you're interested in reading about them, and a well-written take-down of them, I suggest reading Dana Milbank's excellent piece at the Washington Post, here.
What I will say is this: Kristol is offensive, wrong, and this kind of swift boating must stop, now.
I know Chuck Hagel, and consider him a friend. I'm also Jewish.
I know who Senator Hagel is, and what he stands for. I also know anti-Semitism when I see it, and for William Kristol to use this line of attack - crying wolf - against Senator Hagel seriously undermines real anti-Semitism when it arises.
If William Kristol wants to have a real debate on the real issues, let's have it. Let's have a debate on the neocon military policy of preemptive war, interventionism, and nation building versus a more reasoned approach, with use of the military as a last resort.
That's a debate we'd win. It's a debate Chuck Hagel would win, should he be nominated to be Secretary of Defense. And that's why neocons like William Kristol will do anything to keep that debate from happening.
It is up to the media to stand up to these smears and call them what they are, and reject them. This doesn't mean they have to support Senator Hagel's nomination, should it happen. But it does mean they should call a spade a spade, and not allow right-wing noisemakers to rob the country of the chance to fully examine and consider a man for Secretary of Defense, who is eminently qualified for the job - especially because he is a combat veteran.
More importantly, it's now up to us to reject these kinds of smears - and not allow a real debate of two very different views of American use-of-force to be skirted by outrageous and false attacks. If we don't stand up to it now - if we don't show that it won't be that easy for the neocons to avoid a real debate - then on what issue or nominee will they not try this tactic? What debates will they be able to avoid, by simply tossing out a grotesque distortion of a person's words and actions?
The answer, of course, is there is no stopping them, once they get started. That's why these kinds of attacks must stop - now.


text:
Barkly Highway State School provides leadership opportunities to students across the school. School captains are voted for by the students and staff. In 2018, we have two school captains and two vice-school captains.
House Captain are as follows:
Abel-Smith (red), Bowen (green) and Athlone (blue), has two captains and two vice captains. This year, Kent (yellow) has two captains and three vice captains. Additionally, two students from each class represent each class and form the Student Council which is supervised by teachers.
© The State of Queensland (Department of Education) 2018


text:
In the headlines
8 March 2017
Holly Willoughby has spoken about her concerns that her three children may be dyslexic like her. She uses coloured scripts and advance checks on the autocue for her role as presenter on ITV's "This Morning". She feels that schools are better at spotting the signs of dyslexia now and so her children would be picked up sooner. She was diagnosed at 15. She also says that teaching has become more visual since she was at school.
9 March 2017
Dyslexia Scotland has been given double funding of £200,000 for 2017/18 by the Scottish Government. They have developed three online training modules called Introduction to dyslexia and inclusive practice which will be available on Addressing Dyslexia, Open University and Dyslexia Scotland's websites and through Education Scotland's digital sites.
18 March 2017
SNP Conference calls for more support for adults in obtaining dyslexia assessment by being able to access assessments in the workplace. The cost for an evaluation can range from £300-£500 when done privately.
23 March 2017
SEND learners are airbrushed from education policy says Chris Rossiter, Director of Driver Youth Trust in his report "Through the Looking Glass: Is universal provision what it seems?" Having reviewed 21 influential reports on achieving higher levels of literacy he feels the agencies involved ignore the 1.2 million children with SEND.


text:
This one was so fun to make. I used a crocodile-look paper, but you could do it in black or brown plain paper or emboss it with a leather or croc-look embossing folder, too. The Briefcase measures 3½" x 2 1/8" closed, and is oh so cute! ; )
The svg is $2.50 USD. Please use the Donate button to order, and leave a note in the 'Purpose' line, telling me which file it is you are ordering. Upon notification from Paypal of funds received, I will email you the svg and the scut2 file. Thanks so much for your interest!


text:
Can you imagine living with the time-honored tradition (bolstered by an official decree of government) of not being able to leave your job without giving two years notice? Or not being able to travel as far as a mile away from your home and job without receiving official permission? Can you imagine being so valued that you are not allowed to dig in a garden for fear you might hurt your hands? Can you imagine a time when although the same raw materials and tools are available to all, the special craft surrounding crystal and glass manufacture is passed only through family tradition from one person down to the next?
Such is the case among glassworkers in factories in France and elsewhere in the 17th century. Continuity was such that even today, the family names around Moselle Lorraine in France where glassmaking is believed to have been ongoing since the 15th century are still found. Glassmaking was a competitive business filled with experimentation and exploration in the manner of pouring, flattening, and refiring and using carefully concocted combinations of potash, sand, iron oxide, fern-ash, limestone, and manganese to produce clarity in glass; particularly window glass.
For those who have visited the glass flowers at Harvard University (Cambridge, Massachusetts) in the Ware Collection of Glass Models of Plants, you may recall that the story of sharing glass processes developed over generations repeats with the Blaschka family. Father Leopold and son Rudolf who created on average one glass flower specimen model every 5 days for 50 years experimented and created. Leopold having learned from his father and before him Leopold's grandfather, passed forward his knowledge to Rudolf. When asked about the secrets in glass making they employed, Leopold wrote to his benefactor Miss Ware: "Many people think that we have some secret apparatus by which we can squeeze glass suddenly into these forms, but it is not so. We have tact. My son Rudolf has more than I have, because he is my son, and tact increases in every generation. The only way to become a glass modeler of skill, I have often said to people, is to get a good great-grandfather who loved glass; then he is to have a son with like tastes; he is your grandfather. He in turn will have a son who must, as your father, be passionately fond of glass. You, as his son, can then try your hand, and it is your own fault if you do not succeed. But, if you do not have such ancestors, it is not your fault."
Leopold and Rudolf Blaschkas made these glass models between 1890 through 1936 shipping them from the family studio in Hosterwitz, Germany to Cambridge. Leopold died in 1895, but Rudolf continued on his own stopping only 3 years before his death. Rudolf had no children.
So the secret, it seems is to come from a family passionate about glass or at least, in the case of paperweight makers to pair passion and practice, with persistence and develop a keen awareness of hand and eye in relationship to glass on the end of a pipe.
The glass orchid in image was created by the Blaschkas for the Botanical Museum of Harvard University.


text:
I watched Breakfast at Tiffany's for the first time last night
and I found it heartbreaking :(! Is this normal? Or is this just me?
It's an OK film
but rather bowdlerises the book. And it's dated somewhat, especially Mickey Rooney's 'so offensive it's not even funny' character.
must just be you...
were you pissed?
No I wasn't! Had had 2 beers.
There was just something so tragic about Holly...
Rich, spoilt-brat Socialite gets in the sack with leader of the A-Team zzzzzzzzzzz
I liked the cat though.
have you seen it?
She's not rich, or a spoilt brat! She's an orphan who lives off money men give her for spending time with them.
So very over rated.
It's not terrible but far from good enough to spawn a poster that graces most student's bedroom.
Not Hepburn's best by a long stretch. That accolade goes to Charade.
it is, because her performance was so captivating.
You can't take your eyes off her when she's on screen. Whether that's got anything to do with Peppard's crap acting or her beauty is debateable, but her appeal as an icon in the movie is a good enough reason for her to grace everyone's walls. I mean, you don't put a poster up of a film that has a really good story, do you? You put one up of a film that's cool and of a picture that's cool.
But then that's mainly for Gregory Peck <3
I nearly cried when the cat got lost because I fucking love cats and don't want them to get lost.
Also Audrey's hot but they ruin her character by making her a dick. She should just ponce around with no clothes on and a cat for an hour and a half instead.
When she runs after the cat at the end
I may have to agree with you for that bit
It's like a piece of really sweet cake
and a cup of tea with about 5 sugars in.
Ie. enjoyable and entertaining but not as good as I'd like it to be.
I read the book first and found it brill. I was looking forward the horse scene and to Joe Bell. Neither of them were in it, but they managed to make enough time to change the narrator into an overbearing knob head and invent some horrid old woman for him to have an affair with.
The comedy in the book was better than the comedy in the film, which was mainly things like 'haha look at how stupid mr yunioshi is'.
I'm slagging it off here, but I'm wrong. She's lovely and has ultimate screen presence, the music is good and Peppard is dressed wonderfully.
I really really like this film
I want to read the book too. I like Holly Golightly and her shambolic life and the cat and the way it ends.
Bloody depressing
Bloody depressing


text:
We are THRILLED and excited to be heading to the Antelope Valley for their very own Food Truck Collective event! The City of Lancaster has invited us to bring a FUN night filled with games, music, FUN and of course, FOOD TRUCKS!
We will be located on the fields near the playgrounds. We encourage you to bring your blankets or seating to picnic with us in the park! There is plenty of parking around!
This will be a weekly event that will occur EVERY MONDAY. Please share the flyer with your friends and make sure you check back for the food truck lineup will change every week!


text:
I made a delicious cherry syrup yesterday….beautiful, really. Unfortunately it was supposed to be cherry jam. I think I know where I went wrong….the directions called for three pounds of fruit, so that's what I used. Later, I noticed that in another column, it called for 4 to 5 cups of fruit. So, now I guess I was supposed to start out with three pounds of fruit, then once the cherries had been pitted, I should have measured out four cups. Oh well. Art says it'll make a great pancake syrup.
More confusion among the Italians concerning my gardening style. Once I laid out the black landscape fabric, I then covered it with straw to hold in the moisture. The Italians all afraid the straw will all blow away, which hasn't happened yet. And miracle of miracles, I actually have teeny tiny tomatoes on the plants I set out in March before we left for the states! Woohoo! At this rate, I should have ripe tomatoes before the first frost.
What a difference a few months can make. In December eight of us gathered of our first annual Christmas celebration. Six months later one of the eight is dead, her spouse having deserted her to run back to the states when the going got tough. Two of the others have apparently also decided that Italy isn't for them, although I've only heard this through the grapevine. Whatever goodwill there was between us seems to have disappeared somewhere along the way. So now we're only four, and I'm wondering what will happen to us between now and next Christmas.
Our neighbor knocked on our door last Sunday to ask us if we knew anyone who'd be interested in buying a small house she owns not far from here. I'm writing up a separate post just for that, complete with pictures. The place is tiny, as in munchkin sized…three rooms in all, one on the ground floor, and two above….and they're not even connected! And two of the rooms are kitchens. No land, no garage, no storage. Who would buy such a place, and how would they live?
I've just asked my sister to mail us a small package and will be waiting nervously to see if it arrives intact. I've heard that theft at the Italian post office is on the rise, so I asked her to tape the stuff TO the inside of the box to hopefully discourage a quick theft. The package contains a clock/radio that's also a sound machine….Art's old one died after many years so I ordered a new one from Amazon. I had to instruct my sister to label it a "sound machine" not a clock, since clocks aren't allowed to be mailed to Italy from the states. Maybe Italy thinks it's Switzerland, or maybe Italy is more well-known for clocks than I realized.
Yesterday the church bells were ringing furiously yet again. This seems to be quite a busy time as far as the Catholic Church is concerned, or at least it is in San Venanzo. We asked if it was a feast day while we were walking and were told yes, it's the feast day of St. Anthony.
I think St. Anthony is the one you're supposed to pray to when you've lost something. Why his feast day was celebrated so lavishly we don't know, but the bells rang throughout the day, the banners were hung from the windows, and around seven we heard the procession coming down the street.
First came the priest, then the men of the town. As usual, the people walk down the street single file in two lines, one on each side of the street. After the men came more priests, someone carrying the loudspeaker, altar boys, the statue of St. Anthony, the town band, then all the women and children completed the procession.
Last year we walked down to the church following the procession. Once the services inside the church were finished, everyone was invited in to receive bread….nice crusty rolls that were, of course, delicious. We didn't go down to the church this year since we were in the middle of dinner at the time of the procession, and we could hear the bank playing from the house. Of course I still don't know what the special connection to St. Anthony is, or why the bread is given out.
Last Sunday Armando caught me as I was going down to the garage and told me about some function that would be occurring later in the day. As usual he talked really fast, so all I was able to understand was that at 5:30, on the road to Marsciano, at the chapel of the Madonna there would be biscotti!
I sent Art down to the bar to talk further with Armando to make sure I had understood correctly, and to get more specifics. As it turned out, I got the gist of it, so just after five we jumped in the car and headed to the small roadside chapel that's on the road to Marsciano.
Quite a few people walked from San Venanzo, but for the most people had driven, and the road was lined with cars on both sides of the road. A crowd was gathered around the outside of the chapel, which only holds about ten people. We could hear the priest saying mass, and the crowd was participating.
Our friend Frank was there and he told us that one local family pays for the maintenance of the chapel. I remember seeing this ceremony last year…we happened to be on the way back to San Venanzo from a day out.
After mass everyone headed for the tables that had been set up with drinks, bread and crostata. The bread was delicious….filled with asiago cheese! Once again, we don't know the whole story, but we participated and enjoyed.


text:
Chelsea are getting better again. At the start of the season they were phenomenal, unstoppable; with all those Wins!
Welcome to Sports R Us, we are a growing forum, with looks of wonderful member. So we are ask you to join this great forum and get to know so many great new people.
Thanks Sports R Us


text:
SWEETHEART SHUFFLE 5k / 10k
Join us on Saturday, February 10th for the annual Sweetheart Shuffle 5K, 10K, and 1-mile walk in Grand Prairie. The Sweetheart Shuffle is a Valentines-themed run that is perfect for the whole family. The fun includes a costume contest, free kids dash, great post-race food, and plenty of fun activities and vendors! You are not going to want to miss this one. All Sweetheart Shuffle 5k, 10k and 1-mile walk race participants will receive:
- Chip-timed run on a Garmin-certified course with live results
- Custom event shirt (must register by deadline date)
- Custom 3″ finisher medal for all 5k and 10k participants
- Awards for top 3 male and female finishers in each age group (every 10 years)
- Free race pictures
- Custom race bib
- Special youth pricing for 12 and under
The Sweetheart Shuffle is part of the Bodies Holiday Race Series. Sign up for the whole series for big discounts and member's only perks. Can't make a race, sign up for the virtual race option.
Race Location, Parking & Course Map:
Lynn Creek Park (Map)
5610 Lake Ridge Pkwy, Grand Prairie, TX 75052
5K Course Map | 10K Course Map
Parking is available on site in the designated parking lots. Gates to park close at 7:45 a.m. and will not reopen until 9:30 a.m. Closed course to protect the runners.
Race Start Time:
The Sweetheart Shuffle 5k & 10k will start at 8:00 AM
Packet Pick Up
Friday, February 9th from 3:30-7:30 pm at Anytime Fitness
Anytime Fitness (map)
950 South Carrier Way Grand Prairie, TX 75051
*Packet Pickup is also available on race day at the race location from 6:45 to 7:30 AM.
Race Pricing & Registration:
Sweetheart Shuffle 5k & 10k fees are the same
- $31 through Dec 17
- $35 through Jan 21
- $39 through Feb 8
- $43 at packet pickup and on race day
*Virtual Race entries will have a $5 charge for shipping.
Youth (12 & Under) – if they want t-shirt, finisher medal, bib otherwise they can run in the
- $19 through Feb 8
- $22 at packet pickup and on race day
Volunteers – can't run or have someone coming to cheer you on, we are always looking for help! It's rewarding and we will reward you with a free entry for helping out! Contact us for details.
*You must register by January 31st to be guaranteed a shirt, we cannot guarantee a shirt or size for registrations placed after this date.
Registration Options:
*Paid registrations cannot be refunded or transferred, see our cancellation policy here. You are welcome to switch to a virtual race entry, up until race day, and still get your shirt, medal & bib but you must come pick them up at packet pickup or arrange a time to pick them up at our studio.
Race Day Activities Schedule:
We aim to provide a great race experience by keeping everything organized and on time. If any adjustments need to be made we will make announcements to keep you up-to-date. Thanks for your understanding and support
- 6:45-7:30 – Packet pickup & race day registration
- 7:40 – DJ led, fun warm up
- 7:45 – Costume contest
- 7:50 – Kids dash
- 8:00 5k and 10k race start
Immediately following your finish you will have live results, post-race snacks, and finisher medals waiting for you!
Race Awards:
Prizes for the Sweetheart Shuffle will be awarded to the top three male and female finishers in the 5k and 10k races. The age categories are: 10 & Under, 11-14, 15-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70+
*If your award is not picked up on race day you will be emailed with arrangements made for pick up.
Charity Partner:
Our mission at Bodies Race Company is to make a positive impact in our community. We do this by providing a healthy activity for the whole family and benefiting local charities. We want everyone to have a great time and invest in their health but we are also calling on our great community to help those in need. We will be joining Helping Us Help Her in their incredible initiative to provide developmental tools to teenage girls that will equip them to become morally excellent.


text:
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
7/365 The Mechanic
My grandfather was a pretty good photographer. He died a couple of months ago and one of the things he left behind were mounds of pictures he had taken over the years. Images of places he'd seen and people he'd met over the years. He had pictures hanging all over his home and 3 of his favorites were 3 Rockwell prints.
As a children's photographer I have access, thankfully, to lots of cute kids! Here's a little 7 year old who agreed to help me out today. Thanks Little D. My image today is a tribute of sorts to my grandfather and his love of art, specifically of Norman Rockwell's work.
Lesson: Cherish family and live each day being fully present. The photography lesson: Pay attention to details. I wanted the little boys backwards baseball cap to show up more, but he was cold so I didn't want to keep trying to get a perfect shot. I could have climbed higher on the ladder, but I didn't think of that at the time! I was cold too! :-)
Tomorrow: Hmm??? I'm not sure.
8 comments:
- Jodie's 365 Project said...
Cute! I love the idea too.
I enjoy reading your commentary each day.
- January 7, 2009 at 10:25 PM
- Jessica Sell - Owner of A.E.P. said...
I too love the ideas you put out on your blog. I would love to have someone in my family that is a photographer. I love this photo too, I hope to have one some day of my son like this -- He did get a new jeep for christmas, maybe I can get his tools out and let him play LOL
- January 7, 2009 at 10:53 PM
Your photograph successfully fully tells the story. I would treasure a portrait like this of my son. Well done. I like that you contemplate a lesson for bettering your captures.
- January 7, 2009 at 11:35 PM
- Andrea said...
Thanks for taking a look ladies!
- January 8, 2009 at 1:23 AM
- Jo-Anne Price said...
I love Norman Rockwell and your photo is definitely reminiscent of his work. I also enjoy your commentary very much!
- January 8, 2009 at 11:56 AM
Very nice..love the story behind it.
- January 8, 2009 at 8:15 PM
- Pam said...
I love this photo, and count me in as another one who is enjoying your commentary each day.
- January 8, 2009 at 11:14 PM
- Tammey said...
I love visiting your blog. I appreciate your art, but it's more than that. It's the way you paint it. You blogline is perfect. Thanks for sharing.
- January 9, 2009 at 8:55 AM


text:
Dye sublimation is a process of printing to fabric (and other substances) that provides the best quality, most durable printing option. In sublimation, the inks are fused into the fabric as opposed to sitting on top of the baric such as in inkjet or screen printing. The process not only gives fabrics a softer touch after the priting, but it is also very durable. The colour remains strong in outdoor lighting and after extensive washing so it's the ideal process for sportswear and school clothing.
No short cuts are taken here. We source only the highest performance fabrics and raw materials to ensure Captivations' clients perform at their absolute optimum. Only the best lycras, polyesters and other suitable fabrics are used to ensure the highest quality garments.
Captivations supplies contemporary club sport and school sports ranges for all sports. You can start designing your own sports outfit right now. See how you can select from the latest designs, then apply different colours to the outfit to create a look that is unique to your club or school. We can also easily replicate your established team design, or, if you prefer, we can custom design your team wear.
We can easily incorporate club and sponsor names or logos into your design without the added expense and bulk of embroidered logos. This is great for team and premiership shirts and all school apparel.
Our team-branded packs ensure your team looks the part on and off the field. Go to sportswear and click on your sport or code to see examples of outfits and accessories all branded for your team. These pages give examples of team branding. Talk to us about the range that you want to brand.
Capitations can sublimate your high performance sportswear that is durable, light and comfortable to wear and looks great.
Contact Captivations today on 1300 734 708
Complete the enquiry form and we'll get back to you to discuss your requirements.
Start designing your team outfits now.


text:
Product Description
Video Review
The XL ExHale Homegrown CO2 cultivator works 24 hours a day with no need to refill bottles or invest in a complex CO2 system.
The vented cultivator unit contains a non-fruiting mycelial mass that produces CO2 continually for up to six months. Because it uses no electricity and generates no heat, it doesn't need to be turned on or off; it simply sits and does its job. The ExHale cultivator is designed for small to medium grow spaces, providing enough CO2 for four to six plants.
No set up or maintenance
ExHale CO2 is far less costly than tanks and generators and is incredibly simple to use. Just place it and leave it! It's that simple. You'll reap the benefits of increased CO2 PPM without any of the work or hassle of the other methods.
We've increased the amount of medium in our bags, compared to others on the market, so you get more CO2 for your money.
Simple and uncomplicated
ExHale CO2 gives off no odors or heat, and is completely self-sustained. It's already giving off CO2 the moment you buy it, and it continues to produce CO2 for the next 6-8 months.
ExHale CO2 is a natural, safe, and inexpensive way of providing your plants with carbon dioxide (CO2). CO2 tanks and generators can be expensive and time consuming, but EZ CO2 requires no set up or maintenance and is easy on your budget!
The benefits of increased CO2 levels within a greenhouse are widely accepted and understood, and often include earlier flowering, higher yields, improved stem strength, and larger flower size. This is because plants use the process of photosynthesis to convert water, sunlight, and CO2 into sugars and other materials essential to their growth and overall nutrition. When there is more CO2 in the air, plants become more efficient at absorbing it and processing it. Faster conversion of CO2 into sugars and nutrients results in faster plant growth. Additionally, plants take in CO2 through small pores on the underside of their leaves called stomata. When the levels of CO2 are higher, the plants do not need to open up these pores as often or as wide, resulting in less water loss and reduced likelihood of taking in damaging air pollutants.
HOW DOES ExHale CO2 WORK?
ExHale CO2 houses a non-fruiting mycelial mass (fungus) and enough organic matter to sustain it for approximately 6-8 months. The fungus works opposite a normal plant: it breathes in oxygen and breathes out carbon dioxide (released 24 hours a day through the breather patch on the bag), essentially creating a natural, self-sustained, inexpensive CO2 generator. ExHale CO2 is odor-free, produces no heat, and is already giving off CO2 as soon as you purchase it, there's nothing to turn on or set up. Simply place the bag in your greenhouse and then leave it alone!
ExHale CO2 INSTRUCTIONS
After purchasing ExHale CO2, place it in your growing area (1 ExHale CO2 bag is recommended per 4′ x 4′ area) slightly above plant height. CO2 is heavier than oxygen, and will fall downward onto the plants. That's it! There's no need to refill anything or make any adjustments. DO NOT REMOVE THE BREATHER PATCH ON THE BAG OR OPEN/PUNCTURE THE BAG IN ANY WAY.
After approximately 6-8 months the CO2 production will gradually decrease, and your ExHale CO2 will need to be replaced. When you are ready to dispose of your ExHale CO2, you may open the bag and dispose of the contents in your compost pile or mix it with soil, and the plastic bag can be recycled.
Is it normal for the contents of the bag to change color or the bag to inflate?
Do I need to open or remove the patch on the bag?
What is the white patch on the front of the bag?
Where should XL ExHale CO2 go?
When should I use XL ExHale CO2?
How big is each XL ExHale CO2 bag?


text:
On Monday, Judge Neil Gorsuch was sworn in as Associate Supreme Court Justice, completing the process of replacing the late Justice Antonin Scalia.
America's Foundation for Law & Liberty (AFLL) voiced its support throughout the nomination and confirmation process of Justice Gorsuch, and we look forward to following his opinions and writings in defense of the Constitution on the Supreme Court. As AFLL Chairman David Warrington said of Gorsuch at the outset of the nomination, "His opinions are well-reasoned, clear, and written in a lively and easily readable style. He has shown a commitment to the Constitutional principles of religious liberty, limited government, and federalism. "
The confirmation process was not without its obstacles and naysayers, however. Many of Justice Gorsuch's critics asserted that he favors business and corporate interests over those of the working class, and he was repeatedly questioned on the issue of political speech, disclosure, contribution limits, and other campaign finance regulations.
One particularly tense exchange occurred between Justice Gorsuch and Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), in which Whitehouse demonized so-called "dark money" and said to Gorsuch that, "chilling speech is a value we should consider." The telling exchange can be read viewed on our blog.
Not long after the exchange, AFLL Chairman and Lead Counsel David Warrington expanded on the topic, writing an excellent op-ed in The Hill, titled "Do Democrats Oppose Gorsuch because they hate Free Speech? (Yes)" which is worth your read.
AFLL is committed to defending political speech in all forms, the money which facilitates speech, and your right to participate politically without the threat of harassment, intimidation or retribution. You can support our mission here.


text:
Rangemaster supply more range cookers throughout Britain & Europe than anyone else, and once you see their products, it's not hard to see why: they offer their customers high quality at great prices. Take a look at our product range from this internationally esteemed manufacturer.
The original Rangemaster cooker was invented in 1830 and their famous 'Kitchener' model was presented at the 1851 Great Exhibition in London. It won one of only 17 gold medals for its outstanding quality and design, and the company are still receiving awards today. Rangemaster have always been at the forefront of design in the home appliance industry and were famously the first range cooker manufacturer to have all of their ovens A rated for energy efficiency.
Today, they still make their products in the same factory where that original range cooker was built and the modern version of the Kitchener is available in three different widths and five different colours. This sense of tradition is part of what makes them the leading company for country kitchen style cookers, but they've also kept up with the times, as can be seen in the modern design of their professional ranges.
We currently have several of the most popular Rangemaster cooker models available. Browse our online catalogue or pop into our showroom in Rayners Lane to experience these stunning home appliances first hand. We always have various models of different sizes and styles in stock that display the quality that only a Rangemaster can offer. Whether you're after a gas, electric or dual fuel oven, we'll have just the thing.
We sell other Rangemaster products including extractor hoods, splashbacks, dishwashers and fridge freezers. We also have a great range of beverage centres, wine cabinets and cookware, from can openers to woks and saucepans. In the unlikely case of a fault with one of these products, we are approved Rangemaster cooker service agents and can lend our technical expertise to get the problem fixed.
Rangemaster's cooker hoods come in a range of styles, colours & specifications – take a look online or visit our store to find out more. All our in store models are connected to the electricity so you can get a feel for what they're like in use, and we'll be happy to give advice about installing and venting them.
Splashbacks are the finishing touch your kitchen deserves. They protect your walls from the mess that's made whilst cooking. We have a wide range of Rangemaster splashbacks to complete the installation of your cooker. If you haven't got enough room in your home for a freestanding range cooker, why not opt for a built-in oven or hob? These appliances are embedded into your kitchen units and therefore take up much less room.
Rangemaster supply a wide range of refrigeration appliances, including under the counter American style side by side units. These products offer high quality, stunning design and can even match your new range cooker - the perfect way to complete a new kitchen. Take a look around the website or pop in and visit for more information.
Rangemaster wine coolers and beverage centres are pure home appliance luxury: keep your drinks cool and easy to find with this extra chilled storage space. Or if you're looking for a top quality dishwasher, why not pop in to our showroom and check out our two Rangemaster models with 9 and 12 place setting capacities?
Whatever your home appliance needs, we have a Rangemaster product that's just right for you. Give us a call today for more information.
Rangecooker Showroom
370 Rayners Lane
Middx HA5 5ED
Tel:0208 866 8000
Friday, Saturday, Sunday & Monday
10.00 -17:00
Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday.
Showroom closed or by appointment..
Phone, e-mail .7 days a week.
Deliverys 7 days a week from early to late.
Range Cooker Showroom Receives 5 Star Review from Mystery Shopper.
Come see our fabulous showroom for yourself.


text:
Hueco was most good. Here's an uncut gem from our trip.
Wednesday, December 26, 2007
Tuesday, December 25, 2007
Merry Christmas
So I didn't climb at all to speak of this fall, but winter is here and that means Hueco season. Here are some images from my first ten days. Hope you're all well.
Ultra Mega
Bleeding Brothers
Jigsaw Puzzle
Crash Dummy
The Egg
Ultra Mega
Bleeding Brothers
Jigsaw Puzzle
Crash Dummy
The Egg
Posted by Isaac Palatt at 3:33 PM 4 comments:
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Adelaide, Australia Rules!
Stalker at the Bachelor Pad
Originally uploaded by .s.s.
The Bachelor Pad is a cave about 1.5 times as wide and 2 times as tall as the Masterbedroom at the Horseden! It has routes from V0 to V13 (thanks to a visit from Klem). The rock is bullet and seriously steep. It is a 25 minute walk from the nearest 106 city bus stop (including ten minutes walking up a steep dirt trail through the bush). The setting includes blue flowers lining the mouth of the cave and vineyards down on the valley floor. The weather is beautiful and the same 106 bus goes to the beach! It is kind of like utopia.
There are a couple sport and trad climbing cliffs nearby, but I am travelling light: one pair of anisazi's, denture brush, sanwich baggie of chalk (what!), so no sport climbing for me.
My next stop is NZ. Happy Holidays and I can wait to hear back from teh dirty south and wild west boulering crews.
Posted by .s.s. at 10:29 PM No comments:
Friday, December 14, 2007
RETURN TO TEH NORTH : Pt. 1
First short installment of "RETURN TO TEH NORTH". WATTAH!!
Return to Teh North : Pt. 1 from Redcrashpad on Vimeo.
Return to Teh North : Pt. 1 from Redcrashpad on Vimeo.
Posted by CHL at 6:38 PM 3 comments:
Thursday, December 06, 2007
Heyhey! In the midst of finals, here's a quick posts with some pics from last weekend! December bouldering in tshirts. Come get summm!! YAY-ER!!
Originally uploaded by redcrashpad
Originally uploaded by redcrashpad
Posted by CHL at 3:33 PM No comments:
Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)


text:
Definition of White prairie aster
1. Noun. Perennial of western North America having white flowers.
Exact synonyms: Aster Falcatus
Generic synonyms: Aster
Generic synonyms: Aster
White Prairie Aster Pictures
Click the following link to bring up a new window with an automated collection of images related to the term: White Prairie Aster Images


text:
Since, 1987, Technocel has consistently stepped-up to meet the exploding consumer demand for quality wireless accessories. Warp-speed product development, battalion strength sales-service team, and a whopping 11,000 product assortment, makes Technocel the go-to wireless accessories source for Sprint, Best Buy, Verizon, AT&T and over 800 corporate and private label customers. In addition to their own brands, Technocel distributes wildly popular brands like Ballistic, Speck, JBL, Yurbuds, Lunatik, Incipio and TYLT.
Technocel is privately held corporation, employing approximately 130 full-time employees. Distribution facilities in Southern California and Hong Kong total over 240,000 sq.ft. Corporate offices in Southern California and Shenzhen, China total over 20,000 sq.ft.
Technocel has received 15 CES Innovations Awards for Design and Engineering since 2000 including 6 awards in 2013.
Also, In 2013, Technocel received the prestigious IDEA award for Brand Packaging.
Technocel has been a member of the Consumer Electronics Manufacturers Association (CEMA) since 1999.


text:
All the Escorts listed on Peruanasdelujo have been
selected not just for their beautiful looks
but also for their personality, charm, discretion
and commitment to ensuring that
the time you spend together is exceptional.
Please Enjoy the Pictures of our Models gallery.
All photos of our Girls are 100% genuine!
Envia a tus amigos un link a esta web:
Si quieres formar parte de nuestro exlusiva página web solo ponte en contacto con nosotros:
Celular : 997 - 220 - 121


text:
Patrick Roberts has stuttered on loan at Celtic this season.
Italian outlet CalcioMercato claim on-loan Celtic winger Patrick Roberts has already been the subject of enquiries from "several Premier League clubs" ahead of the summer transfer window.
The 21-year-old rejoined Celtic for a second time last summer after his previous 18-month loan north of the border had finished. But this season, he has failed to replicate the kind of form he had previously shown.
In his 60 Celtic appearances before this season, Roberts had scored more than one in every four games with 17 goals, as well as laying on 21 assists. This time around, he has managed just one goal in 15 games.
A long-term hamstring injury has kept the Manchester City winger on the sidelines for much of the season, but his undoubted potential is still interesting Premier League sides.
The report claims a handful of top-flight English sides have asked about the former Fulham star, ahead of the summer with a permanent move to Celtic unlikely as the Hoops will be unable to afford what is expected to be an eight-figure price tag.
Roberts still has two years to run on his contract with the Premier League champions, a deal which the Daily Star claim is worth £5,000 a week.


text:
Steve Bhaerman
Steve Bhaerman is an internationally known author, humorist and workshop leader. For the past 23 years, he has written and performed as Swami Beyondananda, the "cosmic comic". Swami's comedy has been called irreverently uplifting and has been described both as comedy disguised as wisdom and wisdom disguised as comedy.


text:
A wireless headset can mean the difference between having a highly productive day, and one that is one that would be more equated with pure grief. If you are having to hold your phone while talking to people, trying to operate a computer, and find files that they need, by having a headset on your head connected by Bluetooth, it frees up your hands, as well as your body, allowing you to go where you need to to get the information that is requested. This is perfect for people that run businesses, that are constantly up and out of their desk, running errands, and finding information that is not going to be at their fingertips. And even if you are operating a computer, you can use the mouse and the keyboard just like normal, all the while having a conversation.
Which Headset Works Best?
This is a very broad question to ask in that there are more than one or two factors to consider. For instance, some people may be motivated to own one of these devices because it allows them to have more mobility. Other people prefer having access to the computer, using their hands like normal, all the while having a conversation that does not have to be interrupted because you are still talking to them on the phone. Finally, choosing the right headset is sometimes difficult because you never know which ones are going to work the best until you use one for yourself. There is a way around the concept of trial and error when it comes to buying products, and that has to do with online posted reviews.
Reading Reviews Before Purchasing
You can read the many reviews that have been left online by the companies that are selling these products. There are several businesses that have excellent Bluetooth headsets such as Jabra, OfficeRunner, Logitech and Plantronics, all of which are highly reputable companies, with Sennheiser being at the top of the list. Your opinion may differ once you have tried these products, most of which come with a 30 day moneyback guarantee. According to reviews, all of these are the most popular wireless headsets available, each of which has different qualities. Look at this amaizing headset for phones.
Qualities To Look For In A Wireless Headset
There are a few qualities that should always be part of any wireless headset that you purchase. It must have a several hundred foot range so that you can walk about without worrying about the connection that you are on dropping while you talk. You should also have the ability to press a couple buttons on the headset to access some of the functionality which may include connecting multiple calls, putting people on mute, and calling people that you know. Finally, it should also charge very quickly, usually in about an hour, to give you a full day of use.
Once you have tried a couple of these products, you will probably know which one is best. If you are going by reviews, Logitech has the highest amount on most of the review websites, but as far as accessories and the quality of the product itself, Sennheiser and Jabra tend to be at the top of the list. Just be sure that when you purchase one, it will be sent to your home or office right away. This way, you won't have to travel to pick up one of these devices, and after reading the reviews, you can feel confident that your purchase will be a good one, allowing you to add more functionality to your social life, and also while at work, using these high-tech wireless headsets.


text: Diablo 3: Reaper of Souls is a title of the first enlargement of the third part of probably the most popular series of hack- and- slash of all time, written by studio Blizzard Amusement. The addition of the game by the fifth behave, continuing the story with the stand. The story centers across the Angel of Death, Maltaela who decides to finish the age-old conflict with celestial beings with demons. To this end, this individual decides to steal this Black Stone binding your soul of Diablo, that searchers decided to hide within the world.


text:
Meet our Setters!
Alexis Nowling
High quality route setting is an integral part of what makes a climbing gym excellent. You can have the best facility in the world, but without a team of dedicated, experienced, passionate setters, a gym will struggle to survive. At Climb Nashville, we are proud to have a team of setters that truly love what they do, and they see every day of setting as an opportunity to get creative, have some fun, and create routes that push our climbers to be the best they can be. Read on to learn a little bit about who our setters are, what makes them tick!
James Letorgeon
Age: 29? Yikes!!
Years Climbing: 3
Years Setting: 1
As evidence by the fact that I have "forgotten" how old I am, I tend to be more on the forgetful side, so if we climb remind me to clip those draws, cams, pitons or whatever I should be doing.
My favorite setting style would have to be thuggy boulders and law abiding routes.
A sweet fact about myself is that I love cookies!! When I'm not setting at the gym, or out at the crag, I can be found picking at my fiddle, entertaining the world with a clever instagram, or spending time with my family.
Jason Williams
Age: 32
Years climbing: 14
Years setting: 4
I've been expressing my creativity for 22 years, originally as a musician. I've played guitar and bass since I was 10 years old, from which point all I wanted was to be a professional musician. At age 18, I discovered climbing, and it quickly became a passion to match my love for music. Shortly after discovering climbing, I moved to Lexington, KY, then Denver, CO, and then Los Angeles, CA. All these cities gave me the opportunity to play music, but also had proximity to world class climbing areas like the Red River Gorge, Colorado's Front Range, Joshua Tree, and dozens of other crags all over southern and central California. In these places, I was able to grow in many directions as a climber; from bouldering, to sport climbing and traditional climbing, as well as some mountaineering, I got to experience many styles of climbing.
As my passion for being a professional musician gradually faded, my love for climbing continued to grow. After California, I moved back to Nashville to be closer to my family in KY, and took a job as a route setter at Climb Nashville. It has been a great way to channel my creative energy that used to be expressed through my music into my other passion: climbing.
I love to create movement that resembles what I've experienced in outdoor climbing, movement that teaches body awareness and flow to newer climbers, and familiar but challenging movements for more experienced climbers to test themselves on. Occasionally it's fun to put together something a little more abstract, like what you'd see or climb in a World Cup competition, but I gravitate toward natural intuitive movements more often than not. Being able to make pieces of art that people interact with and enjoy has been a great experience for me. I hope many people have enjoyed my creations, and will continue to as long as I am able to contribute to the Climb Nashville team and community.


text:
Today is the annual Spring Thing Fling event here in Smith Rocks. People were up early and doing trail work, gardening and replacing rock steps, building, planting, and disposing of old dead brush. Also, a small group of locals replaced more than 100 bolts on routes that needed it. Good work. It was a productive day and everything that was on the list got accomplished. A pat on the back to all the volunteers and organizers. This is one of the main reasons why Smith Rock is ranked amongst the most user friendly climbing destinations in the world. Tonight is the beer, the burritos, the raffle (over 8000 dollars worth of free gear) and the slide shows. If you're around and looking for a good time, come on out, don't be shy.
In other news, I got some new shoes in the mail. yahoo! I've been waiting to try the new Anasazi Lace up, the white ones and slap me sideways if they ain't worth their weight in solid gold. The heel fits better than ever and the edge is full power due to the tight last. I got my one size smaller than I normally wear my pinks and they fit perfectly, also I am lacing them up to the top for more stability. I am more than happy with this new design. I just hope they don't discontinue them, before we have the chance to order 10 extra pair.
The other shoe I was really happy with is the Daescent. It's sort of an approach shoe, climbing shoe, guiding shoe and free runner. I know I might sound like a punter, but I can't help it, I have worn out and tried on more than my share of climbing shoes over the past decade, and these ones do perform. They fit snug and comfortably, they edge, they smear, they sneak, they sneer, they pad, they try, they flight and they fly. I am thoroughly enjoying these so far, they are super light weight. I think they're my new guiding shoe, perfect for big walls and aid, (not to mention I sent the red problem on Marks 35 degree wall last night). I was so happy when I put them on, I jumped up on the railing and my friend snapped this picture, I was smiling on the inside.


text:
Hi, friends! I have loved the community we've built on this website. Your support and experiences have enriched my life.
This week I just had one quick thought I wanted to throw out to see if you've had the same experiences.
Have you ever been on just one or two dates with someone and felt like you walked away a better person from that experience?
There are many people I've met as I've put myself out there a bit who truly have changed my life. Sometimes I feel like the fact that I'm not in a relationship means that I'm failing at these techniques or that I'm not quite the person I need to be. However, lately I've been feeling the opposite. I'm realizing that I've been given the chance to associate with a lot of incredible people, help make them feel great, and be treated respectfully in return.
Dating is given a bad rap in most instances, and we each have war stories we can contribute to support that idea. But today I just want to say thank you to those men who have taken me out, treated me well, and who've gone on to find someone else. Your examples of kindness and humor have shaped my life. So I dedicate this post to the men out there who I've only spent a few hours with—those precious few hours have helped me find my way.


text:
Good wind season buoys Indowind Energy's financials
A good wind season has buoyed the revenues and profits of Indowind Energy Ltd, a wind power generator with 50 MW of operating capacity.
The Chennai-based company, listed on the NSE, has reported higher revenues and pre-tax profit for the first five-and-half months of the current year than in the whole of 2015-16, shareholders were told at the AGM recently.
The company produced and sold 37 million units of electricity, compared with 34.7 million in the whole of last year. (Wind season typically ends in September.) The higher generation has translated into revenue of ₹20 crore and pre-tax profit of ₹80 lakh, compared with ₹15 crore and ₹18 lakh respectively for the full year 2015-16. (The company's net profit for last year was ₹72.62 lakh, due to deferred tax credit of ₹54 lakh.)
Indowind has 31 MW in Tamil Nadu and 19 MW in Karnataka. While the generation from windmills in Tamil Nadu is all sold directly to industrial consumers (under the 'group captive' route), for an average net price of ₹5.10, the generation from Karnataka is sold to the State's electricity distribution company at ₹3.40.
Indowind's Chairman Bala V Kutti told BusinessLine the company has requested the Karnataka discom to release it from the power purchase agreement so that it can sell power directly to consumers for a higher price. Indowind is hopeful of a favourable response, but in any case, the agreement allows the company to opt out of the PPA in 2018, he said.
Bala said the company is also looking to add 10 MW of capacity, which could happen through the 're-powering route', or plucking out the old machines and replacing them with new machines of higher capacity. Indowind's machines in Tamil Nadu are in Muppandal, which is one of the windiest locations in the country. Many of the machines there are of 225 kW capacity, he said.
Further capacity expansion — "at least 100 MW" — will happen through special purpose vehicles into which other investors will be brought in, he said.The company's annual report shows a net worth of ₹173 crore, translating into a book value of ₹19.27 a share.


text:
We're delighted to announce Savoo Search, Save and Raise as a new fundraising partner for Brain Tumour Support, and we'd like to introduce you to this innovative way of donating.
Savoo is a search, voucher code and money-saving site which offers its customers a fantastic range of deals and money saving offers on a huge selection of goods and activities.
So simply use Savoo Search as your default search engine (the same way as you would your current search engine) and Savoo will donate 1p for every search.
If you're looking to do some online shopping and want to get a great deal, Savoo has thousands of voucher codes and deals that will help you save money & they will donate to Brain Tumour Support at the same time.
Sign up today!
Savoo is such a simple way to donate to Brain Tumour Support at no extra cost to you!


text:
Ferns are a versatile group of plants. Tropical ferns thrive in indoor, low-light conditions as a houseplant while more hardy varieties add greenery to the shaded areas of the yard. Indoors, ferns are usually evergreen. Outdoors most shed their fronds when temperatures drop but in areas with mild winters they also may be evergreen. There are also evergreen varieties, such as the Christmas fern, that never go completely dormant. Planting ferns, either outside or inside, adds lush greenery to your environs.
Outdoor Planting
Prepare an area that receives partial to full shade. Lay a 2 to 4 inch layer of composted pine bark over the garden bed and till it in to an 8 inch depth to add nutrients and organic matter to the bed.
Dig the planting hole as deep as the nursery pot and twice as wide. If you are planting more than one fern, follow the spacing requirements on the plant label for the particular fern variety.
Set the fern in the planting hole so it is at the same depth it was in its nursery pot, ensuring the crown of the plant, where the fronds emerge from the roots, is right at soil level. Refill the hole around the plant with soil and lightly firm it with your hands.
Water the fern thoroughly after planting so the soil is evenly moist to a 6-inch depth. Lay a 2-inch layer of mulch around the fern to preserve soil moisture.
Indoor Planting
Fill a planter with a well-draining, moist potting mixture. If available, use a soilless, peat-based potting mixture as these offer the organic matter and drainage ferns require.
Plant the fern rhizome, or roots, so it is approximately 1 inch beneath the soil surface if you are planting a dormant root division. Plant nursery-grown ferns in the pot at the same depth they were in their nursery pot.
Water the fern immediately after planting. Water until the excess water drains from the bottom drainage holes to ensure the soil is evenly moist throughout.