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The Little Museum of Dublin, 15 St Stephens Green, Co. Dublin, D02 Y611
All day dining of an informal and easy nature. No fuss, just good, honest, Irish food.
Read more about Hatch & Sons Irish Kitchen | View Map of Area | Photos
6 Montague Street, Co. Dublin, D02 XE65
One of Dublin oldest Coffee shop/restaurants.
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22 St Stephens Green, St Stephens Green, 2, Dublin 2, Co. Dublin, D02 HW54
The atmosphere at this St Stephen's Green restaurant is one of easygoing conviviality sustained by Dubliners dropping in for a relaxed brunch or a dozen oysters and a glass of Champagne pre- or post-theatre. The city's business community also like th
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Conrad Hotel, Earlsfort Terrace, Dublin 2, D02 V562
Alex Restaurant is a part of the stunning Conrad Hotel located in the heart of Dublin 2. Alex offers a wide selection of seasonal menus with a selection of European and Irish dishes that encompass both traditional and more cutting-edge modern cuisine
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Just signed up for this one! I should have my Mongoose Monday TV shows and Pop Songs books by then, as well as my Damn Tourist postcards, in regards to new products.
Back to All Events
Earlier Event: March 13San Fernando Valley Comic Book Convention
Later Event: June 25Baldwin Park Comic Expo

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Nomadic Display Design Solutions combine all that is good about the Nomadic pop up Instand range – ease, portability and modularity.
Curved and flat pop-up or portable displays from Nomadic Display are lightweight, durable, portable, easy to install and disassemble. They are combined into unique designs to create eye catching, long lasting displays for customers worldwide.
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Nomadic pop up stands are simple exhibition display systems to set up, yet they also have unique modularity to grow with each exhibition attended. They be combined with other straight Nomadic Display pop up products or other fabric or LED display products. That means you can combine these displays in a variety of ways in conjunction with many different components for a completely customized trade show display.
If your display ever fails to function properly, for any reason, Nomadic will repair or replace the frame or magnetic mounting system, free of charge, with no questions asked!


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Sri Lanka, dubbed the ruby of the Indian Ocean, is a seaside paradise nestling at the foot of lush mountains. In amongst its temples and tea plantations, there are relics of a colonial age and breath-taking traditions.
Sri Lanka, formerly Ceylon, is a country which offers all that is best in a tropical destination: magnificent beaches of fine sand, mountainous regions scattered with tea plantations, countless Buddhist sites, fine colonial remains, a rich and accessible wildlife, living craft traditions and the legendary hospitality of its inhabitants.


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Explore, create, build and learn together in our hands-on areas! Families are sure to try something new, get their hands dirty, and have fun in the process. There a lot to explore in all three Discovery Zones in the Armory and the Fisher Pavilion from 10 AM – 5 PM
Discovery Zone Activities
Bike Works Bike Mobile
Get your bike tuned up with Bike Works! Repair your bike and learn important maintenance tips.
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Build your own Toy Boat with the
Center for Wooden Boats
Put your handiness to the test and build a toy boat using traditional woodworking hand tools.
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Create Mini Eco-Sculptures with the Nature Consortium
Make your own jewelry, hat or bird feeders that explore elements of the environment using upcycled materials.
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Creating Our Community with MOHAI
Explore different jobs in a community and how they work together both in history and today through dramatic play, crafts, and hands-on artifact investigation!
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Color Seattle with Gage
Come color Seattle with Gage, the way you see it! Gage will provide coloring materials and pages that depict things we love about Seattle's cultural diversity.
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Experience Immersive Tech w/WAXR
Come experience immersive tech content with Washington's Mixed Reality (WAXR), a loose coalition of groups that include SIXR, Reel Grrls, UW CoMotion Labs, Arts Corps, NFFTY, NWFF, Pixvana, fearless360, and more, who wants to co-create the future of immersive tech with young people.
Imagination Playground with Seattle Children's Museum
Build a new world using Imagination Playground blocks! Make objects like animals, rocket ships, and robots. Because Imagination Playground is child-directed and open-ended, it encourages self-expression through deep, joyful play.
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Instrument Petting Zoo with Music Center of the Northwest
Join us as we explore music making and REAL instruments! Come have an authentic experience and try out a variety of different instruments you may not get to experience anywhere else.
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Interactive Art and Culture with the Vedic Cultural Center
Explore a Vedic Village showcasing traditional folk customs and habits, arts such as spice blending, aromatherapy, and the importance of cows in Vedic culture.
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Make your own Bookmark with Town Hall Seattle
Reading can be even more fun with your own personalized bookmark, decorated by you! Using stamps, you will learn all about ink, stamps, patterns and geometry.
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Make your Own Mask with Studio Lazo
Cut, glue, color and form fantastical animal-inspired hats and masks from designs especially created by Seattle-based artist, Jose Orantes.
Recycled Robotic Ocean with Big Brained Superhero Club
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Frank Hershey
Frank Hershey (1907 – 1997) was an American automobile designer and student of General Motors Vice President of Design Harley Earl. Hershey is best known for his 1932 Peerless V-16 prototype, 1949 Cadillac tailfins and the 1955 Ford Thunderbird.
Born Franklin Quick Hershey in Michigan, and raised in Beverly Hills and La Puente, California, Hershey began his career at Murphy Coach Works of Pasadena, California under the guidance of Frank Spring. While at Murphy, Hershey was assigned the task of designing the 1932 Peerless X-D V-16 prototype.
From Murphy, Hershey went to work for GM where he focused on the 1933 Pontiac; in designing the 1935 Pontiac, Hershey introduced the silver streak design theme that the make would continue until 1956. He also was assigned to GM's Opel design offices in Germany in 1936, and GM's Holden make in Australia.
After leaving GM, Hershey set up his own design firm. Harley Earl attempted to lure Hershey back to GM; Hershey chose not to return only to learn years later that had he returned he would have been Earl's first choice to replace him as GM's Vice President of Design.
After several years with Packard, Hershey went to Ford where he designed the 1953-1957 full sized Fords. According to an interview given by Hershey to James W. Howell in 1995, George Walker had been hired as the public face of Ford design. Hershey designed the landmark Ford Thunderbird, and admitted so in a 1954 interview, which created friction between Walker and Hershey. 1
After leaving Ford, Hershey also worked for Kaiser Aluminum and Rite Autotronics, heading design effort in both companies.
Hershey attended Occidental College where he majored in forestry. Hershey served in the Navy during World War II. While married and the father of two children, Frank Hershey was openly gay.
Frank Hershey died in California on October 20, 1997.
Note 1: Independent research by James W. Howell (Collectible Automobile, December, 1995, p72) verifies Hershey's claim based on original drawings, notes and first person accounts.
- Howell, James W. and Hershey, Hershey Franklin Q. Franklin Q. Hershey's Murphy-Bodied Peerless V-16 Prototype Collectible Automobile, Volume 12, Number 4, December 1995. pp.56-63.
- Kimes, Beverly R., Editor. Clark, Henry A. (1996). The Standard Catalog of American Cars 1805-1945. Kraus Publications. ISBN 0-87341-428-4.


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How long are dogs pregnant? Dog are usually pregnant for about 63 days, a fact that probably makes many human women jealous. A dog's pregnancy is pretty much the same length even if the dog is a larger or smaller dog or if the litter is larger or smaller. The amount of time that a dog can be pregnant can vary by up to five days either way, though.
If you are breeding your dog on purpose, or believe that your dog may be pregnant, there is a lot that you need to know besides just how long your dog will be pregnant. To begin with, you will need to know the signs that your dog is pregnant, both in the early stages and later in pregnancy. You will also need to know what it is that you will need to do to prepare for your dog delivering her puppies. Finally, you will need to know what to look for when you suspect that something is not going right so that you know when to get emergency intervention from a very for your dog or her puppies.
How Long is a Dog Pregnant?
A dog is pregnant for 63 days according to WebMD, give or take five days. According to Animal Hub, the date of conception is actually the date of ovulation when it comes to determining due date, meaning that some times, the date isn't exact when determining when a dog will be giving birth.
For breeders, due dates and length of pregnancy can be easy enough to discover. A breeder usually keeps exact records of when a dog mated, meaning that determining conception would be quite simple. Mutts, strays and many other types of dogs do not come with these kinds of records. When it comes to these types of dogs, it is necessary to use other means to determine when a dog would be due, possibly even with the assistance of a vet.
How Do I Tell If My Dog is Pregnant?
While knowing how long your dog will be pregnant may not be that difficult, telling how far along your dog is can be. Knowing for sure usually takes a vet and some guess work. This is especially true if you are not a breeder and do not know the date your dog likely mated. If you want to know if your dog is pregnant, things such as how far along she is making a huge difference in behavior and health, all having an effect. You can determine if your dog is pregnant simply by determining her body or behavior changes. Other things involve veterinary testing. It is possible to know well before hand if your dog is pregnant.
How You Can See Signs of Dog Pregnancy
Some of the early signs of pregnancy in dogs can be confusing and conflicting. For the first trimester, it can be difficult to tell that there is any difference. Some of the early sign of pregnancy in dogs could include some changes in the color and size of the nipples, increased appetite, or change in activity or behavior just to name a few.
Dogs do not get morning sickness until the third to fourth week of pregnancy, the second trimester. Because of this, there can be some lack of interest in food for a couple of days at this point. Once she gets past morning sickness, however, it becomes a lot easier for your vet to be able to tell if your dog is pregnant or not. For example, a vet may be able to use an ultrasound to determine if your dog is pregnant as early as the third week of pregnancy.
After the second trimester, it will become much easier for you to tell on your own that your dog is pregnant. Some of the more obvious signs are that she gets a much firmer stomach and nipples, behavioral changes such as nesting, lactation, and even feeling the puppies move.
How Your Vet Can See Signs of Your Dog's Pregnancy
While you may have a harder time observing whether your dog is pregnant, your vet may be able to tell a bit earlier, possibly as soon as 3 or 4 weeks. The main way that a vet would determine if your dog were pregnant is to palpate
Later in pregnancy, there are other ways to determine if your dog is pregnant, how far along she is and how many puppies she is having. Ultrasound is one of the most common ways to for a vet to investigate a pregnancy. With ultrasound, a vet can tell if a dog is pregnant as early as three weeks, however, it is unlikely that your vet will be able to tell how many puppies your dog is having until a few weeks later. Additionally, your vet may use even use X-ray later in the pregnancy, so that he or she can figure out how many puppies there will be.
There is also a pregnancy test that your vet can give to your dog. It will not be able to tell you much until about half way through the pregnancy. This is a blood test that uses the hormone relaxin and is not often used by most vets. A dog's pregnancy test does not work the way as a human pregnancy test would, so it would be pointless to try using a human pregnancy test on a dog.
How to Prepare for Your Puppies
According to Cesar Milan, there are behavioral changes that you should look for in the days and hours that are leading up to the birth of your dog's puppies. To begin with, she will become restless and likely stop eating for about 24 hours before labor. Your dog will also probably start nesting, or scratching at her bedding. She may also lick her vulva. Finally, your dog may vomit.
You should prepare for the arrival of your puppies at this point by taking some of the following steps:
- Set up a whelping box for your dog with a blanket in a box or basket so that your dog has a soft place to give birth, nurse, and raise her puppies
- Set up another box with a heating pad or electric blanket so that you can get puppies out of the way of the mother while she is giving birth
- Have other supplies such as rubber gloves, dental floss, towels, sterile scissors, and antiseptic solution on hand for the birth
Know When to Get Your Vet Involved
While most births of p uppie s are done safely at home, one of the important things that you can have on hand is the phone numbers of your vet and an emergency vet so that you can be sure that you know what to do if something goes wrong. Here are some things that are especially important to look out for during, and after, the birth of the puppies:
- Signs of illness shortly before the due date
- Your dog appearing to have contractions with no puppy for 20-30 minutes
- A puppy stuck in a sack in the birth canal for over 8-10 minutes
- The dog acting as if she is in discomfort with no puppy for four hours
- Bleeding out of the birth canal for more than ten minutes
- A green discharge out of the birth canal and no puppies
- A discharge after 48 hours after the birth
- Swollen nipples
- Not eating by the mother or puppies.
If any of these take place, you should call your vet right away.
What to Remember if Your Dog Is Pregnant
If you believe that, your dog is pregnant, congratulations! Here are a few things that you need to do to prepare for the new puppies that you will have soon:
- Dogs of all breeds are pregnant for 63 days, give or take a few days
- There are very few signs at the beginning that your dog may be pregnant
- By the third trimester, you should be able to see real solid signs such as the belly growing, nipples enlarging or even feeling the puppies move
- Your vet will be able to tell you sooner if your dog is pregnant by feeling your dog's stomach, an ultrasound, an X-ray or a pregnancy test
- Make sure your know what you need to do to prepare for your puppies' birth
- Know when you should call a vet during or after labor
Also read: Why Is My Puppy Always Hungry?
Let us know all about your puppy, leave your story in the comments below.
Do you have friends with dogs? I'd love it if you shared this article with them over social media so we can all be informed about safe doggie feeding. I'd also love to connect with you on Twitter. You can follow the page at @lovablepawclaws. Once we are connected, you can send me your comments about this article. I look forward to hearing from you.


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Line up candy and coconut balls to join the adventure in this entertaining and captivating 3-in-a-side matching game, inspired by the cartoon of THE LEGEND OF MANOLO!
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Geochemical Analysis for Oil and Gas Exploration
Spectrally significant alteration anomalies have been observed for many years by geochemists using various remote sensing platforms. Spectral properties of this alteration may include bleaching of redbeds, clay mineralization, or tonal anomalies. Real time detection and rapid interpretation of these types of anomalies are now possible using small ground based spectrometers that can take spectral measurements in the visible and near infrared part of the electromagnetic spectrum. High resolution micro-sized spectral reflectance surveys can be run for detailed mapping of geochemical variations in very near surface soils. Typically, geochemical surveys with large sample populations are cost prohibitive, which severely limits the amount of detail that is required to make an informed exploration decision. Instrument portability and quick reading response allows for a greater number of samples to be used, yielding a more precise representation of the anomaly under consideration.
CIELab Fundamentals for HRSSA
The CIE 1976 L*a*b* color space is the most widely used method for measuring and ordering object color. It is routinely employed throughout the world by those controlling the color of textiles, inks, paints, plastics, paper, printed materials, and other objects. It is sometimes referred to as the CIELAB color difference metric. The 1976 CIELAB color space is a mathematical transformation of the colorimetric system first published by the CIE in 1931.
Both the 1931 and 1976 color spaces share the same fundamental principles, that:
• Color is a sensation resulting from the combination of a light, an object, and an observer. A light source illuminates an object. An object modifies light, and reflects (or transmits) it to an observer.
• An observer senses the reflected light.
• Tristimulus values are coordinates of color sensation, computed from the CIE (light, object, and observer) data.
1976 CIE L*a*b* - Perceptual Uniformity
The 1976 CIELAB system organizes colors so that numeric differences between colors agree with visual perceptions. The CIELAB simplifies the communication of color difference information between parties.
L Star Example
A Star Example
B Star Example
Opponent Color Coordinates
The method of describing (and ordering) colors by an opponent type system has proven to be useful, and widely accepted. This approach follows the idea that somewhere between the eye and the brain, information from cone receptors in the eye gets coded to light-dark, red-green, and yellow - blue signals. The concept follows the "opponent" basis that colors cannot be red and green at the same time, or yellow and blue at the same time. However, colors can be considered as combinations of red and yellow, red and blue, green and yellow, and green and blue.
In the CIE L*a*b* uniform color space, the color coordinates are:
•L* - the lightness coordinate.
•a* - the red/green coordinate, with +a* indicating red, and -a* indicating green.
•b* - the yellow/blue coordinate, with +b* indicating yellow, and -b* indicating blue.
The L*, a*, and b* coordinate axis define the three dimensional CIE color space. Thus, if the L*, a*, and b* coordinates are known, then the color is not only described, but also located in space.
Back to US Geochemical Home


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Tim Tebow's minor league march in his hopes of reaching the big leagues has hit a minor speedbump.
The former Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback and New York Mets outfield farmhand was placed on the disabled list Saturday after injuring his right hand two days before, the Double-A Binghamton Rumble Ponies announced.
Tebow's injury occurred in Binghamton's 3-2 win over the Trenton Thunder, a New York Yankees affiliate, on Thursday. The left fielder was removed from the game in the seventh inning after seemingly hurting his hand during a swing,
"It's a hand/wrist thing," Rumble Ponies manager Luis Rojas said to reporters Thursday. "I think there was one swing where he let go the bottom hand and the top hand finished his swing. He said that he felt something there. We don't know right now."
This marks the first time during Tebow's professional baseball career that he has landed on the DL. Tebow, who turns 31 next month, is slated to visit a hand specialist on Monday in New York City.
The injury issue interrupts Tebow's most impressive stretch as a minor leaguer. Coming off being named to the Eastern League All-Star Game, he is hitting .340 in July with a .798 OPS after hitting .301/.762 in June. Tebow's offensive numbers have improved in each month this season as he has gone from novelty to curiosity, with speculation growing that the Mets may consider him as a September call-up to the majors when rosters are expanded.
For the year, Tebow is hitting .273 with six home runs and 36 RBIs in 84 games, all at Binghamton.
Tebow struggled in spring training, going 1-for-18 with 11 strikeouts in seven exhibition games with the Mets. In 126 games last season in Class-A, Tebow hit .226 with eight home runs and 52 RBIs. He played for Columbia before being promoted to high Class-A St. Lucie.
Before starting his professional baseball career, Tebow won the Heisman Trophy as quarterback of the Florida Gators and played three NFL seasons, two for the Denver Broncos and one for the New York Jets.
—Field Level Media


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Valerie and her wonder dog,
Afraid to Take the Leap? Simple Ways to Face Down Your Fears
By Valerie Young
This article originally appeared in Issue 183 of the Changing Course Newsletter.
The so-called safe path is always "easier." Just ask Ursula Clay. Ursula tried to take the secure career path her immigrant parents had chosen for her. In fact, she worked incredibly hard to achieve a level of financial success and security her parents, both high school dropouts, never had. Says Ursula:
"I worked very hard to get through law school at night, all the while working full time and struggling financially. When I finally achieved what I thought was the brass ring – i.e., good salary, fancy title, etc. – it was a thoroughly disappointing revelation that this was the end result of all the hard work. It felt very empty and meaningless, further made so by the birth of my two beautiful children. I just felt as though I could not possibly have been put on this earth to toil way for 12 hour days at a job that kept me away from my family, and which I dreaded going to every day."
"Unless you walk out into the unknown," says Tom Peters, "the odds of making a profound difference in your life are pretty low." After two years of executing her escape plan which included many moments of fear and uncertainty, Ursula is embracing the unknown. "It's like getting out of college again, and having a clean slate. I do not know where I am going to end up, or what might come my way. In fact, staying home with my kids right now may be the next calling, and after that, who knows!"
Laugh in the Face of Fear
Anyone who has ever ventured out of their safe little world will tell you they had doubts. When it comes to making a major life change, not only is a certain amount of fear perfectly normal, it's actually helpful. For example, it's our healthy fears that keep us from jumping off cliffs. And the great thing about fear is that there are always ways to get around it.
So try laughing in the face of fear. Am I kidding? No. Ridiculing your fears is actually a very effective technique for banishing them. Let me show you what I mean.
If I told you the U.S. Senate had just voted to relocate the capital from Washington, D.C. to Las Vegas, your response would probably be something like, "No way!" That's because the mind rejects that which it considers absurd. It's the same with fear. The trick is to turn your fears into a ridiculous event in your mind. That way, you allow your natural human reaction to absurdity to take over and dismiss them.
Try it yourself. Take your biggest fear and take it to extremes. Really exaggerate it. Let's say you're paralyzed by the fear of failure. Try picturing your entire family, all of your friends, your neighbors, everyone you went to high school with, even your boss, standing outside your cardboard-box home holding up signs that read: We Told You So!
Pretty ridiculous, right? When you realize that your worst-case fantasy is just that – a fantasy – what felt overwhelming will now feel much more manageable.
Change Is Easy – When You Take It One Step at a Time
Another way to manage the fear of venturing out on your own is to start small. If the thought of just up and quitting your day job frightens you, start building your freelance career on the side. Begin with low-risk steps and gradually work your way up to the harder stuff.
You never know what is going to move you to action. It can be a book, something you saw on television, a chance conversation, a workshop… I was flattered to learn that for Ursula that chance encounter happened when in 2003 she "stumbled upon" the Changing Course website. That was enough to move Ursula to start "formulating an escape plan." She writes, "My plan consisted of figuring what I wanted to do after I quit my job, and putting myself in a financial position that would allow me to walk away from a well-paying, but unsatisfying career."
Receiving a consistent message that change was possible says Ursula, "had the effect of pulling me back to my escape plan whenever I started fearing the unknown again, or just got lazy." For Ursula that message came in the form of this newsletter. For you it might be a support group, a coach, or even a buddy who can check in to see how your plan is progressing.
Even though Ursula has taken the leap, she's now working on the second part of her goal – coming up with ideas for multiple income streams. The good news is that having faced down her fears once means Ursula can approach her new goal from a far more desirable vantage point. "Now," she says, "I can read the newsletter on my home computer in my sweatpants while my daughter naps, instead of on my Blackberry while riding the 8:02 pm train back to the suburbs from work." And to just to underscore how excited she is to be embarking on this new chapter in her life, Ursula signed off with, "Regards from the other side."
Remember, courage is not a matter of losing your fear so you can take action; courage comes from taking action. And that, in turn, helps you overcome your fear. When you can act despite your fears, you will be rewarded many times over. That's because, as Anais Nin once observed, "Life shrinks or expands according to one's courage." Once I found the courage to escape job jail my life expanded in ways I never imagined possible. Life really is better over here on the "other side." I encourage you to take one small step today to join those of us are enjoying the view from the other side.


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Bird Control at Hospitals
Consistent with rodent and insect mitigation, bird control at health care facilities is a critical element for maintaining a clean and disease free environment for patients. Pigeons often gather to roost on a hospital's roof, under parking structures, in receiving bays and loading docks, and around exterior employee lunch and snack areas. Fecal dust drawn into hospitals through rooftop heating, ventilation and air-conditioning ducts represents a serious health hazard. Without effective bird control, a serious infectious disease problem can develop.
Although the exclusion and removal tools have their place, pigeons are very adaptable and require an integrated program of pest management ("IPM") for effective control. Pigeons have the capability to breed rapidly. Left unchecked, just five mating pairs can produce up to 400 offspring in only two years. And, while removal options often appear tangible and immediate, due to the bird's rapid reproduction, these methods do not have a sustainable impact on the overall population. In other words, removal often represents an ongoing "harvest" of birds.
Due to the rapid turnover of the population and relatively short lifespan of pigeons (2-3 years), a contraceptive tool is very effective in reducing pigeon numbers. When applied according to label directions, OvoControl interferes with egg hatchability. Since no new birds are hatching, the population of birds declines naturally and continuously. Data shows an 88% decline in the population over 28 months and field studies show a reduction of approximately 50%, annually.
Contraception should be an integral component for all large area bird mitigation programs, especially at health care facilities. See the User's Guide for tips and information on installing an OvoControl program at your healthcare facility.


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EXPORTS from the UK have soared since the EU referendum result, with the volume of export trade rising at a faster rate than that of imports, new data shows.
In the first full set of published results since the Brexit vote on June 23, 2016, UK exports have been shown to have risen by 11.3 per cent to £617bn when comparing Office for National Statistics (ONS) data from 2017 versus 2016.
Trade of goods with non-EU countries grew by 11.6 per cent, faster than with the EU at 10.9 per cent.
Exports continue to grow faster than imports, narrowing the trade deficit by £7bn in the last year.
The UK's service sector was cited as a main driving force behind the increase, with exports up 8.7 per cent to £274bn.
Goods exports also rose strongly by 13.4 per cent to £342bn. Best sellers including cars and mechanical and electrical machinery are going to market in countries such as the USA, China, and Germany.
The figures were hailed by International Trade Secretary, Dr Liam Fox, as proof of the power of the British brand.
He said: "In the first full year after the EU referendum, demand for British goods and services is higher than ever with exports rising by £62.5bn and the trade deficit narrowing.
"As I meet my counterparts across the world, one thing always stands out: the UK's reputation for producing trusted, high quality products.
"These new figures are a testament to the hard work of companies up and down the country. As an international economic department, we will continue to build on this success by helping more firms export through our Exporting is GREAT campaign and global network of more than 1700 trade advisers."
In a further boost, ONS statistics also released last week show manufacturing output reached its highest level since February 2008.
The figures were welcomed by leading industry bodies, demonstrating how Britain's trading presence has grown as the country gets ready to leave the EU and forge our own free trade agreements.
Stephen Martin, director general of the Institute of Directors, said: "One of the UK's key objectives over the coming years must be to raise our game on international trade.
"We have to get more companies selling abroad, increase volumes from current exporters, strengthen links with existing trade partners, and forge new ones in markets where our reach is currently limited.
"We have great companies, some world-leading industries and huge potential. The trade narrowed shrank between 2016 and 2017, and IoD member exports are up, but there are still significant challenges ahead, so it is imperative that the Department for International Trade and businesses work together to deliver a step-change in our trade performance."
One company deriving huge benefits from increasing exports is Huddersfield-based, Paxman Coolers.
A specialist in scalp cooling treatment, it has helped more than 100,000 cancer patients throughout the world to keep their hair during chemotherapy treatment.
In addition to Paxman's significant UK presence which sees over 1,000 systems available in over 95 per cent of UK hospitals, its products are being used extensively around the world with the company exporting to 26 countries on five continents in 2017 alone.
During a rigorous FDA clearance process, the Paxman scalp cooler was used in the first-ever randomized clinical trial to evaluate modern scalp cooling, which took place at a number of prestigious US hospitals.
Following participation in trade missions to Houston, Austin and San Antonio Paxman now has a 12 month plan to install 250 systems across the United States and will be working with a large number of cancer centres and large community oncology groups to roll out their scalp cooling systems.
Managing director of Paxman, Richard Paxman said: "I am delighted with the support from DIT. The contacts and support has been wonderful and really provided us the assistance we need to enter in to this exciting market."


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|Whose woods these are I think I know.
His house is in the village though;
He will not see me stopping here
To watch his woods fill up with snow.
My little horse must think
it queer
He gives his harness bells a shake
The woods are lovely, dark and deep,
~Robert Frost


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Product Description
Walking in sunshine™ is an expert guide, but a modern read of "How To"… a holding hand for qualified spray tanning technicians and anyone interested in making their career in spray tanning.
Spray tanning is one of fastest growing treatments in the beauty industry as more and more people wake up to the dangers of skin cancer. Thankfully spray tanning has advanced in leaps and bounds, and we no longer need to char ourselves under a foreign sun to feel sun-kissed.
Guiding you through:
- The Science of fake tanning
- Clear diagram of skin with information how spray tanning works
- Choosing the correct DHA for the client
- Equipment with photo's
- Preparation
- Airbrush spray tan application- pictures with clear instructions
- HVLP spray tan application- pictures with clear instructions
- Applying self tanning products by hand
- Maintaining
- Precautions
- Importance of Insurance
- Importance of good training
- Contraindications
- Skin diseases
- Allergies
- Patchy spray tan's
- Advice on male spray tanning
- Frequently asked Questions
- Trouble shooting- equipment
- Approved Health & Safety, By Environmental Health Officer
- Consultation & Aftercare information forms
- In-depth Promoting and Marketing your business for salon & mobile Technicians (over 14 pages)
- Free solutions directory with discount codes
And much, much more! Many are referring to this book as a "Spray Tanning Bible"
Caring about your clients is what is needed to be good in your job and you can only do that- with knowledge.
The marketing section would suit anyone connected to beauty, searching for ways to build and promote their business. An invaluable purchase for students and professionals alike.
Serving the spray tan industry since 2001, you heard it here first!
UK shipping via Royal Mail


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The Science of LASER Hair Removal
Hair removal has been in practice, whether be for hygiene or fashionable purposes, for many years; even going as far back as the Ancient Egyptians. And as civilizations advanced, so has the science and tools in which they use, some of which are still being used today. However, society still yearned for better techniques to help achieve that "flawless" appearance. Laser Hair Removal is that step towards that smoother skin.
Laser hair removal involves specifically targeting the hair with various specific wavelengths of light. This differentiates from 'electrolysis' where the aforementioned takes on individual hair follicles as opposed to the pigmentation. Laser hair removal has been only available since the mid-1990s, but like all technology, is advancing to suit different types of individuals.
How does LASER hair removal work?
Laser hair removal works by selectively targeting melanin in the area of the hair follicle. Melanin gives color to the hair with eumelanin providing black or brown color and pheomelanin giving blonde and red color. Also known as "Selective Photothermolysis", the Laser is calibrated to target the concentrated melanin in the hair bulbs. This is why Laser hair removal only works on darker hair follicles. Patients with blonde, red or gray hair are often not ideal candidates for LASER hair removal. Electrolysis for this type of patient might be the best route, at this time.
Types of LASERS for Hair Removal
There are essentially only 4 types of Laser hair removal Lasers available today: IPL, alexandrite, diode, and Nd:YaG lasers. Each Laser has its own pros and cons in regards to its efficacy. Our practice does prefer to use Diode Lasers due to their speed and comfort for the patient and is often the most effective wavelength type that requires the least amount of treatments.
Male LASER Hair Removal
Men's hair growth is different from female. Men also have specific needs for hair growth.
Hair Removal for Men
Men typically desire LASER hair removal for their body. The most common areas of removal include the back, chest, stomach and arms. In addition, some men desire laser hair removal of their legs (especially swimmers, runners and bikers), face (typically, the upper cheek area), the nasal hairs and the "mankini" area, as well.
Typically, LASER hair removal require multiple sessions to achieve permanent hair reduction. The reason for multiple sessions is that hair grows through multiple phases and LASER hair removal only targets hair in the anagen phase, the period of growth where the hair is it a thickest.
Areas of Removal
Facial Hair Removal
Men sometimes desire of hair on the face. In particular, the upper cheek of the face can be helpful to remove to avoid a stubbly look and help create a more refined smoother appearance of the skin.
Nasal Hair Removal
While nasal hairs serve a role in filtering debris, their appearance can be unsightly. Plucking of nasal hairs can be dangerous and lead to ingrown hairs. Laser hair removal can effectively eliminate hair.
Chest Hair Removal
Chest hair can be desirable or undesirable depending on the preference of the male or his partner. While some patient's enjoy hair along the chest, a "cleaner" look is still the preference for many males, especially those in the fitness industry.
'Mankini' Hair Removal
Men sometimes desire to have hair removed from the "mankini" area. This can be for a multitude of reasons. Shaving in this area can be sensitive and Laser hair removal can help create a more permanent reduction of hair in this area.
Men's Back Area
The men's back can be a source of issue especially at the beach. While a hairy chest can sometimes be considered desirable, a hairy back is typically thought of as not a positive image for men. Removal of back hair on a consistent basis with waxing and shaving can lead to ingrown hairs and be difficult for maintenance. Laser hair removal offers a permanent method of reducing hair.
What type of LASER does Aesthetic Skin utilize?
We utilize a diode laser with a cooling tip. A diode laser is the industry standard for optimal Laser hair removal.
Will it hurt to have my hair Lasered?
All Lasers have some degree of discomfort if it is targeting the correct area. We minimize the discomfort by utilizing a cooling tip, numbing gel when applicable and other techniques to minimize the patient's discomfort.
Can I do less sessions than recommended by Aesthetic Skin?
Patients can do as many or as little sessions as desired. It is important for patients to remember that hair grows at a variable rate and only hair in the anagen phase is targeted. Since our hair goes through multiple growth cycles multiple sessions are likely to be required. Doing less Laser hair removal sessions will reduce hair but not to the degree patient's may desire.
Do I need to shave or trim my hair prior?
Shaving your hair is required. We do charge to shave your hair as it does take our LASER staff time. Ideally, we recommend patient shave 1-3 days prior to Laser hair removal.
Female LASER Hair Removal
Female hair growth is different from male hair growth. Female may have specific areas and concerns distinct from male hair removal.
Hair Removal for Women
Women typically desire laser hair removal from all over their body and face including the underarm area, bikini area, legs and face. LASER hair removal requires multiple lasering sessions since the laser only targets hair in the anagen phase.
Areas of Treatment
Women's Facial Hair
Women's facial hair can be a nuisance. While bleaching and waxing can be helpful, they can cause irritation to the skin. LASER hair removal can be more effective of treating the area. The LASER often can treat this hormonally responsive area and it may require multiple treatments.
Women's Axilla or Armpit
The underarm area is often exposed with dresses and shirts. While shaving and waxing are the most common areas of treatment, the remaining stubble can be evident and sometimes irritating. The use of the LASER can help create a smoother underarm area which can help diminish the shadow created with stubble. In addition, underarm hair can carry odor and many patients describe less issues with underarm perspiration.
Women's legs
Smooth legs are often desired. Waxing and shaving can help decrease hair but can create stubble which can decrease the smoothness of the leg. A Laser can be beneficial in creating a leg which is smooth and hairless and is often one of the most effective areas to treat with a laser.
Women's Bikini Area
Dresses, shorts and bikinis are often more revealing than in past years. Shaving can be difficult for some as it can promote irritation. Laser resurfacing here can help create a smoother appearance.
What type of Laser does Aesthetic Skin utilize?
We utilize a diode laser with a cooling tip. A diode laser is the industry standard for optimal Laser hair removal.
Will it hurt to have my hair Lasered?
All Lasers have some degree of discomfort if it is targeting the correct area. We minimize the discomfort by utilizing a cooling tip, numbing gel when applicable and other techniques to minimize the patient's discomfort.
Can I do less sessions than recommended by Aesthetic Skin?
Patients can do as many or as little sessions as desired. It is important for patients to remember that hair grows at a variable rate and only hair in the anagen phase is targeted. Since our hair goes through multiple growth cycles multiple sessions are likely to be required. Doing less Laser hair removal sessions will reduce hair but not to the degree patient's may desire.
Do I need to shave or trim my hair prior?
Shaving your hair is required. We do charge to shave your hair as it does take our Laser staff time. Ideally, we recommend patient shave 1-3 days prior to Laser hair removal.
LASER Hair Removal vs. Electrolysis Hair Removal
- Time – The amount of time per session for both treatments vary based on what areas are being treated. Since Laser removal attacks the pigmentation in the hair, a wider area can be treated. For example, eyebrow treatments can take about 15 minutes. Meanwhile, Electrolysis attacks individual hair follicles, which can be more time consuming. An eyebrow treatment can take up to 30 minutes depending on the experienced technician.
- Amount of Sessions– With Laser Hair removal, an average of 4 to 6 treatments are needed, with a spacing of about a month between session, to achieve the best results. Electrolysis requires between 15 to 30 sessions.
Why does LASER hair removal require multiple sessions?
Laser hair only works on hair in the growing phase (called anagen). The three types of hair growth are anagen, telogen and catagen. Since not all of the hair is in anagen phase, several sessions are required to effectively treat the hair.
Multiple treatments have shown to be necessary to effectively reduce the amount of hair.
What Are The Side Effects?
The most common side effect of Laser is pain. Some degree of discomfort is to be expected, although hopefully minimal. There is no such thing as painless Laser hair removal, although some Lasers will market themselves as such. Several options exist in regards to making Laser hair removal more comfortable. This includes the use of topical anesthetics, as well as the use of cooling tips and pre-cooling the skin. In addition, having the desired follicle length will minimize the pain from the singeing of the lasered hairs.
Other complications can include hyper or hypopigmentation and rarely scarring. Previously, Laser Hair Removal was not recommended for people with a dark skin tone. However, over the years, new advances have made it possible to find the right Laser for the patient.
Preparing For LASER Hair Removal
There are a few things to keep in mind when preparing for Laser Hair Removal treatment:
- Avoid getting a sun tan or using a sunless tanner for up to 6 weeks prior to treatment. Your skin should be as light as possible before treatment. Any tanning increases the risk of side effects, such as skin lightening.
- Refrain from plucking, waxing or electrolysis at least one month prior to treatment. These removal methods can disturb the hair follicle and the root must be present for the procedure in order for the laser to deliver the best results. Shaving is fine since it preserves the hair shaft and follicle. In fact, it is recommended that the area of treatment be shaved at least 24 hours before the procedure so that the laser does not target hair above skin, potentially causing burns.
- Always remember to consult a doctor or specialist to make sure this procedure is right for you.
Is LASER Hair Removal Right For Me?
- For Dark Skin Tones:
The "ideal" type of person for Laser Hair Removal is someone who is light skin tones and dark-haired, which is one of the reasons to refrain from getting a tan before the procedure. In the early days of Laser Hair Removal, it was often discouraged for different ethnic groups that had darker skin tones to use this procedure due to the limited number of Laser lightwave lengths that were approved. These lightwave lengths had the potential to damage darker skin due to the lightwaves inability to safely target the melanin in the hair shafts. Today, however, thanks to the advances in the field, it is safer and more efficient to treat someone with a darker skin tone using different types of Lasers with various wavelengths and pulse widths.
- For Blonde / Gray Hair:
Blonde hair can prove to be a challenge when it comes to using LASER Hair Removal. The Laser's heat source is dependent on pigment, like that found in darker hair. Blonde hair lacks the pigment to attract the heat of the Laser. While there are some Lasers available to treat blonde or gray hair, it is still found to be unreliable. A recommended hair removal procedure for those with blonde or gray hair would be Electrolysis, since it attacks the hair follicle instead of pigment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Laser Hair Removal permanent?
Unfortunately, the answer is no. The only permanent hair removal technique is Electrolysis. Laser Hair Removal reduces the amount of hair grown.
How many treatments am I going to need?
The answer may vary from patient to patient. Depending on the area being treated and how much hair growth the patient may have. Majority of patients will need at least 6 treatments.
Can African Americans get laser hair removal?
Yes, African American patients can get laser hair removal too! With laser hair removal the settings of the machine vary from patient's skin type.
I have had laser hair removal treatments a few times now and noticed that the hair is growing in patches. Is this normal?
Yes. This is very normal and considered to be a positive thing. It means we have gotten rid of some of the hair follicles from growing back.
Do I have to shave before coming in for treatment?
Yes. I recommend the patient to be freshly shaved before his or her appointment. The hairs are at a thicker stage and is picked up easier with the laser.
Can I wax or tweeze my hairs before coming in?
No. When the hair is waxed or tweezed the hair follicles are no longer there, therefore doing laser will be a waste of time.
Can I go tanning before or after laser?
No. Laser hair removal is done with specific settings for specific skin types. If you are considered a skin type that is a little lighter but come in tan, the risks of getting burned is high. You should wait at least 3 weeks before and after treatments to get a tan.
Can I get Laser Hair Removal done if i had just had a facial treatment, chemical peel, microderm, etc?
No. You should wait at least 3 weeks before doing a laser treatment on your face. Your face will be more sensitive and may increase your risks of burning.
How much do women spend on shaving and waxing a year?
80 million women spend $500 million on shaving waxing and accessories per year
How can you make laser hair removal more comfortable?
One advantage of our system is that it has pre and post cooling plate as well as a chiller screen. We use several diode lasers in the office to ensure efficacy and comfort. The pre cooling plates cool the skin at 2 degrees centigrade making the area treated cool both before during and after the treatment. This means that patients don't have to use topical anesthetics. Topical anesthetics can take time to activate.
What is the science behind discomfort and laser hair removal?
Most of the discomfort related to laser hair removal is due to the heat generated which can trigger the Group C nerve fibers which are unmyelinated and have a small size and conduct at a slower velocity. Using pre and post cooling techniques can effectively limit discomfort without lowering the fluence or power of the laser. Patients require higher fluences with each treatment for maximal efficacy, particularly when the hairs become finer.
I am on Retinol, Retin A, etc. Can I still get Laser Hair Removal done on my face?
No, that is a contraindication for getting laser hair removal on your face. Products should not be used for at least 1 week before and after treatment.
Is Laser Hair removal safe for pregnant women?
Studies have not shown that getting laser hair removal treatment is in fact safe or not safe for expecting mothers, but we wouldn't recommend it. We would actually prefer to be on the safe side and say no.
How young can a patient begin Laser Hair Removal?
Laser Hair Removal can begin at 16 years old with the consent of a parent.
When will I begin to see results?
Patients usually begin to see a difference after their first treatment, but you will notice a bigger difference after the third treatment.
How many treatments will I need for the best results?
There is a high variation in how many treatments an individual will need. Some will require three to four treatments while others will require 15 to 20.
What kind of side effects should I expect?
You can expect sore skin and some superficial hair loss. Also, a rash-like bump may occur around the treated hair follicle as well as some swelling.
Can all body parts be treated with laser?
With the exception of the eyes, all body parts, from head to toe, may be treated where there is hair growth.
Does it matter if the fluence is higher or lower on my laser hair settings?
Fluence is a fancy way of stating the energy of the laser. Lower fluences are typically going to be thought of as less effective. In lower fluence lasers, high repetition rates can be employed to provide enough energy to remove the unwanted hairs. Several studies have examined this phenomena. A recent study looked at a comparison of low fluence and high repetition rate versus high fluence and low repetition rate in Chinese women in the Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy written by authors Wenhai Li, et al. They found no difference in low fluence high repetition hair removal versus higher fluence hair removal. What does this means for patients? Patients tend to tolerate hair removal at lower fluences and the effectiveness is similar making laser hair removal more comfortable for patients.
Unwanted hair on certain parts of the body is of great cosmetic concern for women. More commonly today more and more men are seeking a cleaner image and having hair removed from their bodies as well.
When was laser hair first introduced?
Laser hair removal was introduced in 1996 by Grossman who first reported hair removal with a ruby laser. Since then other lasers with better wavelengths have been utilized including alexandrite, diode and melanin.
What is the best wavelength for laser hair removal?
The goal is to target the hair or structures of the hair without targeting the surrounding skin. The best frequencies tend to be between 700nm and 1064nm. Typically lower frequencies, like those closer to 700 nm are best for lighter skin and the higher frequencies are considered better for darker skin. However, the diode lasers (between 800-810nm) are perhaps the most versatile lasers as they can treat both the lighter and darker skin types. This is because in part the long pulsed diode laser (typically between 800-810 nm) has the advantage over alexandrite lasers (755 nm) for less absorption in melanin. The Nd:YAG laser is typically considered best for darker skins, however, it is not ideal in removing hair and is often less effective than diode and alexandrite in its efficacy. IPL for laser hair removal is another option (IPL is a broad band of light) however it is often slightly less effective at selectively targeting hair and overall hair reduction.
What is the exclusion criteria for laser hair removal?
Exclusion criteria for laser hair removal include hormonal disorders, bleeding disorders, cardiac and renal disease, dermatologic or skin conditions of the associated areas including pigmentation disorder, dermatitis, pregnancy, or lactation.
What is the mechanism of action of laser hair removal?
The mechanism of action of laser hair removal is via selective photothermolysis and heat transfer theories. A selective damaging of target tissue can be achieved with shorter pulse durations that the relaxation time of that tissue which will minimize heat transfer to the surrounding tissues. Energy absorbed by melanin in hair matrix and shaft will by transferred to the surrounding tissues causing damage to the stem cells and papilla cells of the hair follicle thus destroying the hair.
Why is more melanin worse for laser hair removal?
Melanin of the skin will compete with absorption of the wavelength of laser. Darker skin types have more melanin and thus are at more risk for injury from absorption of the laser energy. It is for this reason that patients should not tan prior to laser hair removal as more melanin in the skin can increase the likelihood of a burn from laser.
Does the spot size of the laser matter?
The spot size of the laser can affect how effective laser hair removal is. Larger spot sizes tend to have more hair destruction due to less scattering of the laser beam.
Will my hair removal become less effective towards the end of my treatment?
Hair removal often decreases at the end of the 3rd months after the final treatment in part because hair can synchronize and enter the telogen phase. For this reason often times the last treatments are the most difficult.
Can I have a lower strength laser for laser hair removal?
The wrong settings on a laser hair removal session can lead to MORE hair growth rather than less. This is why many at home laser hair devices are still debatable as they may actually encourage laser growth rather than decrease it.
Do at home laser removal devices work?
The answer to this is not sure. Many laser hair removal devices work on lower fluences (less energy) and use either IPL or diode. The issue is that if the fluence is too low it may actually encourage hair growth rather than inhibit it. Some studies have actually shown immediate loss of hair while using the device and then further increases in hair to support this. In addition, the at home devices have no adjustability to work with your skin and as such many reviews of these products often demonstrate unsatisfied customers. A low energy, non-adjustable device placed in a consumer hand is less likely to lead to permanent hair reduction than a high energy adjustable device with a trained laser technician trained by a laser surgeon trained to look for signs of effective hair removal and safe hair removal.
What type of hair works best for laser hair removal?
Thick, black coarse hair is the best responding hair for laser hair removal.
How does laser hair removal compare with electrolysis?
Electrolysis is much more painful and is often less reliable. In addition, electrolysis is at least 60 to 100x slower in time. This means in our office a patient seeking laser hair removal of their legs would take 15 minutes may take upwards of 4 to 8 hours with electrolysis and have a less reliable and more expensive result.
If there is a tattoo present will it be affected by laser hair removal?
Tattoos near the laser may experience some darkening.
What should I expect after my procedure for laser hair removal?
Initially, cool compresses can soothe the area but are not always necessary. The areas treated may be slightly erythematous for a few days. Over the next few weeks, hair will begin to grow and by week 4, hair will start to shed in a patchy format. This shedding takes approximately 4 weeks to occur. Most patients are ready for additional treatments at either week 4, 6, or 8 depending on which area is treated. Over the course of 3 treatments patients most patients should expect 75% hair reduction and with further treatments more hair reduction is expected. Each subsequent treatment should be easier and easier for the patient as less hair is to be expected.
Read more on Laser Hair Removal:
Middle Eastern Hair Removal
Diolaze Hair Removal
Indian Hhair Removal


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… Bob Woodward? His new book:
In Bob Woodward's highly anticipated new book, "State of Denial," President Bush emerges as a passive, impatient, sophomoric and intellectually incurious leader, presiding over a grossly dysfunctional war cabinet and given to an almost religious certainty that makes him disinclined to rethink or re-evaluate decisions he has made about the war. It's a portrait that stands in stark contrast to the laudatory one Mr. Woodward drew in "Bush at War," his 2002 book, which depicted the president — in terms that the White House press office itself has purveyed — as a judicious, resolute leader, blessed with the "vision thing" his father was accused of lacking and firmly in control of the ship of state.
Why were the earlier books so different? Did he somehow not notice this stuff before? It's a serious problem for the most prominent people in the journalism world to be merely lagging indicators, praising leaders when they're popular and then pointing out that, in fact, they suck only after a whole series of disasters discredit them.


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April 11, I began to paint this image that I first posted to Instagram, after taking several shots that morning. As I was biking past this spot, where I had already taken a photo of the Paramount sign reflected in a puddle, there was some construction in the street.
A large steel plate covered a hole in the ground. It wasn't raining, but fortuitously there was a maintenance man spraying the sidewalk clean, and there was water all over the street and sidewalk. I had to wait for him to stop so I could take the photos. When I crouched down, I could see the lights from the street signs reflected in the water on the steel plate. It was beautiful in person, and really the photo only begins to capture it.
I painted regularly from April until late July, when I needed to take a break. I started another painting, and ended up painting three in two months. It was a struggle to get back into this one. I was intimidated by the amount of work that needed to be done. As I work, the paintbrush I use gets smaller and smaller, as the details get more focused. Once I got over this, I was able to push through and get it done. I'm so happy I did!


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Bulls lose Wade for the Season
Basketball, FORUMS, Main page feature, NBA 571 views 0
The Chicago Bulls have had a very disappointed season and it continues as Dwyane Wade has been lost for the year with a fractured and sprained elbow.
The injury occurred Wednesday during a loss to the Memphis Grizzlies. The injury was first diagnosed as a hyperextension.
The question now is, has Wade played his final game as a member of the Bulls
- Previous Cap Space: March Madness with NBCLA's Michael Duarte
- Next Cap Space: Previewing the Los Angeles Dodgers with NBCLA's Michael Duarte


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The Intimacy of Mobile
Posted on September 10, 2012
Being intimate is a great thing. It's being close to something, focused on something and concentrating on it. It's about a purity of interaction, and an expectation to get something amazing back.
When we look at how people use devices and how they interact with them, there is a huge difference in the interaction with a mobile touch device and a traditional computer. With a mobile touch device, the user is directly in contact with the content or application they wish to interact with; whereas with a computer there is always an input method, a mouse, trackpad or keyboard in the way. The need to use this third device to for the interaction reduces significantly the intimacy of that interaction. This effect can be seen in the image of Steve Jobs above.
Hence mobile touch devices are more intimate, and that has an impact on how we need to design for them and what use-cases we can expect to be applicable. It also has an impact on the psychology of a user, and that can be very important for many types of interaction. Whereas a mobile touch device is intimate, a computer is much more utilitarian.
Hence, when design a mobile touch solution, it is essential to consider how the interaction can be made more intimate, and realize that it will be different in many ways from a computer-based interaction because we're in a context shift from utilitarian to intimate.
That intimate interaction design can lead to a more direct impact on the users' experience and it can be expected that they will form a stronger, bond to with the interaction that they are having.
For any application that is trying to either build a relationship with a user or sell them something, this is a really important concept to consider and to include in any and all designs.


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Metal roofing is increasing in popularity. Homeowners love its clean, pristine look and its lengthy lifespan. But there's another reason to choose metal roofing for your home: it's good for the planet. Here's a look at three eco-friendly benefits of metal roofs.
They reduce your air conditioning use.
Metal roofs are reflective, especially if you choose one in a light color. This means they absorb less heat from the sun than dark shingle roofs, keeping your home cooler in the heat of summer. A cooler home means your air conditioner uses less electricity. Since most electricity in the US is obtained by burning coal, which is a very polluting process, conserving electricity is an earth-friendly move.
Less waste is generated.
Metal roofs can last 50 years or more. In this time, you'd typically go through two shingle roofs, each one generating waste. The day your roof reaches the end of its life may be far away, but when that day comes, the metal from the roof can be recycled into other products. This helps reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills.
They're made from recycled materials.
Most metal roofs are made with a high percentage of recycled metal. If you are trying to meet green building standards or build your home as sustainably as possible, your roofing contractor may recommend metal roofing that's made from 80% or more recycled metal.
Metal roofing looks great, lasts for decades, and helps preserve the planet. To learn more about your metal roofing options, contact us today.


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Building Community. One Career at a time.
For over 50 years, Westoba Credit Union has been an active part of your community and going strong. Our employees are your friends, your family, the folks at the rink and your neighbors down the street.
Now we invite you to be a part of our credit union community. If you're looking for a great career with competitive benefits, Westoba Credit Union is the place to be! With opportunities in Member Services, Lending, Financial Planning, Human Resources, Marketing, Administration, to just name a few; the opportunities are endless! So apply now to begin your exciting career journey with an organization that you will be proud to work for!


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- New College Day
- Alton College Enrichment Experience
- Aspire Programme
- Apply for September
- Accept my place
- Decline my place
- Where to Start
- Open Evenings
- Qualifications Explained
- Choosing the Right Course
- Extended Work Placement
- Finding a Course
- Get Our Prospectus
- How to Apply & More
- Our Facilities
- Supporting You
- Scholarships For Excellence
- Exams Information
- Life After College
- Transport
- International Students
Qualification:A Level
Exam Board: AQA
Duration:2 years
Course Content:
If you choose to study French A-Level, focus is on French speaking society – not just France but French speaking Canada (Quebec), Belgium, and French-speaking African countries such as Senegal and Mali. We listen to music from these countries and study the song lyrics. We learn about the architecture and make judgements on old and modern styles in the French speaking world. What is the food like and how can we make use of our grammar to understand a recipe?
In the second year we get our teeth into current affairs with topics such as immigration and multiculturalism in French speaking countries. How does politics motivate young people in France, Quebec, Belgium, Senegal or Mali? You study a film in the first year and a novel in the second year. You will research a topic of your choice related to the French speaking world. You will be given total freedom to research with guidance from your teacher. You will have weekly one-to-one French conversation lessons which you prepare in advance in order to gain fluency and confidence.
100% exam
Exam papers in Listening, reading and writing; Writing; Oral
Studying at Alton College:
You are trained to listen to longer passages. You study the grammar so that you are able to form complex sentences and write essays, translate and summarise. You work in pairs and groups and work at your own pace using audio, video, text and internet based resources in the multimedia language laboratory and via the College's Moodle (Virtual Learning Environment).
Entry requirements:
Students should normally have achieved at least five GCSEs at grade 9-4. For GCSEs which remain with the old grading system, a Grade 4 is equivalent to a Grade C.
You should have achieved at least grade 6 in French at GCSE.
Course costs:
Textbook: £30
Access to digital resources: £20 approx.
Possible overseas visit: £500 approx.
French works well with:
Modern Languages


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STEM Directory
The STEM Directory is a database of providers offering STEM enhancement and enrichment to schools and colleges locally and nationally. Teachers can easily search for shows, workshops, debates, challenges, visiting speakers and more.
Find exciting opportunities for in-class support, memorable days out, and engaging projects to motivate your students.
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Technology for Fun STEM workshopInspire and enthuse your pupils about STEM whilst linking to learning objectives from the KS2 curriculum. Select one of the following workshops:Fan boats workshopDesign, build, test and improve an electric fan boat, whilst learning about science (electricity, materials, forces), maths (measurement) and D...
MICRO FIRST LEGO League Jr.FIRST® LEGO® League Jr. is an exciting science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) programme for 6-9 year olds. Each year a theme relevant to the world around them is chosen as a focus for the children's work. The teams research the topic, displaying their ideas on a Show Me poster, build a LEGO...
FIRST LEGO League Jr.FIRST® LEGO® League Jr. is an exciting science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) programme for 6-9 year olds. Each year a theme relevant to the world around them is chosen as a focus for the children's work. The teams research the topic, displaying their ideas on a Show Me poster, build a LEGO...
1 space left - All July dates available! - Working in Technology: Design and Build a Wind Farm in Virtual RealityWe still have 1 space left for this, we are available for any dates in July.Other schools in the eligible funding areas we haven't worked with yet and would love to: - Dallam School- Chadwick High School- Central Lancaster High School- Lancaster Girls Grammar School- Cardinal Allen Catholic High School...
FIRST LEGO LeagueFIRST® LEGO® League is a global STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) challenge for teams of young people, to encourage an interest in real world themes and develop key skills that are crucial for their future careers. Young people work together to explore a given topic and to design, build and...
Making Math's MagicalThe primary focus of the magic maths workshops are to educate – but to educate it a fun, and uniquely inspiring way through the medium of magic.The programme itself has been designed in conjunction with primary school teachers and works perfectly for the start of 'Maths Week' and can take the form of...
The Royal Institution: Science in schoolsOur programme of Science in Schools brings our popular demonstration shows into school across the UK, accompanied by valuable Continuing Professional Development sessions for teachers. The shows give students, teachers and families a chance to see our specially trained presenters in action, delivering science shows...
STAR CentreThe STAR Centre in keighley is a lively science hub that uses space as a theme to encourage learners into undertaking science related subjects.Come and explore our space world. Undertake lifelike Mission Control simulations, drive a planetary rover in our Astrobotics area, conduct experiments in our Laboratory and...
University of Plymouth's Science and Technology Showcase 2019The aim of the Science and Technology Showcase is to raise students' aspirations in science and technology subjects and demonstrate how exciting STEM can be at A level and in higher education.As well as having some fun, this is a unique opportunity for students to talk with current undergraduate students, PhD...
Generation ScienceGeneration Science is the schools touring programme from Edinburgh International Science Festival. Each year we deliver interactive science shows and hands-on workshops in primary schools all over Scotland. In 2019 the tour runs from 28 January - 24 May. On offer this year are 15 workshops each exploring areas within...
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Grants for school
The Royal Institution runs two enrichment and enhancement grant schemes. Grants of up to £500 are available to UK-registered state schools to host a STEM activity selected from the STEM Directories.
There are a number of other organisations that offer grants to schools.
About STEM Directory
The STEM Directory contains searchable activities that enhance STEM teaching in schools and colleges. Teachers can search for shows, workshops, debates, challenges, visiting speakers and more.
Please let us know if you have any comments on this facility.
Providers: add an activity
If you provide shows, talks, workshops, challenges, museum visits, teacher CPD or other enrichment and enhancement activities that help promote STEM to schools and colleges, then you may be eligible to feature in the STEM Directory.
Please use the link below to register and submit an activity.


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We hope that all of our talks will be broadcast in this first series of show. Where they are, a link will be available in the schedule underneath the talk. Two already organised:
Billy Jackson
show: Making films! https://oxforduniversity.hosted.panopto.com/Panopto/Pages/Viewer.aspx?id=a2b27318-de5f-4eae-8099-c49533f50803
Stephen Eyre
show: Pure Data – a musical programming show and tell! https://oxforduniversity.hosted.panopto.com/Panopto/Pages/Viewer.aspx?id=0bbb987c-e221-4000-85f7-97c4c5b2074f
After the webcast, the same link can be accessed to watch the recordings again.


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Your business credit score is a number, typically from 1-100, that represents how trustworthy your business is. Lenders such as banks use this number to help decide whether to give you a loan, line of credit, or credit card–and at what rates.
While there's some debate in American politics over whether or not "corporations are people," it is true that businesses have credit scores and can receive credit reports the same way individuals do.
And much like how people and their lenders can check those scores at any time, small business owners can check the credit score of their company to see its strength—and whether they'll be eligible for trade credit, business financing, and other financial opportunities.
A credit score for your business begins to form the moment the business is created, since credit bureaus use public records and financial data to create a preliminary report.
Then, just like with a personal score, the business credit score changes depending on a variety of factors, including payment history, outstanding debt, company size, company age, and industry type (and mostly, industry risk).
Here's a rundown of business credit scores, including how these scores differ from personal credit scores, what services to use if you want to learn your score, how it's calculated, why it's important to check, and how to build it.
Your credit score is the key to your financial life:
It's a number—in the case of business credit scores, it's usually (but not always) a number from 1 to 100—that represents how trustworthy your business is, whether institutions should lend to the business, and how much they can lend.
A high score is a shorthand telling creditors that your business has paid back lenders on time (or even better, ahead of time) in the past.
A short list of factors affecting your score also includes:
Most of these bullet points make up what it takes to have a strong personal credit score, too. But unlike personal credit records, which only you can obtain about yourself, business credit scores are mainly based on public information and are available to anyone willing to pay for it.
(Competitors, for example, can do their research and see your credit score.)
Another major difference between personal and business credit scores is that business scores don't stick to a single industry standard—they can vary in terms of what algorithms are used.
There are plenty of major online credit agencies, but the biggest name in the industry is Dun & Bradstreet, with a database of information on over 235 million companies around the world.
Other commonly used agencies include Experian and Equifax. But as we mentioned above, each agency charges for producing a credit report and goes about collecting information and analyzing it differently.
That's why scores from each company could end up drastically different.
Choose the credit bureau that's right for you and your business, and fill out the necessary forms provided.
Dun & Bradstreet charges $61.99 for a report and, along with a credit summary and credit risk score, provides a PAYDEX score, financial stress score and industry payment benchmarks. Equifax charges $99.99 and includes public records and a business failure score. Experian charges a mere $36.95, but also provides only the most basic information.
While each bureau has different methods and different interpretations of scores, the major agencies use the 1 to 100 scale with the understanding that a score over 75 or 80 means good credit—a low risk to lend to, and a business that generally pays back their debts either on time or 20-30 days sooner than terms require.
When you receive your credit report, it's important to review the data and make sure everything collected about your business is accurate. You can correct bad data and get credit bureaus to update your information, as long as you have proof.
Regardless of what agency you use, but especially if you go with Dun & Bradstreet, it's a good idea to get a DUNs number, which lists you in the company database and sets up a credit file.
If you're the owner of a new business, this will get you on the path to establish good and accurate credit early. It's free to apply for a nine-digit number, and reportedly some institutions—including the United States government—require a DUNs number before working with a business or vendor.
Not every agency provides a score along the 1-100 scale:
FICO has a Small Business Scoring Service, with a range from 0-300 (the higher the better), which ranks businesses by how likely they are to make payments on time.
A minimum score of 140 will pass the Small Business Administration's pre-screen process and create opportunities for term loans, commercial loans and lines of credit from the SBA.
The Dun & Bradstreet PAYDEX score can be broken down into three tiers: scores between 80-100, scores between 50-79, and scores 49 and below.
The highest range indicates a low risk of payments, with a score close to 100 meaning payments often come promptly or sooner than 30 days within terms.
On the other hand, a score of 1-19 indicates that the business often takes more than 120 days to make payments.
The types of payments that can be reviewed by D&B for their PAYDEX score include paying back lenders for business loans, but also paying back money owed to suppliers of raw materials, utility companies, insurance companies, companies that lease assets like office equipment and vehicles, and more.
Experian's credit report, called the "Intelliscore Plus," is also based on a score from 1-100, but includes a risk classification from 1-5, with 1 being the least risky. A risk class of 3 is a "medium" or average risk, and 5 correlates with an overall score of 1-10—meaning a high risk for payment delinquency.
With this information, vendors, suppliers, and lenders can decide what kind of terms to extend to your business in regards to their payment. Common terms usually include paying a bill within 30 days, but companies with a high credit score can usually obtain better terms, like "net 60" days to pay it back.
Having more time to pay back a bill gives a business better control over cash flow and lets your business keep improving its score over time.
It's a cycle that feeds itself—and only begins to sour when the business fails to meet even the generous terms it's given.
A good credit score can go bad quickly:
According to D&B, 1 in every 3 businesses will see a decline in their credit score over a three-month period.
Instead of paying for a snapshot of your credit score every year or even a few times a year, another option is to pay a regular fee for credit monitoring. The companies mentioned above (including Equifax and Experian) offer varying levels of this service at several price points.
By monitoring your credit score consistently, you can catch and address changes to your rating before they affect future dealings.
Some services will send you business alerts relating to bankruptcy, judgements, liens, charge-offs, new inquiries, and large score drops. You can also review your credit file with unlimited access at any time, which helps when developing a long-term strategy for cash flow going forward.
Another benefit to monitoring is the ability to identify business identity theft in the early stages, instead of after it's too late.
There are a number of reasons why a small business may not have a quality credit score.
The first issue is time:
A new business simply doesn't have the credit history, good or bad, to allow a credit agency to decide one way or the other. This isn't unlike a young adult having relatively no credit, and needing to build their credit history over time.
Other ways to improve a business credit score include:
Another thing to keep in mind: while business credit reports are derived only from the accounts under the company name, business lenders and credit card companies will also check your personal credit.
If your business has fine credit but you personally are often late making payments or have judgments against you, the credit terms for your business could suffer.
It's a thin line between success and failure in the world of small business.
Having as much information on hand about your business's past and predicted future is imperative to staying ahead of the game. It's possible to operate without knowing your business's credit score, but rest assured that those who enter into dealings with you probably will, and might even use that information to create terms that aren't to your advantage.
And as mentioned above, sometimes credit scores are based on inaccurate data—and only by reviewing what's on file can you change what's being reported and create a better reputation for your company.
Credit scores change all the time, and are based on forces both in your power to control and outside of them. By taking control of what you can change and becoming aware of what you can't, you're more likely to be able to improve your score and open up opportunities for increased financing, better cash flow and more substantial business opportunities.
Check your business credit score—and keep checking it—to help your business grow strong. In the meantime, check out the business loans available for bad credit.


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The broad-market indexes may be relatively flat for the year, but shareholders of pharmaceutical juggernaut Merck (NYSE:MRK) would just as soon kiss 2015 goodbye. As we saw last week, Merck's had quite a few exciting headlines in 2015 that could give investors plenty to look forward to in 2016 and beyond. Nonetheless, shares of Merck have declined in 2015 by more than 6% through the Christmas Day holiday.
Merck investors expect the company to address a host of issues in 2016 and beyond, such as how it'll reignite growth after the loss of exclusivity on previous blockbuster Singulair, a treatment for asthma, and whether or not its acquisition strategy, which involves bolting on complimentary product and pipeline portfolios, will pay off.
Will Merck raise its dividend in 2016?
Another issue at the forefront for Merck shareholders is whether or not the company will boost its dividend in 2016. Merck has boosted its payout in each of the past five years, with the latest increase announced in November 2015. Hopes are high that Merck will once again raise its superior dividend, which is currently yielding 3.5%. This dividend provides strong incentive for income seekers to buy and hold Merck shares over the long-term, which in turn can reduce volatility and help long-term investors sleep better at night.
Can Merck deliver a higher payout for the sixth consecutive year? While nothing is for certain, I'd suggest that a nominal increase of $0.01 or $0.02 per quarter is doable.
To begin with, Merck's payout ratio and balance sheet would appear to suggest that a modest dividend increase is more than feasible. Merck is currently paying out $1.84 annually, but it's forecast by Wall Street to deliver more than double that ($3.75) in 2016 full-year EPS. A payout ratio below 50% would be conducive to additional dividend hikes. Merck's nearly $27 billion in debt might seem imposing, but in each year between 2010 and 2013 Merck generated $10 billion or more in free cash flow. This is a healthy drug developer that's more than capable of raising its payout based on its cash flow and payout ratio.
The meat and potatoes behind future dividend hikes
But the nuts and bolts behind any potential dividend increase will be in the response to Merck's top-line growth. The way I view it, Merck's future dividend increases will fall on the success or failure of three drugs.
First, we have Januvia (known as Janumet in overseas markets), a DPP-4 inhibitor that's an absolute juggernaut in type 2 diabetes. Januvia/Janumet will likely lead to more than $6 billion in global sales in 2015, and sales of the drug (exclusive of currency moves) advanced 17% in the third quarter over the prior year. Merck has spent a lot on marketing and physician interactions in order to shore up Januvia's market share, and all signs appear to indicate it's working well.
Secondly, Merck is relying on cancer immunotherapy Keytruda to deliver sustainable growth for the next decade and beyond. Immunotherapies work by turning off the immunosuppressant quality of cancer, thus making it easier for your immune system to detect and attack these foreign cells. Keytruda is currently approved for BRAF V600 mutation-positive metastatic melanoma patients and advanced non-small cell lung cancer patients who've progressed on prior therapies and whose tumors express high levels of PD-L1. Merck's management team noted in its Q3 conference call that Keytruda possesses approximately 70% of the high PD-L1-expressing market share in metastatic melanoma, and its response rate in high-expressing PD-L1 patients in advanced NSCLC blew the old standard of care out of the water.
Finally, we have Merck's developing hepatitis C program, which is highlighted by its cocktail combination of grazoprevir and elbasvir. Merck's once-daily cocktail drug could become the first once-daily pill to give Gilead Sciences' Harvoni a realistic competitive challenge. Similar to Harvoni, Merck's combo therapy has delivered sustained virologic response rates of 90% or higher in clinical studies. Furthermore, a new cocktail comprised of grazoprevir, MK-3682, and a new version of elbasvir (MK-8408) generated a 91% cure rate in genotypes 1, 2, and 3 in just eight weeks. The HCV market is huge, and Merck looks as if it'll soon have its slice of the pie.
The biggest question mark
Arguably the only thing that could stand in the way of Merck raising its payout in 2016 would be weakness in Januvia. "What might cause Januvia to struggle" you wonder? Look no further than the emergence of SGLT2 inhibitors.
Unlike traditional type 2 diabetes standards of care, which work in the pancreas and liver, SGLT2 inhibitors block the absorption of glucose in the kidneys, allowing patients to excrete excess glucose through their urine. Aside from providing improved glycemic balance, SGLT2 inhibitors also led to lowered systolic blood pressure and weight loss.
The SGLT2 inhibitor with DPP-4-killing capacity worth watching is Eli Lilly's (NYSE:LLY) and Boehringer Ingelheim's Jardiance. The reason Jardiance could prove a threat to Januvia has to do with the results of its long-term cardiovascular outcomes study, known as EMPA REG OUTCOME. In August, Eli Lilly and Boehringer Ingelheim announced that Jardiance proved superior to the current standard of care in terms of reducing the risk of death. In September Eli Lilly and Boehringer offered more precise data, showing that Jardiance reduced the risk of death by 32% for patients taking the drug. With no other diabetes drug demonstrating this previously, it's possible Jardiance siphons sales away from Januvia in the coming years.
Should Merck be on your buy radar?
Now to answer the most important question of all: should Merck be on your buy radar in 2016?
The potential for Merck to grow its dividend definitely makes it an attractive company worth considering for your investment or retirement portfolio. Further, the rapid growth of Keytruda and the steady growth in Januvia, even following the news on Jardiance, suggests that Merck's operational advance will continue for the time being. This isn't to say Merck is out of the woods completely when it comes to patent loss issues, but Singulair is no longer a concern, and Januvia is looking to be more of a complement than competitor to SGLT2 inhibitors, at least for the time being.
Investors looking to add a company with a handsome dividend, low volatility, and strong cash flow to their portfolio could do a lot worse than Merck.