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NVIDIA Releases 384.76 WHQL Game Ready Driver
NVIDIA Releases 384.76 WHQL Game Ready Driver
A few weeks have passed since driver version 382.53, and it's time again for another driver update from NVIDIA. Now onto release 384 with driver version 384.76, NVIDIA brings us a good number of bug fixes, along with a Game Ready and Game Ready VR title.
Starting things off, the new Release 384 driver branch doesn't bring anything new to the table as far as major features go – at least, nothing that NVIDIA has documented. Instead their efforts have been focused almost entirely on bug fixes and performance improvements. To that end, NVIDIA has addressed issues where Firefall would not run at all. GeForce GTX 1080/1070/1060 stuttering during gameplay in Prey 2 was also addressed, as was texture corruption in No Man's Sky when SLI was enabled. GTX 970 SLI can now be enabled while Norton 360 is running, as opposed to just when Norton 360 is disabled or in Safe mode. Glitches in Doom (2016) under the Vulkan API were also fixed.
NVIDIA also resolved CPU bottlenecks that occur when 3DVision is enabled, as well as issues with DirectX 12 titles failing to capture via GameStream. Issues with choppy video playback on the Windows Store video app while V-Sync was off were fixed. Last and probably least, a typo was corrected in NVIDIA Control Panel for the Command & Conquer Tiberium Alliances name on the Stereoscopic 3D Compatibility page.
The Game Ready headliner for this edition is the LawBreakers "Rise Up" Open Beta while Spider-Man: Homecoming VR Experience is the token Game Ready VR title. Slated to launch on August 8th, LawBreakers is developed by Cliff Bleszinski, whose pedigree includes games from the Unreal and Gears of War series, and is a class/character-based sci-fi 'hero shooter,' similar to games like Overwatch and Team Fortress 2. NVIDIA has polished their drivers in preparation for the "Rise Up" Open Beta, which goes from June 30th to July 3rd. As for the Spider-Man, Spider-Man: Homecoming VR Experience is a free tie-in to the upcoming Spider-Man: Homecoming film, and will be available for download on June 30th. While Homecoming VR is not exactly a full game, and described in the title itself as a "VR experience," NVIDIA has prepped their drivers in advance regardless.
Wrapping things up, NVIDIA has added an SLI profile for FIFA 17, as well as adding a "debug" option in the NVIDIA Control Panel Help menu, which removes all overclocking performance and power settings.
The updated drivers are available through the GeForce Experience Drivers tab or online at the NVIDIA driver download page. More information on this update and further issues can be found in the 384.76 release notes.
Source: NVIDIA
Source link : NVIDIA Releases 384.76 WHQL Game Ready Driver


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STANISLAUS COUNTY, Calif. - The Stanislaus County Sheriff's Office is searching for a man accused of murdering a woman and leaving her body near Highway 4.
The sheriff's office said Jose Silva killed Beranea Moreno of Lodi, then left her body in a car on the side of the road near Highway 4 in Farmington.
A driver found the woman around 2 a.m. on Monday.
Investigators said Silva and Moreno had been living together in Stockton.
Related Content
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- Stanislaus Deputy Killed in Car Chase with Suspected Drunk Driver
- Statewide Manhunt Underway for Suspect in Stanislaus Officer Shooting
- Newman Officer Killed, Search is on for Gunman: Stanislaus County Sheriff
- Authorities searching for Trinity County shooting suspect
- Authorities chase, arrest Corning attempted murder suspect
- Redding Police Searching for Attempted Murder Suspect
- Authorities Search for Possible Arson Suspect from Oroville Bedrock Park
- Authorities Searching for Olivehurst Fatal Hit-and-Run Suspect
- Colusa Co. murder suspect, victims were all roommates, authorities say
Scroll for more content...

subset: commoncrawl


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National e-clinical quality registry
Accelerate the development of a national e-clinical quality registry for blood cancers
The Issue
In Australia the absence of national data on the health care outcomes for people with blood cancers severely limits the capacity to measure and monitor the benefit to patients of the care they receive and how consistently the care aligns with evidence-based practice.
What we know
- Currently the only data national available about cancers is diagnosis data collected by state cancer registries and death data collected by the ABS. Although this data is of high quality, it is incomplete and lacks information about treatment outcomes.
- Outcome information is essential for both measurement and monitoring of the impact of health care practices on outcomes and to see if and how well the care provided aligns with evidence-based practice.
- This is a significant gap in cancer healthcare information in Australia which impedes good decision making for the care of people with cancer.
- The Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care (ACSQHC) has identified national clinical quality registries (CQRs) as a cost-effective way to address the gaps in evaluating healthcare in Australia (2014) (Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care (2014): Framework for Australian clinical quality registries).
- Blood cancers (all types of leukaemia and lymphoma) have been identified in the Prioritisation of clinical quality registries (ACSQHC, 2016) (Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care (2016): Prioritisation of clinical quality registries – discussion paper) as meeting many of the criteria required for priority in the development of proposed CQRs.
- Blood cancers rank highly because of their high burden of disease, high cost of treatment, meeting the feasibility criteria and because of the multiple and significant consequences of poor quality care – reduced life expectancy, increased disease recurrence, increased adverse treatment effects, poor quality of life and increased health system costs.
- The Leukaemia Foundation believes that with technological advances, the ability to collect and access real-time big data should be standard practice. The CQR strategy needs to be accelerated to ensure Australians get access to this vital data.
- Data available in a national clinical quality registry for blood cancers will help to reduce the current inequities of access arising from data gaps for rare subtype, especially when a targeted therapy is already available on the PBS for a more common cancer.
- Our 2015 survey of 675 patients seeking access to new drugs indicated:
– 42% were unable to access new medicines through the PBS
– 20% accessed the new medicine, 76% of whom did so though a clinical trial
– 22% had no alternative but to fundraise or sell assets to meet the full price of the therapy.
- These experiences are not recorded by cancer registries.
Developed by the Leukaemia Foundation in consultation with people living with a blood cancer, Leukaemia Foundation support staff, haematology nursing staff and/or Australian clinical haematologists. This content is provided for information purposes only and we urge you to always seek advice from a registered health care professional for diagnosis, treatment and answers to your medical questions, including the suitability of a particular therapy, service, product or treatment in your circumstances. The Leukaemia Foundation shall not bear any liability for any person relying on the materials contained on this website.


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... Exfoliators
Certified as Nature identical by COSMOS and NATRUE
High compatibility with aqueous and non-aqueous formulations and with a wide range of ingredients
Cover the full range of scrub formulations, enabling different desquamation and sensory properties
Portfolio with different particle sizes, morphologies and hardness for different skin sensitivity (e. g. face, body, feet)
Globally available in consistent and tightly controlled quality
SIPERNAT® 22 PC is a silica, that combines a high absorption capacity together with a good flowability. It is our basic recommendation as a carrier silica for converting any kind of liquid into free flowing powders.more
SIPERNAT® 2200 PC is a micro-granular silica with spherical particles, low fines content and high absorption capacity.more
SIPERNAT® 250 PC silicon dioxide provides an alternative to polyethylene beads for delivering exfoliation to skin care formulations. As a mildly friable silica based particle, SIPERNAT® 250 PC silicon dioxide delivers a gentle yet substantive tactile experience making this product the ideal choice for sensitive applications such as facial scrubs.more
SIPERNAT® 9000 PC is composed of exceptionally sturdy round-edged Hydrated Silica particles and is therefore the preferred choice for formulations with a long lasting scrubbing effect. The large SIPERNAT® 9000 PC particles are the preferred choice for strong desquamation or in the function of a sensory indicator when combined with smaller particles for the cleaning.more
... Sensory Modifier
Certified as nature identical by COSMOS and NATRUE
Mattifying effect and gloss reduction due to oil binding properties
Provides sensory modification such as elegant skin feel and a natural, even appearance
Good spread ability in both, oil-in-water and water-in-oil formulations
Consistent and strictly controlled quality with global availability


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The most vital duty, in this day, is to purify your characters, to correct your manners, and improve your conduct. The beloved of the Merciful must show forth such character and conduct among His creatures, that the fragrance of their holiness may be shed upon the whole world, and may quicken the dead, inasmuch as the purpose of the Manifestation of God and the dawning of the limitless lights of the Invisible is to educate the souls of men, and refine the character of every living man — so that blessed individuals, who have freed themselves from the murk of the animal world, shall rise up with those qualities which are the adornings of the reality of man. The purpose is that earthlings should turn into the people of Heaven, and those who walk in darkness should come into the light, and those who are excluded should join the inner circle of the Kingdom, and those who are as nothing should become intimates of the everlasting Glory. It is that the portionless should gain their share of the boundless sea, and the ignorant drink their fill from the living fount of knowledge; that those who thirst for blood should forsake their savagery, and those who are barbed of claw should turn gentle and forbearing, and those who love war should seek instead for true conciliation; it is that the brutal, their talons razor-sharp, should enjoy the benefits of lasting peace; that the foul should learn that there is a realm of purity, and the tainted find their way to the rivers of holiness.
Unless these divine bestowals be revealed from the inner self of humankind, the bounty of the Manifestation will prove barren, and the dazzling rays of the Sun of Truth will have no effect whatever.
His Holiness 'Abdu'l-Baha
Selections from the Writings of Abdu'l-Baha, p. 10)
Praise be to Thee, O Lord my God! I swear by Thy might! Successive afflictions have withheld the pen of the Most High from laying bare that which is hidden from the eyes of Thy creatures, and incessant trials have hindered the tongue of the Divine Ordainer from proclaiming the wonders of Thy glorification and praise. With a stammering tongue, therefore, I call upon Thee, O my God, and with this my afflicted pen I occupy myself in remembrance of Thy name.
His Holiness Baháú'lláh
Prayers and Meditations by Baháú'lláh, p. 8
Is there any man of insight, O my God, that can behold Thee with Thine own eye, and where is the thirsty one who can direct his face towards the living waters of Thy love? I am the one, O my God, who hath blotted out from his heart the remembrance of all except Thee, and hath graven upon it the mysteries of Thy love. Thine own might beareth me witness! But for tribulations, how could the assured be distinguished from the doubters among Thy servants? They who have been inebriated with the wine of Thy knowledge, these, verily, hasten to meet every manner of adversity in their longing to pass into Thy presence. I implore Thee, O Beloved of my heart and the Object of my soul's adoration, to shield them that love me from the faintest trace of evil and corrupt desires. Supply them, then, with the good of this world and of the next.
Thou art, verily, He Whose grace hath guided them aright, He Who hath declared Himself to be the All-Merciful. No God is there but Thee, the All-Glorious, the Supreme Helper.
His Holiness Bahá'u'lláh
Prayers and Meditations by Baháú'lláh, pp: 8-9


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Itel A31 Smartphone
Overview of Itel A31 Smartphone :
Itel A31 Smartphone comes with 8.0MP AF rear camera which is clearer and stands out from their peers within the same price range. There are some interesting camera functions for you to have fun withlike beauty mode and watermarks. 5.0" IPS screen has 178° wide viewing angle and true color display so that you can experience more details and have a larger viewing angle. Powered by 1GB RAM and 8GB ROM large storage, it is easier and faster to switch between apps and store more.
Buy Itel A31 Feature Phone at the best price in Nigeria, at Kara Online Store and also offer the best bulk purchase discount price in Nigeria.
Specification Of Itel A31 Smartphone :
- Brand: Itel
- Model: A31
- Operating System: Android™ 7.0
- Processor: Quad-core, 1.2GHz
- Dimension: 144.5*72.8*8.9mm
- Display: 5.0"IPS Screen
- Resolution: 480*854
- Camera: Rear Camera 8.0MP AF/Front Camera 2.0MP
- Memory: 8GB ROM + 1GB RAM, up to 32GB
- Battery Capacity: 2400mAh
Features of Itel A31 Smartphone:
- Camera: Rear Camera 8.0MP AF/Front Camera 2.0MP
- Memory: 8GB ROM + 1GB RAM, up to 32GB
- Battery Capacity: 2400mAh
Delivery within: 1- 7day(s)
Manufacturer Warranty
Click on '' Return Policy'' on the bottom page of our website to read our Terms and conditions) OR request a return by calling our customer service helpline (08153572966).
|Product Name
|Itel A31 Smartphone


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Euroscola is a unique annual event for schools to learn about Europe, the European Union and European integration. Participants from the 28 EU Member States are selected to experience the life of a Member of the European Parliament for one day. The experience takes place at the Parliament's premises in Strasbourg, France.
For the past thirteen years GCHSS has thoroughly prepared its students for the Europe-wide EUROSCOLA project with extremely positive results. The participating students take the floor in plenary and committee sessions to debate and vote on resolutions on current affairs, all the while practising their language skills and making friends with fellow students from across Europe.
Every scholastic year a number of GCHSS students are chosen to go to Strasbourg, accompanied by teachers. The selection process starts in November when the interested students are required to apply for a test which is held at school. In order to be eligible students have to be 16 to 18 years old.


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Carlos Kinn is the man behind big remixes for artists like Roger Sanchez, Dj Chus,Joachim Garraud or Todd Terry. Producer with great versatility, supported by Paul Oakenfold, Judge Jules, Dj Chus, Roger Sanchez, Todd Terry, Erick Morillo among others.
Throughout his career he has made, produced and released music with:
Stealth, Almibar (Stereo group), Space Invaders, Tiger and the legendary Hed Kandi. His sound goes beyond the most conventional styles and introduces a spectacular mix of genres like house, tech house, techno with very strong influences of deep house, progressive and UK garage sounds.
Producer and host of Kinn Sound podcast, available on Spotify, Soundcloud, Mixcloud and Youtube. A show with exclusive tracks, live sets and guest mixes from artists like Mat.Joe, Dario D'Attis, Coyu, Josh Butler, Return of the Jaded, Sabb, Roberto Palmero and many more.
Tourdates: www.songkick.com/artists/9687504
Booking: email@example.com
Promos: email@example.com


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Please check the 2019 list of jokes as well as April Fools Day 2020 is JUST beginning world wide!
|AprilFoolsDayOnTheWeb.com brings you the most complete listing of April Fools' Day Jokes that Web Sites have run each year from 2004 all the way up to today. Make sure you check out the full list on the (many) pages below, and if you have a site that is not already listed, please add it.


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Sign up to receive a $5.00 coupon
Sign up today for Instant Savings!
Your shopping cart is currently empty.
This unique crucifix portrays Our Lord surrounded by His Twelve Apostles, contemplating God's immeasurable gift of salvation to us all. From the keys of Peter at the top, to the parchments of the Evangelists Matthew and John, this hand painted crucifix depicting the symbols of the Apostles reminds us we are all called to bear witness to Jesus' Paschal Mystery.
Pieces/Pkg: 1


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Elkhart in Elkhart County, Indiana — The American Midwest (Great Lakes)
The Havilah Beardsley House
102 West Beardsley Avenue
has been placed on the
National Register
of Historic Places
by the United States
Department of the Interior
Location. 41° 41.59′ N, 85° 58.596′ W. Marker is in Elkhart, Indiana, in Elkhart County. Marker can be reached from the intersection of W. Beardsley Avenue and N. Main Street, on the right when traveling west. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 102 W Beardsley Ave, Elkhart IN 46514, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Main St. Memorial Bridge (within shouting distance of this marker); Havilah Beardsley (about 500 feet away, measured in a direct line); Development of Diagnostic Test Strips (about 700 feet away); Ruthmere (approx. 0.2 miles away); Elkhart River Wharves (approx. 0.2 miles away); Island Park (approx. ¼ mile away); The Rivers for Recreation (approx. 0.3 miles away); The Rivers and the Native Americans (approx. 0.4 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Elkhart.
Also see . . . Ruthmere Museum. The official website of the Ruthmere Museum. Go to the tab Ruthmere Campus for information and photographs on the Havilah Beardsley House. (Submitted on August 15, 2014.)
Topics. This marker is included in this topic list: Notable Buildings
Credits. This page was last revised on June 16, 2016. This page originally submitted on August 15, 2014, by Duane Hall of Abilene, Texas. This page has been viewed 321 times since then and 5 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4. submitted on August 15, 2014, by Duane Hall of Abilene, Texas.


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We want to make it as easy as possible to find us. Enter your address below and you will get exact directions to our location.
Our sheds are completely custom built so we can build the right shed to suit your needs. Gable width, length, eave height and bay sizes are all flexable to the millameter at no extra charge.
Barns are a very popular option for a weekender or even a permanent residence at a very cost effective price.
There is no feeling like waking up to the sound of birds and walking out onto your balcony for your morning coffee.All our barns are available with mezzanine floors, stair cases, windows, glass sliding doors and all our cladding options.
The barn style shed is the most versatile shed in the range. Whether you're looking for style, that second storey retreat or just extra height for your boat or caravan this is the shed for you.
Farm sheds are available in a vast range of sizes to meet your specific needs. Whether you are after a hay shed or somewhere to store expensive farm equipment and/or stock, even horse stables, we can customise a design to suit your requirements.
When it comes to large steel buildings we pride ourselves in our experience and knowledge of this field. Anyone can sell a garage or carport but selling large quality steel buildings is a specialty.
|Often it's much easier and more cost effective to include options like insulation, internal walls, skylights, mezzanine floors and ventilation during the initial construction phase as retrofitting them can waste materials and travel time for contractors. These can be fitted in all shapes and sizes of sheds, garages, barns, stables or what ever steel building you have. Some can make your workshop or storage shed more secure or allow better ventilation.
Need a small storage shed for the garden tools or even a larger steel frame option for the trailer or boat, then our range of garden sheds are the perfect choice.
For great imaginative fun for the kids you can't go past a Cubby house or Fort. We supply the Arsenic free range of Connecting kids Cubby houses and can also install on site. The range is huge with options of building your own playground in the security of your own home.


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Huge Selection of Used Transmissions
We have a large selection of used transmissions for virtually every make and model
We have a large selection of used transmission for virtually every make and model of car and truck. Many of the transmissions are located here at our yard on Sunset Rd. in Henderson. In the unlikely event we don't have the transmission you are looking for in stock at our yard, we can certainly find it for you through our network. We are family owned and operated. Se habla espanol.


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House Painting for Montgomery, Prattville, & Millbrook, Alabama
Prattville Paint Company has over 20 years' experience in exterior, interior, commercial and residential painting. Prattville Paint Company can breathe new life into your homes decor with a top notch paint job. Whether it is the entire house or just an accent wall, we treat each paint job with extreme focus and attention to detail. We make sure to clean our project area daily, and we communicate with our clients so they know exactly what to expect. We will make sure the job is done to meet your expectation. Give us a call today for a free quote.


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Why Us?
Private Labeling has so many advantages over traditional sales. Every cleaning product you sell with a different brand name than your own is an opportunity for your customer to shop somewhere else. If they can find it another store or your competitors cheaper, you might have lost your customer for all your products. Keep customers coming back to you while you build your own brand name.
Why Us
- We are a 60 year old family business
- All our products are environmentally safe and non-toxic
- Best pricing and lowest minimums
- Cut out the middle man, work directly with the manufacturer
• Windows & Glass • Leathers • Mirrors • Pet Stain Remover • Naughahyde • Vinyl & Plastic • Shoes • Steam Cleaners • Dishwashers • Washing Machines • Semis • Hand Cleaner • Canvas • Tires & Wheels • Pet Wash • Brick & Stone • Fireplaces • Porcelain • Concrete & Asphalt • Hardwood Floors Aircraft • Cabinets • Boats • Shower Cleaner • Ovens • Tile & Grout • Travertine • Marble & Granite • Clothing Stain Remover • RVs, Bilges & Holding Tanks • Carpet Spot Remover • Lawn & Patio Furniture • Ceramic & Glass stovetops• Pools & Spas
- Increased Revenue. You have already sold your customer on your main product (furniture/tires/carpet etc.), now you can upsell them something with your name on it to keep it looking as good as it did the day they bought it.
- Higher Profit Structure. You will work directly with the Manufacturer so you get the best pricing. There are no middle men and you determine your sales price.
- Higher Customer Retention: Your customers have your name in front of them at all times. Great advertising. They can only get the product from you and not other box stores. This means they will come back to your store or website to get more.
- Increased Brand awareness. No more building someone else's brand name. Your customer will only see your name always and will only be able to get more product from you or your distributors. Friends and neighbors will see and use your name brand which will bring them back to your store increasing sales.
- No Competition. Your customers cannot find your competitors selling your product and possibly lose the customer to their main product line instead of yours as well.
- Non-Toxic and Biodegradable
- Environmentally Safe
- Removes 99.9% of Germs
- Safe around Kids and Pets
- No Harsh Chemicals or Abrasives
- No Fumes or Overpowering Scents
- 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed
- Family Owned and Operated since 1952


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Serving all of Cass County
Away goes trouble down the drain!
Are your sump pumps not working as they should? With a call to Roto-Rooter Sewer Service, your basement will be dry again – thanks to our reliable sump pump repair services. If your sump pumps can't be repaired, we can replace them with a variety of reasonably priced options.
We provide you with a FREE over-the-phone estimate, and we stand behind our workmanship on every project. Call us today for all your plumbing needs!


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Doesn't over-dry skin
Featuring salicylic acid from willow bark
99.9% natural
|Active Ingredients
|Salicylic Acid 1.0%
|Acne Treatment
For external use only.
Using other topical acne medication at the same time or immediately following use of this product may increase dryness or irritation of the skin. If this occurs, only one medication should be used unless directed by a doctor.
Keep out of reach of children.
If swallowed, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away.
Wash face in the morning and evening avoiding the eye area. If contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.
water, decyl glucoside, lauryl glucoside, sucrose laurate, salix nigra (willow) bark extract, coco-betaine, betaine, beta vulgaris (beet) root extract, oenothera biennis (evening primrose) leaf extract, sodium cocoyl hydrolyzed soy protein, tocopherol, lecithin, glycerin, glyceryl oleate, coco-glucoside, hydrogenated palm glycerides citrate, fragrance, glucose, alcohol denat., glucose oxidase, lactoperoxidase, citric acid, sodium chloride, ascorbyl palmitate, potassium iodide, potassium thiocyanate
Made in USA of global ingredients
Burt's Bees and The Greater Good are trademarks of The Burt's Bees Products Company. All Rights Reserved.
Doesn't over-dry skin
Featuring salicylic acid from willow bark
99.9% natural
Purifying Gel Cleanser from Burt's Bees® Natural Acne Solutions™ Line is clinically proven to help wash away acne-causing bacteria and get rid of excess oil and impurities without over-drying or irritating skin. Salicylic acid, derived naturally from willow bark extract, penetrates pores to help reduce acne and prevent future breakouts. Evening primrose and beet root extracts help sooth skin, resulting in a clear and healthy-looking complexion naturally. Dermatologist tested. Noncomedogenic.
Terms and Ingredient Definitions
Shipping Weight: .41 lbs
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
For our website and catalog, the MSRP is the "Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price." The MSRP is understood to mean the price at which a manufacturer will recommend a retailer sell a product for in stores, on the internet, or in catalogs. The MSRP of National brand items are dictated to Swanson by each manufacturer. For Swanson brand items, the MSRP is calculated based on a varying percentage above the product's base price.
Swanson Health started in 1969 in Fargo, ND with a mission to offer pure and potent health products at a great value. Over 50 years later, we continue to innovate science-backed vitamins and supplements, delivering wellness solutions that help people live simply healthier together, and find vitality at any age. Click here to learn more about us.
For over 50 years, Swanson Health's research and development team has delivered science-backed health and wellness products to people around the world. Our innovation is guided by clinical research, scientific consensus, emerging research and usage traditions, creating products that help you find vitality at any age. At Swanson, we don't hide our science behind proprietary formulas — we believe in easy-to-read, transparent labelling. What's printed on our labels, is exactly what you'll find in our products.
Swanson Health's purity and potency testing begins with our ingredient sourcing, continues through manufacturing, and goes beyond when a product hits the shelf. Our testing exceeds industry standards, ensuring each product meets our quality guarantees for purity and potency. Swanson facilities are Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) certified, and we voluntarily participate in third-party, independent laboratory testing. With Swanson, you can be sure you're getting the most pure and potent health products at a great value. Click here to learn more about our quality standards.


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3-in-1 Avocado Slicer by OXO
This thing is awesome... it helps you scoop an avocado perfectly every time!
First, you can easily slice through the skin and fruit of the avocado. Then you remove the pit with a simple twist. Then you scoop out the innards of the avocado with the handy and super efficient blades.
Don't worry about cutting yourself or losing fruit while trying to scoop avocado out with a spoon or knife.
This handy tool also makes the job MUCH quicker. If you deal with avocados a lot, this tool will save you time and avocado fruit.
We know, this sounds like an infomercial product, but it's really true! Read the reviews on other sites such as Amazon - they are overwhelmingly positive. (Also, compare the prices... we are $2 cheaper for the same product!)
This slicer is BPA-free and top-rack dishwasher safe. Just don't put it on the bottom rack or you may have a melted mess... eep!


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Cow and chicken characters to mark all your adventures to your favorite "Eat Mor Chikin" restaurant!
Each sheet measures ~ 3.75 x 4.75 and has three different size stickers - 1, .8, .6 inches in height.
Each sheet has 21 stickers that are kiss cut for easy removal.
Stickers are printed on our high quality matte paper. This paper is bright white and smooth and allows for any pens to be used on it.
Due to individual monitor settings, colors may vary.
For any questions, please utilize the Etsy messaging system.


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A Lexington man was killed after being hit by a train Monday morning, according to the Lexington Police Department.
Police said that at about 1:45 a.m., Julian Michael Martin, 32, was hit by a Norfolk Southern train while walking on the tracks on Church Street near Bristol Street. There were no injuries reported for the railroad crew.
Police said the train was traveling northbound from Linwood and headed to Roanoke, Virginia. The train was pulling approximately 60 freight cars.
No charges will be filed against Norfolk Southern Railroad, according to police.


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Chatbots: Definition, Functions & Use
- What Is a Chat Bot
- How Do Chatbots Work
- Main Chatbot Features
- What Can a Chatbot Do?
- The Bottom Line
What Is a Chat Bot
Software that does exactly what humans do… This idea isn't new, and, maybe there are fewer and fewer people to be impressed by chatbots, however, you can't even imagine how powerful the chatbots of today can be.
Extensive use of various messengers where users hang out much of their time boosts the chatbots' popularity. Digital friends and assistants, chatbots now perform a plethora of functions from educational and therapeutic to travel or meeting planning.
But what is actually a chat bot?
Simple (or not as simple as you can imagine) software that stimulates interaction by imitating human written or spoken speech.
By 2020, over 50% of medium to large enterprises will have deployed product chatbotsVan Baker, research vice president at Gartner
The meteoric chatbot rise resulted from the desire of the brands to improve communication with end-users. Actually, it has changed the communication drastically. Visiting the biggest e-commerce platforms, a user may get an immediate response to the question at any time without waiting morning to come, for example.
Moreover, the enormous number of tasks can be addressed through the interface consisting of numerous elements. The list of such tasks starts from the routing ones (booking, takeout) to job-related tasks. By replacing the interface where a user should take several actions to reach the goal by a chatbot, you'll make users' life easier, thus, enhance the User Experience of your website or app and decrease its bounce rate that seems to be a sound idea.
In addition, chatbots may replace the live chats so that cutting the costs or focus resources on getting more significant problems solved could be possible. Of course, the situation when a chatbot is unable to meet the customer demands or resolve challenging issues is rather possible, thus, as a chatbot owner, you should definitely leave a user the possibility to send a request to the site's support.
Gartner forecasts that by 2020, over 85% of customer interactions will be handled without a human.
That is why a business owner/ CTO/ manager should consider the possibility of chatbot introduction to improve customer service and make the information accessible 24/7. All the more value of global chatbot market is going to increase significantly in the future:
How Do Chatbots Work
After defining chatbots, understanding the major principles of their work would be a great idea. As chatbots could be conditionally divided into two big categories: simple chatbot (question-answer chatbot or conversational agent) that recognize the most frequently asked questions basing on pre-prepared commands, and chatbots that use all the potential machine learning gives to imitate a human interlocutor as precisely as possible.
The first category includes different chatbots for business (the ones you usually can see on websites that offers all kinds of products). As a rule, communicating with such chatbots, a user gets the list of standard questions, to which a chatbot may reply using the recognition of the prescribed keywords.
The second category can be represented by the well-known voice assistants Siri (Apple), Alexa (Amazon), Google Assistant, etc. that may actually give rise to a whole new epoch of the internet search, making it more human-like.
Compare two search requests:
"Gas station near me" (that a person will probably enter into the search engine);
"Siri, show me the nearest gas station, please" (that a person will probably tell a voice assistant with an intention to find the gas station).
You shouldn't be an SEO expert to see the difference between these two requests. So, smart chatbots are able to recognize a human intent disregarding the form of the user's input.
This comparative characteristic is intended to make the difference between simple and smart chatbots clear:
|Simple chatbots
|Smart chatbots
|Are based on…
|pre-written keywords
|Learn from conversation
|Use prescribed conversations steps (are strictly limited)
|Recognize user's free form input
|Process user's input despite the mistakes of all kind
|Can be easily implemented
Despite the numerous differences, both simple and smart chatbots (except for the ones that offer only prescribed lines to a user) have the same work structure:
Main Chatbot Features
As you can tell, chatbots of today are all different depending on the functions their creators had an objective to include. However, all (good) chatbots without exceptions have several common traits.
So, what should good chatbots do?
- Simplify our lives. The main objective of both simple and smart chatbots is to save the user time by shortcutting to a goal. In case if user intent is to find out whether the e-shop delivers in certain countries, a chatbot will give this info right away so that a site visitor should not waste time trying to find the proper paragraph on the website containing this info.
- Give the impression of the human touch. No matter are you talking to a simple or smart chatbot, the main objective of both is to give a user an impression he/she is communicating with a human being, so chatbots should be more personalized than any of the apps you've dealt with before.
- Provide extended support to their users. As users turn to chatbots in order to make their life easier, the existence of proper documentation and the possibility to get timely assistance through a chatbot itself (e.x. "Help", "How it works" sections) are of high importance. Moreover, giving hints about additional functionality to a user through the chatbot itself is a great idea as well.
- Interact in a short and simple manner. Users of today have less and less time to be wasted on the investigation that is why the quicker chatbot meets customer needs, the more satisfied a user becomes.
What Can a Chatbot Do?
1. Hold a conversation
This is probably the main reason for chatbots creation. But why are people so curious about communicating with AI chatbot instead of talking to their own kind?
- High response rate. Chatbots' mission is to satisfy human curiosity right here right now, thus, it's always easier to turn to a chatbot in order to get an immediate response.
- Entertainment. Why not chat with a chatbot when you have to kill another hour? Especially if it is able to give you a few funny tips imitating being a human.
- Novelty. Chatter bots are a relatively recent invention so that a man is still curious about a chat bot meaning and working algorithms. Even more curious is he to gossip about the boss and see a chatbot reaction to the funniest meme he's ever laughed at.
2. Increase end-user engagement by improving customer service
Chatbots can provide the answers to the frequently asked questions immediately so that you shouldn't wait for the support agent to come or stay up all night thinking of whether this e-shop provides delivery in other countries or not. Of course, in most cases, a user may get his information on the FAQ page, however, justified by highly competitive e-commerce environment, a user prefers to go on another site instead of wasting time to find answers on his/her questions. In this way, chatbots may help increase the conversion and boost user engagement.
3. Reduce a set of routine actions a user performs to only one command
From 4 actions to one request:
Bran wants to buy a car. A used one to save money, but he also wants to check the information about used car warranties, as his friend once told him that used car with warranties is better than without it. He types his request into a search engine and finds one of the numerous sites:
The Bottom Line
This post was created to define chatbot and find an easy way to show how a chatbot works. The Jellyfish.tech team tried its best to make a definition of a chatbot clear and simple for you. Don't hesitate to drop us a message if any questions arise, and our expert in chatbot development will be happy to share his knowledge with you.
You are welcome to share any of your experiences connected to chatbots starting from your ideas in this regard as to why you have chosen one or another chatbot type.
4 thoughts on "What Is a Chatbot? How Do Chatbots Work?"
thanks for sharing! good post to understand the basics
When it comes to getting questions answered or problems solved, there is one thing that almost all customers have in common – they do not like to wait.


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November 05, 2015
Lolitta is a smart young lady who had a brainstem bleed. She wants to go to college in Hong Kong, but her typing is very slow. We're working with Lolitta and her Dad to give her the best chance to succeed using new typing technology from InvoTek. Stay tuned as we move forward on this long-distance adventure.
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Slow Cooker End of Season Vegetable Stew with Mushroom Dumplings
A slow cooked vegan vegetable stew using all the odds and ends from the late autumn plot. Mushroom dumplings complement this already rich and flavoursome dish.
I was lucky enough to grow up with an Aga in the house. This meant plenty of slow cooked meals. There's something about slow cooking that really brings out the flavours of ingredients and melds them into something richer and more flavoursome than the sum of their parts. These days, I only have an ordinary electric cooker, so I don't tend to do much of that sort of cooking. At least I didn't until I was sent a Von Shef slow cooker to try out. Those delicious childhood stews called to me and I knew I was very soon going to make a slow cooker vegetable stew.
Digital Slow Cooker
This VonShef Digital Slow Cooker from Domu, is simple to use and easy to clean. I was a little concerned I might not get it right first time, but I should have known better; I already have a VonShef 3-in-1 blender, which I use all the time. In my experience, Domu stock reliable products at an affordable price.
The slow cooker instructions were clear and the execution easy. It has three heat settings and a digital timer. The shiny black crockery pot is quite handsome in its own right and is the embodiment of a slow cook casserole dish. The toughened glass lid allows you to easily see what's going on inside. It's a large 6.5 litre pot with plenty of capacity for joints of meat and loads of vegetables. Being a vegetarian, I opted for the latter. It's ideal for large families, for batch cooking and freezing and for entertaining. There's something deeply reassuring about going out to work, safe in the knowledge there will be a piping hot and delicious meal waiting for you on your return.
If this appeals, have a go at your very own pot luck with the Von Shef Digital Slow Cooker giveaway below. Christmas is coming, in case you hadn't noticed and a slow cooker is a great way to recycle all those Christmas leftovers. With a RRP of £49.99, it's good value for money and even better, Domu are currently offering it for £29.99.
End of Season Veg
It's pretty much the end of the season down at the plot and a good time to use up the odds and ends from the garden. Shelled runner beans and wonky carrots that would never make it to the supermarket will do very nicely in a slow cooker vegetable stew. In fact the only vegetable that went into the stew that we hadn't grown ourselves was the onion. The wonderful thing about garden stews, is that you can add pretty much whatever you like to them. So chuck in your beetroots, celeriac or swedes and feel free to add some kale or cabbage into the mix too. It's a great way to use up marrows or overgrown courgettes too.
Mushroom Dumplings
I do like a good dumpling with a stew. Often I add cheese to mine, but this time, I decided to keep the dish dairy free and vegan by way of a change. So instead of adding cheese, I added some mushrooms instead. They are fabulous.
Slow Cooker Vegetable Stew with Mushroom Dumplings
The smells wafting up from the kitchen were so enticing, I had to refrain from rushing down and taking the lid of to give an addictive stir. Not recommended as you want to retain as much of the heat as possible while cooking is in progress. My slow cooker vegetable stew was rich and flavoursome, further enhanced by the mushroom dumplings. In all the excitement of my slow cooker extravaganza, I forgot to add the baking powder to the dumplings – oops! This meant they were not quite as light as they should have been. Luckily, they were still very tasty.
As I'd made enough for at least six people, I was planning on putting some away in the freezer for a rainy day. However, as the weather was thoroughly wet and miserable anyway, we ended up feasting on it for the next two nights.
Other Slow Cooker Veg Recipes You Might Like
- Chickpea and spinach curry via Planet Veggie
- Kale and ale slow cooker stew via Veggie Desserts
- Mushroom stroganoff via Supper in the Suburbs
- Spicy bean stew via Baking Queen
Keep in Touch
If you make this end-of-season vegetable stew with or without the mushroom dumplings, I'd love to hear about it in the comments below or via social media. A photo is always good too.
For more delicious and nutritious recipes, follow me on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram or Pinterest.
Slow Cooker Vegetable Stew. PIN IT.
Slow Cooker Vegetable Stew with Mushroom Dumplings – The Recipe
Slow Cooker Vegetable Stew with Mushroom Dumplings
- 3 tbsp rapeseed oil
- 1 large onion
- 300 g carrots - scrubbed
- 600 g potatoes - scrubbed
- 500 g prepared marrow or squash
- 200 g shelled beans I used runner beans
- 3-4 cloves garlic - finely chopped
- 1 red chilli - finely chopped deseeded if you don't want it too hot
- 2 bay leaves
- sprig of rosemary
- 3 sprigs of thyme
- 1 scant tsp sea salt
- 250 ml tomato passata
- 250 ml red wine
- 400 ml water
- 100 g wholemeal flour
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 50 g vegetarian suet
- 1 field mushroom or 50g any mushrooms - finely chopped
- pinch of sea salt - I used Cornish sea salt of course
- a grind of pepper
- Pour the oil into the bottom of the slow cooker, then scatter the onions over.
- Roughly chop all of the veg and add to the pot.
- Add the herbs, garlic and chilli and sprinkle on the salt.
- Add the passata, wine and water.
- Cover and set the cooker to slow for 7 hours.
- Stir the ingredients together with a flat bladed knife.
- Add just enough water to bind them together, using the knife all the while.
- Take walnut size pieces and roll into balls - I made 11, but you could easily get 12.
- Take the lid of the slow cooker about an hour before it's due to stop. Give it a stir and place the dumplings over the top. Replace the lid and leave well alone until the cooking cycle has finished.
If you want to include dumplings, you'll need to add them about an hour before the end of the cooking time.
- You will find plenty of delicious recipe ideas over on the Domu slow cooker recipe hub. Mine should soon be one of them.
- I'm sending this vegan slow cooker vegetable stew to Jac over at Tinned Tomatoes for Meat Free Mondays.
- It would be hard to cram in any Extra Veg so this also goes to Helen at Fuss Free Flavours and Michelle at Utterly Scrummy Food for Families.
- This also goes to the Slow Cooked Challenge with Janice at Farmersgirl Kitchen and Lucy at Baking Queen.
- As many people would put the wonky carrots, overgrown courgettes and giant runner beans in the compost, I'm sending this off to It's Not Easy Being Greedy for the No Waste Food Challenge normally hosted at Elizabeth's Kitchen Diary.
- This month's Vegetable Palette is the colour white and as I had lots of lovely white runner beans, as well as potatoes, I'm sending this off to Shaheen at A2K – A Seasonal Veg Table.
- The bay, rosemary and thyme in this wonderful vegetable stew makes it just right for Karen's Cooking with Herbs over at Lavender and Lovage.
Thanks to Domu for the slow cooker. There was no requirement to write a positive review and as always all opinions are my own.
Slow Cooker Giveaway
261 Comments
Tracey Peach21st November 2015 at 12:01 pm
I would most like to curl up on the sofa & read my book 🙂
Fiona K21st November 2015 at 12:03 pm
The activity I would like to do is crochet. I have recently taken this up again after my granddaughter was born. There are so many cute baby clothes to make, it's hard to decide what to make next. I'm currently engaged on a little bolero for her to wear at Christmas.
Tracy K Nixon21st November 2015 at 12:08 pm
At the moment it would be getting on with my cross stitched Christmas cards!
Cathy @ Planet Veggie21st November 2015 at 12:21 pm
Oh man, this looks just the thing for this weather! I too love dumplings but have only ever had them plain. I think I'll follow your lead and add mushrooms next time.
Carolyn Montgomery21st November 2015 at 12:26 pm
Relaxing with a good book and glass of wine
Gill21st November 2015 at 12:32 pm
I'd like to read the paper all the way through with a cup of coffee!
Angela McDonald21st November 2015 at 12:33 pm
I'd love to be curled up with a book having some 'me time' whilst it's bubbling away!
iain maciver21st November 2015 at 1:11 pm
I would head out for a cycle on the bike
laura banks21st November 2015 at 1:38 pm
probably chill and watch a good film or maybe read a book
Margaret Clarkson21st November 2015 at 1:44 pm
I would have a nice cup of tea and read a good book.
Daniel Pickard21st November 2015 at 1:54 pm
I would set it off in the morning before the kids go off to school and me to work, then we could come home to a lovely stew and warm ourselves up as it is freezing outside at the moment.
Helen Thurston21st November 2015 at 2:03 pm
Have a couple of uninterrupted hours researching my family history 🙂
ann goody21st November 2015 at 2:18 pm
I love to have a mega read, a good book along with plenty of brews…….strong tea!
Katie skeoch21st November 2015 at 2:34 pm
Catching up on some Netflix while having a cuppa
Debbie Skerten21st November 2015 at 2:44 pm
I like to curl up on my chair in front of the log burner and read a good book.
kim neville21st November 2015 at 2:55 pm
Watch a film with the family or do one of my exercise dvds 🙂
Chris Andrews21st November 2015 at 3:13 pm
What activity would you most like to do whilst your slow cooker is bubbling away . . . . . . play time with my grandsons
bev21st November 2015 at 3:16 pm
Sit down with a good book and a cup of tea – bliss for half an hour.
Roz Goodgame21st November 2015 at 3:16 pm
this looks fantastic – will be giving those dumplings a go
Paul Scotland21st November 2015 at 3:38 pm
I would partake in a glass of wine
RUTH ROBINSON21st November 2015 at 3:41 pm
excersizing doing hula hooping
Karen Hughes21st November 2015 at 3:43 pm
I would do some yoga,love it!
Megan Kinsey21st November 2015 at 4:28 pm
It depends what state the house is in! Would be a good opportunity to catch up on a bit of cleaning or ironing. But if all that's done then would be nice to catch up with a good book and a cup of tea, or wrap some Christmas presents!
Chris Davies21st November 2015 at 4:44 pm
Go to work! Earn some money, and come home to a delicious meal! 😀
Paul Sahl21st November 2015 at 5:30 pm
Have a coffee and read for a while.
Lucy Parissi21st November 2015 at 5:31 pm
What an awesome stew! Published a very similar one recently actually but the mushroom dumplings are an excellent idea. I think i need to try those very soon. Yummed!
Paul Sahl21st November 2015 at 5:31 pm
-Then go for a walk
@iDreamInCustard21st November 2015 at 5:39 pm
Dumplings! That's what makes the perfect stew. Vegetarian recipes are sadly given too little limelight in all the "winter warmer" features so it's good to see you providing little inspiration. Like the mushroom twist on the dumplings.
I normally relax whilst cooking, so if the slow cooker was taking care of that then I guess I'd have more time to concentrate on some festive baking. And if the oven's off-limits? I've got Hamelman's 'Bread' just delivered and I won't learn without some serious study time.
lisa21st November 2015 at 7:15 pm
Mushroom dumplings?!? Why haven't I had these before?! Definitely going to give this a go it sounds amazing! x
Angie@Angie's Recipes21st November 2015 at 7:17 pm
What a delicious veggie stew! I love esp. those mushroom dumplings.
kellyjo walters21st November 2015 at 8:04 pm
prob housework or jobs around the house, the usual housewife stuff
Alison Macdonald21st November 2015 at 8:10 pm
Can't beat a good soak in a scented bubble bath 🙂
Martina Evans21st November 2015 at 8:15 pm
I would read a good book, whilst enjoying a lovely hot cup of tea.
Janice21st November 2015 at 8:28 pm
That sounds absolutely gorgeous. I love the mushroom dumplings, thanks for joining us for the Slow Cooked Challenge.
Rose Elise21st November 2015 at 8:43 pm
What I WANT to do is read the new novel I got, but instead I would have to read some academic books for my degree!
Dom21st November 2015 at 9:20 pm
oh my word, those dumplings!
Darrell21st November 2015 at 9:21 pm
I'd love to be riding on my BMX through the nearby forest. Gets me some fresh air and keeps me fit 🙂
pete c21st November 2015 at 10:20 pm
I`d like to be thinking what kind of dessert I`d conjure up, to go with the main course
melanie stirling21st November 2015 at 11:48 pm
I'd like to be sat in my comfy chair,reading a good book.
Spencer Broadley21st November 2015 at 11:55 pm
Be lazy watching some comedy with some beers and small snacks until the cooker has done all.
Amanda Richardson22nd November 2015 at 12:56 am
go out cycling if it's not raining
Lynsey Buchanan22nd November 2015 at 1:52 am
I would be getting on with my cleaning & ironing.
Michaela Hannah22nd November 2015 at 4:15 am
I'd love to sit down with a cuppa and a good book but in reality i'd probably be tidying up!
Stephen Harris22nd November 2015 at 8:15 am
It would give me the opportunity to Keep a beady eye on my 13 month old who gets up to all kinds of trouble lol
shaheen22nd November 2015 at 10:03 am
I'd probably catch up on some house-work, house work never ends. But If I do win this slow cooker, it would be a gift for a family member.
Anthony G22nd November 2015 at 1:34 pm
Probably the online equivalent to window shopping (cyber shopping?) – simply endless browsing, taking note of all the wonderful things I'd LIKE to buy (if I had the money!)
Sheena Widdowfield22nd November 2015 at 2:43 pm
Go on a nice long walk with my husband and border collie 🙂
Suzanne O'Neill22nd November 2015 at 2:46 pm
Laura Pritchard22nd November 2015 at 3:24 pm
I'd read my book.
Nicola S22nd November 2015 at 6:05 pm
Take my dogs for a long walk in the countryside. I would have a lovely dinner waiting for me .
Nancy Loring22nd November 2015 at 9:12 pm
I will be running after 3 year old twins all day long.
Judith Allen22nd November 2015 at 9:18 pm
Not sure about activity, I'm always ready for a nap. Pesky MS. But I would give this to my vegan daughter and I know she has plenty to do. Dancing, practicing her bass guitar, working, not sure when she sleeps. Oh, to be young.
Samantha Loughlin22nd November 2015 at 9:26 pm
Lovely soak in the bath xxx
Angela treadway22nd November 2015 at 9:26 pm
Mop my floors, put washing away…countless chores whilst this cooks for me x
aj22nd November 2015 at 9:29 pm
well that would be telling! I might get banned from your blog if I actually told yer!
Sharon H22nd November 2015 at 9:38 pm
I'd love to call my best friend who now lives down south, we never seem to have the time to really catch up.
Jo Hutchinson22nd November 2015 at 9:59 pm
Do part of a jigsaw puzzle, I always have on the go. I never would have thought of mushrooms dumplings, how inspired!.
Laura Nice22nd November 2015 at 10:54 pm
Probably tidy the house!
Tamsin Dean23rd November 2015 at 12:27 am
read more of the books I end up buying that my partner doesn't know about. lol
Sally Collingwood23rd November 2015 at 7:35 am
Cuddle my new baby granddaughter
Ruth Harwood23rd November 2015 at 8:16 am
reading blogs, especially yours 😉 xx
ROBERT MCINTOSH23rd November 2015 at 9:53 am
I would spend the time in the garden getting more crops ready to fill the cooker over the nest few months!
Julie Tift23rd November 2015 at 2:51 pm
I could visit the farm shop to select the ingredients for the next undertaking.
Karen Hughes23rd November 2015 at 5:38 pm
Have a fun filled family day out! Then on arrival home when we are exhausted, dinner is ready!
Michael Rattray24th November 2015 at 9:21 am
Relax and do nothing
Jess Howliston24th November 2015 at 9:28 pm
I would like to put my feet up with a hot chocolate and catch up on an episode of Masterchef! However I am most likely to be found chasing a toddler around and picking raisins from my hair lol! x
Natalie Crossan24th November 2015 at 11:14 pm
Relaxing with a glass of wine xx
emily omara25th November 2015 at 10:50 am
clean or chill!
Paul Bradley25th November 2015 at 2:27 pm
Switch on my turntables, play a few hours of classic ska and reggae, just in time for a nice stew!
Kat Lucas26th November 2015 at 3:19 am
I would love to finish some of the projects I have going for gifts such as a blanket I am working on and it has to be done by Christmas
tracey ryder26th November 2015 at 8:22 pm
play on my laptop
Karen Richards26th November 2015 at 10:44 pm
Catch up with my ironing.
Helen Metcalfe27th November 2015 at 5:19 pm
Bake a cake or read a book
Helen Metcalfe27th November 2015 at 5:21 pm
meant to add to last comment, both activities are long overdue!
Karl Borowy27th November 2015 at 7:20 pm
read novel
Zach Ohmite Hudson28th November 2015 at 9:26 am
A nap in front of the woodburner – ZZzzzzzz
Gwyn Sharps28th November 2015 at 4:04 pm
I'd go downstairs and do some meditation in my chill out room.
claire woods28th November 2015 at 4:28 pm
I'd like to have a nice relaxing bath
Lesley Bambridge28th November 2015 at 8:41 pm
I would love to read a good book, and just savour the wonderful aroma, and relax while the dinner looks after itself. Bliss
Isabel O29th November 2015 at 10:00 am
Hmm that's a tricky one. Either read a book from my huge to read pile, or watch the entire four seasons of the new version of Battlestar Galactica again (again again!) 🙂
Kim Styles29th November 2015 at 1:13 pm
Bake some blueberry muffins mmmm for pudding
Diane Carey29th November 2015 at 4:58 pm
I would like to be having a long workout on my Wii Fit board. I haven't used it in ages. I need to lose the weight that I have put on this year whilst I have been poorly. Then I can go buy some new clothes for winter
Helen @ Fuss Free Flavours29th November 2015 at 5:11 pm
Oh I do like a good dumpling in a stew, these look lovely! Thanks for sharing with #ExtraVeg
charlotte29th November 2015 at 5:32 pm
i'd get a lovely cuppa and watch some tele 🙂
Diana Cotter30th November 2015 at 1:32 pm
A walk on a crisp Winter's evening, when the stars are bright, then coming in to the delicious aromas of a bubbling beef casserole waiting for me.
Sarah James30th November 2015 at 4:51 pm
Your stew looks delicious Choclette. I love the sound of those mushroom dumplings, what a great idea. Thanks for sharing 🙂
Matt McAndrew30th November 2015 at 8:41 pm
I would walk my dog because he cannot go very long without demanding a walk. The annoying little git!
Georgina davies30th November 2015 at 10:03 pm
i would like to sit down for ten minutes and put my feel up with a glass of wine lol x
Diane Jackson1st December 2015 at 1:54 pm
You will usually find me washing, ironing, shopping or cleaning while my slow cooker is bubbling away 😉
milli2nd December 2015 at 7:08 pm
I'd study my cookery book ready for the next delight!
Alida @My Little Italian Kitchen3rd December 2015 at 10:53 am
I would certainly love to blog!! This is my favourite hobby ever and oh.. having a cup of coffee with the cat on my lap too!
Lindsay Taylor4th December 2015 at 10:59 pm
I'd like a bit of me time but the reality would be taxi driver to my 3 boys to and from their sports!
Robyn Logan Clarke5th December 2015 at 1:57 am
Alternating between getting my crochet fix and playing Duplo with my son and daughter
mama syder5th December 2015 at 8:42 am
Brilliant giveaway. I would so love to be getting on with painting my nails
kimberley ryan5th December 2015 at 5:34 pm
spend the time playing dinosaurs or trains with my children
Kerry Lock5th December 2015 at 7:51 pm
Quality play time with the kids would be first on my agenda
Michelle Hughes6th December 2015 at 7:19 am
If im honest I'm normally at work whilst its going away at home – the smell I walk into is divine
Jon Sellers6th December 2015 at 6:13 pm
Do a few miles on the exercise bike to burn off a few calories
felicity smith6th December 2015 at 8:08 pm
I would be curled up with one of those books that have been sitting waiting all year
Lili7th December 2015 at 12:52 am
I'd spend some time birdwatching from my kitchen wondow. At this time of year so many different birds visit the sunflower hearts feeder, including nuthatches & redpolls. I never seem to have time to sit and enjoy them.
Julie Ward9th December 2015 at 7:33 pm
Enter comps like this online while listening to some xmas song on the music channels
don erwood9th December 2015 at 10:31 pm
I would make a venison stew with it and have it ready for when I get home
Louise Clarke10th December 2015 at 3:09 am
you have got to have a stew, with dumplings and i cant wait to try these mushroom ones!
Erica Price11th December 2015 at 7:24 am
Check social media
Emma Fox11th December 2015 at 7:31 am
I would play a board game with my son and read a chapter of my book!
Michelle Wild11th December 2015 at 4:41 pm
A lovely long bath with a glass of wine and a book.
Hannah Igoe11th December 2015 at 10:14 pm
Glass of wine and a good book – its so rare I get to read!
Alica12th December 2015 at 12:39 pm
I think I would catch up on my reading! It has been a while! 🙂
ashleigh allan12th December 2015 at 1:25 pm
have a relaxing bath
John Frost12th December 2015 at 9:32 pm
Put my feet up with a big glass of wine
lynn neal13th December 2015 at 12:20 am
I would probably do some sewing!
Tracy13th December 2015 at 1:34 pm
The stew looks great – not being a fan of mushrooms I probably would go for the cheese option you normally use – the perfect dish for this kind of weather. Thanks for entering into the no waste food challenge – the round up is finally live, so sorry it took so long!
odette13th December 2015 at 7:46 pm
I get home very late from work so I would go to the gym whilst the slow cooker makes dinner.
Yet Another Blogging Mummy14th December 2015 at 6:27 am
I would take the opportunity to put my feet up with a good book and a mug of hot chocolate
Michelle O'Neill15th December 2015 at 7:38 pm
a nice long soak x
Louise Watts16th December 2015 at 4:44 pm
I've been trying to get into the habit of doing quick sketches and keeping a daily pictorial journal so that would be my choice of activity while waiting for the slow cook!
Suzanne16th December 2015 at 5:38 pm
It would be great to set aside time to read.
Laura Jeffs16th December 2015 at 5:45 pm
I normally do a bit of household chores, but at times also sit at my pc and do some internet surfing 😉
Aidan Clark16th December 2015 at 5:47 pm
Curl up by the fire with tea and my cats.
Lisa Everaert16th December 2015 at 5:52 pm
relax and read a good book.
Mary Heald16th December 2015 at 6:16 pm
Walk the dog
debbie smith16th December 2015 at 6:18 pm
have a good natter and a brew and biscuit with my best friend lisa x
Soph H16th December 2015 at 6:34 pm
Binge watch a good boxset on Netflix with a few cups of tea and maybe a biscuit!
Rebecca Williams16th December 2015 at 6:38 pm
I would like to read a few chapters of my book, while drinking a nice cup of tea.
Louise Smith16th December 2015 at 6:52 pm
Spend time playing games with my daughter
Emma Nixon16th December 2015 at 7:11 pm
I would make the most of a bit of spare time and enjoy myself. Make a cuppa tea and relax with a good tv boxset. Lazy but fun!
Fiona K16th December 2015 at 7:16 pm
Watch a good film with my feet up
Lorna Jayne Kennedy16th December 2015 at 7:43 pm
That would depend who else was in the house! If the kids are around I would spend quality time with them, but if I was on my own I would definitely make it "me time". No chores – I'd probably have a good pamper and relax.
Mark Palmer16th December 2015 at 7:49 pm
Read a good book and catch up on some sleep
Zenath16th December 2015 at 7:53 pm
I would curled up on my sofa and put my favourite film on!
sian hallewell16th December 2015 at 8:00 pm
Reading a good book
Claire Ross16th December 2015 at 8:03 pm
This recipe looks so yummy 😀 I would love to have my own slow cooker to try it out 😀
Claire Bodin16th December 2015 at 8:25 pm
Go out for a run while my meat cooking lovely
christine shelley16th December 2015 at 8:39 pm
Im heading for the pc to do some advent comps
Terri Collins16th December 2015 at 8:45 pm
I love the idea that I can get on with jobs around the house like washing and changing the bed, while a nice healthy meal is cooking without lots of effort 🙂
Sarah Fielding16th December 2015 at 8:51 pm
Dancing around the kitchen with my boyfriend!
Penny H16th December 2015 at 9:18 pm
I'd go into my craftroom and make some pretty cards while my food was bubbling away.
paul martin16th December 2015 at 9:19 pm
we all love to sit around and watch a christmas classic on tv its a family tradition
Sarah Mackay16th December 2015 at 9:43 pm
The dreaded task of wrapping up all of the Christmas presents
Sarah Rees16th December 2015 at 9:44 pm
watch a film with some chocolate
Janice16th December 2015 at 9:51 pm
sitting on the sofa nice and cosy
Marc Chivers16th December 2015 at 10:09 pm
Would love to go into town and finish my Christmas shopping
Stefan Pearson16th December 2015 at 10:21 pm
I would most like to put the PS4 on once my daughter is fast asleep
Stephanie Tsang16th December 2015 at 10:39 pm
I would like to spend more time playing with my baby boy.
Rachel Ray16th December 2015 at 10:48 pm
I'd curl up and read a good book
Zoe G16th December 2015 at 11:01 pm
I would get it out in the fresh air and take the dog for a walk
Farhana16th December 2015 at 11:11 pm
I'd like to attempt one of those fitness video workouts
Summi16th December 2015 at 11:33 pm
Love to catch up on my reading!
Lee Ritson17th December 2015 at 12:25 am
Sitting at my computer playing minecraft 🙂
Phil Darling17th December 2015 at 5:25 am
I'd get out and do the rest of the Christmas shopping
David Sweet17th December 2015 at 6:02 am
Go for a long walk
Tracey Belcher17th December 2015 at 6:12 am
Take a walk along the beach to build up my appetite all ready for a warming casserole on my return
helen tovell17th December 2015 at 9:57 am
I would use the time to finish off putting up the rest of the Christmas decorations
leanne weir17th December 2015 at 10:15 am
Relaxing with a good book
Jackie ONeill17th December 2015 at 11:01 am
watch Christmas movies x
Caroline H17th December 2015 at 12:00 pm
I think for me it would be a good de-clutter. The Christmas deep clean of the house has highlighted to me that there are too many drawers and cupboards in this house stuffed with goodness knows what so it's time to thin it out!
Suzanne Sendell17th December 2015 at 1:05 pm
Looking for the next tasty recipe
Julia P17th December 2015 at 2:36 pm
relaxing with my family, playing a few card games and generally catching up with the gossip
Sarah Brokenshire17th December 2015 at 5:26 pm
watch a good box set x
jennifer thorpe17th December 2015 at 6:39 pm
I would like to sit with a cheeky glass of wine and read a chapter or three of my book
kelly mobbs17th December 2015 at 7:06 pm
A bit of hula-hooping in front of the tv
Christine Caple17th December 2015 at 7:08 pm
I would like to go out for a walk by the sea, and then curl up with a good book.
Bob Clark17th December 2015 at 8:02 pm
relaxing on a comfy armchair and reading a good book or magazine
Edward Guerreiro18th December 2015 at 3:20 am
I would like to continue playing fallout 4 (A recently released computer game).
S Bufton18th December 2015 at 4:40 am
I would like to think I would read one of my many unread books
Jessica Hutton18th December 2015 at 8:29 am
Id take the dogs for a nice long walk to the lake xx
Angie Hoggett18th December 2015 at 11:33 am
wrap up some xmas presents
elaine stokes18th December 2015 at 12:25 pm
curl up on the sofa and get a good book out and have some ME time
Tom Taylor18th December 2015 at 4:16 pm
Joy of a slow cooker is leaving it on even when you leave the house so would definitely go out for a nice long family walk.
Hassni18th December 2015 at 6:55 pm
Do the laundry, do the dusting, and then go out for a jog. Just kidding! I'll be lounging around on the sofa daydreaming.
Karl Borowy18th December 2015 at 7:26 pm
read and chill
sharon martin18th December 2015 at 7:50 pm
relax in a bubble bath and a good book
liza campy18th December 2015 at 9:18 pm
I would take the dogs for a walk in the woods. there is nothing nicer than coming in to half something nice ready to eat xx
cheryl pearson18th December 2015 at 11:26 pm
watch netflix to relax or a movie, nice to relax while dinner is cooking
Nazrana Haque19th December 2015 at 1:38 am
i love to knit, so this would be bliss…slow cooker on and knitting time begins!
Debi Gillard19th December 2015 at 7:41 am
I would probably take the dogs for a nice long walk and then back for a nice cup of tea!
sarah19th December 2015 at 10:55 am
play games with my kids, help them with their homework, read a book.
Diana19th December 2015 at 11:06 am
I like relax on the sofa with a book and a cup of tea or just enjoy a good Disney film with my daughter 🙂
Jenny Jones19th December 2015 at 1:44 pm
go for a nice walk with my family or if the weather is bad watch a movie together
Anthea Holloway19th December 2015 at 2:01 pm
I would love to be out in the garden – pruning, weeding or leaf raking!
Victoria Prince19th December 2015 at 3:35 pm
I would most like to go on a lovely relaxing walk with the dogs 🙂
Barbara Handley19th December 2015 at 6:33 pm
I would do some competitions to try and win a holiday or treat for my grandchildren.
Alison19th December 2015 at 6:43 pm
Catching up with my blog
Jemma Webster19th December 2015 at 6:51 pm
Build a Lego fort with my four year old!
Karen R19th December 2015 at 7:35 pm
At this time of year with so much going on, I'd like to get some sleep!
Sue Dorking19th December 2015 at 7:59 pm
I'd love to do a bit of tidying up in the garden, so many leaves need collecting and the rest needs a little attention!
caroline scott19th December 2015 at 8:11 pm
I'd take a long bath before having a glass of wine while doing some online shopping
Becky John19th December 2015 at 8:53 pm
I'd like to curl up on the sofa and catch up on the soaps.
Angela Sandhu19th December 2015 at 9:23 pm
Paula Phillips19th December 2015 at 9:58 pm
I'd like to be wrapping my Christmas presents.
Hannah19th December 2015 at 10:14 pm
Reality is that I'd be doing some jobs – but I'd like to be reading my latest fantasy book.
Petra Hora19th December 2015 at 10:42 pm
resting and relaxing.
Sheri Darby19th December 2015 at 10:47 pm
Read a good book
Kristy Brown19th December 2015 at 10:47 pm
I am usually getting on with my work and housework
Hayley Mulgrove19th December 2015 at 10:58 pm
Cleaning my home from top to bottom and then sleep lol
Lorraine Tinsley19th December 2015 at 11:06 pm
I love messing around with my two kids, they love arts and crafts or just dancing around the living room
Jamie19th December 2015 at 11:43 pm
College work with I never get round too 🙁
Keshia Esgate19th December 2015 at 11:59 pm
I would like to crack on with my scrapbooking that I started ages ago!
Rich Tyler20th December 2015 at 12:09 am
Catch up on emails while it's doing all the hard-work! 😉
Patricia Avery20th December 2015 at 12:18 am
I love to read whenever I get the chance. Just wish I got more chances! 🙂
Louise A20th December 2015 at 1:40 am
check the weather and read the news on my iPad
Jayne K20th December 2015 at 2:35 am
What I should do is catch up on housework, but what I'd want to do is surf the internet,
Leslie Evans20th December 2015 at 4:11 am
Clean as much of my house as I could.
Sobia20th December 2015 at 6:14 am
I would curl up on the sofa and read a good book.
Mike Williams20th December 2015 at 8:38 am
I would read through some more blogs to find more great recipes for the next time I use the slow cooker. Thanks for sharing.
Kay Adeola20th December 2015 at 9:07 am
I would be spending more time with my family,Great prize thank you for the chance and Merry Christmas.
Janine C20th December 2015 at 9:14 am
Do some of my knitting or sewing and having a nice relax whilst my food is cooking away 🙂
Annette Oliver20th December 2015 at 10:08 am
I'd chill out with a good book
zoe somerfield20th December 2015 at 10:19 am
Feet up on sofa, good book and a glass of wine
Vickie Jackson20th December 2015 at 10:41 am
I love being able to play with my kids and spending quality time with them.
claire wilkinson20th December 2015 at 11:18 am
Richard Eldred Hawes20th December 2015 at 11:22 am
I should be cleaning the house but I would rather sit down with a good book and a cup of tea
Oksana Fitzgerald20th December 2015 at 12:04 pm
I would love to be able to devote more time to my daughter. I'm so busy as I work from home and also look after my 2 year old. I would be so happy if this slow cooker can save me some precious time. Thank you for the chance to win it.
carrie20th December 2015 at 1:47 pm
I would most like to sit with a good book, but would be more likely to be catching up with cleaning 🙂
Jamie Millard20th December 2015 at 2:38 pm
while the slow cooker is cooking, I can get on with the baking.
cat20th December 2015 at 2:46 pm
Put my feet up for forty winks before the children come home
Cathy O20th December 2015 at 3:03 pm
I would like to have a bit of me time as strangely do not seem to get much of that these days!
Nancy Bradford20th December 2015 at 3:30 pm
I would take my daughter for a walk outside in the fresh air x
Jordan Bentley20th December 2015 at 4:59 pm
Read a book with the TV on in the background 🙂
Maggie Coates20th December 2015 at 5:10 pm
I would surf the internet reading blogs and generally getting distracted.
julie jones20th December 2015 at 6:06 pm
Plenty of time to get in the garden and do some stree free gardening
Karen Lloyd20th December 2015 at 6:11 pm
I would be baking some delicious cakes.
liz ferguson20th December 2015 at 7:28 pm
I'd probably spend my spare time doing a bit of gardening – I've still got a lot of spring bulbs toput in for next year!
shelley stevenson20th December 2015 at 7:35 pm
relax in a bubble bath with my favourite mag
Helen Gossage20th December 2015 at 8:04 pm
Relax and read a book or maybe go for a walk
Susanna Harvey20th December 2015 at 8:30 pm
I am very happy with my nickname of 'The Crochet Queen' so I would sit and happily crochet a gift for a family member while the smell of my delicious stew wafts around the house.
Sarah Lee20th December 2015 at 8:44 pm
Have a coffee and read a magazine
Jade Evans20th December 2015 at 8:49 pm
At the moment I would love to crack on with the Christmas wrapping, any other time I'd love to be able to take the kids out on a nice long walk and to the park, and come home to something delicious waiting for us.
LIZZIE E20th December 2015 at 9:30 pm
Catching up on my favourite TV shows!
Emma20th December 2015 at 10:12 pm
Read a book or watch tv
Clare Hubbard20th December 2015 at 10:23 pm
Watch a good TV programme with a nice cup of hot chocolate
Monika S20th December 2015 at 10:53 pm
I would carry on with my cross stitch project, any chance I get I am with needle in my hand
Jessica K20th December 2015 at 11:31 pm
have a cup of tea and read or browse social media 🙂
Ellen Stafford20th December 2015 at 11:32 pm
I would love to take the dog for a walk to the park.
Michelle Maggs20th December 2015 at 11:37 pm
I would start making a homemade dessert with my two daughters 🙂
Leeanne Fry20th December 2015 at 11:39 pm
We can have more family time together, playing games, reading books and doing extra homework.
tishist20th December 2015 at 11:51 pm
I'd have a long bath and a good long read


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Blogging Fusion Blog Directory the #1 blog directory and oldest directory online.
Ralph Beaumont (founder of the New Hudson Exit) discusses digital and internet art, poetry and gallery news. The website shows examples of digital/internet art and prose works submitted by supporters of the site. This is not a commercial art site and now....read more
The daily thoughts and up and coming events of visual artist James Flynnread more
Chicago artist, filmmaker, photographer, graphic designer, and everything else.read more
Cornish Sculptural Artworks created in Cornwall (UK) by Artist Malcolm Lidbury. Work influenced by Museum & Gallery pieces of Homoerotic Classical Roman Greek Pagan Mythological Art Sculpture & Statues of the Naked Nude Male figure. Including....read more
Creativity Fuse is a site for the art-lover & artist in all of us; a mash-up of art, funny stuff, videos, galleries & more.read more
Daily Paintingsand more from artists AJ LaGasse & Melelina LaGasse. Abstract Art, Contemporary paintings, abstract impressionism, realism and surreal art for saleread more
all about art in the world. painting, music, dance, theatre, artist, critics, theory, declaration,read more
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Free Artistic Images it's a free photo-base where you'll find free artistic images to use in your blog, website or any other project. Browse my Public Domain Photo resource to find out great artistic photos and pictures! Landscape, seascape,....read more
Homepage and blog for UK artist and photographer Nick Lloyd, featuring an updated gallery of recent photography including the 5 minutes photography project of miniature street photography, art & photography links and gallery contactsread more
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Episode 476 - Setting things off
On today's show I chat to Paolo Bandini about the signing of 34 year old Stephan Lichtsteiner who joins after seven successful years with Juventus. What kind of a player is he? What kind of an impact will he have on the squad on and off the pitch? Is his age a worry in the fast-paced Premier League? Paolo gives us the lowdown on that, and we also discuss the appointment of Unai Emery, transfers, and the television rights deal which has seen Amazon get some of the games. There's a smattering of the usual waffle, some digital assistant mayhem, a bit of doggus interruptus and an old friend right at the end.For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy


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All couples fight about something.
Whether you're celebrating the first year of marriage or you're reminiscing about decades together, there's no doubt that marital bliss has been interrupted by conflict somewhere along the way. All couples disagree about something — money, in-laws, sex, the laundry. It seems at times as though conflict is a necessary evil in marriage. But has it ever dawned on you that what you fight about is far less important than how you fight about it?
The process of conflict
Some of my arguments with Mike (especially early in our marriage) have been about petty issues — how much to spend on an extension cord, whether to answer the phone (before caller ID) or why Mike would eat a huge bowl of cereal right after eating a small portion of the meal I had prepared. Even today the subjects of our "discussions" are usually minor, but the way we "discuss" them has proven to be crucial to the health of our relationship.
Spouses can do incredible damage to the trust built in their marriage, even as they argue about what kind of toothpaste to buy. Name-calling, criticizing, bullying and threatening (even appeasing in order to avoid conflict) will leave a lasting scar on the relationship. Couples can deal with the consequences of just about any decision as long as they build trust in the process of coming to that decision. Even with the big issues, the process is far more important than the outcome.
Valuing love
Underlying each of the issues that you and your husband disagree about are central questions about trust in your relationship. While you may be insisting that you should go to your parents' house for the holidays, you are also asking your husband, "Do you understand me? Can I count on you to consider my needs?" Your husband is silently asking similar questions: "Do you respect my opinion? Do you care about me as much as you care about getting your way?"
Many broken marriages lie in the wake of good people invested in winning the argument who lose sight of their love for each other. Conflict isn't just a necessary evil — it becomes the Refiner's fire in which we are confronted with our own fears, blind spots and selfishness. It presents us with choices: Will I be defensive or receptive? Humble or self-righteous?
So, the next time conflict knocks on your door, remember that how you fight is more important than what you fight about.
Juli Slattery is the author of Finding the Hero in Your Husband.
Did you know couples are 30 percent less likely to get a divorce if they get some sort of premarital training? If you or someone you know is planning to marry, check out Focus on the Family's Ready to Wed curriculum, and then prepare for a marriage you'll love!


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Positively speaking: When 'thank you' is not enough
A few weeks ago, I stopped in our grocery store to pick up eggs and a few other items.
As I was approaching the entrance, I saw a well-dressed older gentleman with white hair and a moustache. He was wearing a military-style cap, while holding a change collection can in one hand and a bouquet of artificial red flowers in the other. Our eyes met, and I instantly understood who he was and what he was doing. I felt I knew this man, even though I am sure we have never met. I smiled and said, "I'll catch you on my way out." He nodded and smiled back. I recognized the cap with the insignia of the American Legion. I knew the red flower to be poppies, an annual fundraising drive the American Legion has engaged in for years.
While walking through the store, my mind raced. As a child and teenager, I had a close familiarity with the men and women of the American Legion. I feel as though I was raised by them in the old Kankakee America Legion building. I knew that building as I knew my own home. I remember how many steps from the equipment room we called "the cage" to the back stairway and how many steps up that stairway to the small barroom where the drum line of the Kankakee Drum & Bugle Corp rehearsed. I remember the scraping sound the bottom of the metal door made on the freshly repaired concrete at the front entrance. I remember the bartender, who, when you asked for ginger ale, mixed 7-Up and Coke together and smiled at me because he realized we were the only two in the building that knew his secret.
I remember at 10 years old standing at attention, in uniform, with a red, silver and blue snare drum strapped around my shoulder, while wearing a west point style shako pulled down over my eyes while Earl Moran, a wonderful man and our leader, inspected us before loading the buss for our various performances.
Earl himself was a decorated veteran of World War II and an officer of the Kankakee American Legion Post. After gaining Earl's approval, we headed up the road for three parades in a row on Fourth of July. I remember the veterans of the American Legion, VFW and Am-Vets standing and saluting our flag as we marched by. I loved those men and women and l felt so privileged to be playing my drum in honor of them.
I remember playing my drum at Memorial Garden's cemetery for the annual flag raising event and playing for the draftee's leaving the train station to report for Vietnam era duty. Most of all, I remember standing on the courthouse lawn playing for Kankakee resident and hero, Barry Baron, as we celebrated his return. It was that day, seeing Barry in full uniform, but without his legs, that I first understood the sacrifice our veterans make in service to us all.
I grew up in neighborhood where there was a veteran in almost every home. The veterans who were such a common sight for me as a child are now almost all gone. I wish I would have told them how much I appreciated them, but I was a child, I didn't think of such things. All I knew was the American Legion was my home away from home. I always felt welcome and safe there. The veterans who ran the place bought a drum for me to play, put a uniform on my back, gave me a sense of purpose, service and belonging as a child, then teenager. They always stood as our flag passed by. I learned the meaning of discipline and duty from them. As I grew to manhood, the example that the men and women of the American Legion set for me in my most formative years, shaped me into the man I am today.
Last week, standing in front of the grocery store, I had the opportunity and privilege to shake this man's hand and thank him for his service to our country, but also for his ongoing commitment to the American Legion.
It felt good, but it just wasn't enough.
As the ranks of the veterans began to dwindle, the Kankakee American Legion, like most veteran organizations, was forced to sell its beautiful building on and move into smaller surroundings. Many American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars posts are closing. Nothing in life stays the same. Someday that old building that I love, now serving a different purpose, will crumble to the ground, burn or be demolished and rebuilt for some other reason. I am guessing it has been 45 years since I have walked those halls, but I still have the sounds in my ears and the smell in my nose. I remember the men and women who met in those rooms and celebrated in that bar.
I think back and realize I was walking among the finest people in the history of our nation and the greatest generation that this world has ever seen … and I had no idea that it was so. I was a child. I didn't know such things.
Now I know. And remember.
And I am grateful.


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Equity Statement
The IPRC has benefitted from and contributed to the centering of whiteness within the Portland arts community. It is with this understanding that we now strive to create policies and programming, and a creative environment that is attuned to the needs of Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BI/POC) communities. We wish to empower BI/POC artists to make the IPRC space their own. We commit to building a staff, board, and community driven by social justice through art. We commit to equity and inclusion as central motivators for our work. We strive to be a collaborative resource for groups who wish to join us in transforming the Portland community into the most equitable version of itself. The IPRC welcomes people of all races, ethnicities, abilities, sizes, ages, gender identities, sexualities, and citizenship statuses.
Values Statement
The IPRC exists to be an equalizer and to provide opportunities, tools, and resources for everyone. The belief perpetuates in the Literary, Publishing, and Visual Art worlds that the "best" art rises to the top. But we know that we don't live in a meritocracy but a competitive capitalist system, and people don't "make it" without a lot of resources and support. We know that talent and skill are created through practice and that talent and skill don't discriminate. We also know that access to art-making is critical to the well-being of communities and people. This vision of a healthier Portland is what the IPRC strives to be a part of and contribute to.
Strategic Plan 2019-2021
The IPRC embarked on a process to create a strategic plan for 2019-2021 that we wanted to be exciting, usable, relevant, and give us a road-map for the present and near future. In order to create this document, we:
- Sought community feedback through 6 months of digital and written surveys
- Conducted visioning sessions as a staff and board
- Consulted with George Thorn
- Sought community feedback on early drafts
- Worked with letterpress steward, Courtney DeKorte on her gorgeous design
Much thanks to the growing IPRC community for their interest and support, and specifically to Hajara Quinn, John Akira Harrold, Kawana Bullock Clayton, A'misa Chiu, Carrie Clore, Eve Connell, Niko Courtelis, Stacey Daley, Melissa Favara, Catie Hannigan, Anna Knecht Schwarzer, Kathy Kniep, Lauren Mariko Waude, Ashley Sloan, Andrew Stern, George Thorn, and community members who took the 2018 feedback survey for invaluable contributions, copy-editing, and feedback.


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A word comes from French and originally meant a day-to-day record of what you see, hear, do, think, feel. A journal collects your own experiences and thoughts rather than quotations. But, of course, you may combine the two. If you add your own comments to the passages you copy into a commonplace book, you are also keeping a kind of journal.
Many professional writers use journals, and the habit is a good one for anybody interested in writing, even if he or she has no literary ambitions. Journals store perceptions, ideas, emotions, future material for essays or stories.
The Journals of Henry Thoreau are a famous example, as are A Writer's Diary by Virginia Woolf, the Notebooks of the French novelist Albert Camus, and "A War-time Diary" by the English writer George Orwell.
A journal is not for others to read. So you don't have to worry about niceties of punctuation; you can use abbreviations and symbols like "&." But if a journal is really to help you develop as a writer, you've got to do more than compose trite commonplaces or mechanically list what happens each day. You have to look honestly and freshly at the world around you and at the self within. And that means you have to wrestle with words to tell what you see and what you feel:
July 25, Thursday. . . . Today: clear, flung, pine-chills, orange needles underfoot.
myself am the vessel of tragic experience. muse not enough on the mysteries of ^dipus—I, weary, resolving the best and bringing, out of my sloth, envy and weakness, my own ruins. What do the gods ask? must dress, rise, and send my body out.
But journals do not have to be so extraordinary in their sensibility or introspection. Few people are that perceptive. The essential thing is that a journal captures your experience and feelings. Here is another, different example, also fresh and revealing. The writer, Rockwell Stensrud, kept a as he accompanied an old-time cattle drive staged in 1975 as part of the Bicentennial celebration:
Very strict unspoken rules of cowboy as drunk as you want the night before, but you'd better be able to get up the next morning at 4:30, or you're not living by the code of respectability. Range codes more severe than high-society ideas of manners—and perhaps more necessary out here. What these cowboys respect more than anything is ability to carry one's own weight, to perform, to get the job done well—these are the traditions that make this quest of theirs possible.
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What you need to know about… Project Management Made Easy! Project management consists of more than just a large building project and can encompass small projects as well. No matter what the size of your project, you need to have some sort of project management. How you manage your project has everything to do with its outcome.