text:
Doncaster Astronomical Society
Welcome to your local astronomy club
Skip to content
Previous Speakers at DAS.
Community Outreach
Doncater Astronomical Society Christmas Dinner
Observatory Log
Society Telescopes
Visual Dome
Photographic Dome
Solar Spectrum Filter
Hints and Tips: Collimation
Cleaning & Collimation of Meade 14″ & ODK 12″ SCTs
Interesting Formulae
Drift Aligning
Hints and Tips: Processing
AstroArt-Aquiring Images
AstroArt-Processing Images
Processing with Photoshop
Processing with Photoshop – Basic Layer Masking
Processing with Photoshop – Basic Sharpening
Processing with Photoshop – Selective Sharpening
Processing with Photoshop – Smoothing the Background with a Plain Coloured Layer
Processing with Photoshop – Brighten the Nebulosity
Processing with Photoshop – Enhancing Colours
Processing with Photoshop – Making the stars smaller
Processing with Photoshop – Remove Star Trailing
Processing with Photoshop – Curves
Visual Observing
Local Weather
BJ Astro & Boats
BJ-Telescope Making
BJ-Boat Building
Monthly Night Sky
Contact Us
AstroArt-Aquiring Images
Aquiring images with AstroArt
Start the programme; clicking on Plug-in/CCD Camera will screen the CCD Camera – Control Panel. Check your camera in the CCD Camera drop down list, then click Check CCD, and another panel opens.
Check the details of your camera there and click OK. If it is OK, there will be silence, if the programme complains, make adjustments to suit it.
When allowed to enter, click Image and uncheck New window, then Start, and a 3 sec frame will be taken. It will be screened and probably blank, but full of noise. However, you now know all is set for work.
Move the Control panel to a corner of the screen to be out of the way. Send the telescope to a brightish star, as close as reasonable to your intended target, or your focussing will be of no value, and take another frame. If you have the star in the picture, click Focus/Guide, then with the mouse left button, draw a square round the star and click FOCUS.
This will invoke a small screen with the star on it, middle picture below, probably well out of focus.
I've used the Simulator sequence here, but this is the focussing arrangement. Left is the picture just taken of an area of the sky (actually Astroarts simulator picture), with a star and the square drawn round it. Next is the focussing screen invoked by clicking Focus/Guider on the top of the control Panel, then FOCUS. Camera 1 is identified, and this setup means the main camera is taking pictures only of the area squared on the main picture, every 0.5 sec, and showing them on the screen in the middle picture with the numbers calculated for the size of the image in Fwhm (full width, half maximum), of the Standard Deviation Curve. Focus is the number of photon hits the brightest pixel gets. All these numbers change every 0.5 sec.
Now you can adjust the telescope's focuser to focus the star using this screen. Aim for lowest Fwhm numbers and highest focus number, and look at the picture of the star too, of course. Take your time, this is the most important bit you have to do, the software will do all the rest.
You'll have to let it run a few seconds after each adjustment you make to settle the movement of the telescope after your hand has been on it. The average readings should be judged rather than individual ones, as seeing will affect things, but practice makes perfect. When happy with the result close the panel and take another frame to verify the focus. Then mark the position on your draw tube or wherever you can to save work next time.
Send the telescope to your chosen target and go to the Settings tab on the Control panel and change to 4×4 binning. This will make the camera much more sensitive but with less resolution, but you don't need that for this step, just a speedy means of composing your picture.Take some short frames for this purpose. An Important Point here when ready to take your frames in earnest, is to remember to reset the binning to 1×1 after this, a repeated failure of mine. Take a few more frames to determine exposure at 1×1.
The general basis I work to is long sub frames for nebulae and shorter for bright objects. A mix of both in the same object, like M42 and globulars will need some of both to get the best of it, then lots of fiddling with in Photoshop. Repeat the focusing step to be sure. Focusing is most important, and will change with altitude and temperature, so keep an eye on it.
As mentioned before, without a guiding system you'll have to restrict your exposures to your mount's capabilities. Even the perfect mount, and there isn't one, will have limitations and will need guiding for long frames. So, if you have an auto-guiding system, this is what you need to do.
Setting up the Guide camera. Fit your guide camera in the guide telescope and connect all the electrical bits and pieces as they should be. If this is your first time, you'll have to focus the guide camera. Do this as follows. In the Control Panel click Setup then Telescope. The Telescope Control panel will screen. Click the Guide tab. Then I usually move this panel to below the Control Panel, again to keep the screen clear. I set the main parameter there to "Same Connection of Setup" but you may have to try others, and I use Com 4 in the next window, but again you may have to try others before it all works.
If this is your first time, the guide camera will not be in focus, and as the chip will be quite small, you'll have difficulty in finding a star, not just a suitable one. There isn't a good solution doing this on the run, so it's far better to have prepared this beforehand. My method is to test the guide camera with a particular eyepiece and get them parfocal then add a parfocal ring to the guide camera, so that when used in anger you focus the telescope by this eyepiece, then exchange the eyepiece for the guide camera and you're in focus or near enough to see stars on the guide camera's screen.
Back in the Control Panel, click Focus/Guide and choose the second camera, which AA thinks of as the guide, adjust the binning to 2×2 then click GUIDE. The guide camera will take a frame, and throw it onto the laptop screen It may be blank white because the first usually flushes electronic buffers. Take a second and if there isn't a reasonably bright star in the frame, move the setup, either by adjusting the guide telescope or the main telescope with the direction buttons, till one comes into view, repeatedly taking frames with each reposition, this can be a fiddly business.
An aid here is to adjust the exposure time for the guide camera. This is just above and to the left of the Guide button you've been clicking on. Default is 0.3 sec, change this to 1.0 sec or more, but not more than 1.5 unless you have a very good mount as it'll make corrections less frequent.
When you can see a star in the guide camera's window, draw a square around it and click GUIDE again. This click will open the Guide Window panel. Click on Connect Telescope there, and your square with star will appear. You have a chance to tune the focus here, if needed, in the same way as prevously in the Focus window. You don't have to be as accurate, as the software calculates the centroid of the star for guiding purposes, but it must be well enough focussed so as to have the guide star stand clear of the background or the software will hop from light patch to light patch or from one side of the OOF star to the other with poor guiding results. Sequencing the clicking and drawing squares here is important, and they must be done in the right order, or AA will not understand.
With the Guide window open and a single distinct star in it, go to the Telescope Control panel (where the Guide tab was clicked), and click Calibration. The software will check the speed of the telescope drives and enter its advice of settings into the Telescope Speed area of the Telescope Control (Guide) panel. Click the Mark Guide Star button in the Guide Window and Red and Green crosses will centre on the star. The Green is the software's aim point and the Red marks the star. The software will try to move the telescope to keep the Red cross on the Green one.
Watch the guiding for a few minutes, checking for stable control. If not stable, adjust the X and Y speeds and possibly the Inv.X and Inv.Y in the Telescope Speed section. Allow some time here for AA to settle itself as it uses a learning algorithm, and will get better on its own if the parameters are reasonable. Green arrowheads will appear to indicate the direction the software is trying to move the mount to get the crosses lined up. When stable you can return your attention to taking a picture.
On the Control Panel, click Sequence, then the number of frames and click Autosave and indicate where you want the programme to file the frames. If you don't do this well it'll not know where to put the frames and fold its arms on you without telling you what its upset about. Enter your chosen exposure in the box to the right of START – and you're ready to take the picture. But first unclick the New Window box or you'll have the screen full of pictures that clog the system up.
All that sounds simple, but you'll find it isn't really, there are lots of things that cause problems, but you'll get better with experience, though if like me, you'll continue to leave the telescope cover on and wonder why you don't get see any stars on the frame you take, till it finally dawns on you. But to my mind there isn't anything to beat the adrenaline rush when a long awaited frame drops onto the laptop screen!
You'll need to be quite disciplined about where you file your work as you'll soon accumulate thousands of frames. My system is Subject/Camera/Telescope/FR/Filter/exposure ie. M31-25-80-63-900. All the frames I take are then transferred onto my Desktop PC for processing. The directory filing system there is Camera/Object/Date taken, such as M25C/M31/080910.
Copyright © 2018-20 Doncaster Astronomical Society. Registered Charity No: 1091486
Doncaster Astronomical Society
Proudly powered by WordPress.


text:
I have a stunning piece of USM Haller modular storage to offer.
The unit has been configured as a TV stand, or you can use it in anyway that you can imagine.
Available in a light grey, this unit has a flip-top compartment and an open bottom compartment with a slide out drawer which is optional.
We can play around and swap the door over to the other side, its really up to you.
The dimensions are as follows;
Depth 20 1/2 inches (52cm)
Height 15 1/2 inches (40cm)
Width 61 inches (155cm)
Please note I have 1 key for this unit.The overall condition of this unit is 8/10.
Yes, there maybe some cosmetic scratches on the panels but nothing to detract from the stunning appearance of this piece.
The overall condition of the unit is 8 /10. Please be aware this unit is strong, durable and very heavy.
Please feel free to contact us should you have any questions with regard this or any of our other items.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Rumor - Russell Wilson "wants" to get traded to the NY Giants
sammyc521 last edited by
Foxsports' Colin Cowherd is the originator of this rumor based on nothing but speculation at this moment.
"Everybody will deny it. It's not good to be out now," Cowherd said on his show. "But Russell Wilson's wife is Ciara. She is a singer and an entertainer. She would prefer to live in New York. And the Giants need a quarterback, and there is nobody in the draft they love.
"A lot of things add up: Last year of Russell's contract, his wife would prefer New York (because) Seattle is not an entertainment mecca. The Giants need a star quarterback to replace Eli. ... The Giants also have an offensive head coach, not a 66-year-old defensive head coach."
Wilson is 30-years-old going into his last year of his contract. The cost to going to be huge to re-sign him or to acquire him via trade. Based on his current contract and what he would make on the Franchise Tag in 2020:
2019 (contract)- $17M
2020 (Franchise Tag) ~$26-27M
2021 (Franchise Tag) ~$28-29M
To extend Russell Wilson beyond his contract you would have to spend at extend him for at least $75-$80M over 2020-2022. That's probably on the really cheapside of things too. I know people are floating around $35M a year, but that's beyond crazy... but I would still sign Wilson to that contract.
The value of Wilson should always be greater to the Seahawks than to any other team, but the cost to trade for Wilson would be insane. There is really only one time in modern NFL history where a franchise QB was allowed to leave via FA without his original team getting anything in return; QB Drew Brees signing with New Orleans in 2006.
Even QBs that have been traded to other teams have resulted in lack-luster results because any QB traded is not that good.
Veda the Moor last edited by
Well..the rumor is that CIARA wants out, right?
Yea..cant make a music career in Seattle...right?
Pretty sure Wilson is smart enough to see things beyond the superficial.. having a great defense makes him a better QB. Having a coach that lets him be him makes him better. Seattle has put the right tools and the right system in place for him to succeed. He is elite..but not elites are the same. Wilson wouldnt get any more out of OBJ than he gets out of Lockett, if you are actually creating a system around his strengths and weaknesses.
Dont know if Russ will stay, but if he goes it wont be because of reasons like that.
Where are you getting those franchise tag amounts..? THIS year the average of the top 5 QBs salaries is 29.2 million.. and 120% of his 2019 CAP NUMBER would be just over 30 million. So the 2020 is 30 million which mean the 2021 amount is over 36 million in 2022. So...35 isnt crazy...
sammyc521 last edited by
@Veda-the-Moor said in Rumor - Russell Wilson "wants" to get traded to the NY Giants:
Where are you getting those franchise tag amounts..? THIS year the average of the top 5 QBs salaries is 29.2 million.. and 120% of his 2019 CAP NUMBER would be just over 30 million. So the 2020 is 30 million which mean the 2021 amount is over 36 million in 2022. So...35 isnt crazy...
I just entered in a Google Search and Overthecap.com was the first site that showed up.
I inflated them a little bit over their estimations. I know that people were talking about $35M for Wilson but I think that factors in it would be a contract for 2020 and not 2019. You are correct for the average but I don't think they factor in the bonuses or the average yearly number for the Franchise Tag, it looks like they factor in actual contract payment. That's why Wilson has a $17M contract for 2019; it doesn't take into account his signing bonuses. Just my guess.
ESPN.com has 2018's QB Franchise Tag at $23M.
Birdfinger last edited by
This is where I think the 35 Mil per year comes from. People are assuming Wilson will want to be the highest paid player in the league beating the Rodgers contract.
"The four-year extension is worth $134 million, according to Rapoport. Rodgers will get $80 million of that by March. The previous record for the largest deal in the league was the five-year, $150 million extension Matt Ryan signed with the Falcons earlier this offseason that made him the first quarterback to make $30 million per season. Rodgers will make $33.5 million per season with his new deal."
Lymon last edited by
Firstly, I'm not a big fan of Cowherd...IMHO he's just a blowhard.
Why would Ciara want to go to NY to further her career. I'd think the West Coast would be better if your looking to promote your entertainment career. I seriously doubt RW leaves Seattle. Here he knows what he's got, someplace else who knows? Plus the NY media folks are way tougher than Seattle's. Could Mr Goody Two Shoes survive that crowd....not without a SB every year.


text:
On September 28, 2018, Page 1 Solutions announced the acquisition of Strategic Edge Partners, a boutique marketing agency for aesthetic medical practices. Dana Fox, former President and CEO of SEP, has joined Page 1 Solutions as the Vice President of Practice Development, bringing her 30 years of industry experience to the clients we serve. I sat down with Dana to learn a little more about her and the expertise she's gained over the years.
Saralyn Ward: First off, welcome to Page 1! I would love to hear a little bit more about your background, and how you arrived at this point in your career.
Dana Fox: I have always worked in marketing, in some capacity, throughout my entire career. I have a background in art and I love to write. So there were a lot of natural things that led me into marketing, I started in skincare and nutrition and moved into medicine in 1993, because I had a passion for cosmetic surgery, and knew I was going to avail myself to services at some point. So for me, aesthetic medicine was a natural curiosity and that's how my career in medical marketing started.
The first specialty that I worked with was oral and maxillofacial surgery – at the time I knew nothing of surgical specialties or medical specialties. I knew nothing of turf wars and nothing about plastic surgeons versus facial plastic surgeons, so all of that was brand new. I started by bringing aesthetic medicine into oral maxillofacial practices, and then very quickly started working with plastic surgeons, and then ultimately with all specialties that could offer aesthetic medicine. Eventually I was endorsed by the American Society of Plastic Surgery, so from then on, the vast majority of Strategic Edge clients were plastic surgeons.
Saralyn: In your experience, what sets a successful aesthetic practice apart from those that are underperforming?
Dana: I have a statement that I make routinely from the podium and in working with practices: It is never the what, it is always the who. Who is going to be the guiding force in a practice? Who understands that there are accountabilities that go along with good marketing and good practice management? The practices that are highly successful have a very clear vision about what they want to accomplish. They have written goals, they have a plan of attack, and they also can assess what they're not good at. They can decipher, here's what we know really well, and here are the things that we don't know so well. Then they decide, "we're going to hire a consultant or an expert in that area to bring us full circle."
Saralyn: That's a great skill. And speaking from the patient side, what do patients look for in a practice?
Dana: Patients rarely – if ever – make decisions about where they're going to have their surgery or procedure based on what physicians think. Patients make their buying decision entirely at the emotional level. Now, that doesn't mean that they are not logical, and that they don't research. But to make a decision for someone to cut into your body or to laser your face, you are making a decision at a very emotional level. The vast majority of patients have to like the provider. They have to like the doctor. If they don't like the doctor, they are not going to write a check for fifteen- or twenty-thousand dollars for a procedure. Patients have to like the doctor first, and then they have to trust them. It's not the other way: they don't trust them first, and then like them. They have to like them first.
Saralyn: How do you help a doctor who struggles with that component?
Dana: Well, if you have a doctor that does not have good people skills, perhaps they are a brilliant scientist or a brilliant surgeon but are lacking communication skills. Especially if it's a male provider to female patient – if that doctor is smart, he will surround himself with people that will be honest, and will let him know, "You know, you really are not good at this, let us buffer your communication and explain you to the patient." Then, his job is to not overwhelm his patients with his vast scientific knowledge and all of the potential risks of the procedure.
A surgeon's job is to connect with their patient on an emotional level and get them to like him. I always ask them, can you do that? If you can't do that, then we want him to talk to the patient as little as possible. And we want him to surround himself with very, very strong nurses and very strong patient coordinators.
One of the providers in a medical practice whose value is not always fully understood, is an RN. Nurses are next in line in importance after the physician. In any kind of research or surveys that we've done, nurses are always the most trusted people in the practice. So a lot of physicians say, we don't want to spend the dollars for an RN salary. But that is a big mistake. The compensation difference is so worth that additional level of education and care, if for no other reason than patient satisfaction.
Saralyn: What makes you excited about joining forces with Page 1?
Dana: Page 1 has that technical SEO and social media expertise, and a command of all the hard sciences, if you will, of marketing. And I, I'm going to bring the expertise of practice development, as well as a touch of creative visual branding that they did not offer previously. The strengths of our brands are so complementary. I think our joining forces will be a really good marriage of our companies' strengths. Now Page 1 is a true force to be reckoned with.
Saralyn: Now, I'd love to ask you some personal questions, to get some insight into what makes you tick. How do you start your day?
Dana: I start my day with a trip to Starbucks for a grande dark roast and a walk around my little town. If I'm on the road, I will try to find an area around the hotel that's safe and has some attractive component to it to explore. After my coffee, I hit the gym. I always use the Stairmaster, I lift weights and I work with a personal trainer two days a week. I try to take good care of myself so that at the end of the day I can also enjoy a cocktail.
Saralyn: My kind of girl! To what do you attribute your success?
Dana: I have the tenacity a bulldog. I do not give up. I keep going – whether it's around, over, or under, I make certain that I just keep moving forward. And I do not let negative feedback define my success. I like to take negative experiences, learn from them, and then get over it - just go on to the next thing. I don't hang onto disappointments – I've learned discipline from them.
I've also learned that when you're dealing with the personalities in this industry – plastic surgeons, dermatologists and MDs – you're dealing with high performing people that are extremely well-educated and are generally the smartest people in the room. Taking those things into consideration, they may not necessarily value advice beyond hard medical science. And yet, by teaching them some of the soft sciences of personal connection, management of staff, and branding for patient satisfaction and loyalty, they will be more successful than they have ever been.
Saralyn: That statement is a great lead-in to my last question, which is: In your mind, what is the value that your consultation brings to a practice?
Dana: When I work with a medical practice (whether it's a solo practice or a group), I'm invited in to help them improve. My job is to improve something that they have defined: either staff development, internal marketing, or conversions. Maybe there's sufficient traffic coming to the website or through the phone, but once they get into the practice, something goes awry – something doesn't happen that needs to happen.
When I bring my 30 years of experience into that environment, within a very few hours, I can quickly assess what I believe either needs to change or improve, or something that they need to do more of. Rarely do I leave a practice where I have not found five or six things that will really help their bottom line and help them personally. It's not my job to come in and just thrash and burn and fire people. That is never a good idea. But you can see where there are specific people within a practice that might be in the wrong role. They might be in a in a phone capacity, for example, but maybe phones are not their best strength. Maybe they would be far better in a patient coordinator role where they are not necessarily the client's first point of contact or first impression, but they are better at building relationships, for example, with patients.
At the end of a consultation, when I go back to my office, and I spend four or five days evaluating what I saw and heard, I start making my recommendations. It just flows onto the page. And very rarely do I have a practice that says, gosh, this was not what we hoped for. I would say that out of the 1,500 practices that I have physically visited and consulted with, there have probably only been three times where I have perhaps misread what the expectations were. I think that's a pretty darn good track record.
To learn more about consulting and practice development opportunities with Dana Fox, speak to your IMC or call (303) 233-3886.


text:
Granny Flat Solutions have a wide range of standard 1, 2, 3 and 4 Bedroom to suit most blocks, orientations, needs and budgets. Through our Designer Range, your Granny Flat can be designed, approved and constructed in as little as 16 weeks – with the same Multi-Award winning quality and exceptional customer service.
You will also get a total of $4000 worth of free upgrades, discounts or cashback!
View our custom design Gallery and Completed Projects here.


text:
View more in Education
- August 9 2019
- March 22 2019
As a proponent of the 1993 education reforms and a founding member of the Massachusetts Business Alliance for Education, the Foundation has long recognized that the long-term well-being of the Commonwealth relies on a high performing education system. The employers of the modern economy need well-trained, well-prepared employees in order to compete and thrive.
- September 28 2016
To help inform voters on the issues of charter schools, the Massachusetts Taxpayers Foundation released a report that explains public school funding and analyzes the impact of charter schools on the Commonwealth's school districts concluding that charter school funding is proportionate to charter school attendance, and that no predictable pattern connects charter school attendance with spending on traditional public schools.
- June 30 2015A college degree unequivocally increases earnings, and with income inequality at the forefront of state and national policy debates, it is important for the state to consider policies that encourage all Massachusetts residents to save for college. Recognizing the importance of saving for college, 33 of the 41 states with a personal income tax allow a deduction for contributions to 529 plans.
- May 19 2015The Massachusetts Taxpayers Foundation (MTF) appreciates the opportunity to comment on the Foundation Budget Review Commission's proposals on health care and special education costs. There is clear agreement that the growth in health care costs since 1993 rapidly outpaced the growth in inflation and, as a result, health care costs are cannibalizing funding for other critical educational needs.
- July 18 2011In an update to the Foundation's 2006 analysis, the Foundation estimates that allowing undocumented immigrants to pay in-state tuition rates at state institutions of higher education would result in between approximately $1.8 million and $2.1 million in new revenues.
- January 2006The state's public colleges would gain millions of dollars in new revenue if undocumented immigrants were allowed to attend these schools at in-state tuition rates, according to an analysis released today by the Foundation.
- June 2004The University of Massachusetts: Removing Barriers to Educational Excellence at the State's Public Research UniversityIn a major report released today, the Massachusetts Taxpayers Foundation called on state leaders to remove a series of financial and bureaucratic obstacles to educational excellence at the University of Massachusetts.


text:
Ahead of its time, the Retro Bar Stool of the 1950s is a timeless piece of intrigue for all generations. Known for its simple vision and drive for advancement, this work is a classic brimming with buoyancy and rich experiences. Extraordinary qualities abound from a time when things were a lot more simple and direct.
|Overall Product Dimensions
|16″L x 16.5″W x 35 – 43″H
|Seat Dimensions
|13.5″L x 24 – 32″H
|Backrest Dimensions
|1/2″W x 11″H
|Cushion Thichkness
|Base Length


text:
The Effects of Foreign Direct Investment in the GDP of Developing Economics
The foreign direct investment or FDI, its attraction play to be one of the best strategies that developing country uses in enhancing capital formation with target to generating a higher rate of GDP. Most emerging developing countries have attracted considerable amounts of FDI accompanied by a remarkable growth in GDP. There has been witnessed theatrical increase in FDI to developing countries, with foreign direct investment increasing from a total of $24 billion in the year 1990 to a total of $178 billion in 2000. This sounds welcome news, specifically for poor nations that have no access to the international capital markets. However, Africa considered the poorest region did not gain from the foreign direct investment boom despite instituted efforts to attracting FDI. The inability to attracting FDI proved to be troubling since it has significant to the area. The core reason being that FDI lays the much-needed capital meant for investment.
Moreover, FDI supplement technology, managerial skills and employment, and therefore accelerating growth and development. The role played by FDI as a capital source has increasingly become crucial to SSA or sub-Saharan Africa (Kitanov, 2010). This stems from perceived fact that domestic savings and income levels in the area are very low. Consequently, external capital is required to complement domestic savings in anticipation to spur growth and investment. Most states in SSA cannot access international capital markets that make them rely on two types of foreign finance: official loans, example being multilateral organizations loans and FDI. This has made it imperative for countries in SSA increase their share of FDI for them to compensate for the declination in official aid. Unfortunately, for majority countries in the area, efforts to draw foreign direct investment have been futile.
The effects can be summarized as following: First, states or countries in SSA have on average been receiving less FDI compared to states in other areas by virtue of geographical location. Secondly, higher return on infrastructure development and capital promote foreign direct investment to non-SSA states, but has no considerable impact on flows of FDI to SSA states, ceteris paribus, Thirdly, openness to trade or business has a significant positive impact on foreign direct investment flows to both non-SSA and SSA countries. In addition, FDI to SSA tend to be less responsive to emerging changes in openness compared to FDI of other areas.


text:
Benelli TNT25 vs Mahindra Mojo: Comparison...
- Jan 14, 2016
- Views : 63459
We just can't seem to get enough of sports bikes. We like them sleek. We like them with as many cylinders as possible, and we like them fast. And, um, affordable? We're willing to compromise a bit on the horsepower and cylinders for that. The twin-cylinder DSK Benelli 302R promised a lot of excitement when it first showed up at the 2016 Auto Expo. In the time since, the Italian has received a fair few modifications and updates, including a new name! From the Tornado 302, we now have the 302R. It's time we swing a leg over and find out if this motorcycle is just about the looks, or has DSK Benelli strung the right notes to give the competition a run for the money.
Styling & Appeal
We'll start with a criticism. The proportions are a bit off when it comes to the headlamp. The split headlamp looks just a touch oversized. From a few angles the large split headlamp kind of makes, the rest of the bike looks a bit weedy. Look past that and you will find a very appealing design. The sharply contoured fairing with the two-tone paint job and the redesigned livery makes it look properly sporty.
What is also worth noticing here is the chiselled 14-litre fuel tank that showcases the Benelli lion engraved on either side. Moving onto the rear section, the twin-pod exhaust gels with the overall design and further enhance the style quotient of the bike. The bike has been put together well, judging from how the fairing and other body parts are bolted. But the fit-finish levels aren't quite up to the mark, as the fuel tank cover felt flimsy. The mounting for the exhaust canister also felt a bit rickety to the touch as even a light prod was enough to shift it. All switches worked well but the quality of switchgear feels a tad bit shady when compared to its competition.
The headlamps deserve credit too, and at night they tend to light up the road ahead very well. And nestled behind it is an analogue cum digital instrument cluster. It gets all the basic readouts including a gear shift indicator and an ABS indicator; speaking of which, this Benelli comes with a switchable ABS system developed by Bosch.
Engine & Performance
We already know that the 302R gets the same heart that beats in its naked sibling, the TNT 300, which is an inline 300cc, liquid-cooled, two-cylinder motor. Just like the TNT, the 302R has a peak power of 38.5PS being generated at 11500rpm, and 26.5Nm of maximum torque kicks in at 10000rpm. And as the specs suggest, the power delivery isn't too different. Which means, there's a lot of drama created by the exhaust note, but the performance doesn't quite match up. It doesn't feel as quick as you would expect a bike with those power figures to be. The same was also apparent from our test run, as the 302R managed to reach 60kmph in 4 seconds, while 0-100kmph was achieved in 9.2 seconds. For the record, the 302R is only 5 kilograms heavier than the TNT.
You really need to rev the 302R hard to bring the fun quotient into play, a trait very similar to its naked sibling, the TNT 300. We managed to claim a true top speed of 147.74kmph before running out of open roads during our test run. As far as vibes are concerned, they get quite apparent on the footpegs and handlebars around 6000rpm, further settling down to offer an almost vibe-free ride. The six-speed gearbox feels slick as the gear shifts felt precise. Finding neutral was also never a problem.
We had the bike with us for 2 days and during my stint in the city, I was quite surprised by the sheer tractability of the motor. It seemed almost unreal that the 302R could comfortably tread along at 30kph in sixth gear without any judder. Speaking of which, the 302R takes 4.88 seconds to go from 30-70kmph in 3rd gear. Whereas, 40-80kmph in 4th gear was achieved in 5.62 seconds, which is quite commendable considering the amount of mass the engine has to carry around.
And yes, one point worth mentioning about this motor is the exhaust note. We just can't get our heads around how the Italian manufacturer has managed to get a parallel-twin motor to sound like an inline-four.
Recommended Reads: Kawasaki Ninja 300
Ride & Handling
The 302R is a heavy motorcycle, weighing in at a kerb weight of 198kg, and the weight is quite literally felt while manoeuvring the motorcycle from a standstill. That said, the bike feels very nimble once you start riding it, courtesy of the newly designed chassis on offer. The new chassis has also enabled the 302R in handling corners a lot better than the TNT 300, and even though the motorcycle has a heavy front end, you can charge into corners with confidence. The chassis also makes the bike feel light in corners and so you can stick to the line and flick the motorcycle on to the next one without hesitation. A potent chassis deserves equally potent tyres, and Benelli has done justice to the 302R as the 17-inch alloys come wrapped with sticky Metzeler 110/70-section front and 150/60-section rear tyres, which grip the road firmly without breaking a sweat.
The seat height is 780mm, which is low enough for 5ft 3in-tall riders to ride comfortably. I am 6 feet tall and the sitting posture for me was surprisingly comfortable, even while testing the motorcycle on open highways for a good 100 kilometres. In fact, the ergonomics seem more apt for sports touring as opposed to track riding, as the handle bars are slightly higher-set and the foot pegs aren't too rear set either. The split seats are also well padded with just the right amount of cushioning, thanks to which I could carry on riding without any breaks to stretch my legs.
Speaking of suspension duties, the 302R gets 43mm telescopic forks up front with preload adjustment, and they too are shared with the TNT 300. On the other hand, the preload-adjustable rear hydraulic monoshock is placed in the traditional format here, unlike the offset monoshock on the TNT 300. Both are tuned to offer a plush ride and manage to soak in almost every other pothole and bump thrown at it, all this without compromising on their efficiency of tackling corners.
With the ABS active, the dual petal discs along with the rear disc brake offer a strong bite, bringing this 300cc bike to a halt from 80kmph in 35.08 metres. However, the reach-adjustable brake lever felt very wooden, as it failed to offer the much-required feedback while braking.
Recommended Reads: Comparison Review - Yamaha YZF-R3 vs Kawasaki Ninja 300 vs KTM RC390
Fuel Efficiency
The 302R was put through our standardised fuel efficiency tests and it managed to return 28.11kmpl in city riding conditions. Whereas on the highway, the 302R managed 31.5kmpl.
The 302R doesn't come across as an outright performer, the major factor being its weight, which even though isn't felt much while riding, does take the sting out of the performance on tap. So if you are looking for a 300cc performance sportbike, we reckon that the 302R may not be the ideal machine to take home.
However, if performance is not on your mind and you are looking for a motorcycle that can give you a lot of pose value, feels smooth and offers confidence-inspiring handling characteristics, then the 302R is the ideal tool for you, especially when you have an exhaust note similar to the much bigger bikes. With a price tag of Rs 3.48 lakhs (ex-showroom, India), it falls in line with the pricing from its competition. But what sweetens the deal is the safety net of ABS.
Benelli TNT25 vs Mahindra Mojo: Comparison...
Benelli TNT 302 vs KTM 390 Duke: Comparison...
Benelli TNT 600 i ABS: Review
2018 Kawasaki Ninja 300 ABS: Performance Test...
2017 Kawasaki Ninja 300 Road Test Review
2020 TVS Apache RR310 First Ride Review
2019 TVS Apache RR 310: First Ride Review
TVS Apache RR 310 9,000km Long Term Review: The...
TVS Apache RR 310: 7,000km Long Term Report
TVS Apache RR 310: 4,000km Long Term Report


text:
We need to talk about Kelvin
A material made from hafnium, nitrogen and carbon could be the highest-melting solid ever found, according to computer predictions by a team at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, USA. The calculations reported in the journal Physical Review B (Rapid Communications) suggests that HfN0.38C0.51 could have a melting point of more than 4400 Kelvin. "The advantage of starting with the computational approach is we can try lots of different combinations very cheaply and find ones that might be worth experimenting with in the lab," explains team leader Axel van de Walle. Next step is to synthesize this substance for testing.


text:
Here's a look at various filming locations for Nov. 14, 2018:
Filming in California
TV Series: Are You Sleeping
Stars: Lizzy Caplan
Location: 509 June St, Los Angeles (7:00 AM – 10:00 PM)
Filming in Illinois
TV Series: Chicago PD
Stars: Jason Beghe
Location: 2843 W. Logan, Chicago
TV Series: Chicago Med
Stars: Torrey DeVitto
Location: 700 S Paulina St, Chicago
Filming in New York
TV Series: Modern Love
Location: Lincoln Rd and Ocean Ave, Brooklyn
TV Series: Billions
Stars: Paul Giamatti
Location: Rivington St and Allen St, NYC
TV Series: Law and Order: SVU
Stars: Mariska Hargitay
Location: Chelsea Piers, NYC
TV Series: Blue Bloods
Stars: Donnie Wahlberg
Location: Broadway Stages, Brooklyn
TV Series: Godfather of Harlem
Stars: Giancarlo Esposito
Location: W 116th St and Malcolm X Blvd, NYC
Credit: Kim
TV Series: Gotham
Stars: Ben McKenzie
Location: Tompkins Ave and Vanderbilt Ave, Staten Island
Credit: Katie
Movie: The Joker
Stars: Joaquin phoenix
Location: Steiner Studios, Brooklyn
Movie: 17 Bridges
Stars: Taylor Kitsch
Location: Washington St and Gansevoort St, NYC
TV Series: Happy
Stars: Chris Meloni
Location: Vernon Blvd, Long Island City
Credit: @Lovemycelebz
TV Series: Bull
Stars: Michael Weatherly
Location: Vanderbilt and 47th St, signs on 44th St and 5th Ave in NYC, too
Credit: @onorman252, @chrissyinwm, Adam
TV Series: Tales of the City
Stars: Ellen Page
Location: downtown Hastings-on-Hudson
Credit: @Hastings10706
TV Series: The Code
Stars: Dana Delany
Location: Windsor Pl and 10th Ave, Brooklyn
Credit: Pete
Follow us on Twitter for updates throughout the day, too!
We're always looking for more info…know where something's filming? Send us a Tip via email at firstname.lastname@example.com or leave a comment in the bottom of this post! And, as always, a huge THANK YOU to those who helped us with today's info! Additional information provided by public records, such as city filming permits.


text:
Teenager Summer Dale Leaves Her Mother An Unexpected Path For Finding Happiness & Surviving Grief
Teenager Summer Dale leaves behind unexpected path to surviving grief and finding happiness.Read more
Uplifting And Positive News
Teenager Summer Dale leaves behind unexpected path to surviving grief and finding happiness.Read more
When Dalton Shaffer answered the phone at closing time of Steve's Pizza he knew he had to make a dying man's wish come true with this special pizza delivery.Read more
Everyone loves teddy bears. Apparently, a dog in England loves them a little too much. The BBC reports a St. Bernard named, Maisy, was looking quite sick so her humans took her to the vet. An scan showed what looked like a mass throughout her abdomen. No doubt is was cancer and doctors would have to operate. During an operation to remove the spleen, Dr. Nick Blackburn found the soft toys in her stomach. Dr. Blackburn said "this was notRead more
Tracy Warshal would tell you it was no big thing when she paid for the groceries of the man in back of her in line at the store in Smyrna, Georgia. After all, it was only seven dollars. She was simply helping out a guy who she spied shuffling around because he'd forgotten his wallet. Was the the real story? Maybe it was a ruse? To Tracy, it didn't really matter. What's seven bucks? She told ABC News, "Anyone would've doneRead more
Of all the cliché news phrases that drive me nuts, and trust me, there are more than a few— You can put up at the top of the list, "He lost his battle with cancer." Please. We need to stop. Just stop saying this. Dear Reader, if your email to me is any indication, you get it. Ever since I began to share my mom's journey of her recent diagnosis with lymphoma you have avalanched me with your story. With yourRead more
Too many days. Too many days, that awful, despicable, rude, ruthless bully called, "cancer" has knocked on the door of those I love. That day in high school when it took the life of my best friend, Cyndi's, mother. That day just out of college when my roommate, Sandra's, mother was diagnosed. Doctors gave her less than a year. She got the rare last laugh and lived 10 more. That day in '97 when it was my other roommate, Heidi'sRead more
Is it possible to be rude, bored and fired up all at the same time? I'm thinking, "You, bet!" as I look the latest "100 Most Powerful Women" list from Forbes Magazine. Rude, in the sense that I'm ready to tell this highly respected business magazine what I think of their list. And I'm not thinking "Yeah, Baby! You hit it!" Bored, as in the sense, that I have time to do such web surfing because I'm stuck at homeRead more
Please catch my newspaper column each week in the Atlanta Journal Constitution, the Dayton Daily News and other newspapers across Ohio. Here's this week's column: I hate not being able to help. The pull to help seems to come as naturally to me as my 14-year-old dog is drawn to her liver-flavored treats. And yet, there are times when you have to know you can't. You just can't. At least Dear Reader out there understands my frustration. For this one man, a husband, thisRead more
A stranger took my breath away this week. What would you do if a woman you just met told you, "I'm really not a risk taker," followed by, "I married a man who told me on our first date that he only had 18 months to live." "How'd that work out for you?" I couldn't help but ask. "He lived 18 more years past that first date. We were married for 15 of those," Brenda Zimmer Gibson told me. "TheyRead more


text:
How To Use Black Seed Oil
The use of our black seed is versatile due to its three different strengths that may suit your individual needs. For beginners, those who are sensitive, and children, we advise you to choose either the mild or original black seed oil. If you decide to start out with the strongest oil, please be aware that you need to treat the product with caution, even if you consider yourself healthy. Nigella sativa has strong detoxifying [ref] and antimicrobial [ref] properties, and has the ability to address and get rid of foreign pathogens.
Black Seed Oil Dosage
With regards to dosage, please ensure you follow the stipulated guidelines. Too much of the oil when starting out could lead to complications. If you are interested in knowing more about the oil, please visit the benefits of black seed oil page for further information.
The starting dose for adults:
- For 1st day take a 1/4 teaspoon with food
- For the next 2 – 7 days, increase the dosage to ½ teaspoon twice daily
- Slowly build up your dosage in increments until you take up to 3 teaspoons per day
For children and infants:
- Children aged eleven and under could take half the recommended adult dosage
- Children under the age of five should only be given a drop or two, to begin with. Strong black seed oil is not recommended for children
Your dosage and progression depend on your individual response to the oil. A higher dosage from the start could lead to adverse reactions.
Your body is only able to rid itself of toxins and congestion at a given rate. Initial high doses and its action on your body could leave you feeling unwell. By building up your dosage gradually, however, you give your body time to adapt at each stage.
Dosage for Black Seed Oil Capsules
Not everyone is ready to accept the taste of black seed oil. Capsules, although more expensive, may be your answer.
With regards to dosage, start off with one to two capsules a day for three days, increasing your dosage to three capsules a day. Please spread your capsule consumption throughout the day.
After three days, add another capsule, slowly building up your dosage to six capsules per day, i.e. two capsules three times daily.
The black seed oil capsules can also be used for topical applications. You can do so by breaking open the capsule and then using the oil on your skin. Please note that eight capsules are the equivalent of one teaspoon of oil.
Once again, each of us is different, with some of us able to tolerate a higher dosage than others. It is, however, always prudent to start off with a small dosage in order to avoid any complications or adverse effects.
Topical Application Of Black Seed Oil
Black seed oil has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory [ref] properties. It can be applied directly to any inflamed, injured, or irritated area, including:
- Painful joints
- Your chest area for coughs, colds, flu, congestion, etc.
- On acne
- On cuts/scratches/wounds
- Area where you experience arthritis
- On eczema
- On insect bites
- Areas of the skin where there is psoriasis
- On bruises
- Areas affected by Rheumatism
Black Seed Oil – Healing a World in Crisis
The different compounds in black seed oil have many healing properties and may help detoxify your body and get rid of foreign pathogens that could make you feel ill without you knowing why. They also have antimicrobial properties that actively work at getting rid of foreign bacteria and fungi. Studies on Nigella sativa show that black seed oil may also be of benefit to those suffering from diabetes [ref] or who struggle to lose weight [ref].


text: i was wonderng if any one could give me an explanation for why my hygro leaves have begun to emerge abnormally they appera to stay rolled slightly, ie never fully open and although bright green are translucent i use home made fertiliser's and often mess about with things i shouldnt, terrestrial fertiliser's, usually with good algal growing consequences at present i havet been adding as much , and am using a trace element mix and very small amounts(diluted baby bio) CO2 is not measured accurately , deivered through a home made reactor i get pearling from the riccia , and only small amounts if that gives any indication of co2 levels? andrew also i was wondering if rotala is likely to be redder with nirogen restriction or higher ligtht? i think i had something about reds being itensified by either of those things


text:
1914 Valleyview Dr, San Angelo, TX 76904
Agent Information
Summer is here and the pool is up and running!!! This 3 bedroom 2 bath house is not only elegant but spacious with an additional room that could be used as an office, game room, or den. Large living room with tall cove ceilings complete with fireplace. Kitchen is absolutely stunning with black granite counter tops, tin backslash, stainless steal appliances walk in pantry with plenty of storage space. Dining room has a tall tray ceiling with a view of the pool making it just breathtaking. Large master bedroom and bath with his and her vanities and walk in closets along with garden tub to soak in and nice size walk in shower. Along with the pool in back and a great patio to entertain on, the back yard also has a grassy area to play on or for your pets. This house is a complete package and ready for a new family!!!


text:
KS Windows Solutions are a professional, specialist window and door company, totally committed to providing value, quality and service in every contract that we undertake. With over 80 years experience in the double glazing and home improvement industry, the three company directors are all hands-on and oversee every aspect of the company's activity. This ensures that customer satisfaction is our number one priority on every job, large and small.
All of our products are fully guaranteed and manufactured to the highest specification to conform to all relevant British and European standards; ensuring your total peace of mind, year after year.
Simply complete the form below and a member of our team will be in touch shortly. Required field*


text:
By SISTER MEG COLE
Catholic Charities Therapist
In the book "Compassion: Listening to the Cries of the World," Christina Feldman explains the importance of living with a deep sense of compassion in our lives. This sense of compassion needs to be toward others as well as ourselves.
It is essential, in our suffering world, to carry compassion within us when managing the emotional, spiritual and psychological pain of life.
Feldman states: "We are always beginners in the art of compassion. No matter how advanced or refined we believe our understanding to be, life is sure to present us with some new experience or encounter with pain we feel unprepared for."
"To have pain unprepared for" – Women who have a pain they are not prepared for can sometimes be those who now have regret after making the decision to have an abortion. This unique pain of profound sorrow is associated with having concluded, in a time of intense and severe distress that an abortion was undeniably necessary.
After the abortion is completed, a woman can experience a great deal of disquiet within herself. She inwardly questions: "How could I have let such a thing happen?" She struggles with the excuses and explanations made before the abortion and believes the stories she told herself about why this was the right choice to make.
This can be a very lonely place for a woman as she now reflects on her fateful decision that has left her in dark despair. The woman has not anticipated such grief to be hers after terminating this biological and emotional mother-child union. But ultimately, she is in great conflict within herself as she comes to the awareness that a child has died due to this decision.
At some point the grace of God can nudge this woman forward to receive healing and forgiveness through the Catholic Charities ministries of Project Rachel (individual counseling sessions) and Rachel's Vineyard Retreat (a weekend of "God's Unconditional Love, Mercy and Forgiveness").
The bereaved woman is no longer able to ignore the thoughts and feelings associated with the abortion. Her voice reveals a deep sadness, "I had an abortion" she expresses with tense repose and regret. Crestfallen about her own unbelievable behavior and undeniable loss of what could have been a treasured child, this woman can feel a precise need to bring this sadness to God.
Since there is no escaping this pain, when a woman who comes to a Rachel's Vineyard Retreat, she is provided a dwelling to heal this wound. It is a very lonely place for this woman as she presses to explore her fateful decision. A troubled choice has taken her to a distressed place, holding a dark secret in despair.
Such ministries allow this woman to mourn and grieve the loss of her child in the presence of the unconditional Mercy that is God. There is no sin greater than God's Mercy.
This awareness can restore a sense of dignity in the woman as she desires to live life and continue her journey as one whose inner turmoil can now be forgiven by herself and by God.
In the words of Scripture, Jesus tells us (Luke 6:36), "Be compassionate just as your Father is compassionate."
The experience of a "Compassionate Father" is not necessarily a common one. Such a father is described in a book on compassion by Catherine Nerney.
Included in the book is a story of a "Compassionate Father" who approaches his growing sons and shares with them the ultimate truth – they are going to most likely make some grave mistakes in their lives, and he wants them to know that he is always available to them and will be faithful to them.
He holds himself out as a "resource" even when they may have done something they know he would find unacceptable and disappointing. He does this by providing his sons a code word: "Sanctuary."
He informs them that he will always be their trustworthy, reliable and loyal father. At any time, no matter what the mistake, they are to come to him and just say "Sanctuary."
The father will back down and show no anger or defensiveness, but will be there for his sons. Such an image, and to have this image of God the Father, is one many men need to know – especially those men who made the decision to be involved in an abortion.
Many men are now experiencing the emotional pain and great shame for having been involved and participated in the choice to have an abortion. Sometimes the man pays for the abortion and demands that his partner goes through with the appointment. On other levels, the man could have begged the woman not to have an abortion but could find no way to stop her.
For most men, this is a nameless and difficult suffering, one so exclusive that they carry the pain of this event deep within. However, men too can participate in the ministries of Project Rachel and Rachel's Vineyard Retreat. Men too can come to healing and say to God, "Sanctuary."
The man who allows himself to participate in these ministries and expresses his self-resentment and anger for being complicit in the abortion experience will only be embraced in the love of God.
God calls out to all those who are suffering with a pain they were not prepared for and wants them to know there is "Sanctuary."
And in these healing ministries only God's faithfulness, love and compassion will prevail. Restored wholeness and dignity will be theirs as they honor their child and have a conversation with God about all that has happened.
A Rachel's Vineyard Retreat will be the weekend of March 22-24 in the Diocese of Allentown.
Individual counseling is also available. Contact Catholic Charities' confidential phone line at 1-866-3rachel, email firstname.lastname@example.com, or call 610-332-0442 ext. 2019.
Feldman, C. (2005) "Compassion: Listening to the Cries of the World," Rodmell Press: Boulder, CO.
Nerney, C. (2018) "The Compassionate Connection: Recovering Our Original Oneness," Orbis Books: Maryknoll, NY.


text:
Let's grab a cup of coffee (I'll order hot chocolate always) and chat about how I might be able to serve you by capturing romantic and joyful moments on your wedding day, creating custom calligraphy details, or photographing your love, family, kids, and more. I love cozying up on the couch with my husband and a warm cookie, reruns of The Office, and our lop-eared bunny rabbit named Murphy. He's grumpy...usually. I love cake pops, midi dresses, white minimalist furniture, and anything Sugar Paper LA. Pops of color, spontaneous dance parties, and admiring the ocean fill me with joy.. My heart swells every time I hear from current, past and future clients and that's exactly what I want to bring you with my work, unending joy! You can learn more about me here.
Don't forget to say hi!
celebrating a legacy of love
After recently moving to Sacramento and getting engaged, I had no idea where to start with wedding vendors. My good friend (and photographer) helped me find Ashley on Instagram and the rest is seriously history. My husband and I cannot say enough about Ashley. Her attention to detail, bubbly spirit and gift of photography is truly special and unique. She caught every piece of my husband and my personalities in the photos she took, making them all the more personal and special to both of us. We were so incredibly lucky to have found her and now have beautiful memories that will last a lifetime.
Contact Ashley to capture your love!


text:
[See "Why the Fed's Move Came as a Surprise" on updated rate commentary]
Federal interest rates determined by the Federal Reserve are what cause interest rates on new credit cards, home mortgages, and even car loans to increase or decrease. When the day comes – because it will – that the Federal Reserve increases the Discount Rate / Federal Funds Rate ( the interest rate at which banks barrow money from the Federal Reserve), mortgage rates will also increase as banks will need to compensate for more expensive money.
Will Rates Increase?
The real estate cycle encompasses interest rates. However, the real estate cycle is by no means an exact science. It is an art. As with the ability of investors to foresee turmoil in the real estate market by noticing stalling sales prices, interest rate increases may also be forewarned by events in the global economy; primarily, inflation. There does not appear to be an exact method for determining exactly when interest rates will rise. However, inflation tends a contributing cause and indicator.
Inflation and Interest Rates
Inflation is measured in the United States by a Consumer Price Index, which is compiled by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Simply, imagine a shopping cart that is filled with exactly the same items every month. The change in the total bill every month is what measures inflation (higher bill) or deflation (lower bill).
When inflation occurs, the United States dollar because weaker compared to other countrys' currencies and foreign investing in the United States becomes more desirable. However, our domestic economy should be the utmost precedence. When inflation occurs, the cost of living for Americans increases and wage increases slowly follow. However, as wages typically increase less than prices increase, combating inflation while simultaneously stimulating growth is the ultimate goal. This is where the conundrum occurs. How do you stimulate growth and control inflation while increasing interest rates? As this a heavily debated issue, let us look to what other countries are doing.
Europe Raises Rates: USAToday Article: European Central Bank set to raise interest rates again. 7/6/2011
LONDON — The European Central Bank is set to raise interest rates again on Thursday and indicate that further increases are likely as it tries to dampen down high inflation despite the debt problems afflicting smaller countries.
Though higher rates may be necessary for a potentially overheating economy like Germany's, they are likely to add to the growth concerns of some of the eurozone's more indebted nations, such as Greece and Portugal.
How much inflation was Europe experiencing?
But the European Central Bank's primary role is to keep inflation low by setting interest rates for the 17 countries that use the euro. With inflation at 2.7% — well above the target of just below 2% — the pressure is on the bank to continue tightening the monetary policy taps.
China Raises Rates: USAToday Article: China raises interest rates as part of inflation fight. 7/6/2011
BEIJING — China raised a key interest rate Wednesday for a third time this year as it tries to cool surging inflation.
How much inflation was China experiencing?
Inflation hit a 34-month high of 5.5% in May and is believed to have risen in June even as an overheated economy cools gradually under the pressure of investment curbs and other controls.
The benchmark rate for one-year loans will be raised 0.25 percentage points to 6.56%, effective Thursday, the central bank announced. The rate paid on deposits will rise a similar margin to 3.5%.
Why is Inflation Occurring?
Though the central bank is aware that much of the recent spike in prices has been due to energy and commodity cost increases it cannot control, it hopes that raising rates will prevent wages from getting too high. Pay increases tend to build in high inflation expectations into the economy.
USAToday Article: European Central Bank set to raise interest rates again.
Is there Inflation in the United States?
Simply, yes.
The United States inflation rate has risen every month in 2011. While the increases have started to slow down in the 3% range, our inflation rate will be an economic indicator to continue watching.
If rates rise as they have been in other countries, their actions may be indicators of what is to come in the United States.
The Bottom Line
If inflation continues to occur, interest rates may be risen slightly in an effort to curb inflation.
Keep an eye on the Federal Discount Window website for the current interest rates.
What Does This Mean for the United States?
No one knows exactly. However, if you are in the market to buy or are hesitating because of uncertainty, give your Realtor or financial planner a call. Interest rates are incredibly low now and housing markets are saturated with inexpensive homes. Remember, wise investors study and abide by the real estate cycle for their investing decisions.


text:
Crossbow Packages
Shop a wide selection of new Hunting Crossbow Packages & crossbow kits for hunting and starter for sale at Atbuz from top-brand like Barnett, TenPoint, Parker, PSE & more.
No products were found matching your selection.
Why Is A Crossbow Package The Best Deal Ever?
In recent years, crossbow packages have surpassed any limit and are becoming the prominent choice of every hunter and archer. Everyone from beginner to a professional is interested in purchasing a comprehensive package rather than scrutinizing for each accessory and looking for the best buy.
Here are some crossbow package accessories that are worth investing your money and will bestow you with the best-in-class hunting experience like never before. Before heading to the accessories, let's have a look at why to choose a crossbow package.
Why a crossbow package?
One of the best ways to get a fully fledged and loaded crossbow is buying it in a package. If you buy a package, you will get all the amenities that are a real necessity for a hunting session that too, on a fair price. Here are some accessories that you will be arriving in a crossbow package.
Cocking Device:
A cocking device is typically mounted upon the crossbow stock and the crank. It's a small hand-operated device that makes it easier for you to wind a crank handle to cock the crossbow. It becomes more comfortable for the hunter to use a strong crossbow effortlessly; all thanks to the cocking device! With the help of a cocking device, even hunters who have some physical disabilities can get amused with shooting and hunting.
Crossbow Scope
A crossbow scope facilitates shots that are located on the long-range and helps in making sure that the shot is made with precision. It is mounted onto the top part of the crossbow. Many crossbow manufacturers provide such gear separately, and that can cost you too much. These scopes carry a simple design that comes in a long black tunnel. At another end, you will get an eyepiece equipped with a lens.
Crossbow Broad-heads
Crossbow broadheads ensure a perfect level of penetration at the target. With a rapid arrow, you can fire better utilizing a mechanical broad-head as compared to using a fixed broad-head. The blades mounted on a broad-head are manufactured to be touch and immovable. These blades of a broad-head are attached for a perfect flight, thus help in raising the level of damage on the target. These blades swing out to drive the projectile in a much faster manner.
Crossbow Case
No hunter wants to travel with a crossbow dangling around the trunk of their vehicle and causing the major equipment to get vandalized. This is the scenario when an extreme quality crossbow case comes to light. A quality crossbow case provides top-notch fortification to the essential parts of the crossbow components. These are manufactured with a quality material that makes your bow easier to carry and easy to transport.
Crossbow Targets
Lastly, the essential entity that comes along in a crossbow package is the target. These targets help you to enhance your performance while using them as your prey. You can conduct several practice sessions to muster yourself for the real field.
Here you will find the exclusive packages of renowned brands such as TenPoint, Excalibur apex, and others.


text: Jen Meyer wanted to give her daughter MacKenzie a gift that would help remind her about her first role in a local production of Oklahoma! So she found this darling cow collectable, with yellow flowers (her daughter's favorite) and cut out the name of the play and year. Because face it, finding a gift that represented something like the musical Oklahoma! with the year on it, is probably very hard to find.


text:
Agent Provocateur Lingerie
The British are very prudish when it comes to matters relating to sex and they generally turn their noses up at anything to do with that topic. It takes a lot of courage for a company such as Agent Provocateur to overcome this inbuilt antagonism and be able to create high quality designer lingerie that creates a stir thanks to the flair as well as élan that their lingerie items embody. Anyone that wears Agent Provocateur lingerie will feel a sense of enchantment and the beholder will also find the sex appeal a little overwhelming.
There is no doubting the fact that Agent Provocateur has enjoyed considerable success and this can be witnessed in its new stores that span across America, Middle East, Russia as well as Singapore, Hong Kong and Europe. It has a very good mail order catalogue that keeps customers coming in, and its website also has won an award for being outstanding.
Agent Provocateur is owned by Joseph Corre and Serena Rees who opened the first shop in December 1994 which elicited a response seldom given to anybody but superstars. Agent Provocateur has innovated in how it sells its items and uses all means possible to ensure that its values are communicated effectively to buyers which have made Agent Provocateur to be the leader in lingerie, and it straddles atop the fashion industry by producing the best in lingerie items that is also a loud proclamation of being the best in the world of fashion.
Not satisfied with just lingerie, Agent Provocateur has branched out into making books, shoes, jewelry as well as fragrances and beauty products that compliments its lingerie lines. There is no doubting the fact that Agent Provocateur is not a mindlessly advertised and consumer driven company; rather, it emphasizes the intimacy of relationships between the wearer and the garment, and ensures its products are of the best quality, excels in service as well as provides unflinching commitment to making its very own unique fashion statement.
Agent Provocateur makes everything from masks and gloves, panties, whips and paddles, jewelry, shoes, garters, briefs and strings. It certainly makes for the complete woman.


text: The Year 6 boys football team played their next league match against Garden Fields School. The pitch was very wet and slippery underfoot, but the boys battled well in a very closely contested match. The final score was 3-2 to Garden Fields. Thank you again to Andy Clark for his coaching input, and all the parents who turned out in the rain to transport / support the team.


text:
By Victoria Smurfit
My parents' generation reached adulthood at a time when it was perfectly legal for women to be paid less than men for the same work.
It was also perfectly legal for many employers to force women out of their jobs as soon as the women got married .
Doesn't it seem incredible now that such blatant unfairness and discrimination could have been allowed exist for so long and until so recently? How could anyone have considered it right or fair?
The wrongness of it is so obvious to me and to most people in 2015 that it's hard to imagine how anyone could have rested until this discrimination was ended. Yet hundreds of thousands of nice, ordinary decent people went about their daily lives thinking this state of affairs was okay, or maybe not thinking much about it at all.
Thankfully, there were those women and men who engaged in battle to set things right.
It wasn't easy. They faced economic arguments from employers for whom equal pay would have big financial implications. They faced emotional arguments about how families would suffer as women were forced out of the home to work because men's pay would fall.
In the end though, those arguments couldn't stand up to the need to right a basic injustice. The equal pay legislation was introduced (with a bit of a nudge from Europe!), the marriage bar was lifted and, within a relatively short time, it became considered completely normal and completely right that women got paid the same as men for the same work.
We've now got the chance to right another injustice, to fix another inequality.
This time, it's about discrimination against same sex couples in the matter of marriage. In case you've been on another planet for the last while, LGBT couples who love each other and may or may not be raising children or hoping to do so in the future can not get married in Ireland the way most other couples, who happen to be in heterosexual relationships, can.
Citizens of voting age have the opportunity on May 22 to remove this inequality. Straight forward enough you'd think?
Well not quite. Nothing is ever that simple when you try to change the status quo or remove an inequality that people have always lived with.
Just as campaigners faced a hard battle to get equal pay for women in Ireland in the early 1970s or achieve the legalisation of interracial marriage in the United States in the 1960s, so campaigners for marriage equality here face opposition now.
There are arguments by opponents suggesting marriage equality will somehow damage those families that are based on heterosexual marriage; that it will weaken the very concept of marriage; that it will be unfair to children; and that it's not 'natural'. There's also the one that it isn't necessary as gay people have civil partnership. (This last argument has been beautifully addressed by others during the campaign who point out that at the time, many wondered why Rosa Parkes made such a fuss about sitting up front on the bus when surely what was important was that she was allowed on the bus) in the first place).
For months, we've been hearing passionately-argued reasons from all side about why two men or two women in loving relationships should or should not be allowed marry each other.
But I think it's time to put these arguments aside and focus on the real issue. And that is that a large number of our citizens are being discriminated against. They are being denied the right to marry with all that that implies for the legal and social status of their families and relationships.
We have the chance to change that.
It doesn't matter if the outcome doesn't directly affect my life or the lives of most of you reading this. For some of you it's of enormous personal importance, because you, your children or grandchildren or friends don't have the right to get married and would like to.
What matters now for all of us is that we can end a particular form of discrimination and remove an inequality which is hurting so many people.
I'd like to think that in years to come, my children will wonder at how society could one have stood by while people were being discriminated against because they were gay. I'd like to be able to tell them how we changed that.


text:
If you're serious about SEO (and you probably should be, considering it drives 51% of ALL website traffic) then you need to be serious about tracking it too. And you want to know what you're tracking as early as possible in your 'SEO-career'.
This will ensure you're focusing your efforts on what has the greatest impact. Think 80/20.
You know the old adage – 'fail to plan, then plan to fail' – well it works for SEO too.
This post was taken from a response Kieran made to a question we had over on our Facebook Group. So if you want to make you don't miss out on any gems like this then join here if you haven't already. It's completely free!
What to track when starting out in SEO
Here's the question posed by founder Samuel Grice. It's a super important question and hopefully one you've been thinking about…
"Hi guys! Do you have a checklist of things all founders should be looking out for in regards SEO. For example, 10 things we can track. We are hiring a marketing person, and as a founder, it would be good to know roughly what things we should be tracking each week and why."
It's a great question, and here's a great answer…But before I show you that here's a quick TL;DR for those in a hurry:
- Track your keyword rankings! The traditional and still most effective way to see if your SEO is working well
- But, don't get 'hooked' on them as you may not be tracking all the great phrases you're appearing for. You may fall foul to 'false positives' if you fixate on them too much.
- So track organic traffic (ie SEO traffic) to see if this is generally on the increase (if you have a seasonal product bear in mind the traffic may fluctuate through peaks and troughs throughout the year)
- Use a tool like Google Analytics to track traffic, It's free and you should monitor:
- No. of visitors
- Bounce rate
- Etc (see all below)
- Backlinks! If you're a startup and you're looking to gain PR/media expsoure then this can really work in your favour for SEO. Track the sites that are sending traffic and look for similar opportunities, as this will give your SEO a boost
- SEO is a long term game! You might not reap the full fruits of your labour until after 6 months, so bear that in mind
Read Kieran's full reply:
"Hey Sam, great question! In terms of tracking for SEO, one of the key metrics that people tend to track is keyword positions.
When you have decided which keywords you want to target on your website you can track where they show within Google. This is a good metric to track for SEO performance but shouldn't be the only metric you should track.
Keywords are great but a more important metric would be traffic to the website from Google Search (also known as Organic traffic). The reason you would also look beyond keyword positions is that for every keyword you track there are probably another 20/30 variations you are not tracking. So this doesn't give an accurate representation of performance.
Using tools like Google Analytics you can track the number of people coming to your website, how they got there and what they do when they are there. Some of the best things to track within Google Analytics would be;
– Number of visitors (Is this going up? If so what pages? Can you learn from them and apply to other pages, things like content and images? See here for tips)
– Bounce Rate (Number of people that come to your website and leave without viewing any additional pages to the one that they initially viewed – are certain pages putting people 'off' your website? identify the pages with the highest bounce rate, what can you change?)
– Average time on site (See how long people spend on your website – generally, the longer here the better, but look at what pages are driving your time on site, is it only some pages? Is it equal? identify pages with low time on site and look to improve based on more asuccessful pages)
– Traffic Sources (Where your visitors are coming from, examples would be Direct, Organic, Paid, Social etc – is the time you spend on each channel comparative to the traffic they generate? If not, why not? Are some channels 'lagging behind'? Maybe you need to refocus efforts. Think Pareto's 80/20 rule)
– Countries (See where your traffic is coming from – do you have an international audience you didn't know about? Maybe an opportunity for growth?)
– Devices (The devices that people use when viewing your website, like Phone, Table and Desktop Computer – does your website look good on all devices? Does it look best on your most popular device?)
– Referrers (The websites that people are coming from when they get to your website – great if you have done any PR or link building)
I would look at these to check performance and compare dates from before the marketing person starts.
I'd also look at tracking the backlinks into your site. Backlinks are super important for SEO, and not only do they drive traffic but also SEO value from the linking website.
If you're a startup then PR could be a big avenue for you. Look at the sites sending you traffic and see if there are any similar other sites you can also reach out to get traffic and SEO juice.
But don't forget! With the majority of SEO work completed, it can take around 6 months for you to see results. It is a long-term project but well worthwhile in the end!"


text:
Hey guys! I'm almost on holiday, so some more interesting posts should be coming up shortly (or at least some longer ones) but whilst I'm still dead tired I thought I would share some of my favourite K-Dramas with you, because they're great for procrastination and keeping you up way past the time you meant to go to bed. Enjoy!
If you like comedies with hilariously over-the-top characters, an office setting and next to no romance, this is the drama for you! It deals with "Chief Kim" who is hired by a company thinking he will pretend not to see the financial corruption, but who ends up inadvertently thwarting the company's horrible schemes. Watch it here.
A cute romance accompanied by a fight against an unknown, deranged kidnapper, this is also a hilarious drama. If you like adorable female bodyguards with super strength, adorable romances, and a side of horrifically creepy bad guys you'll love this drama! Watch it here.
Going into the more sci-fi/paranormal type of genre, if you like vampires that don't sparkle or live in coffins, but are the product of science, antagonists who are just a nasty piece of work, and don't mind getting your heart ripped to pieces, this is an amazing drama. Watch it here.
What are some of your favourite dramas or TV shows? Let me know! Happy watching, Keira x.


text:
The Sun reports:
MANCHESTER UNITED stars are having regular sunbed sessions at the club's training ground.
But the Red Devils won't be coming out of them with a healthy glow – just plenty of vitamin D.
The club's masseur, GARRY ARMER, said: "The tubes have been altered slightly, so it is purely for vitamin D."
"The players go in for four or five minutes after training, about three times a week."
A regular intake of vitamin D helps maintain well-being and fitness – something RYAN GIGGS, a United veteran of more than 850 games, knows all about.
For full article see Manchester United Stars are tanning for Vitamin D
My comment:
Just wonder what they mean with "The tubes have been altered slightly, so it is purely for Vitamin D"?
There are no tubes today, except experimental and for some medical purposes, that are emitting only UVB.
Such tubes would be too difficult to operate safely in a regular tanning bed.
Probably they mean that the tubes used by Manchester United have a higher percentage of UVB (in relation to UVA) than what is normally the case within the European rule (erythemal-weighted irradiance not exceeding 0.3 W/m2).
Give your comment below!


text:
King of falafel #2
I was released from my bar shift early last night, so I went on the hunt for falafel. Falafel King in Clifton Down was a long walk up a hill (isn't everywhere in Bristol) but worth venturing out for, so I'd heard, and still open at 10.30pm when others had closed up for the night.
But with half an hour to go, it looked decidedly as though the kitchen was no longer serving. "Are you still open?" "No, sorry, we've just finished for the night. Kitchen closes at 10." My face fell. "Oh no! I check on G*ogle and it said 10.30… and I've just walked all the way up the hill…" I tailed off. The server looked from me to the chef and back again. "What were you hoping for?" he asked. "Just a falafel salad, anything you still have," I said. He turned again to the chef. "Can you do that?" Chef nods. "Thank you so much!"
10 few minutes later out came the most ginormous salad I had ever seen. A huge bowl piled high with quinoa, pepper, peas, broccoli, beetroot, fava beans, chickpeas and pomegranate, topped with parsley, mint and five falafel balls, with a tahini dressing. It was utterly, utterly delicious, and there was so much variety that every mouthful was a delight. The best part was the beetroot. Or perhaps the broccoli. Oh, the peas were pretty good too. And quinoa! I have always shied away from the decidedly middle-class grain, but this might just change my mind. While there was no hummus (that had to be ordered separately) there was such a variety of textures I didn't mind. And the falafel balls were as good as you would expect from a place that boldly calls itself 'Falafel King'.
There was so much food on the plate I took the leftovers away and am currently eating them for an equally delicious lunch the next day. Worth every penny. Full marks for quality of food and for squeezing me in when they were supposed to be closing. The waiter happily cleared up around me and let me stay beyond 11 without complaint. A chart-topping no-question 5/5.


text:
Letter to: Mukunda
- To:
- Mukunda
- Date:
- March 26
- Year:
- 1968
- Place:
- San Francisco
My dear Mukunda,
Please accept my blessings. I am sorry I am delayed to reply your letter dated March 14, 1968, which I received over a week ago. I am very glad that you are repentant even for some action which is not sanctioned by me. This attitude is very nice and improves one in progressing on the path of devotional service. The Rakhi Bandhan ceremony observed by you under instruction of Prasad isn't approved by our Vaisnava rituals. Of course, such ceremony is observed among the Hindu community as a socio-religious convention. But in our Vaisnava community there is no such observance. Now, forget the incidence, and in future don't be misled by some unauthorized person. Our next ceremony is Lord Ramacandra's Birthday, on the 7th of April. It should be observed in the same way as Lord Caitanya's Appearance Day, namely, fasting up to evening and then accept Prasadam, and all our ceremonies should be performed with continuous Kirtana, of Hare Krishna, Hare Rama. That will make all our functions successful.
Aniruddha is here and he is waiting for the statues of Radha and Krishna which is being expedited by Gaurasundara, and most probably he will be starting back for L.A. on Friday morning. How Umapati is feeling there? I have not heard anything from him. In the meantime I have received one letter from Hayagriva, and he was anxious to come to San Francisco during his summer vacation. In meantime, I have also received one letter which is very depressing from Hrsikesa. I understand that he has been induced by Bon Maharaja to be initiated by him for giving him shelter, and this foolish boy has accepted his inducement. This isn't very happy news, and I have replied Hrsikesa's letter in the following words, which please take note, and in the future, we shall be very cautious about them. "My Dear Hrsikesa, Please accept my blessings. I am in due receipt of your letter of March 14, 1968, and I am greatly surprised. I am greatly surprised for Bon Maharaja's initiating you in spite of his knowing that you are already initiated by me. So it is deliberate transgression of Vaisnava etiquettes and otherwise a deliberate insult to me. I do not know why he has done like this but no Vaisnava will approve of this offensive action. I very much appreciate your acknowledgement of my service unto you and you will always have my blessings, but you must know that you have committed a great blunder. I do not wish to discuss on this point more elaborately now, but if you are desirous to know further about it, I shall be glad to give you more enlightenment. Mukunda is not here. He has gone to L.A. Hope you are well." If Hrsikesa writes you letter I think you may avoid reply. I do not approve both Hrsikesa's and Bon Maharaja's this offensive action. Hoping you are both well.
Your ever well-wisher,
A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami
P.S. Please try to organize a very nice temple in L.A.
Letter to: United Shipping Corporation — March 23, 1968Letter to: Satsvarupa — March 26, 1968


text:
There was food, there was lace, there was an array of florals and there was... tartan!?
Masterchef's George Calombaris and his girlfriend of 11 years, Natalie Tricarico have finally tied the knot in a lavish ceremony in Greece.
The wedding, which was studded with foodie celebs, took place on Sunday September 16th in a Greek Orthodox Church, and the newlyweds couldn't have looked happier.
According to Greek City Times, the ceremony is believed to have taken place at the Island Athens Riviera resort, which has sweeping views of the Mediterranian Sea.
In a series of images shared on social media by his chef friends, it became apparent that the event was no small affair.
Guests included fellow MasterChef judge Matt Preston, Nigella Lawson, My Kitchen Rules' Manu Feildel and The Living Room host Miguel Maestre.
With that panel of culinary experts we'd expect nothing less than the very best catering, and the pictures prove it!
Natalie wore a sequined cream-white gown with a plunging neckline, while George looked dapper in a daring tartan suit.
Speaking to Herald Sun earlier this year, George gushed about Natalie. The pair met in 2007 and have two children.
"Natalie has been an incredible backbone in everything in my life," he said.
"She's had to put up with a lot with me. I'm a very lucky man."
He also joked about getting married, saying: "I need to get married one day because I need to grow up."
The wedding comes after a testing time for George. He was accused of punching a 19-year-old at the A-League Grand Final in May last year, but he won his appeal against the conviction in January.
Calombaris had also faced claims that almost 200 of his restaurant's staff had been underpaid. George said he was "devastated" by the mistake. According to Daily Mail he cited "poor processes in classifying employees" as the reason for the blunder.
WATCH: The moment George Calombaris angrily shoves a man at a football match:


text:
Customized sticker collections!
Who hasn't ever collected and swapped stickers from his or her most favorite idols and characters? Expressions such as "I got it" or "Would want to swap?" have been part of school playground conversations for decades. The sticker has this unique thrilling component about which very few games can boast. That excitement when opening a packet and checking whether you've got the sticker you were looking for to complete your collection, or the pleasure of having a battery of stickers to play and / or swap.
Besides any technological progress made and the new playing tools for the youngest fans, which are highly digitalized, the sticker as it is still remains alive and keeps on being a good interaction and integration tool among kids.
In Girones Industrial we want to take one step further from the traditional sticker that we all know. Taking advantage of our know-how and experience as a company specialized in the printing and packing of children's collections, we have incorporated new machinery that allows us to print and pack customized sticker collections for schools, sport clubs, or similar institutions. With such product, kids become the main characters by collecting stickers of their own classmates or team. Stickers are packed randomly in customized paper packets, along with the sticker album. Every project is 100% customizable, which means that the client can choose among sizes, quantities and design of the stickers, as well as the packets and albums.
What is attractive about such customized sticker collections is not only how appealing they are for the kids to have their own sticker collection, but they can also become a source of income for sport clubs, schools or other institutions.


text:
Internship Oppurtunity: Uni Lega Chambers, New Delhi: Apply by August 22
Call For Applications
Applications are invited from all law students who are currently pursuing their Bachelors in LLB in 3 years and 5 years of course for the position of Intern at Uni Lega Chambers, CR Park, Delhi.
Selected interns will be expected to carry out research/drafting exercises and provided access to the case files and resource facilities offered by the chamber.
Opportunity may also be given to participate in client meetings, subject to performance, as also to accompany counsels for their court hearings.
About UNI LEGA CHAMBERS
UNI LEGA CHAMBERS is a full service law firm specializing in civil, commercial/corporate side of litigation. The firm has been fully involved in work pertaining to legal Advisory to its corporate and individual clients as well.
The firm also represents its client before both judicial and quasi-judicial departmental bodies.
New Delhi
Period and Duration
Minimum One month Internship(Extended based on Performance)
Application Procedure
Interested applicants may send their resume/ profile along with cover letter to Mr. Tushar Sharma at [email protected] with CC to Mr. Praval Arora at [email protected] or for any further queries you can reach us @office landline +91 (0)11 46025335.
The selection process of shortlisted CV's would be based upon an Interview conducted at firm.


text:
A big shout out goes to AstraZeneca for sponsoring Growth through Innovation on 24 July and to professional coach and personal growth speaker, Susan Morris, M.Ed., CPCC, ACC. Susan facilitated a highly interactive creativity lab where attendees worked in teams to solve problems and make decisions on the spot, all in an atmosphere filled with laughter and curiosity. Susan outlined key principles for improving innovation:
- Redefine failure as learning events
- Learn fast and learn early – don't keep repeating the same mistake
- Derive remediation solutions to what could fail at the beginning
- Let go of perfection – an 80% solution may be all that is needed to still beat your competitors in the marketplace
To integrate innovation and creativity into your business goals and strategies, create a risk-friendly work environment by sharing your own mistakes and lessons learned. Encourage collaboration by reducing competition among team members and sharing new ideas. Expand your perspective by adding colleagues that do not settle for the status quo. Include representatives from your legal and regulatory departments to ensure ideas comply with company standards.
Thank you to our AstraZeneca colleagues and #HBAWC chapter volunteers who helped make this another great event.